The Eames DTW table, the abbreviated name of the Dining (D) Table (T) of Wood (W), was the first commercial dining table released by Charles and Ray Eames in conjunction with the Evans Molded Plywood Company in 1946. The table was released in two model variants which were defined by their shape, a rectangular large dining table (DTW-1) and a smaller square extension table (DTW-2). The Eames Wood L-Leg table would be made available in a range of natural wood veneers.
The Eames DTW table had a fairly traditional look, both being completely made of wood and having high edges along the sides. But it is the leg sections that benefited most from the new molded material. The legs, tapered in size from top to bottom were layered one piece constructions cleverly bent 90 degrees to form the standing section. These forms were deceptively strong and beautifully constructed, as well as being completely removable if unscrewed at the connecting plate.
The early plywood series was proving to be a success with the DCM, DCW, LCM and LCW chairs all selling very well. The intention was to release tables with the same principal of the chairs, using the same top and having a choice of either wood or metal base (DTM). This did happen but there would be a year difference in release of the DTW and DTM and it would take a third party manufacturer to come in to complete the latter.
Essentially, the Eames DTW-1 and Eames DTW-2 were first generations of the table with a second version replacing it after two and a half years in 1950. The second generation, with model numbers DTW-3 and DTW-4 were a direct replacement and a complete design change (the reason we are treating it as a separate design as opposed to a mere generation development).
| Height | 29.5" | 74.93 cm |
| Width | 34" | 86.36 cm |
| Length | 34" (Square) 54" (rectangular) | 86.36 or 137.16 cm |
| Top | Veneered Top in Birch, Ash, Walnut or Black |
| Legs | Veneered molded legs in Birch, Ash, Walnut or Black |
Corner section of the DTW table showing both the top and molded legs in a matching Ash veneer
Ash veneer version of the Eames DTW-1 rectangular dining table
A 1949 Herman Miller catalog extract featuring the DTW. By this point the table was only available in 2 finishes.
A walnut veneer version of the square shaped DTW-2 extension table
The underside of the DTW shows the model number etched into the center and the connecting plates of the legs
The edges of the table were entirely veneered, the legs were stepped back from the edge of the table
Original 1948 photograph of the plywood series including DTW table and DCW chair
The table was available in contrasting colors, this one with Birch top and ebony legs
The joining point of the legs had no exterior fixings thanks to the folds in the molded plywood form