"Dear Kevin, The table exceeds any descriptions by our friends. It is truly beautiful. We’re almost afraid to play a game on it. If you need anyone to say kind words about your work to a paying customer, feel free to use us. We couldn’t be happier with the product... Let’s keep in touch. Again, our deep appreciation."

-Customer e-mail.

Architect John Gillespie and interior designer Donna Janville of Camden, Maine were contracted to build and furnish an 8,000 s.f. waterfront home in nearby Tenants Harbor.* They asked me to design and build a chess and backgammon table for the great room. The brief included the following:

- In fitting with the decor of the room, the table was to be monochromatic, using only natural maple.
- It needed to accomodate the owner's existing 1 1/2 inch chess pieces.
- The design would have to compliment a pair of Sting chairs, by designer Gijs Papavoine.

Using the lines of the chairs as a starting point, I envisioned and drew several versions of the table, the best of which were presented to the future homeowners. After a few modifications, we agreed upon a final version and I began work. Throughout the process, I met with Donna and the homeowners to discuss various options. One of the most challenging parts of the project was the selection of veneers for the chess and backgammon boards. Since only a natural maple tone was allowed, I had to find a combination of figured woods that would provide enough contrast in pattern to differentiate the various elements of the playing surface. I made several samples of the game boards until everybody was satisfied with the result.

Work proceeded as planned, including many late nights driving through Maine blizzards; but the project was completed before the expected delivery date. I had the pleasure of delivering the table to some very happy customers.

* This Tenants Harbor residence will be featured in the May 2009 issue of Maine Home & Design Magazine (www.mainehomedesign.com).