Tables that are easy to clear ("For my next trick...")
Dan Lockton has collected a few innovative table designs on his blog, all of which are projects created by student designers. There's some great stuff, like the "Ifiltro" table by Anna Harris, conceived to be used as a entryway table; empty your pockets on the top, where keys and other pocket detritus falls through the slats for safekeeping in a drawer.
Thoughtful Acts [Architectures.DanLockton.co.uk]

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Because it's sooooo difficult to open a drawer??
I put my keys on the entryway table when I come home so I can grab them easily on the way out. I'd like a table that sorts, arranges, hangs up and presents for easy retrieval whatever you dump on it. Or at least sorts my change, picking out the quarters for the laundry.
The problem of "pocket stuff" has been an ongoing battle for me for years. Sadly, this table doesn't quite seem the solution for which I'm looking, but at least it's an effort to curb this problem once and for all. :)
So why not just do away with the slotted top altogether and have basically a box on legs that you toss your stuff into? I guess this way you could still put a lamp or something on top, but it would cover up most of the holes...