Josh Carmody, Turning Point Boardroom Table (TABLES, CHAIRS & DESKS 2024)

Photos:

Josh Carmody

Video tour:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CrF_GVRAu8o/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

This bespoke boardroom table I designed and made for a Woods Bagot interior fit out was the major project for me in 2022-23. The brief had many layers of complexity requiring an extensive design and shop drawing phase to ensure all functions, and requirements were met. The table was modelled in 3D CAD and during production the CAD model was updated live in the workshop with every minor change and decision to ensure tolerances were maintained at scale, and the overall functional requirements below were met. At 11.2 meters in length this table seats 25 people, and has integrated power, data and microphones, with the wiring all concealed from view, but still reachable through removable panels that run the length of each table wing. This massive solid timber table is also movable. As in, it can be changed quickly between an open and closed position to serve different functional settings on site. No easy feat for a table of this size and weight. In the closed position the table resembles a more traditional boardroom table shape. The table also opens down the centre length of the table to optimise viewing the screen at the end of the table for each of the people sitting around the table. To achieve this dynamic functionality, there is a round table, located at the head. And two wings extending out from it. Each wing is connected to a dynamic hinged steel plates, which link back the head table, pivoting around a mechanism I designed and had machined in steel by the gear machinist across the street from my factory. Each steel component was lined with with a tailer made nylon bushing and washer to ensure a smooth, unsticking mechanism. Points of note: To achieve the movement function, the table frame is on wheels. Which sounds easy enough, but in order to track correctly around the pivot point, each of the 24 wheels was recessed into the uprights and then angled uniquely relative to the central mechanism. If these angles were wrong, the table would not move. The entire table dismantles for transport and assembly on the 17th floor boardroom. Which meant the uniform shape of the table top and table frame needed to break down into parts that fit into the goods lift. The accuracy required throughout the frame, mechanism and table top was critical to the overall function of the table. For this reason I outsourced the table top for CNC cutting and polishing with a local manufacturer to ensure perfection across the 11.2 meters. For added versatility of function, we designed a small vertical divider which clamps on to the inside edge of each wing’s table top and runs the length of the table. Each divider is fitted to the table with clamps we designed and had machined locally, and all are laminated with a piece of end grain to add visual continuity of the entire piece. Some joinery methods employed: Laminating to create larger sections of Timber. Mortice and Tenons throughout the framing. Template making and cutting to achieve consistent accurate component shapes. Knockdown joinery hardware for reassembly on site. A design and manufacturing strategy to allow for seasonal timber movement, without impeding the functional mobility of the table. Material: Solid American White Oak Finish: Osmo Polyx Semi Matte Length: 11200mm Width: 2400mm

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.