Bodin Hon and Dilara Kan | Checkered

Initial design proposal

The 'Checkered' bench is a bench made with solid cherry and maple, adorned with a checkerboard pattern that adds a playful touch. Its design pays tribute to the captivating world of board games, making it a valuable heirloom that brings joy to any space. Crafted with modern CNC machinery and assembled by hand, its smooth curves and intricate pattern showcase the natural beauty and contrast between the two woods. As an heirloom object, it fosters moments of bonding and playful competition, connecting generations to the enduring appeal of board gaming.

Design development and production process

We worked with the manufacturer to select a stronger contrast in color between two American hardwood species for the checkerboard pattern - cherry and maple. We tested various finishes to find one that provides the best protection while keeping the natural texture and color of the wood, and ultimately decided on thinly applied lacquer.

The production process was straightforward after we decided to use an all-wood construction method, and it was completed ahead of schedule, allowing us to expand on the design. 

With guidance from our mentor, we designed a custom 'chess set' with a playful and rounded design to match the bench. A local craftsman in Istanbul produced it using the leftover wood material from the manufacturer's production.