FAQ´s

What makes Patrick Herrmann’s one-of-a-kind tables and bar counters so special?

A true monolith table consists of a single, massive plank that was sawed in one piece from a tree trunk. Only ‘one-of-a-kind’ blanks from monumental, ancient, and historic trees are used for this purpose. My one-of-a-kind tables made from two large planks from the same trunk are also particularly popular. Unlike mass-produced, glued-together products made from narrow wood slats, monoliths, two-piece tables, and tree slices preserve the monumental, original overall appearance of the tree in all its splendor. You can’t get more character than that.

The path to my dream table—can I choose the wood myself?

Yes, that’s actually highly encouraged! The freshly sawn blanks, which have been carefully dried over many years, are stored at my own lumberyard near Stuttgart. Just schedule an appointment with me, tell me about your vision for your one-of-a-kind table, and choose the tree slab or monolith plank that fascinates you—with exactly the grain, shape, and natural edge that will fit perfectly into your home.

Where does the wood for my one-of-a-kind piece come from?

With a few exceptions, I use only regional solid wood from the Stuttgart, Rottenburg, and Nuremberg areas. Every piece of wood has a complete traceable history and comes from private and public parks or forested areas. We often know the exact location where the tree stood. Sometimes we’ve felled the trees ourselves—but most often, we’ve precisely cut them on-site using our own mobile sawmills.

What types of wood are available?

At my lumberyard in Leinfelden near Stuttgart, you’ll find an impressive variety of monumental tree slices and massive monolith planks. From fine local woods like oak, walnut, ash, maple, and many more to absolute rarities like Japanese cordwood and cucumber magnolia. Since every tree grows differently, you’ll find blanks in a wide variety of shapes, grains, widths, and unique pieces. Choose exactly the wood that tells your story.

What does “meticulous craftsmanship” mean in your workshop?

"Good things take time,” and I take that time. From the millimeter-precise face milling of the massive planks to weeks of fine sanding, right through to the often extremely labor-intensive finishing with crystal resin and surface treatment, every step is done by hand and with absolute dedication. I highlight the tree’s natural imperfections rather than hiding them, and I invest many hours of work into details that you can ultimately see and feel.

How and why do you use epoxy resin?

I use crystal resin very sparingly and as a refined tool for enhancement, not as an artificial end in itself. Natural features such as deep cracks, knotholes, or the rustic center of a tree slice are carefully filled with crystal-clear or perfectly color-matched resin. This permanently stabilizes the solid wood, makes the surface fully usable, and fascinatingly highlights the depth of the natural structures.

How durable is the table’s surface in everyday use?

Extremely durable. My tables are everyday objects, not museum pieces. Through a special, multi-step finishing process [extremely labor-intensive and meticulous sanding with up to 12 grits, followed by impregnation with organic hard oil and polishing with hard wax oil when the resin content is higher] I make the wood surface as resistant as possible to liquids, coffee stains, and everyday wear and tear. The oil penetrates deep into the wood and brings out the grain, while the resin content forms an additional layer on the surface. This treatment protects your one-of-a-kind piece for decades.

Why do you deliberately avoid using varnish on the surface?

Because I don’t want to hide nature behind an artificial plastic layer. While a varnish seals the wood, it robs it of its unique texture, its breathability, and its natural warmth. Furthermore, scratched varnished surfaces can only be repaired with extreme effort. I remain true to the material and rely on the pure, genuine beauty of nature.

Does the wood still expand or contract after delivery?

Large, solid wood sections possess enormous strength. However, since I always start by carefully and precisely drying my planks over many years to achieve indoor humidity levels (approx. 9–10%)—using air drying followed by kiln drying—the wood is extremely well conditioned. Nevertheless, solid wood is a living material. In the event of significant fluctuations in humidity (e.g., during the heating season in winter), the wood may move slightly. This is not a quality defect, but rather proof that it is a genuine natural product. My table frames are designed and prepared in such a way that the wood can expand and contract optimally without sustaining any damage.”

