“A small artist’s studio was my first complete building.”

Posted on Wednesday, December 22nd, 2010

“Upon graduating from the Heritage Carpentry and Millwork Program in 1994, I was employed with a restoration contractor based in Kingston for two years. This was an excellent learning opportunity for me since I was entrusted to work independently to dismantle and reconstruct old timber frame and log buildings. Through the process of deconstruction and reconstruction of old heritage buildings, I was able to explore intimately the inner-workings (and not-workings) of these structures and develop a further understanding of traditional construction techniques.

In 1996, I became self-employed and began to take carpentry jobs myself. I started doing small construction jobs where I could explore all aspects of the trade. A small artist’s studio was my first complete building. This job provided me with the opportunity to design and build the structure as well as the windows and doors. I continued to work independently for a few years doing small jobs, but always tried to focus on heritage buildings and began to develop a reputation and good working relationships with clients in this niche. Repairing old pine floors, reproducing different types of trim and manufacturing period doors and windows quickly became the mainstay of my business. Small jobs would lead to larger jobs and pretty soon I was expanding my work to include things such as period kitchens and furniture.”

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