This knife block is a heavyweight. Literally! With a weight of 3280 grams, it does not shift on the work surface like a 'regular' knife block. Fortunately, it doesn't take a crane to move it. An insert of beech wood contains the openings through which you stick the blades. The insert can be taken out of the concrete, so it is easy to clean. The bottom of the knife block has a felt layer on it. Therefore, you don't need to fear scratching your countertop or table. The heat treated beech wood is resistant to elongation and shrinkage. The wood is 'baked' at a temperature between 180 and 220 degrees Celsius, giving it this dark chic look. The wood is completely impregnated by this treatment, making it impervious to water.