48” Round Walnut Coffee Table
Claro Walnut Coffee Table
What an awe-inspiring piece. A gorgeous round coffee table that will instantly elevate the look and feel of any room. The “V” shaped void represents where the tree grew into two sections from one. It still has all the live edge that makes the story sing. The grain on this piece is one of a kind. This is a single slab of claro walnut and it measures 48” x 18” high. I am selling this for $6500.00. Must pickup at my shop, shipping can be arranged for an additional fee. Email me for availability marc@hopeswoodshop.com
Making furniture for YOUR employees!
Let me bring the shop and skill to your event! Give your people a new experience and a special keepsake to take home. We will be using traditional mortise and tenon joinery with some basic hand tools and techniques. Very fun and easy.
Who?
Any company that is looking to have a teambuilding event
What?
Open to all skill levels (tech, healthcare, c-level, etc…)
I will bring the proper components to build Charcuterie boards, coffee tables, stools, or anything you want.
When?
We need at least 8 weeks notice to be prepared
Where?
Travel is not an issue. I will ship materials as needed and plan my travel to ensure a good experience for your team
Pricing is based on your group size and destination. Feel free to contact me for pricing and to and schedule your event.
Join my new Skool!
a community for furniture makers and like minded individuals.
I have started a skool geared to help furniture makers sell more. My 15 years of experience all boiled down in a easily consumed platform. I like the idea of Skool because it is member driven. If you have a question or an idea you can share it with other like minded individuals and see how it stacks up. I do believe that iron sharpens iron. I hope you will think about joining or referring someone who is interested in the furniture world. You can check it out here Skool!
Expert Handyman Custom Woodworking in Wilbraham, MA & Surrounding Areas
Transform your home with handyman custom woodworking in Wilbraham, MA and surrounding areas. From custom cabinets and built-ins to outdoor decks and furniture repair, local woodworkers bring unmatched craftsmanship and creativity to every project. Whether you’re looking to add style, improve functionality, or boost your home’s value, custom woodworking offers a one-of-a-kind solution tailored to your needs
Introduction to Handyman Custom Woodworking
Wood brings warmth, character, and charm to any home. Whether it’s a custom cabinet, a built-in bookshelf, or a handcrafted dining table, handyman custom woodworking in Wilbraham, MA and surrounding areas offers homeowners a chance to create one-of-a-kind spaces that reflect their style. Local craftsmen bring both skill and creativity, transforming ordinary spaces into functional works of art.
Why Choose Custom Woodworking for Your Home?
Unique Style and Personalization
Unlike store-bought furniture, custom woodworking allows you to design exactly what you need. From size to finish, everything is tailored to fit your lifestyle and home design.
High-Quality Craftsmanship
We are local woodworkers and we pride ourselves on attention to detail. Every joint, curve, and finish is done by hand to ensure top-notch results.
Long-Lasting Durability
Quality hardwood and precision craftsmanship mean your custom woodwork won’t just look good—it will last for decades.
Services Offered in Wilbraham, MA & Nearby Communities
Custom Cabinets and Built-Ins
Upgrade your kitchen, bathroom, or living room with built-in cabinets designed to maximize storage and beauty.
Trim, Molding, and Finish Carpentry
Crown molding, baseboards, and decorative trim instantly elevate your home’s elegance.
Furniture Repair and Custom Pieces
From refinishing heirloom pieces to creating a brand-new dining set, local woodworking handymen do it all.
Outdoor Woodworking Projects
Decks, pergolas, and custom benches can make your outdoor space as inviting as your indoor space.
Benefits of Hiring a Local Handyman for Woodworking
Knowledge of Local Styles and Trends
A Wilbraham-based handyman that knows what styles are popular in the area, blending tradition with modern design.
Affordable and Personalized Service
Custom doesn’t always mean expensive. Local craftsmen work within your budget while delivering high-quality results.
Quick Response and Reliable Work
Because we’re nearby, our team of local woodworkers can offer fast service, consistent communication, and ongoing support.