How do I properly care for my Monolith table?

For daily cleaning, simply wipe the table down with a dry cloth or use a soft, slightly damp cloth (not microfiber) without harsh chemical cleaners or scouring agents. Depending on how often the table is used, we recommend refreshing the surface once a year or every few years as needed with a good maintenance oil. This takes only a few minutes, replenishes the pores, and keeps the table looking like new for generations to come. Detailed care instructions are included with your delivery.

What happens after I’ve selected my log in Leinfelden/Stuttgart-germany?

First, we’ll work together to create a detailed plan: We’ll discuss the exact final dimensions, the shape of the natural edge, and how subtly the epoxy resin should be applied. We’ll also measure the appropriate frame.

Progress Updates: Throughout the creation process, I’ll keep you updated on our progress with regular status updates, including photos and short video clips—I’ll take you along on this “journey,” so to speak.

How does delivery and installation work?

A tree stump or a monolithic slab made from a single piece is incredibly heavy. That’s why I leave nothing to chance when it comes to transport. In the greater Stuttgart area and the surrounding region, we deliver your table directly to you. Delivery is always discussed and arranged on a case-by-case basis. If more “hands” are needed to carry it, I’d appreciate it if you or your friends could lend a hand; otherwise, we’ll take care of it. We also handle the assembly; we’ll align the table perfectly and give you some final care tips on-site. For longer distances, we use a freight carrier for delivery, and the table and base will be packed securely for protection. For high-value items, “white-glove delivery” by a specialized carrier is also available.

How much does a custom-made monolith or tree-slab table cost?

Since each of my pieces is a completely unique creation of nature, I don’t have flat rates or standard price lists. The final price of your table is essentially determined by three factors:

1. The raw slab: Simply put, the more unique and larger the slab, the more valuable it is.

2. The amount of craftsmanship required: How much work does the slab require? How many natural cracks or knotholes need to be discreetly stabilized and finished with epoxy resin?

3. The base: The chosen base, either a beautiful steel frame from prefabricated options (I’ll share possible sources with you) or custom-made by a partner company specializing in metalworking in the Nuremberg region. This is where I have all custom pieces made—from laser and waterjet cutting, through the welding process done entirely by hand, to powder coating—all from a single source.

As a rough guide: Smaller coffee tables or side tables made from a tree slab start at approximately 1,800 euros. Dining tables up to approximately 240 cm in length start at around 6,000 euros; dining tables or desks made from two individual large planks of exceptional quality start at around 7,500 euros; large, monumental dining tables or conference tables made from a solid monolithic plank start at around 11,000 euros…

Are you looking for truly unique, hand-selected, exceptional raw materials that are unmatched anywhere in the world? These go beyond anything you could imagine—curious? Then stop by and see for yourself.

How do I get a binding quote?

The easiest and most transparent way is to visit my central warehouse in Leinfelden near Stuttgart in person. Once you’ve found the blank of your choice, we’ll discuss the details: the exact dimensions you want, the table frame, and the scope of the resin finish. Based on this, I’ll calculate the cost of the project, and you’ll receive a binding quote within 2–3 days—including all costs.

What payment options are available?

Since I craft each table exclusively for you, I either work with an industry-standard 30% down payment—only then i will begin the meticulous work in my wood-shop or I cover the full cost upfront without a down payment. You can conveniently pay the amount via bank transfer after delivery and assembly based on the invoice - I reserve the right to decide which option to use.

Ready to create your own masterpiece?

No digital description can replace the feeling of running your hand over centuries-old wood. Visit me at my central warehouse in Leinfelden near Stuttgart, and over a cup of espresso, find the perfect Monolith plank or tree slice that will soon enhance your home.

Schedule a no-obligation consultation in Leinfelden now: just give me a call at 0176-640 187 41 or send me an email at 64KFjYSrhoSJgoeYio6MjsaJnMWPjg@nospam