Reclaimed Wood Dining Table made for Prof. David Blackmon
Carefully Hand-Made, Installed in Haddam
Overview
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This dining table was custom-designed for Professor David Blackmon of Yale University and installed in his Haddam, CT home. The goal was to create a stately centerpiece for David’s home. This table reflects the space’s unique charm and David’s vision.
Design Inspiration and Concept
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Our aim for this project was to create a piece that emphasizes the wood’s natural beauty while infusing warmth and character. By setting it in a cozy nook framed by exposed brick and large windows, we wanted to blend the table seamlessly with its surroundings. We captured the wood’s rich history while creating a striking piece.
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Material and Craftsmanship
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Type of Wood
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For this project, we used reclaimed Douglas fir, which is prized for its strength and warm tones. Known for its durability and stability, it’s the ideal choice for a dining table, offering aesthetic appeal and long-lasting functionality. Its combination of rustic charm and elegance makes it perfect for these projects.
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Source
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We sourced this Douglas fir from the floor joists of the historic Otis Elevator Factory. Otis is known for selling the first safe elevators, which contributed to the expansion of large cities. Using this wood tells a story that embodies craftsmanship and rich history.
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Characteristics of the Wood
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Douglas fir is known for its strength, straight grain, and warm reddish-brown hue that deepens with age. The fine to medium texture with tight growth rings makes it durable and visually striking. When reclaimed, Douglas fir often has unique marks of its past life, including nail holes, saw marks, and a rich patina.
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Features
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We built this table over a pedestal box, enhancing structural integrity and contributing to its functionality. Unlike traditional four-leg designs, pedestal boxes distribute weight evenly across the surface to reduce joint stress. The innovative “floating top” enables the table to adjust naturally to changes in temperature and humidity throughout New England’s shifting seasons.
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Installation in Haddam, CT
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The reclaimed wood dining tables’ final home is in Haddam, CT. The table was designed to complement the professor’s house, blending seamlessly with the existing architecture. Once in place, it became an immediate focal point, a functional gathering space, and a statement piece with historical character.
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Why Choose Us?
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Reworx emphasizes the importance of using reclaimed wood for unique and personal pieces. We work closely with residential and commercial clients to create reclaimed furniture that you can enjoy with pride. If you’re interested in your home's reclaimed wood dining table, click below to contact or view more of what we do.