Whenever we are asked to engineer unusual functions or integrate unique objects or materials into a piece the result is referred to as a "specialty item". In the case of this shell table our client had been given an extensive collection of shells from a friend and neighbor."The shell collection itself is not that valuable but the neighbor and the memories are." Therefore, we set out to design a table that would showcase the shells while still providing a functional coffee table. Each individual shell rests upon a black lacquer faceted pedestal arranged in a balanced geometric pattern. The radiused book and butt walnut burl aprons wrap around each side and join the carved and gold leafed legs. An inset glass top lies flush with the aprons and is removed via a concealed "lifting block".