BurlinsonbyDesign

Woodworking · March 2025

Nakashima-Inspired Walnut Entryway Bench

Simple elegant design meets functional purpose.

Finished walnut entryway bench in a sunlit room with a potted plant and glass doors
Completed
March 2025
Species
Walnut
Board thickness
1 3/4"

This solid walnut entryway bench is a tribute to the legendary George Nakashima, embracing his philosophy of blending natural forms with clean, intentional craftsmanship. The design highlights the warmth and richness of hand-selected walnut, with a subtly sculpted seat and gracefully tapered legs that evoke a sense of weightlessness.

There are no screws or nails in this project. Constructed using traditional loose mortisen and tenon joinery techniques, the bench seamlessly balances functionality and artistry, allowing the natural grain and organic beauty of the wood to shine. With its minimalist yet grounded presence, this piece is as much a statement of design as it is a welcoming addition to any entryway.

In the shop

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  • Sketchbook plans for the entryway bench's leg dimensions (14 inches, 19 inches, 48 inches)
  • Entryway bench leg taper sketch with measurements
  • Cutting the walnut bench legs to length
  • Fitting the entryway bench's mortise and tenon joints
  • Assembled walnut entryway bench legs and stretcher joined on the workbench, mortise and tenon joinery visible
  • Sanding the entryway bench's walnut seat
  • Walnut entryway bench leg detail before finishing
  • Raw walnut boards for the entryway bench seat
  • Finished walnut entryway bench staged on the workbench in the shop, dark stain applied, before delivery

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