Black walnut and wenge

42" x 23" x 17"  1999

The coffee table Waterfall evolved from some very special planks of black walnut that had been milled approximately 30 years earlier by the customer's father. The walnut had been allowed to air dry, preserving its subtle range of colors. These colors and grain pattern echoed the same sense of movement that had inspired my thumbnail sketch chosen for the table.  

The black walnut planks were sawn into 1/16” veneers, then applied to a high-quality plywood core. Captured, walnut edge-bandings strengthen the surfaces that are used for joinery. A pair of walnut stretchers add support to the design from below. Wenge pieces are attached to the horizontal and vertical edges, creating a dark, sculptural border with a contrasting texture. The table is finished with acrylic lacquer.