Undulating Chess Table

I plan to make a brand new table, a card/chess table, one that was inspired by my now deceased friend Joe.   I would like to make it undulating, sort of a playground that allows the chessmen to go down in the middle and fight while the royalty stays up on the hill.   I thought I'd make each square separately and vary the color and thickness of the square depending upon where on the table the square rested.   The table should be about 26-28 in. square and bordered with a dark hardwood, maybe black walnut.   The edge should house a couple of drawers on each players side for storage of the chessmen or chips or what ever we'd like to use them.   Chess tables shouldn't have four legs because of potential knee knocking and destroying the game in session, so a pedestal or winged support is appropriate.   And, of course, if a pedestal is used it will need to be large and sturdy.   This piece will be heavy in order to be functional.   It's intrinsic beauty will boast its contrasting deep colors and unique functionality, sometimes bestowed upon really nice chess tables.
Well, for now this project is just a dream.    I need to systematically procure the correct lumber, cut it to fit, glue it up, joint it and finish with an appealing patina. 
Patience my man.......patience.
Oh, by the way, I may make it as a desktop unit.....moveable....huh?