Traditional Inlaid Mahogany Game Table

Dave Heller worked tirelessly to ensure that every detail made us very happy. He submitted modifications based on our instructions that made the finished piece look brilliant. The investment of his expertise and time resulted in a fabulous, one of a kind piece.

I'm not even sure where to begin reviewing my exceptional experience with Dave Heller, so I will start the actual beginning and do my best to be brief. At the start of my project, Dave was the last artisan I sought a bid from. I had all but decided on another artisan because (looking at the exceptional quality of Dave's work) I was certain his estimate would be close to double. It was not and, in fact, was right in line with the others. Considering this I jumped at the chance to have Dave build a cuff link box that I was already planing would be an heirloom to pass to my son. There was not a moment in the process that Dave did not exceed my expectations. His communication was often and he always checked in at each point in the process either to offer options (which were numerous), or to help provide me his insight so that we could make a decision together. He created and sent me samples to see and touch and look at in my home. The value of this cannot be overstated as pictures just can't give you the visual and emotional reaction you will have when seeing the color/tone/quality in person. Although there were times when Dave openly told me he was leaning a certain way, I never felt pressured and always knew the decision was mine. It should be noted that I learned pretty quickly that Dave's opinion was almost always the best option, but he allowed me the time needed to vet that against what I was thinking. In the end, what he created is absolutely stunning in every sense of the word. He was able to hand deliver the box due to just plain luck that he would be passing through my location on a trip up north. While this was something I did not anticipate, and wouldn't expect in the future, it was an amazingly nice touch. On one hand, I need to be up front in admitting this was my first project both with custommade and with Dave, but I honestly have a hard time believing there are too many other artisans out there that would have both created such a beautiful piece and would have made the process so enjoyable. He has set the bar incredibly high. Pat

Heller and Heller is extremely detail oriented and consulted with me at almost every step. I would highly recommend them if you want to be involved in the design process. Even after I negotiated the price down a bit my expectations were exceeded as Dave put in the time to get everything perfect. The cabinet is a showpiece with both details of styling (shape and veneer design) as well as great functional details (neat tiny dividers and drawers that slide all the way out for full access). It looks fantastic!

Dave Heller and his daughter, who is a furniture designer, did an unbelievable job of creating a unique and beautiful game table. They continued to consult and work on the design, words, finishes, and details to be sure it was just what we wanted. The result is treasure and no doubt will become a family heirloom. Not only do we have a reversible chess board/centerpiece and inlaid backgammon table, but I asked if they could design a scrabble/trivial pursuit board as my family loves to play these games. The detail and craftsmanship is amazing! Dave was a delight to work with and wanted to be sure we were happy with every aspect of this project. We highly recommend Heller and Heller!