Dining Tables: Michael S Smith – Tradition Filtered Through a Modern Lens

Michael S Smith, also known as Obama’s White House decorator – is one of the most respected and original talents in the industry. Born in California, Michael studied interior design at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles. Today we bring you some of his story, as well as some staggering dining tables, the result of successful partnerships.

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Michael S Smith Inc, was launched in 1990, expanding from projects solely for private clients to his line of fine furniture and fabrics (“Jasper”). The interior designer features a very important and incredible reputation on his residential, hospitality and commercial clients. His style sits on a seamless blend of European classicism and American modernism, which reflects projects that are always fresh yet traditional, but with some eccentric decor twists. Here are some of the best dining tables present in his collection.

This modern yet timeless table design featured a bold slab with a leg finish that carries forward on the top. An optional expansion version utilizes concealed steel slides that allow the table to expand and accept leaves without the addition of a central leg.

Apollo table is inspired by the exuberance of the space age. The pie-matched sunburst top is arranged to present the wonder of the cosmos through the natural grain patterns. The reverse beveled table edge (shown on round edition) harkens to the communications discoveries of the past century, while the tapered tripod legs evoke the wings of jet-age flight. Shown here with a dove gray walnut tabletop and espresso walnut legs.

Drawing inspiration from the works of Charles Limbert, and aiming to create a table that was both refined and purposeful. The resulting table mends a craftsman’s sense of scale with a modern silhouette.

Drawing from the calm waters of Long Island Sound, the elongated star-shaped base evokes the nighttime sky and sails of yachts in Larchmont Harbor, New York. The racetrack-oval top is perfect for all size gatherings and the table can expand with optional leaves. Shown here with a cashmere gray birdseye maple table top with optional leaves and an extra dark walnut base.

This atypical design showcases exquisite finishes in a modern yet timeless aesthetic. Cleverly concealed within the top is set of optional steel slides that allow the table to expand by nearly four feet without the addition of central legs.

Inspired by a life at sea, a compass-shaped base leads to four gently tapered legs that support the round top.

When summoned to create a table that is both asymmetrical yet balanced, drawing inspiration from the classic game of darts.

Then replaced the traditional concentric circles with alternating triangles terminating in a central point. The Bullseye table is available in a wide variety of sizes and finishes.

Inspired equally by Saarinen and Brancusi, the beautiful Dakota Table has become a classic. The base is offered in a shimmering polished nickel, subtle antiqued nickel, dante brass, and dark bronze. Designed to support a variety of standard and custom sized tops. 

Neoclassical-style dining table with two 20″ leaves included. Painted faux bois top.

See also: Kelly Wearstler: The Zenith of Dining Tables

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