Popular Custom Woodworking Projects in Wilbraham Homes
Kitchen Renovations – Custom cabinetry makes your kitchen more efficient and stylish.
Custom Shelving and Storage Solutions – Maximize small spaces with smart storage designs.
Elegant Staircases and Railings – Add character and beauty to your home’s centerpiece.
Home Office and Workspace Designs – Perfect for remote work, with built-ins tailored to your needs.
How Custom Woodwork Boosts Home Value
Custom woodwork isn’t just beautiful—it’s an investment. High-quality, handcrafted features increase home value, attract buyers, and stand out in competitive markets.
Choosing the Right Handyman Woodworker
Check Reviews and Portfolios – See past work and customer feedback.
Ask About Materials and Techniques – Ensure they use durable woods and reliable methods.
Compare Costs and Services – Get quotes and balance price with quality.
Service Areas Beyond Wilbraham, MA
Handyman custom woodworking services also extend to surrounding areas, including:
Longmeadow, MA
Ludlow, MA
Hampden, MA
East Longmeadow, MA
Wilbraham, MA
Enfield, CT
Somers, CT
Springfield, MA
FAQs about Handyman Custom Woodworking in Wilbraham, MA
Q1: What types of woodworking projects can a handyman do?
We can handle cabinets, trim, furniture, shelving, and even outdoor wood structures.
Q2: Is custom woodworking expensive?
Not always. Our team of local handymen offer budget-friendly custom solutions.
Q3: How long does a custom project take?
Time depends on the size and complexity of the project—usually from a few days to a few weeks.
Q4: Do handymen also handle furniture repairs?
Yes, many offer refinishing, repairs, and restoration services.
Q5: Can I request eco-friendly materials?
Absolutely. As craftsmen we use sustainable hardwoods and finishes.
Q6: Why hire a handyman instead of a big contractor?
As a trusted local handyman we provide personalized service, affordable rates, and quicker turnaround times.
Conclusion – Bring Your Vision to Life
When you choose Hopes Woodshop custom woodworking in Wilbraham, MA and surrounding areas, you’re investing in craftsmanship, functionality, and timeless beauty. From kitchen cabinetry to outdoor decks, local experts can bring your vision to life while enhancing the value of your home.
Ready to upgrade your space? Contact a local handyman woodworker from Hopes Woodshop today and discover how custom woodworking can transform your home.
Contact us for a free in home consultation today!
Live Edge vs. Traditional Dining Tables: Which Is Right for Your Home?
When it comes to choosing a dining table, two styles dominate the conversation: live edge and traditional. Both bring beauty and function, but each offers a distinct look and feel. If you’re torn between the two, this guide will help you decide which style best suits your home.
When it comes to choosing a dining table, two styles dominate the conversation: live edge and traditional. Both bring beauty and function, but each offers a distinct look and feel. If you’re torn between the two, this guide will help you decide which style best suits your home.
What Is a Live Edge Dining Table?
A live edge table highlights the natural edge of the wood slab. Instead of straight, manufactured lines, the edges follow the tree’s natural contours. This creates a raw, organic look that brings the outdoors in.
Pros:
Unique, one-of-a-kind character
Modern yet rustic appeal
Showcases the natural story of the wood
Best For: Homeowners who want a statement piece that feels like art and furniture in one.
What Is a Traditional Dining Table?
A traditional table has straight, squared edges, often paired with classic joinery or ornate bases. This style emphasizes symmetry, balance, and timeless design.
Pros:
Classic, versatile style
Pairs easily with existing furniture
Easier to fit into formal dining rooms
Best For: Families who value elegance and practicality, or those furnishing more traditional spaces.
Style Considerations: Rustic vs. Modern
Rustic Homes: Live edge fits beautifully in cabins, farmhouses, or spaces with exposed beams and natural finishes.
Modern Homes: A live edge with a sleek steel or bronze base can create a striking focal point.
Traditional Homes: Straight-edged tables work best for formal dining spaces, especially when paired with rich hardwoods like cherry or walnut.
