A lot of modern design involves the elimination of superfluous detail and the simpler a piece of furniture the more important become design aspects, such as shape, proportion and the use of contrast. Equally the more exacting becomes the execution for the craftsman.

Many traditional pieces of furniture used beading to give emphasis to drawers whereas much of Rupert's recent work has incorporated an inlay to provide that emphasis whilst giving enough contrast to enhance the natural qualities of the wood.