Tortoises, Carts and Shrines: Unique Woodworking Projects from 2019

In between the larger projects like staircase remodels and wainscoting installations, I occasionally take on smaller projects that intrigue me. Many times I will have a former client ask for a unique item, or a phone call will come into the shop with the question “do you do things like this?” I am thankful for both situations, which led me to build some fun projects this year: Custom Patio Cart After completing a wainscoting installation and mudroom remodel, my clients

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Fireplace Mantels

Project Highlight: Modern Fireplace Mantel and Feature Wall

For many homeowners of our local 90s homes, there just comes a time when they need to do a complete overhaul of their space. Such was the case for my client. She was ready for a dramatic change to the first floor of her Westside Indianapolis house. Designer Elain Pauley brought me in to help with the fireplace mantel and feature wall. The goal was to give it the modern look that the rest of the home was begin given.

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Staircases

New Flooring? Be Sure to Plan for Staircase Remodeling Too

Updating the flooring in your home is a large project that can be expensive and a hassle. It’s no wonder I receive many calls after the installation. The homeowner’s mind was not on how the new flooring would impact one of the largest architectural features of his/her home – the staircase. New flooring usually means the staircase design elements no longer complement the wood tones of the home. I find that most flooring companies do not discuss this issue, since

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modern staircase design
Staircases

Staircase Remodeling: “What Do You Think Will look Good?”

Even though I remodel a lot of staircases, I do not profess to be a designer. So, when my clients ask me my opinion about what staircase remodeling design elements would be appropriate for their home, I take an engineer’s approach. I ask them to collect images of the styles they like and share them with me, and then I take them through the following considerations to help them make design decisions: Structural Design of The Staircase Unless you are

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Staircases

Design Components of a Staircase Remodel

One of the first discussions I have with homeowners looking to complete a staircase remodel is what they would like it to look like. Many times I am asked for design advice, but I am a craftsman not a designer. There are an almost endless combination of staircase designs! Below I outline the components and structural considerations you will need to consider when undertaking a staircase remodel. Treads/Risers The treads and risers are the actual steps within the staircase, the

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modern staircase design
Staircases

Adding Modern Style to Your Staircase Design

A client of mine has been completing a home redesign over the past few years, adding modern touches throughout their space. I worked with her to create a new fireplace mantle and surround and when it came time to address the staircase she called me again. She had already replaced the flooring with an updated look and now needed to add the modern style to the staircase design. Since I had worked with her on the fireplace mantle, I was

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