How to Decide What Works Best for You
Ask yourself:
Do I want my dining table to be the centerpiece of the room? → Go live edge.
Do I want something timeless and versatile? → Go traditional.
Do I want to blend modern and rustic? → A hybrid: live edge top with a traditional base.
Ready to Build Your Perfect Table?
Whether you lean toward a live edge showpiece or a classic traditional design, our team at Hopes Woodshop can craft the perfect dining table for your home. Every table is handmade in Massachusetts and designed to last for generations.
Start your custom table consultation today
How to Choose the Perfect Size Dining Table for Your Space
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors in choosing the right size dining table, from room measurements to seating capacity, so you can bring home a table that feels tailor-made.
When investing in a dining table, size is everything. Too small and guests feel cramped; too large and your room looks crowded. The good news? With a custom dining table, you’re not stuck with “one-size-fits-all” options—you can design a piece that fits your home and lifestyle perfectly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors in choosing the right size dining table, from room measurements to seating capacity, so you can bring home a table that feels tailor-made.
Standard Dining Table Sizes Explained
Before diving into custom options, it helps to understand the most common table sizes:
Rectangular Tables: Usually 36–40 inches wide.
Seats 4: 60 inches long
Seats 6: 72 inches long
Seats 8: 96 inches long
Seats 10–12: 120 inches long
Round Tables: Ideal for smaller spaces and conversation.
42–48 inches: seats 4
54 inches: seats 5–6
72 inches: seats 8
Square Tables: Work best in large, open rooms.
36–44 inches: seats 4
54 inches: seats 8
These measurements are a helpful starting point—but remember, with a custom-built table, you’re not limited by standard dimensions.
How Many People Do You Want to Seat?
Think about your household first, then add in how often you entertain:
Small Family (2–4 people): A 60–72 inch table will be comfortable.
Medium Family (4–6 people): A 72–96 inch table gives flexibility.
Large Family or Frequent Hosts (8+ people): 96–120 inches is ideal.
Rule of thumb: plan for 24 inches of table length per person for comfortable seating.
Measuring Your Room for the Right Fit
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is choosing a table that’s too large for the room. To get the fit right:
Measure your dining room or dining area.
Subtract 72 inches (6 feet) from the length and width.
This leaves 36 inches of clearance on all sides so chairs can slide back easily.
Use painter’s tape or cardboard to outline the footprint of different table sizes—you’ll quickly see what feels comfortable.
Example: If your dining room is 14’ x 12’, the maximum table size would be 8’ x 6’ (96" x 72").
Benefits of a Custom Dining Table
Most big-box retailers offer a handful of standard sizes. But homes aren’t standard—your table shouldn’t be either. Here’s why custom is worth it:
Tailored Fit: Get exact dimensions for your room.
Personalized Seating: Whether you want seating for 6 or 16, we can design it.
Style Flexibility: Choose round, square, rectangular, or oval.
Unique Materials: From walnut and oak to exotic monkey pod slabs, every table tells its own story.
At Hopes Woodshop, every dining table starts with the slab selection at the sawmill, ensuring we can match your space, seating needs, and style perfectly.
Pro Tips for Choosing the Right Table Size
Think about lifestyle, not just looks. If your family eats together nightly, prioritize comfort and space.
Leave room for movement. Especially important in open-concept homes where the dining area blends into other spaces.
Plan for holidays. If you host Thanksgiving or large gatherings, a table with extensions or a larger build may be best.
Don’t forget ceiling height. Large tables in rooms with low ceilings can feel heavy—balance proportions with light fixtures.
Ready to Design Your Perfect Dining Table?
Choosing the right size is just the first step—our team can help you bring it to life with custom slabs, live edge designs, and handcrafted bases that make your dining table one of a kind.
Contact Hopes Woodshop today to start designing your custom dining table.
