The California Series comes in three sizes: a large size desk, a medium size (which can feature either desk height or coffee table height legs), and a small coffee table.

DESK [L]: $2950  86″ long, 29.5″ tall 

DESK [M]: $2350  72″ long, 29.5″ tall 

COFFEE TABLE [M]: $2250  72″ long, 16″ tall 

COFFEE TABLE [S]: $1650  56″ long, 16″ tall 

To purchase:

Desk (large) $2,950.00 Desk (medium) $2,350.00 Coffee Table (medium) $2,250.00 Coffee Table (small) $1,650.00

[SF Bay Area residents: please email for a custom invoice with free delivery.]

The California shape offers ideal function as desk or coffee table, and brings to mind all of the positive associations with “the golden state”: artistic contribution, technical innovation, entertainment production, political progression, and diversity of population and geographies.

Claro walnut, a perfect analog to the left coast’s culture and people, possesses a spectrum of colors and textures, unique among wood species. And, it’s rare. Because Claro walnut is not harvested commercially at any significant scale, it is obtained mostly through small, independent sawyers who are able to spare displaced or dead trees from the landfill or chipper. Since the species is no longer planted in the orchards, it’s availability is finite and shrinking year by year.

I can think of no greater tribute to this material than to create from it functional pieces of furniture in the shape of it’s geographic origin. Also, it’s cool. Way better than a rectangle.

All table and desk tops are finished with a low-toxic tung-oil; steel legs are powder-coated. Delivery is free to destinations in the San Francisco Bay area. Shipping charges within the continental U.S. are: $100/small table, $150/medium table or desk, $200/large desk. Personal delivery is available to destinations in California at the above rates. Allow 4-8 weeks for delivery.

In addition to the standard California Series, J.R.F.S also produces a limited number of special edition California desks and tables every year. The wood for these pieces is selected from the highest grade of heavily-figured Claro walnut. Most of this rare lumber becomes reserved for instrument making, gunstocks, or veneer, but we think a showcase piece for your home is the most noble use.

Limited Edition California pieces also feature a sculptural cantilevered base made from native oak treated with a natural vinegar stain to achieve a charcoal-colored patina. Every extra step is taken in the construction and finishing to ensure these pieces are “museum quality” works of functional art that will only appreciate in value. Early J.Rusten pieces have already been offered for sale on the secondary art market.

Like the standard California Series, Limited Edition California pieces are available in a large desk size, medium desk, medium coffee table, and small coffee table. Additionally, a bar-height version of the large desk can be custom ordered. Pricing reflects the scarcity and expense of this precious wood, and the time demanded to create the sculptural base and meticulously-wrought detailing.

DESK [L]: $9450  86″ long, 29.5″ tall 

DESK [BAR HEIGHT]: $9950  86″ long, 42″ tall 

DESK [M]: $7350  72″ long, 29.5″ tall 

COFFEE TABLE [M]: $6450  72″ long, 16″ tall 

COFFEE TABLE [S]: $4950  56″ long, 16″ tall 

Bar-height wine “tasting table”.

Limited Edition California tables are finished with a low-toxic tung-oil. Personal delivery is free to destinations in the San Francisco bay area, and just $100 anywhere within the state of California. For shipping/delivery rates outside of California, email for a quote. Please allow 10-12 weeks for creation/delivery. Custom sizing/features available.

Raw oak base before vinegar solution.

$4900 built to order

Like the Cupertino Cantilever table, this desk is a study in balance and strength using traditional woodworking techniques (mitered, half-blind dovetails in this case), and a spare, rectilinear silhouette that is elevated from the ground by a minimal maple base.

The desk is built from Black walnut and Hard maple.

Dimensions are 24″ W x 58″ L x 29.5″ H.

This desk is sold, but an equal piece may be commissioned. Please email for schedule and shipping information.