“Pax” Table in American cherry

Virginia Kerridge’s table is an interpretation of a traditional woodworking technique that uses butterfly joints to connect two pieces of split timber. In this case, brass joints span across a recessed groove that follows the natural line of the grain in a central section of timber. Cuts at either end are ‘held’ by butterflies on the vertical edge, in this case finished in timber. Butterfly, or bow tie joints date back to ancient times. In contemporary furniture making, they were a feature of the Japanese American master, George Nakashima. This table is designed to be removed from its slotted base, which also comes apart to be flat packed and more easily transported. The feet of the angular legs are stained a deep red, with brass strips at the very base occasionally capturing glimmers of light. Pax is the name of Virginia’s dog, and refers to the ‘X’ table base, and peace, for a place where people come together. 

Virginia Kerridge graduated in architecture at the University of NSW with first class honours and soon after established her own studio in 1995. Her Taylor Square Warehouse, completed early in her practice, was awarded by the Australian Institute of Architects. Since then, her significant folio of finely crafted houses has gathered a long list of industry awards and been widely published. Virginia’s practice carefully considers the relationships between architecture, interiors and landscapes, and her deep interest in art practice has led to an almost painterly approach to material, texture, colour and light.