Inspiration for this cabinet comes from the Lincoln Memorial which I pass on my morning commute.  The legs and stiles are reminiscent of its columns and the serving and charcuterie trays are derived from the stepped back top.  Once the basic structure was framed out a touch of Asian inspiration was added in the curving legs and front.

This cabinet is made from butternut, which is a cousin of walnut, an often overlooked domestic species which works incredibly well and is quite affordable. The panels and top are commercial pommele Imbuya and quartersawn Zebrawood veneers with an ebony inlay.

Using scrap and off-cuts from a project to make items for use with or to enhance a project is a great way to demonstrate the value of craftsmanship.  In this case, a serving tray will live on the cabinet and the charcuterie tray will serve as a matching centerpiece for the dining table.

Full extension drawer slides assist the walnut drawers in ease of use and the book matched drawer bottoms give each drawer a consistent look as it is withdrawn and observed.

The grain pattern in the leg follows its curve to add strength and aesthetic appeal.   Each leg was roughed out on the band saw and shaped with rasps and files.  The Butternut was an absolute joy to work with in this phase of the project.

The front of the cabinet curves slightly and the side doors were made with bent lamination to follow the curve.

The curved top veneers were cut to template leaving room for the width of the router bit between veneers to ensure a seamless fit.  The groove for the inlay was then cut with a custom designed router edge guide jig.

Launch Gallery