Working With Us

Every project begins with a conversation. Some clients know exactly what they want. Others have only a rough idea or a problem they need solved. Either way, we’ll work through the design together, choose appropriate materials, build the piece in our shop, and, when required, install it in your home. The process is straightforward, collaborative, and focused on getting the details right.

The Initial Consultation: We discuss what you need, measure your space if necessary, and talk through ideas, materials, and possibilities. There’s no sales pitch and no pressure—just an honest conversation about what you’re trying to accomplish, what makes sense for your space and budget, and whether we’re the right shop for the project.

Design & Planning: Every project starts with simple sketches that gradually become scaled drawings with dimensions and construction details. I work primarily with pencil and paper rather than computer modeling because I find it faster and more direct for custom work.

For more involved projects, I often make full-size drawings of important components. A piece that looks well proportioned on paper doesn’t always look right at full scale. Working through those details before construction helps avoid surprises later.

Material Selection: Material selection depends on how the piece will be used, the appearance you’re after, durability requirements, and budget. We’ll discuss the options together so you understand the tradeoffs before any wood is purchased.

Construction: Everything is built in our shop with attention to detail. We mill extra material for test pieces and finish samples so you can see how the actual wood for your project reacts to different finishes before we proceed. And, when it comes to paint we’ll do a test piece of your desired color, usually on a larger piece of scrap so you can better visualize it, take it to your home, and see/evaluate what it looks like in the space under your lighting.

Installation: Cabinetry, built-ins, and finish carpentry are professionally installed on site with final fitting and adjustment. Larger furniture that requires assembly in the home can also be accommodated when appropriate.

Final Inspection: A project isn’t finished until it meets both your expectations and mine.

Timeline Expectations

Quality work takes time. I don’t rush projects simply to meet arbitrary deadlines. Each piece is built at the pace required to do it correctly the first time.

Smaller projects may take days or a few weeks. Larger built-ins, cabinetry, or coordinated furniture commissions can take several months. I’ll provide realistic expectations at the beginning and keep you informed as the project progresses.

Getting Started

Ready to Discuss Your Project?

The best way to begin is with a conversation. We’ll discuss your project, your space, your budget, and whether we’re a good fit to work together. There’s no obligation—just an opportunity to explore what’s possible. Good projects usually begin with good conversations.

Contact Information:

What to Have Ready – Ideally:

If possible, it helps to have:

Don’t worry if you don’t have all of that figured out. That’s one reason we meet in person.

Initial consultations are an opportunity to discuss your project, materials, feasibility, and approach. If it looks like we’re a good fit, I’ll prepare a detailed estimate for your review. If not, you’ll still leave with a better understanding of the options available to you.