Guide for Customers

Commissioning a piece of furniture is an exciting time. Although there are many choices to choose from, some simple questions can make your decision less confusing. When I talk to clients I like to mention three things to help them make their decision. The themes are: 1) cost 2) color 3) intended use of the furniture. !) cost is self explanatory. Smaller budgets do not necessarily mean lesser products. Things such as stain or paint can bring a piece alive if budget is an issue. 2) Color, such as the wood species, stain or no stain, or paint can be overwhelming with the suggestions and paint/stain chips. Based on flooring and wall color I like to show test samples on the same wood species to get an idea of what it would look like. 3) intended use is important because some species of wood do not do well in high traffic/use areas. For example yellow pine would not make a very good hardwood floor due to its softness. Sometimes the client likes a specific wood. Techniques can be utilized to strengthen the wood such as using epoxy or pore filling the wood which helps add moisture protection.

Guide for Tables

Interested in buying a table? Tables come in all shapes and sizes. I tell people to first let me know how many people they would like to fit at the table. My typical tables are 40 inches wide which provides ample space for dishes for holidays such as thanksgiving. Small breakfast nook tables are typically 4-5 feet long. This will seat about 4 four people to 6 people. Each additional foot will be two extra people. Next, extension wing tables can be built with either self retained wings or removable wings. Next, would be color. Woods such as ash provide an excellent surface to stain or paint. Softer woods like poplar are not advised due to their softness. Although, I can build tables out of these woods Rainbow poplar is very rare and a popular choice. I like to contrast table colors with the hardwood floor or cabinets. Lastly, would be the style of table. Styles include, mid-century modern, industrial modern, farm house, reclaimed lumber, traditional Amish table, and lastly Japanese/ minimal modern. For seating, I can build benches or chairs. Due to there extensive labor in nature most chairs would be better to buy from a big box store.

Guide for Desks

Desks are statement pieces in a home office or room. The first aspect I focus on is styling. Styles include: farmhouse, industrial modern, mid-century modern, minimalist, and traditional executive desks. Next would be the color. Typical executive desks are built from Oak, cherry or Walnut. Industrial modern would be a mix of reclaimed wood and steel. Minimalist desk utilize any type of wood same as farmhouse. Mid-century tends to be oak or walnut. Lastly, would be details on the design. Drawers for folders, pen drawer, smaller or larger box drawers are some styles that we can review. Also, if a computer will be utilized then a hole will be drilled for cord management.