Live Edge Dining Table and Coffee Table with Custom Brass Inlays
A Dining Table and Coffee Table BTS
At Hopes Woodshop, we believe furniture should be more than functional — it should tell a story. Our most recent project with Cedar House Design Collective in RI included not just one, but two handcrafted statement pieces: an 8-foot live edge dining table with a custom matching base, and a 44-inch round single-slab coffee table — both featuring custom cut brass inlays that highlight the natural beauty of the wood.
Premium Hardwood from GL Veneer
For this build, we sourced slabs from GL Veneer in Los Angeles, California, a supplier known nationwide for extraordinary hardwoods. Each piece was carefully selected for grain character, color, and durability. Once shipped to our Massachusetts workshop, the transformation began.
Dimensions and Design
Dining Table: 8 feet long × 3 feet wide × 30 inches tall
Coffee Table: 44 inches round × standard coffee table height
The dining table base was crafted from the same live edge material as the top, giving the entire piece a seamless, unified feel. For the coffee table, we used a single slab and created a matching base that complements the natural flow of the wood.
Custom Brass Inlays
To add a layer of artistry and refinement, both tables feature precision-cut brass inlays set into the tops. These subtle accents not only highlight the organic lines of the slabs but also elevate the pieces into true works of functional art. The brass reflects light beautifully, creating a striking contrast against the rich wood grain. I wanted to inlays in the dining table to appear like they were floating in the wind through the natural wood grain.
Crafting the Bases
Unlike many tables where the base contrasts with the top, both of these builds were designed with bases constructed from the same slab material. This approach ensures that every surface, from top to bottom, carries the same warmth and natural beauty. The result: two pieces that feel organic, cohesive, and enduring.
The Finished Set
Together, the custom live edge dining table and single-slab round coffee table create a one-of-a-kind furniture set. Bold yet refined, rustic yet modern, these handcrafted pieces bring the outdoors inside while showcasing the skill, creativity, and craftsmanship that define Hopes Woodshop.
Start Your Own Custom Furniture Project
Looking for a custom live edge table or a handcrafted piece built to your exact specifications? At Hopes Woodshop, we transform premium hardwood slabs into heirloom-quality furniture that reflects your style and lasts for generations.
Contact us today to start designing your own custom dining table, coffee table, or complete furniture set.
Moving slabs is never fun but we try to make it fun.
Slab Flattening and CNC Service
CNC flattening a slab of walnut
We’re excited to announce our cnc services to the following areas (Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut and lower Vermont). Pickup and Delivery options are available as well. Save time and increase quality with our cnc flattening service. Our hourly rate is starting at $100/hr.
Table Flattening including epoxied surfaces
Sign Making and Engraving
Cabinet part cutting from sheet goods
Please feel free to reach out and let us know how we can assist with any project you may have?
A story about refinishing
Mid-Century Modern Meets Me
I am mister solid wood. I am the epitome of “live edge” and yet I find myself tip toing around precious little veneers. Truth be told, I have always been interested in manufactured furniture. I am someone who reverse engineers everything in my head until I have figured out how I can foreseeably build it. Which is why I am in love with woodworking. It gives me the ability to constantly learn and push the boundaries of what is possible.
Any who, enough about me. Lets talk about these gorgeous little hunks of California nostalgia by way of Carolina. My wife and I spotted these at an estate sale while vacationing on the Cape. They were in pretty decent shape and needed a little TLC at a later date but for now they would work for us. Fast forward 9 years and we actually don’t really need them anymore. They survived two toddlers and a few moves, but they were tired and in desperate need of a refininsh. So without further ado, I present the midcentury modern end tables and coffee table by lane furniture:
Armoire or Wardrobe? Either way, they are here!
Wardrobes and Armoires are in right now and you should have one!
The Wardrobe is something that I have doodled for years now. I always thought it would be one of the best showcases for the wood. I have to admit, the storage and use was an afterthought. That was quickly resolved once I jotted down my design from my head to paper. The idea of having everything I use in one cabinet gave me a feeling of joy. Don’t just take my word for it, in Em Henderson’s most recent Blog post “Why You Should Be Using Armoires In Every Room” she says:
It’s one of those pieces that are often overlooked, but let’s all agree to stop that right now and consider the armoire.
