For our latest lookbook, we've put together a roundup of contemporary takes on the classic conversation pit, installed into projects ranging from houses to retail spaces to create places for gathering.
First rising to popularity in the middle of the 20th century, conversation pits are sunken areas lined with seating that often feature small tables or inventive steps that give access to the space.
This architectural furniture can come in many shapes and sizes, and many studios are taking unique approaches to the mid-century look, choosing material palettes and forms that better suit contemporary spaces.
From a stark-white conversation pit for a modelling agency to use as a backdrop, to angular variations that fit into limited spaces for urban renovation projects, these seven projects push the limits of the form. This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen's archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring member's clubs, sculptural coffee tables and pull-out furniture.

Photo by Gilbert McCarragher
Clay House, UK, by Bureau de Change
This conversation pit fits the contours of a portion of a house extension in London and features a small set of stairs.
It has tile floors and a small ledge against the windows with a larger ledge covered in upholstered cushions. The angular pit was designed to reference Victorian boxing rings.
Find out more about Clay House ?

Photo by The Ingalls
Magnum Opus, USA, by Kelly Wearstler ...