Designing tables with rounded corners can present several challenges, both from a manufacturing and functional perspective:
Manufacturing Complexity: Creating rounded corners typically requires more intricate machining or specialized equipment compared to standard right angles. This can increase production costs and complexity. Depending on the material, specialized techniques such as bending, carving, or additional finishing may be needed to achieve a clean, smooth edge.
Material Wastage: Rounded corners can result in increased material wastage during production, especially if the rounded sections need to be cut from larger pieces. Manufacturers might need to use larger sheets or find ways to repurpose leftover material, which can be inefficient.
Structural Integrity: Adding curves can potentially weaken the structure of a table if not properly designed, since the corner is generally where the table is strengthened. Engineers need to ensure that the design supports weight distribution effectively, especially if the table is intended for heavy use.
Compatibility and Design Consistency: Incorporating rounded corners means considering how the design aligns with other elements in the environment. If other furniture has sharp edges, a seamless integration might be challenging. Maintaining a consistent design language requires cohesiveness with existing furniture and interior decor styles.
Safety and Ergonomics: While rounded corners can reduce injury risk from sharp edges, ensuring that they meet safety and ergonomic standards is essential. If not designed properly, they might be too rounded, reducing usable space, or too angular, defeating safety benefits.
Customization Limitations: Customizing tables with rounded corners can be less flexible than squared designs. Customers requesting rounded corners might face limited options in terms of size, shape, and material since such customizations often depend on the capabilities of the manufacturer.

Overall, while rounded corners can offer aesthetic and practical benefits, they introduce a range of considerations that must be addressed to create a functional, stylish, and safe piece of furniture.