Kevin Gilders, Notting Hill, Victoria

Chestnut Cabinet
Chestnut
1465 h x 530 w x 255mm d

Some years ago I had the opportunity to slab a large chestnut tree that had been felled in the Dandenongs. The resulting timber was air-dried for more than 10 years and was my logical choice for the project. I have long admired the clean lines, simplicity, and craftsmanship of James Krenov’s work so decided on a cabinet after this style.
The cabinet is dowelled with the jarrah plywood back grooved in. The jarrah was chosen as a visual contrast to the chestnut, a theme continued with the drawer surround and the pin style hinges. Other joints used were dovetail, finger joints and mortise and tenon, all hand cut.
The legs were slightly splayed to give visual stability to the standing piece and the curves provide a mild contrasting element to the hard-edged straight lines of the cabinet. The cabinet handle was carved on edge of the door in preference to a protruding handle.
There is a flexibility in the design that allows the cabinet to be wall-hung so the base becomes a small side table. The drawer unit may be placed at any height or even removed, and by reversing the pin hinges and turning the cabinet upside down, we have a left hand opening door.
The proportions were suggested by the timber size and confirmed by these jaded sawdust specked eyes. The end result I feel is a visually appealing, calming understated, practical yet flexible piece of work.
Glue is Titebond II. Finish is Cabots Crystal Clear Satin.

Photo: Kevin Gilders