You come from a long line of master woodworkers, was this work something you’ve always felt strongly about?
I’ve always been drawn to building and creating. While growing up, I thought I’d be an architect. At 18, I was working for a family friend’s remodeling company while going to school. I started design courses in college and realized how much time I would spend behind a computer, and it was clear that remodeling was a better fit in the long run. I love being hands-on and the variety of projects in this field.
When you founded your own company, what were your goals? Was there something different that you wanted to accomplish?
I wanted to be more involved. Before creating Bevel, I spent a few years as a Project Manager for a few design/build companies. While working for those companies, I realized how much I missed building relationships with the clients and workers on-site. My goal with Bevel was to keep things small, deliver high-quality work, and create a positive experience for my clients.
Can you trace your interest in transforming spaces back to a particular influence?
Growing up on the East Coast, I fell in love with historic homes. Appreciation for design characteristics such as tall ceilings, beautiful staircases, and intricate millwork have stayed with me over the years.
What types of woodworking projects do you take on?
Our primary focus is cabinetry and millwork (shelving, bookcases, fireplace mantles, cabinets and more) for our projects, ranging from single rooms to whole-house remodels.
How do you ensure attention to detail and a quality product while simultaneously meeting onsite requirements?
As an owner/operator, I am personally on-site and engaged in every project. I lead by example and have high expectations around the quality of work that my team creates. I look around corners and get ahead of obstacles; working backward from the target completion date, knowing how far in advance certain milestones need to be completed.
Each project is full of fresh and unique custom woodwork, how do you stay inspired?
I’ve had the opportunity to partner with incredible designers and architects on projects; they have been truly inspiring. It’s easy to fall into a pattern of repeating design elements from project to project in this business, so I love that each designer brings their own unique aesthetic. It’s incredibly rewarding to bring the design and technical elements together to create beautiful spaces.
How do you like to work with your clients?
Transparency is huge for me. Remodeling a home can be a stressful and intimidating process. It’s important that my clients are comfortable approaching me with questions and ideas. I remain highly engaged and personally invested in all projects from start to finish.
What is your ideal project?
While I appreciate modern design, I enjoy creating more traditional spaces. Seattle is full of some amazing pre-war homes with beautiful architectural details. I love updating these older homes while maintaining a balance of new features, character, and charm of the original construction.
Favorite way to spend a weekend in the Northwest?
I love trying different restaurants around Seattle and going to Mariners games, but nothing beats a fall day watching football at home with family.
What’s next on the boards?
We’re excited about a handful of kitchen projects with great details and a mid-century whole-house remodel coming up!
Favorite detail of your childhood home?
Growing up we had a large, stone wood-burning fireplace in our den. It was such a cozy space to gather in.
For more information visit: www.bevelbuilds.com
