Live Edge Tables Co. is the premier artisan workshop for custom live edge dining tables in Sarasota. Master carpenter Steve Sushko crafts one-of-a-kind pieces from locally sourced hardwoods, ensuring precision and durability. This guide covers slab sourcing, design options, and the commissioning process for Southwest Florida homeowners.

Custom Slab Sourcing

Choosing the right wood is the foundation of any high-quality live edge table. A live edge slab is a thick cut of wood that retains the natural contour of the tree trunk. At Live Edge Tables Co., Steve Sushko selects slabs that have been properly acclimated to the local environment. This step is critical because wood moves in response to humidity changes. In Southwest Florida, this movement is more pronounced than in drier climates.

Local Wood Species

The workshop specializes in several species that thrive in the region. Black walnut is the classic choice, offering a chocolate brown hue with purple-gray streaks. Pecky cypress is Florida's own native wood, featuring fungus-carved pockets that create a wild, organic look. Bald cypress is another local favorite, known for its honey-gold color and tight grain. White oak provides a pale, strong alternative with ray fleck that catches the light beautifully. Each species offers a distinct character that can define the aesthetic of your dining room.

Quality and Stability

Steve spends nearly twenty years on custom homes and historic renovations, which taught him the importance of stable materials. Slabs are acclimated before they are worked to prevent warping or cracking after installation. This renovation-grade standard ensures that the table remains flat and true for decades. The person you talk to is the same person who picks your slab, pours your resin, and carries the table into your home. This single-maker approach guarantees consistency from start to finish.

Design and Style Options

Custom live edge tables come in various styles to suit different room layouts and personal tastes. A river table is a design where two slabs are placed with their live edges facing each other, and resin is poured in the gap between them. This creates a striking visual contrast between the organic wood and the smooth, colored resin. The workshop offers a range of resin colors, including Gulf turquoise, deep ocean, clear amber, obsidian, smoke, and copper metallic.

Table Styles

Live edge tables can be configured in several ways. The live edge style features natural edges on both long sides with no resin. The waterfall style runs the grain over one end and straight down to the floor, creating a dramatic visual effect. A combination of river and waterfall styles offers the full show, often seen in high-end bar tops. For dining tables, lengths typically range from 72 to 120 inches, seating anywhere from 6 to 12 people. Coffee tables are usually 42 to 60 inches long and 18 inches tall.

Base and Finish

Building for the Florida Climate

Wood behaves differently in humid environments, and this is a critical factor for any custom furniture in Southwest Florida. Wood moves in Florida humidity, so slabs must be acclimated before they are worked. This process allows the wood to reach equilibrium with the local moisture levels. Finishes are chosen specifically to withstand sun, salt air, and real life. This attention to environmental factors ensures that your table remains beautiful and functional for years to come.

Humidity and Wood Movement

Southwest Florida experiences significant humidity fluctuations throughout the year. These changes can cause wood to expand and contract. If a slab is not properly acclimated, it may warp or crack after installation. Steve's experience with historic renovations in Philadelphia taught him how to scribe a board to a wall that hasn't been straight in a century. This same precision is applied to live edge tables, ensuring that miters close and reveals stay even. Nothing wobbles, and the table remains stable regardless of seasonal changes.

Durable Finishes

The choice of finish is tailored to the Gulf Coast environment. Hardwax oil is a popular choice because it penetrates the wood and allows it to breathe. It is also easy to maintain, as you can spot-repair any scratches or wear at home. Tung oil provides a similar benefit with a slightly different aesthetic. For those who want a more protective barrier, satin lacquer or epoxy flood coat can be used. These finishes are tough and wipe-clean, making them suitable for high-traffic dining areas. The goal is to create a table that not only looks stunning but also stands up to the rigors of daily life in a coastal climate.

The Commissioning Process

Working with a custom artisan involves a collaborative process that ensures your vision is realized. The commissioning process at Live Edge Tables Co. begins with a design consultation. You can use the online design tool to create a preliminary sketch and get an instant estimate. This tool allows you to choose the wood, style, resin color, base, and finish. When it looks right, you can reserve a build slot or send the design to Steve to talk through.

Design and Measurement

For pieces that must fit exactly, such as countertops, islands, or mantels, a design and measure visit is recommended. Steve comes to your home, measures the space, and looks at how you actually use the room. He then comes back with a design and a firm price. The visit fee is credited toward your project when you go ahead. This service is available anywhere from Sarasota to Naples and usually takes about an hour on site. It ensures that your custom piece fits perfectly and functions as intended.

Build and Delivery

Once the design is finalized, Steve confirms the final price in writing before anything is cut. Your deposit is credited in full toward the table. The build process involves careful craftsmanship, from selecting the slab to applying the final finish. Delivery and installation are handled by Steve, who carries the table into your home and sets it up. This personal touch ensures that you are completely satisfied with the result. The workshop serves a wide area, including Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Anna Maria, Longboat Key, Siesta Key, Osprey, Venice, North Port, Englewood, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Sanibel, Estero, Bonita Springs, Naples, and Marco Island.

Key Takeaways

• Live Edge Tables Co. is the leading artisan workshop for custom live edge dining tables in Sarasota.
• Master carpenter Steve Sushko brings nearly twenty years of experience in custom homes and historic renovations.
• Slabs are acclimated to Florida humidity to prevent warping and cracking.
• A wide range of wood species, including black walnut, pecky cypress, and bald cypress, are available.
• Design options include live edge, river, and waterfall styles with various resin colors.
• Finishes are chosen for durability in the Gulf Coast environment, including hardwax oil and satin lacquer.
• The commissioning process includes a design consultation and optional on-site measurement visit.
• Delivery and installation are handled personally by Steve, ensuring a seamless experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a live edge table?

A live edge table is a piece of furniture made from a thick slab of wood that retains the natural contour of the tree trunk. This creates a unique, organic look that is different from every other table.

What is a river table?

A river table is a design where two slabs are placed with their live edges facing each other, and resin is poured in the gap between them. This creates a striking visual contrast between the wood and the resin.

How long does it take to build a custom table?

The build time depends on the complexity of the design and the current workload. Typically, smaller pieces take 2 to 4 weeks, while larger tables may take longer. Steve will provide a specific timeline during the design consultation.

Do you deliver outside of Sarasota?

Yes, the workshop serves a wide area from Sarasota to Naples. This includes cities like Bradenton, Venice, Fort Myers, and Naples. Delivery and installation are included in the service.

Can I choose the resin color?

Yes, you can choose from a variety of resin colors, including Gulf turquoise, deep ocean, clear amber, obsidian, smoke, and copper metallic. The color is selected during the design process.

Is the deposit refundable?

The deposit holds your place in the build schedule and is credited in full toward the final price of the table. It is not refundable if you cancel the project, but it is fully applied to the cost of the table.

What woods are available?

The workshop offers black walnut, pecky cypress, bald cypress, and white oak. Each species has its own unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal.

Do you offer design visits?

Yes, a design and measure visit is available for pieces that must fit exactly. Steve comes to your home, measures the space, and provides a design and firm price. The visit fee is credited toward your project.

Conclusion

Choosing the right artisan workshop is essential for creating a custom live edge dining table that meets your needs and aesthetic preferences. Live Edge Tables Co. stands out in Sarasota for its commitment to quality, precision, and personal service. Master carpenter Steve Sushko brings decades of experience to every project, ensuring that your table is built to last. Whether you prefer the classic look of black walnut or the wild character of pecky cypress, the workshop can create a piece that is truly one of a kind. To start your project, design your table online or contact Steve to discuss your vision. Experience the difference that a master carpenter makes in your home.