Working with Live-Edge Walnut Slabs
Excess wood that was cut from the slabs was later used to create a television table (left) and a coffee table (below).
Working with life-edge can be challenging. "We had to be very careful when removing the bark to ensure the live-edge was natural yet smooth enough so it would not snag the clothing of people seated at the table."
The extremely tight schedule and the sheer size and weight of the wood slabs presented challenges, too. The design plan initially called for a 21-foot table, and each 21-foot slab weighed about 500 pounds. For various reasons, the table length was reduced to 17 feet, and wood that was cut from the slabs was later used to create a coffee table and a television table.
"Walnut is definitely my favorite wood to work with," Malmstrom said. It cuts cleanly and leaves a beautiful, clean surface. I mostly use domestic walnut due to its accessibility and affordability. Circassian walnut is a deeper, richer brown than domestic walnut because the sapwood is darker. It's beautiful, but I also love the contrast of the lighter sapwood and darker heartwood found in domestic walnut. Walnut is definitely my go-to species."
Malmstrom noted that the design team from Brown-Forman was a great partner. They had a vision for this table as a signature piece for the Jack Daniel's facility and were open to ideas.
"It's one thing to see the rough cut wood slabs and computer renderings. It's a whole other thing to see a finished piece like this. The colors and grains just pop and the character of the wood comes to life. I think they were thrilled with the final product."
Frequently asked questions
What wood species was used for the Jack Daniel's signature table?+
Domestic walnut live-edge slabs were used. Malmstrom prefers domestic walnut for its accessibility, affordability, and the contrast between its lighter sapwood and darker heartwood.
How long and heavy were the original walnut slabs?+
The design initially called for 21-foot slabs, each weighing about 500 pounds. The final table length was reduced to 17 feet.
What was done with the leftover walnut cut from the slabs?+
The excess wood trimmed from the slabs was repurposed to create a coffee table and a television table.
What is the difference between Circassian walnut and domestic walnut?+
Circassian walnut has a deeper, richer brown color because its sapwood is darker. Domestic walnut offers a notable contrast between its lighter sapwood and darker heartwood.
What are the challenges of working with live-edge walnut slabs?+
The bark must be carefully removed so the live edge remains natural but smooth enough not to snag clothing. The size and weight of the slabs, combined with tight schedules, also pose significant challenges.
Who commissioned the live-edge walnut table?+
The table was commissioned by Brown-Forman as a signature piece for the Jack Daniel's facility. Their design team collaborated closely and was open to ideas throughout the project.