the history of the river table

Australian Wood Review

“The ‘river table’ has become the biggest woodworking trend of our times. Many woodworkers regards it as such a ‘generic’ furniture form they don’t appreciate its origins stem from the designs of US maker Greg Klassen.”

an Original design

After studying at the College of the Redwoods and Sweden’s Capellagården School of Craft & Design, I launched my studio in 2008 with a commitment to craftsmanship and originality. Early on, I explored sculptural furniture rooted in clean lines and natural materials — inspired by makers like Maloof, Krenov, and Nakashima.

In 2010, a visit to a local sawyer’s barn full of live edge slabs changed everything. I was captivated by their wild, organic edges. Through experimentation, I turned those edges inward and highlighted the negative space with hand-cut blue glass — evoking the shape and spirit of a river. The result was entirely new. The River Table was born.

By 2011, I had developed it into a full collection. At the time, I was selling my work at art festivals. But after a 2014 feature on Colossal went viral, everything changed. I was suddenly shipping pieces worldwide and had a two-year waitlist. The River Table had become a movement.

Though often imitated — especially in epoxy — I take pride in knowing this idea began in my one-man studio, rooted in reverence for wood, craft, and originality.

The River Collection continues to grow, now including wall pieces, the Archipelago Series, and beyond. Each piece is signed, archived, and includes a Certificate of Authenticity — a mark of the original.

If you’ve dreamed of owning a River piece, know this: you’re investing in an original.

hear what customers are saying…

  • “Wildly original, widely imitated, never equalled, Greg’s meticulous art is as much work horse as show horse. His dining table is the focal point of our home.”

    Bryce, Massachusetts

  • "I love the leap of faith I've taken when I've ordered commissions from greg. they've exceeded every expectation i've had."

    Pete, Idaho

  • "Greg’s artwork provided the perfect dynamic to accent our guest suites and the commission process was smooth and efficient from start to finish."

    Tributary Hotel, Oregon

  • "The work he created for this home is spectacular."

    Eileen, Ohio

    Interior Designer

  • "Several years ago I purchased one of Greg's pieces, a river dining table, and I absolutely love it. So much so that I purchased another for a different home."

    Dennis, Florida

  • "everyone who visits always comments on the lovely artwork greg created for me."

    Srujani, Florida

  • "We love our dining table and coffee table from Greg. It brings a touch of the Pacific Northwest into our home."

    Denise, Whistler

  • "Everyone who comes over Raves about the absolutely Beautiful River table Greg made for me. So comfortable & easy to entertain with."

    Terry, Washington