Parenthetical Bench

Parenthetical bench: ebonized maple top and ebonized cherry, 17″h x 17″w x 54″l. 

                                  – walnut sides and ebonized cherry top , 17″h x 17″w x 54″l. 

                                    -walnut sides and ash top, 17″h x 17″w x 48″l. 

(click images to enlarge & advance)

The Parenthetical bench design was one of two winners in a competition co-sponsored by the Farnsworth Art Musuem and the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship (both in Maine), culminating in the 2013 show “Designing Benches” at the CFC’s Messler Gallery. As a result, a longer version of the original ash and walnut bench was purchased by the Farnsworth and is now in use in the museum.

In constructing each bench the two sides (or legs) are hand-sculpted on their outside surfaces transitioning from a straight line at top to a subtle, curved surface before hitting the floor. The sides also taper in width further enhancing their sculpted appearance. The 1 1/4″ thick top nests into angled notches in the sides and is joined by mortise and tenons. The sides are slightly proud of the top in height and width to further emphasize the joint.

Two rails travel under the benches width and attach to the sides with mortise and tenon joinery providing all the strength the bench needs while maintaining a minimal and airy appearance.

The Parenthetical bench design can be re-created in a variety of woods, finishes and sizes  – just a few examples are shown above. Please contact me to commission a custom version to your preferences.