What Is a Demilune?

Demilune is a word borrowed from French literally meaning "half-moon." Though it has been used to describe many things crescent-shaped, from purses to microbes to the elements of fortification architecture, demilune also pertains to furniture with half-moon design elements. Does this Spark an idea?

The Demilune Table

Demilune furniture is essentially crescent-shaped and flat-backed. "A demilune" usually references the demilune table, in specific. These are a half-moon-shaped tables designed to stand against the wall. Because of their configurations, demilunes are considered a type of console table. Console tables are designed to be pushed against the wall, and in some cases, bracketed and/or bolted for extra support. The typical console table is small, versatile and commonly found near a door or hallway for easy access to convenient key/purse/small item drop-off. Of course, a demilune holding a few books and carefully selected art item can be just as pleasing.

Understanding the Demilune Design

These hemispherical tables are thus generally smaller, with half-round table tops, and a flat backside. It is common for the front apron to be likewise half-spherical, following the contour of the demilune design. Some designs incorporate a curved storage area of variable length. A demilune table usually has three to four legs; two are located on either side of the table, while the additional legs spaced equidistant from each other on the arc. A third leg would be found in the middle of the arc, for example.
The crescent shape of a demilune table may be a plain or stylized half-circle. Some demilune tables are designed with a flip top and pull out support, allowing the table to open into a full circle if pulled away from the wall. Stylized demilunes could have edges obscured by foliage, scrolls or other design elements.

Demilune Elements of Style

The elegant curvature of the demilune console makes it a slightly more formal choice for a hallway nook or classy seating area, though the design is suitable for any space. The demilune is also ideal for smaller spaces, since its configuration requires less physical space than a rectangular table top. Demilune tables are a popular choice for home decor because they come in a wide range of styles that can complement various home settings. In addition, they can represent a fun weekend project for a home woodworking shop.

Choosing a Demilune Table

When looking for a demilune table to accent your home, be sure to consider both style and construction. Does the specific demilune design complement existing decor? Is it too delicate, or too bold? Does it match your style? Will it need to be touched up, restained or repainted?
When considering construction, take a closer look at the joints of the table. Strong joints are reinforced with pegs and screws, while legs that have been only glued are less stable. Also, be sure to check the back of the demilune table to determine its quality. Is the backing particle board or veneer rather than wood, for example? Higher quality furniture will pay attention to all details of the piece, even those not seen when pushed against a wall. Of course, such attention to detail will also be reflected in pricing, and it is not essential. If exposed particle board is a concern on an otherwise respectable demilune table, it can be primed and painted.

Other Demilune Furniture

Chests, cabinets, dressers and even sinks can also bear a demilune design, following half-moon shapes. Again, it is very common for the entire front to curve with the crescent shape, in addition to a curved top. Technically, any piece of furniture can be "demilunic" if incorporating the half-moon, flat-back design.