A modern original coffee table that makes a visual statement. The base is smooth-ground welded steel with a ‘Japanese brown’ patina, in a geometric stylized tree motif. The polished top is a ‘canopy’ supported on the radiating branches of the base. The lines of steel continue in the top as a herringbone-like pattern of salvaged antique yellow pine veneer, trimmed with a simple edging of Bolivian rosewood. The shop sawn veneer was handpicked for straight figure and brilliance (from a board I found in our attic), and glows beneath more than 12 coats of shellac and lacquer. It is glued up with Titebond Cold Press Veneer Glue over a torsion box core of mdf.

Launch Gallery