Paris-based agency JCPCDR Architecture has invented an oak table that raises and lowers from the ceiling using a mechanism that looks like seat belts to save on space.

Designed by Jean-Christophe Petillault from JCPCDR Architecture, the Flying Table is suspended from four seat belt straps, attached to a docking element fixed onto the ceiling.

These straps are wound around a remote-controlled roller shutter motor, enabling the table to gradually lower down to the desired height.

The oak table can be left suspended by the straps to suit the height of the user, or lowered to the floor and stood on its four legs, which fold out from underneath.

When the table is brought to the floor, the straps can be detached and retracted back to the ceiling until they are needed again.

As Petillault explained, the idea for the Flying Table was born while he was working on several office refurbishment projects in Paris, and trying to find ways of making the spaces more adaptable.

"Due to cramped spaces in our city, it is very important that rooms remain versatile and can be used for multiple purposes," the designer told Dezeen.

"Meeting rooms, for example, are not always occupied, but still represent a large part of the floor plan and are often crowded with furniture," he continued.