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".
Houston Century Buffet
This buffet was designed by Woodleaf Studios to compliment the client's existing dining room furniture from Century. The buffet incorporates lion head ring pulls, black lacquer engaged pilasters with gold leaf capital, and base elements. The primary door and drawer panels are banded with ebonized bead. The unusually deep niche allowed for an elevated upper tier at the rear for additional serving surface.
Lectern and Table
High gloss black lacquer surfaces are accented with gold leafed capital and base elements. The lectern's facade and body is lightly ebonized cherry.
Steiner Ball and Claw Table
This table was designed by Michael Steiner. Like the Steiner Urn table it was built and then donated by Woodleaf Studios to Interact for a fundraiser. The table has a cherry top banded with olive as a burl. Brass claws clench black lacquer spheres. There are also gold leaf accents.
Fanfare Dresser
Art Deco inspired six door dresser. Three dimensional solid wood appliques. Maple and mahogany applied over carpathian elm burl drawer fronts with black lacquer pulls.
Steiner Urn Table
Michael Steiner, ASID, designed this glass top table for a Woodleaf Studios sponsored design competition. Woodleaf Studios then built and donated this winning design to a fundraiser for Interact(a shelter for battered women and children).
The main urn body is birdseye maple with hand carved spiraling trunks finished with silver leaf and lacquer. The dangling black tassles add to the whimsical feel and create an unusual texture for this piece.