Tree to Table: Crafting Custom Furniture from On-Site Logs
Turning a hazardous tree into a stunning piece of furniture is an incredible process—and we recently had the chance to do just that. From removing a tree that had fallen on a newly constructed bathhouse to transforming it into a massive 18-foot-long dining table, 3 matching benches, and a custom wood and stone entrance archway, this project was a perfect blend of craftsmanship and creativity. Here’s how we took a tree that needed to come down and gave it a second life as extraordinary, functional art.
From Treework to Timber: The Process Begins
The project started with treework, where we identified a large tree that posed a safety hazard. Instead of simply turning the wood into fuel, the goal was to repurpose it into furniture and architectural features that would stand the test of time.
What made this project even more remarkable was discovering that the tree we repurposed was nearly as old as the building it now enhances—both originating around 1909. For over a century, the tree stood as a silent companion to the structure, and now, through careful craftsmanship, it has been transformed into a stunning 18-foot table, benches, and archway that honor its legacy. This seamless blend of history and creativity ensures that the spirit of the tree lives on, continuing to serve and inspire in its new form, just as it stood alongside the building for generations.
After safely taking down the tree, we carefully cut it into large slabs. The rich grain patterns hidden within were incredible, and we knew right away this timber had the potential to make something truly spectacular. Each step of the journey, from rough milling to precise joinery, kept us connected to the material in a way that only a project like this can offer.
Crafting the Centerpiece: An 18-Foot Dining Table
The heart of this project was a massive dining table, measuring 18 feet long and 40 inches wide. Creating a table of this size took careful planning. Each slab was milled, flattened, and meticulously joined to create a seamless top. The natural edges were kept intact in some sections, preserving the organic feel of the original tree.
For the base, we plasma-cut custom steel butterflies, which added both stability and a unique design element. These butterflies didn’t just serve as reinforcements—they became decorative features that told the story of the project, symbolizing transformation and strength.
The table’s sheer size demanded precise craftsmanship, but the payoff was worth it. The finished piece is both a stunning focal point and a gathering space designed to host memories for years to come.
Benches to Match: Beauty in Simplicity
While the grand dining table became the centerpiece of the project, we also crafted three sturdy benches placed at different locations around the property. Each bench was built from the same tree, with thick, solid seats and rugged bases, showcasing the wood’s natural beauty in a way that felt distinct from the table.
Rather than matching the table, these benches stand on their own as functional art—designed to blend with the landscape while offering comfortable places to pause and enjoy the surroundings. Though separate in design and placement, the use of timber from the same tree gives the benches a subtle connection to the larger narrative of transformation and continuity.
A Grand Entrance: The Archway
The final touch to this project was the construction of an entrance archway. Using 20” diameter log from the same tree, along with steel and stones, we crafted a welcoming arch that stands tall and proud. The arch symbolizes both the beginning and end of the tree’s journey—what was once a hazard is now a gateway, marking a new chapter in the wood’s life.
The design of the archway is simple but intentional, with the combination of steel, stone, and wood, we ensured it will have a long second life as a welcoming symbol for the property. It stands as both a functional entry point and a tribute to the creative potential of reclaimed materials.
A Project to Remember
Working on this “tree to table” project was an unforgettable experience. Being involved in every step, from tree removal to final assembly, gave us a unique connection to the materials and the finished pieces. Seeing the transformation from hazard to heirloom was a reminder of the beauty that lies in nature—and the incredible potential that careful craftsmanship can unlock.
This project wasn’t just about building furniture; it was about creating a legacy. What began as a safety issue became an opportunity for creativity, craftsmanship, and connection. And now, this wood—once a standing tree—will continue to live on in a way that’s both functional and beautiful.
