Named after the Derby Wharf in Salem, MA, the inspiration for this table came from a trip to the Peabody Essex Museum where a small Federal-style tea table caught my eye. Since then, I’ve been making variations on this form — experimenting with different leg angles, curves, proportions, and joinery techniques.
The table that inspired it all! It caught my eye with its tapered legs, subdued square moulding, and elegant recessed top. What can I say? It was love at first sight. Good thing it was behind glass, because I wanted to get my hands on it!
“Nick English (Bridgewater VT) has been working on the Derby Tea Table. Spare, beautiful lines, and a video shot over three days by Erin English (click here) that is nothing short of magical. The video is part of the BMAC exhibition because it shows ‘the complexity and craftsmanship behind each piece.’ Watching Nick English construct a table is what you need with your morning coffee.”
— Susan Apel, Artful
All three design iterations showcased at the BMAC exhibition in Brattleboro, VT. Photo by Little Pond Digital.
LEFT TABLE:
The first iteration of the design features a flat top and a straight apron profile.
RIGHT TABLE:
The second iteration features a larger leg splay and introduces subtle curves to the aprons.
CENTER TABLE:
The latest iteration features a smaller leg splay resulting in a tighter footprint. It also has a recessed top with a splined moulding. To break up the straight lines, it maintains the subtle curves on the bottom of the aprons which results in a cohesive design.