In 2009 Dunstone Design was approached by the Dean of the School of Business and Economics, Australian National University, to design and craft an “iconic” boardroom table to grace their new building. The Dean wanted the 6.5m long and 3m wide table to be made from solid river red gum to embody a truly “Australian” feel. Tables of this size would normally be made from veneer due to timber movement issues but Evan was able to design a dramatic piece that was also technically sound. One end of the table can be removed and placed against the wall, turning the table into a giant horseshoe shape. This boardroom table is registered with the Drill Hall Gallery as one of the ANU’s major works of art.
After an exhaustive design process, a 1:10 scale Marquette was made of the boardroom table to show the clients what was proposed. Evan then enlisted the help of Mr. Denis Brown, Australia’s leading expert on drying river red gum, to help him source the special boards that were needed. The timber was supplied by Gulpa Timbers of Deniliquin after eleven other suppliers were eliminated. The team at Dunstone Design worked smoothly in a coordinated effort to get the project finished within the strict time frame required. In addition to the main table there were three matching side tables, six ceremonial chairs and a special bench to complete the commission.
River red gum with silver ash details.