The Dovetail Leaner is an unanticipated composition of the essential. Fabricated from surplus—of oak, brass, of the architect’s errant hand—it is a testament to the latent potential within constraint. Slender planks interlock their dovetail joinery a quiet echo of craft tradition.

This is not a shelf that demands attention; it merely suggests a place for objects to rest. Beside a bed, against a bare wall, or nestled by a well-worn armchair, it leans into its surroundings, its presence both subtle and assured.

Solid European oak, hewn into rectilinear forms, is warmed by the rub of oil. Slender brass rods, gleaming like punctuation marks, offer gentle resistance to the casual drift of books and curiosities.

The Dovetail Leaner: a utilitarian object elevated by chance and intention.

Design: Justin Allen

Fabrication: Justin Allen

Photography: Ann Katrin Warter

Drawing by Justin Allen on architecture trace paper

Drawing by Justin Allen – original sketch and random paper source