A simple circle can be so many things. Whether it's the sun above us or the plate on a circular dinner table, the circle is definitely part of our everyday lives.

Designers often take a simple shape and use it as a point of departure. These Nordic furniture and mirror designs have grabbed that circle and exploded it, collapsed it, extruded it, hung it, pierced it, deconstructed it and even melted it. The results are, of course, innovative. Some of them are easier to live with than others. But from a design perspective, all are extraordinary to look at.

Note: These brands are available through U.S. dealers and interior designers; see each image link for details.