Hasta La Ideas

Designed for the “after-hours athlete,” the Chalk ping-pong table by studio Aruliden for Puma puts a seriously social spin on the game. A chalkboard surface allows players to keep track of the score, claim the next game or provoke opponents with a little written banter, and the convenient compartment underneath safely stores beverages and party favors for the ultimate in casual recreation.

Each handmade table features solid ash legs and a steel chain-link net—a major step up from the oft-crude tables tucked away in garages or basements.

Chalk hits The Conran Shop NYC on 3 June 2010, where celebrity table-tennis star Susan Sarandon will battle champions Marty Reisman and Franck “Spin” Raharinosy for its launch. The table will also sell online for $3,900.