Even though we didn’t make the list, It shows that there is a great use for these pieces in your home. And I think ours is the best!
After designing our wardrobe I knew I wanted it to be one of a kind. Even though this would inherently raise the cost, I felt it was important to let the wood tell a story. In our launch of the “SEBA” Wardrobe line we introduced a reclaimed wood option. The previous summer we had taken down a large barn that was built in 1780 and was falling apart. It was an endeavor and an adventure. At the time I had no idea what I would use the wood for but knew I wanted it to be special. Reclaimed wood is extremely difficult to work with. It is dirty (dulls the knives), contains big cracks and voids/rot, weathered differently (N,S,E,W Building Sides). But there is absolutely no denying the beauty and character that comes from this lumber. I will say this, I have enough reclaimed material to make more wardrobes but Im not going into barn demo! Call it a limited series if you will. Even though we built the outside of the wardrobe in reclaimed wood, everything on the inside is new. The drawer boxes are new dovetailed white oak solid 5/8”bottoms to resist sagging. The runners are all top of the line Blum soft-close (sorry purists).
The thought of buying a custom piece like this can seem expensive. I like to think of it as an investment. It is something that you will use for the foreseeable future. It will help you stay looking good and organized. Provides something beautiful to look at on a daily basis. And when you move, you can take it with you. I also love the idea of handing this piece down from generation to generation.
Pricing for our wardrobes starts at $6500 and up. We can use any material that you see in our other furniture in addition to the reclaimed. We also offer other sizes and configurations. If you are interested in having us make a Wardrobe or would like more information please feel free to contact us.
Cheers!
Marc
Live Edge Walnut with Extensions (Company Boards)
A beautiful 8’ heirloom table made from bookmatched claro walnut. The figure in this table made for an extremely nice and tedious build. Taking our time every step of the way and examining from every angle. Using touch to feel any inconsistencies within the wood. Planing and sanding until we achieved the smoothest finish possible. With the extensions this piece finishes at 10’ long x 48-50” wide.
This bookmatch features 2 live edge claro walnut slabs from the same tree. We used black resin to fill voids on the top and bottom. Claro walnut bow-ties were used to strengthen and reinforce cracks within each slab. There are 6 on the bottom and 4 on the top. Here is a quick video showcasing the method we use for inlaying our bow-ties:
Company boards were custom made for this table from claro walnut as well. We fabricated the custom connections for these in house. They are sleek and minimal. They give the live edge table a little extra seating during the holidays without taking away from the design. The metal also goes great with the black omega cast iron by Ares Iron.
Live Edge Slabs Available for Tables
Let’s start the conversation here. We can talk about the base after…
Live edge walnut bookmatch with some amazing figure and color. Some cracks and voids need to be addressed with epoxy or wood patch work. This set is about 99” long x 68” wide and 2.5” thick (We can trim these down to make a top that is functional south of 4’ wide).
A live edge black walnut set from Easthampton MA. This set will finish at about 9’ long x 40” wide. These will be headed for surfacing soon. They are very clean and free of defects.
Single slab butternut that is 8’ long x 36” wide. This piece was finished to show the color and figure but can still be trimmed down to size to fit your space.
9’ Long x 44” wide this is going to make a good looking match. Sugar Maple is a beautiful wood to works with. This particular set has a strong white sapline that runs along the outer edge. This was caused by a void on the top of the tree that water had been trickling into over the years.
Solid Wood Built-Ins For Cape Cod Home
A Contemporary Cape Cod Getaway
Cherry Shelves made with sliding dovetail construction. Light grey stone fireplace with solid cherry mantle.
Solid cherry shaker style drawers with ebonized pulls. Custom toekicks allow for the HVAC unit were done in house on our cnc.
