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bespoke dining table

What goes into sourcing timber for the finest waney edge slabs?

sawmill trip timber selection

Sourcing Timber: The Art Of The Hunt

Sourcing exquisite timber is paramount in creating our signature waney-edge dining tables. Our commitment to quality and craftsmanship drives us to go the extra mile in finding the perfect wood for each unique piece – and the extra mile often leads us to continental Europe. In this blog post, we invite you to explore our world and understand how we source and transform rough diamonds into works of art.

We invest time researching, visiting remote mills, and establishing connections with trusted suppliers. Timber, like any other crop, is cultivated for maximum bulk and uniformity so that the modern commercial sawmills can mill in the most efficient fashion. However, commercial forestry goals don’t always align with our artisanal needs as so many details are removed in the pursuit of speed (and profit). Throughout the life cycle of trees, they are managed to prioritise many criteria such as growth rate, straightness, and minimal branching etc. Unique characteristics such as movement, excessive branching, or slower growth are often seen as defects and removed. However, we value and celebrate these unique characteristics in our live-edge tables, so it’s so important to source by eye for every single piece we craft.

Our job is to uncover hidden gems with unconventional beauty. With over a decade of experience, we appreciate that our creative journey begins with selecting raw materials. When we unveil these raw boards to our clients, their initial reaction is often a gasp of disbelief, struggling to comprehend how we transform rough pieces of wood into exquisite tables. While our chapter begins at the sawmill, it’s essential to recognise the incredible individuals whose chapter ends here – the family run sawmills and the forestry team before them.

Each mill visit always leaves us with immense admiration for their skills and deep respect for the timber that binds us together. By establishing strong relationships with these mills, we have direct access to their kiln-dried stock, handpicking only the finest boards for our bespoke tables. This ensures exceptional quality and craftsmanship in each piece we create.

Leveraging our expertise in identifying standout boards, we skillfully highlight their unique characteristics, allowing clients to witness the remarkable beauty that lies beneath the surface. Transparency is woven into every step of our process. We engage our customers in every aspect, from sharing stories about timber origins to involving them in the design process, fostering a deep connection between clients and the natural materials we work with.

As we source timber for our furniture, we embrace the understanding that no two pieces will ever be identical, yet each holds its own distinct beauty. Selecting and procuring wood allows us to discover hidden treasures within. Each log tells a story, and it is our role as artisans to bring that story to life in a tangible and meaningful way.

Once kiln dried, our skilled craftsmen shape and craft the table with precision, considering the unique features and contours of the wood. Attention to detail is paramount, from the smoothness of the table’s surface to the perfect alignment of the live edges. Our craftsmen bring their expertise and passion to exceed our clients’ expectations. Throughout the creation process, we pay close attention to every detail, setting us apart and allowing us to create exceptional pieces. A protective finish enhances the wood’s natural beauty and ensures long-lasting durability. This step adds a lustrous sheen and safeguards the table against everyday wear and tear, ensuring enjoyment for generations to come.

In conclusion, sourcing timber is a labour of love and a critical part of our creative process. We journey across Europe in search of hidden treasures with the unique character and beauty we value. By prioritising craftsmanship, attention to detail, and establishing close relationships with trusted suppliers, we create remarkable works of art.

What is the best shape for a dining table?

oval oak dining table

So you’ve decided your dining area is particularly special (it is), and it needs an extra special dining table to boot. But how do you know which dining table shape is right for you and your space?

As the dining table itself is the focal feature of a dining room, it’s important to select one that not only suits the space, but also your lifestyle. At Wicked we can create all sorts of sizes, styles and shapes. All you have to do is decide which is best for you…

Shape No. 1

Rectangle

This is the most celebrated dining table shape – and for good reason. Its lengthy, tight structure is perfect for entertaining on a large scale, famously with hosts positioned at each end.

The linear shape of a rectangular dining table readily fits into most dining areas and is easily the most accommodating shape for most living areas. In smaller dining rooms, when not in use, a rectangular table can be pushed against the wall, but if you have a really narrow dining area, choose long dining benches instead of dining chairs to free up space. These can be tucked under the table when not in use.

A rectangular table is usually between 90cm to 107cm wide. Narrower tables can work well in a tight space, but if the table is any narrower than 90cm, you may find it tough to fit place settings as well as food onto the table.

Though the most popular of shapes, the humble rectangle can be beautified with unique features. When we create our bespoke tables we ask customers how they envision their one-of-a-kind table. A rectangular table can be brought to life with an exciting external or internal live edge, which harks back to the beauty of the tree itself.

Shape No. 2

Square

Square dining tables are the perfect shape for smaller spaces where the table serves many purposes. If there are two to four people in your household, a square table is a great choice.

This shape helps to create a sense of balance and symmetry in a dining area. Celebrating contemporary style, this look can be enhanced further by using chrome and copper pedestals, and by pairing the table with matching hardwood benches. A square table creates an intimate atmosphere, making it perfect for small scale dinner parties and romantic nights in. It can be jarring to have a large rectangular table when there are only two or three people present for most of your meals whereas a square table is warm and inviting.

Shape No. 3

Oval

If you’re mulling over whether a rectangular or a square dining table is best for your space, perhaps the oval is your answer. An oval table combines the linear design of a rectangular table with the closeness and flexibility of a round table. If your area is made up of many straight lines and edges, the curves of an oval table will help soften your interior to make it more intimate and inviting. The curved edges make it great in small spaces too and can be incorporated into smaller dining areas with ease.

If you’re looking to highlight the soft nature of an oval table, it is always a good choice to combine chairs that feature similar characteristics.

Rather than table legs, a central pedestal base is a fantastic choice if you’re aiming for a sculptural and sophisticated décor. This draws attention to the decorative qualities of the oval shape as well as freeing up space for all of your guests to get tucked under that table and ready to eat.

Shape No. 4

Round

A round dining table is perfect for the hosts among us – by keeping everyone at the same distance from each other, this shape is great for creating an energetic and social atmosphere . A table with no corners is great for 2 reasons (3 if we count the kids not being able to run into them) – firstly, you can seat the maximum number of guests possible and secondly, from a style perspective, the curvature adds some shape variety to a room that is big and rectangular which livens a living space.

Opt for a pedestal base – these offer the most leg room, so your guests won’t need to compete with uncomfortably placed table legs.

A round table equals a more casual dining experience. An added benefit is that there is no need to fret when you have an uneven number of guests. If you’re used to people turning up unannounced when your signature dish is in the oven, then a round table is perfect for you.

So what shape dining table is best for you? Which shape is best for your space?

If you’re still scratching your head, why not give us a ring on 020 8432 3266 or email us at info@lateliermata.com

Have a good idea of what you’re looking for? Head on over to our Get a Quote page or mosey on over to our Shop for some inspiration.