Crafting Elegance: Custom Tables for a Private Club in New York’s Meatpacking District
In the heart of New York City’s vibrant Meatpacking District, a new private club by Tao Group needed furniture as distinctive and sophisticated as its concept. To bring this vision to life, MSFC Custom partnered with the renowned Rockwell Group to design and fabricate 58 custom-built tables that set the tone for a high-end, 1920s-inspired speakeasy environment.
Capturing the Client’s Vision
The aesthetic brief was clear: dark, cozy elegance with a nod to the lavish style of the 1920s. Cherry wood, antique brass, and rose and smoked glass were the materials of choice, creating a palette that was warm, luxurious, and timeless. Each piece had to complement the club’s overall design, blending seamlessly into an atmosphere designed to transport guests back to the Jazz Age.
Materials and Finishes
The materials chosen for the tables were critical in achieving the desired ambiance:
Antique Brass: Used for edge bands and bar wraps, brass added an understated metallic gleam and vintage character. Each band was hand-rolled and patinaed to perfection, ensuring no two pieces were identical.
Dark Cherry Wood: For table tops and bases, cherry wood offered a rich, warm foundation that exuded sophistication. Some wood tops featured starburst designs, adding intricate detailing to the simplicity of the materials.
Rose and Smoked Glass: Certain table tops, including octagon and oval designs, were crafted from colored glass with beveled edges. These finishes introduced a subtle glow, balancing the dark wood and brass.
The Fabrication Process
The project’s complexity stemmed from the sheer variety of table designs—12 unique styles with different sizes, materials, and construction techniques. Each table demanded meticulous craftsmanship:
Wood Base Layer: Octagonal and oval tables began with a solid wood base to ensure stability and precision.
Handcrafted Brass Bands: Every brass edge band was hand-rolled and custom patinaed, a time-intensive process that added a bespoke touch to each piece.
Glass Tops: The octagonal and oval tables featured colored glass tops with beveled edges, while others had wood tops showcasing intricate starburst patterns. The glass elements, fabricated by a specialist in North Carolina, required multiple adjustments to achieve the perfect fit.
Steel Bases: All table bases were fabricated from steel, welded internally for a seamless appearance.
The Oval Bar: A standout feature of the club, the bar featured a golden brass wrap and a pink smoked glass top. Its base was a feat of engineering, designed to hold together without nails, exemplifying precision and craftsmanship.
Collaboration and Teamwork
This project was a testament to the power of collaboration. MSFC Custom worked closely with:
The Glass Manufacturer: Ensuring the intricate glass elements met the design and fit requirements.
Rockwell Designers: Maintaining a shared vision throughout the design and fabrication process.
Tao Group Managers: Aligning on timelines, design details, and installation logistics to bring the vision to life.
Challenges and Installation
One of the most challenging aspects of the project was the custom beveled glass. Ensuring each piece fit perfectly required three trips between the fabricator’s shop in North Carolina and the Manhattan site. However, persistence paid off as every element came together seamlessly during installation.
The Results
The finished tables not only met but exceeded the client’s expectations. Each piece became a functional work of art, contributing to the luxurious, intimate ambiance of the club. Tao Group and the Rockwell Group were thrilled with the final result, with the furniture elevating the space and fulfilling its role as a centerpiece of the design.
Why Choose MSFC Custom for Your Next Project?
This project highlights the expertise and dedication MSFC Custom brings to every collaboration. From intricate design requirements to complex materials and installation challenges, we specialize in turning ambitious concepts into reality.
If you’re an architect, designer, or builder looking to craft something extraordinary, contact us today to discuss your vision. Let’s make it happen.