We worked with the customer while they were remodeling their home. They sent us the design they had, the dimensions and we did the rest. Building the units was a nice change of pace for the shop and we loved putting it all together. The construction of this piece was done using sliding dovetail construction for the shelves. We wanted to use solid wood on the shelves so the cherry would age evenly. This was important because you can see the tops of the units from upstairs. Here are some installation photos:
As our shop continues to evolve, we are thrilled to start taking on these unique spaces for your home. So if you have an idea for us, feel free to send it our way! Contact us here
Handcrafted Stools in Walnut
We make these stools from 100% Black Walnut and use the very best selection to ensure you have this stool for generations. These are not available on Wayfair or Amazon. They are made for you with thought and care. Any purchases before 04/30/2019 will ship free of charge (curbside) anywhere in the lower 48 (minimum order of 2) .
Classic Walnut Stools for the kitchen
This three legged walnut stool has been with us since the beginning. Its sturdy, comfortable, and great looking. Made from Walnut using traditional mortise and tenon construction. The scooped seat is 16” wide x 10” deep.
Made to order. Please allow 6-8 weeks to complete.
Modern Round Walnut Stools
The Merrick stool was built for family. Each rung on the stool is a different height. Pick the height you like, and take a load off. The round walnut stool seat is scooped to provide additional comfort for those long morning coffee breaks or late night wine downs. Made from 100% locally harvested walnut.
Made to order. Please allow 6-8 weeks for completion. This stool is handmade in Wilbraham MA.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact the shop:
Boston Showroom by Hopes Woodshop + Studio Endo
Furniture and Lighting Showroom
Studio Endo
Studio Endo is a designer and maker of contemporary American lighting designs. Our collection creates a bold statement while letting beautiful architecture be seen in its best light. We manufacture all of our components in the USA, and hand-assemble these one-of-a-kind fixtures in our Providence, RI studio. Each fixture is made to order and can be customized to fit any space. We deliver designs that provide both functional and sculptural lighting.
Hopes Woodshop
We are New-England's premier vertically integrated woodshop. Everything we build was milled and dried by us. We are saving historical trees and creating heirloom quality pieces to last many generations after. All of our trees are coming down because of age, disease, or storm damage. All of our furniture was once a tree, and we knew that tree. That is what makes our pieces unique and that is why they should mean so much to you.
Showroom Featuring:
Lighting by Studio Endo
Tables and Live edge slabs by Hopes Woodshop
Rugs by Thayer Design Studio
Cast Iron by Ares Iron
Windsor chairs by O&G Studios
We hope you enjoy the collection we have put together for Designers and their clients in the Boston area. It has been great fun, and we cant wait to work with you on your next project!
Live Edge Walnut Conference Table
Bring a little nature into your work for more balance. This particular piece was made from 1 single tree. It consists of (4) 10’ sequentially sawn live edge walnut slabs. The idea behind this end for end bookmatch was to allow the ends to grain match so they looked seamless when put together. The build on this table was complicated and challenging. But, thats what a conference room is for right? Overcoming obstacles and finding a way to make something incredible!
Custom barn in Westport, MA
We built some unique furniture and custom kitchen for this one of a kind Barn
Location : Westport, MA
Date: Winter of 2018
Last year we had the opportunity to work on conceptualizing this project with our client. They wanted a summer retreat that felt like it was built with the original barn. We kept that in mind while designing the furniture for this custom barn.
The scope of work:
Two live edge queen sized cherry beds with full trundles stored underneath
Custom cherry kitchen with beaded doors and drawers
36” High cherry kitchen table with reclaimed base made from a beam of the barn
4 round cherry counter height round stools with 3 legs
Built in cherry refrigerator cabinet
Custom cherry shuffleboard table with cast iron base
The Wood:
While we were designing this barn on site with the client we were taking in the surroundings. Studying the beams, floor board, paneling etc… We wanted to take a mental image of all other materials in play. We then paired this space with the correct lot of trees that we could or have milled to match our ideal finished look. We decided to use this cherry that we milled from Russell MA. It has some insect damage which we could fill with epoxy. We think this tied into the reclaimed feeling of the barn while still feeling luxe but not out of place. This is why our sawmill and kiln are so important to our design when it comes to customizing your space. It takes the blinders off, and allows us to truly design with your space in mind.
