After traveling to the Angkor Wat temples in Cambodia, I studied their use of classic wood joinery techniques in stone. Built in the 12th century by the Khmer, little is known about their history but their vast empire of stone tell a distinct story of masonry inspired by a mastery of wood.

Little is known about the Khmer. Most of the remnants of their vast empire are stone ruins. However by studying their vast stone temples one thing is certain they were excellent woodworkers. This is demonstrated by their use of classic wood joinery techniques in stone. Their mastery of wood working directly inspired their masonry.

Motivated by the the Khmers’s use of technological artifacts within in a new medium, I set out to replicate traditional wood joinery techniques entirely out of stainless steel.

The final result references traditional truss tables and wood joinery while introducing very modern materials and techniques. The blending of traditional craft and modern materials is highlighted with the juxtaposition of cold stainless steel and warm black walnut.

The table legs are completely fabricated from stainless steel tube and fasteners - featuring several different traditional wood joinery techniques. The cross beam is trapped within the legs in a mortise-and-tennon style joint. While the horizontal leg supports are connected to the main leg with a lap joint. The 12 point bolts that hold it together are counter bored to reference traditional dowels that would hold these in place.

The table top and top truss were made from black walnut to add warmth to the cool stainless legs. To highlight the technological artifacts present, the stainless legs pierce the tabletop exposing the construction method.