"Functional furniture in hardwood, like teak, was modern in the 1950s. I wanted to find a design that was related to the style of the '50s, but use materials that are much better for the environment. Bamboo is a material that grows quickly, and when it's layer-glued it becomes extremely hard and durable. Plus, it resembles teak. IKEA PS 2012 dining table is a table that flirts with '50s design, but is produced with concern for the future."

With fold-down leaves, our IKEA PS 2012 table is made from fast-growing, long-lasting bamboo with removable aluminium legs. It is designed to be separable, making it easier for recycling (if available in your community).

Dinners, parties, holidays - extendable tables are ready for anything. Our extendable tables always come with the extension leafs included. You can store the leaves under the table tops when you're not using them. Now that's practical! If you don't want a loose extension leaf, consider a gateleg table with drop-leafs that fold down when not in use. When your family or friends come to visit, the table grows to fit everyone. When your guests leave, the table returns to its regular size and gives room for other things.

Strong, flexible and one of the world's fastest growing plants – bamboo has many uses that make it an excellent renewable material. It’s a type of grass and usually grows without the need for fertilizers or irrigation. After being harvested, it grows new shoots that are ready for harvesting after 4-6 years. At IKEA we use bamboo for items like furniture, bathroom decor, baskets and lamps – and we are constantly exploring more areas of use for this versatile material.