Chef Flynn McGarry recently took a break from his culinary duties to showcase his woodworking skills. In preparation for his Copenhagen-meets-California café and grocery, Gem Home, located in NoLita, McGarry personally crafted four stunning 15-foot-long red oak tables. These custom-built tables were designed to perfectly fit the space, even accommodating the slight slant of the original floors in the former olive oil factory.
This isn’t McGarry’s first foray into carpentry. In fact, he reminisces about his early days as a one-year-old on a ladder, hammering in two-by-fours. His affinity for construction was evident when he created six cherry wood communal tables for his first restaurant, Gem Wine, which he launched at the young age of 19. McGarry humorously mentions that his father jokes about him having more experience in construction than cooking.
The process of woodworking brings immense satisfaction to McGarry, who currently enjoys sitting at a table he handcrafted himself. It’s a testament to his dedication to creating a unique and personalized dining experience for his customers.
Interestingly, McGarry is not alone in his dual passion for food and design. A new generation of chefs worldwide, from Los Angeles to London, are embracing the concept of “farm-to-table” by extending their creativity to include designing and making furniture for their restaurants. This trend is fueled by a growing awareness of sustainable practices in the food industry, as well as a newfound appreciation for craftsmanship and fine furniture.
The convergence of these factors has led to a surge in interest in furniture-making and design. Institutions like the Chippendale International School of Furniture in Scotland have seen a steady increase in student enrollment, while online marketplaces like 1stDibs have reported a rise in furniture orders. Additionally, the rise in searches for home decor inspiration on platforms like Pinterest indicates a growing interest in creating unique and personalized spaces.
For restaurants, the appeal of chef-designed furniture goes beyond aesthetics. It offers a tangible connection to the chef’s creative process and personal touch, enhancing the overall dining experience for patrons. With food and design becoming increasingly intertwined, it’s no surprise that customers are drawn to restaurants where every detail, right down to the tables they sit at, reflects the chef’s craftsmanship and passion.
