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The Keel Fine Woodwork philosophy"The human soul is hungry for beauty; we seek it everywhere - in landscape, music, art, clothes, furniture, gardening, companionship, love, religion, and in ourselves. No one would desire not to be beautiful. When we experience the beautiful, there is a sense of homecoming". - John Donahue
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As far back as I can remember I've always loved wood and wooden objects. But early on I'd only speak in very general terms of its beauty. Then I learned the Japanese word kodama, which means "the spirit of a tree”. Kodama speaks to our shared experience involving a kinship with the heart of a tree and I realized this is vastly more descriptive for those of us who feel ourselves drawn to it. I started Keel Fine Woodwork, with the ultimate desire to create furniture that is both beautiful and functional and in so doing honor the kodama. Over time the scope of my work as grown to include many diverse projects including various remodeling and home improvement jobs, but still with a focus on the use of beautiful wood.
My furniture and decorative works are crafted one at a time from my home in Metamora Michigan using techniques and materials not readily available nor practical for mass production. The materials I use are mostly locally sourced or reclaimed but I also incorporate exotic woods that bring a unique contrast and focus of interest. Finishes are used sparingly so that the natural color and beauty of the wood shows through. But always with an eye toward suiting the piece for its intended purpose and years of regular use.
My furniture and decorative works are crafted one at a time from my home in Metamora Michigan using techniques and materials not readily available nor practical for mass production. The materials I use are mostly locally sourced or reclaimed but I also incorporate exotic woods that bring a unique contrast and focus of interest. Finishes are used sparingly so that the natural color and beauty of the wood shows through. But always with an eye toward suiting the piece for its intended purpose and years of regular use.
Making heirloom quality furniture and home decor
Whether you are seeking a curly maple display case for your collectibles, a Spanish cedar humidor for your favorite cigars, a cherry coffee table for your living room, or a craftsman style walnut door to your home, I will work to fulfill the vision you have. And in so doing, I'll use time honored methods that will result in heirloom quality pieces of furniture. This joinery is often cut by hand and where possible I avoid the use of mechanical fasteners which allows my work to achieve a look and feel not possible from a factory. In George Nakashima’s book “The Soul of a Tree”, he says “it is our deepest respect for the tree which impels us to master the difficult art of joinery, so that we may offer the tree a second life of dignity and strength.” My objective is to make as fine a piece of furniture as is humanly possible which means beautiful, functional and long lasting. All my pieces are custom designed and I’ll work with you to fulfill the unique and individual needs of your home and tastes.