The Design-Build Process:
Once we identify the wood we are going to use, we begin the real work. This involves designing, cutting, shaping, sanding, more sanding, and finally finish/install. Each piece is really up to the artists eye, and we have very long conversations about what board should go where when it comes to a build. By doing this we are ensuring each board belongs where its placed. These trees take a very long time to grow and its important to take our time with them. Our end goal is a cohesive look that captures the clients vision.
Living with our furniture in your space:
The idea that everything has been carefully sourced and worked into your space is as special as it sounds. We like to believe that our furniture is more of a feeling than it is something pretty to look at. Something that inspires you to be creative or think about things in a different way. Every day you wake up and are in the presence of beautiful furniture and woodwork is a good day!
Live Edge Black Walnut Slab Table
Live Edge Single Slab Black Walnut Dining Table
Cast Iron Wishbone Base
This handcrafted custom dining table was made for our clients in Jamestown, RI. Features a beautiful single slab of eastern black walnut and black cast iron wishbones legs.
We built this live edge table in our Massachusetts woodshop. It was a pleasure to work with such an amazing tree and equally amazing clients. When a tree takes this long to grow, it is important to take our time and make sure we are building the right way.
Custom dining tables made in Massachusetts
If you are looking for a live edge dining table to be built, we would love to speak with you. To learn more about our slab tables and cast iron bases please contact us:
Materials: Walnut from Berkshire Products
Size: 9' x 4'
Base: Black Wishbones from Ares Iron
Photography: Melissa Stimpson Photography
Finish: Rubio Monocoat Pure 2C
A Relaxing Oasis in Boston, MA
Imagine waking up and feeling refreshed. Working and feeling inspired. When I look at these images I am reminded, nature is the true designer. Something so peaceful about the mix of materials, light and nature.
When I began working on this walnut slab, I envisioned it as a communal table in a restaurant. Piecing it back together with its other half when a large party wanted to sit together. How wrong I was... This piece wasn't meant for that. It was meant to bring a sense of purpose to this room. To say "I once was broken, but now I am whole. This is where I belong".
My Pith series has been my most unexpected success story in the shop. By taking these often discarded boards, and putting them back together we have found a new purpose. The "Pith", refers to the center of the tree and represent the 1st year of growth. It is a soft, spongy material and generally this board will split right down the middle because of this. But there is another meaning to this word, "The essence of something".
Crafting these pieces takes time, thought, and planning. It all starts at the mill. We take careful measurements when beginning our cuts because your 1st cut dictates how your last cut ends. These cuts are often planned to remove the pith from all other boards. Making them more stable and less likely to crack during the drying and building process. As I mentioned earlier, once these boards have dried they are likely to crack along the pith. We reinforce the cracked boards together again using a variety of techniques (Mortise and Tenon, Bowties, Epoxy, etc...). Here you can see our process and inlaying bowties (other names include butterflies, Dutchmans keys, etc...):
It is our hope that we can continue to salvage these boards to create truly one of a kind heirloom pieces for years to come. Thank you for reading and please feel free to comment or share below!
Reclaiming Pieces of History
Reclaimed chestnut beams for flooring and tables
Old Barns in New England (Hampden, MA)
This particular barn looks to be about 200 years old and has reached the end of its life. It will come down, and it will be repurposed. It is important to identify what is worth saving an what is not worth saving. This barn is constructed with chestnut, southern yellow pine and hemlock timbers. There is no doubt that these timbers can be repurposed into something beautiful for residential or commercial applications. We repurpose reclaimed beams into the following:
- Flooring
- Tables
- Benches
- Faux Beams
If you are interested in having a piece of furniture made from reclaimed material, please contact us. Or if you have material that you think we would be interested in please contact us.