Woodworker: Alan Dana Hall

This Mackintosh-inspired Arts and Crafts desk is based on an original built in Scotland by Wylie & Lockhead (ca. 1900). The problem was getting a good-quality photograph of the original-designed by E.A. Taylor (1874-1951) from which Hall could develop measured drawings. Fortunately, Hall’s mailman delivered. While visiting Scotland, the mailman bought a book with a photo of the desk and brought it back. The desk is made of quartersawn white oak, with poplar as a secondary wood. Hall made all of the hardware and leaded stained-glass inserts. The finish is Watco medium-walnut Danish oil.

Photo: Alan Dana Hall