This piece was an exercise in iteration. After starting with numerous sketches, Stephen built a half-dozen scale models out of MDF to refine the form. Once that was settled, four custom jigs helped him turn roughsawn maple into the eight bent-laminated pieces of the base. A CNC machine carved the top, which is curved on the underside in two dimensions to lighten it. The top floats off the base on steel pins. Stephen says, “in profile this table reminds me of Atlas holding up the sky.”

MAPLE AND CHERRY, 20D X 48W X 15H

—Stephen Porter, Baltimore, Md.

From Fine Woodworking #305