Spirit Tree Furniture

One thing I’ve learned through furniture making is that inspiration can come from anywhere in life. Nature, old buildings, conversations, memories, even quiet moments — they all have a way of shaping the ideas behind what I create.
Sometimes the best designs don’t start in the workshop. They start with simply paying attention to the world around you. That inspiration is what keeps me wanting to build, create, and turn raw wood into something meaningful.
What inspires you?

I'm grateful to be part of a dynamic team that transforms vision into reality through tireless dedication and unrelenting passion, crafting spaces that embody excellence and inspire pride. Witnessing a project come to life, with every detail meticulously considered and executed, is a testament to our collective pursuit of innovation. The recognition we receive is a powerful affirmation of what can be achieved when diverse talents converge, united by a shared commitment to pushing boundaries and elevating standards.

One of those days that reminds me why I enjoy this work so much.

Today I had the opportunity to work with our new apprentice in the cabinet shop at the House of Commons, helping tailor his existing skills to the unique standards, demands, and craftsmanship required in this environment. Passing along shop knowledge and experience in a place like this is something I’ve always valued.

Later in the day, I met with an assistant curator from the Senate of Canada to discuss and plan an upcoming project I’ll be taking on for them — a very interesting piece of work that I’m looking forward to sharing more about when the time comes.

Cabinetmaking, heritage work, teaching, problem solving… no two days are ever quite the same, and that’s exactly the way I like it.

Do you ever feel like you've been missing a part of yourself? For me, it's been the passion for teaching and sharing the intricacies of woodworking. After years of crafting furniture, restoring pieces, and guiding students, I'm ready to rekindle the flame and share my expertise. I'll be sharing my insights and experiences through regular posts on shop tips, project ideas, and techniques. I'd love to hear from you - what sparks your creativity, what's causing you frustration, and what would you love to learn from me?

You can feel it starting to change.

Here in the Bonnechere Valley, the days are stretching out a little longer. The air feels different. The bees will be moving soon, and before long the swans will return as the lake begins to open again.

There’s something about this season that feels right.

After a long winter, things begin to move forward. Not in a rush — just steady and certain. That’s how this new venture feels to me right now.

Behind the scenes, I’ve been putting the pieces in place — building the website, working through the details, making sure everything reflects the authenticity of the work. The urns remain what they’ve always been meant to be: reclaimed wood, thoughtfully crafted, grounded in nature and in respect.

I’m building this the only way I know how — carefully, intentionally, and true to the material.

We’re getting close now. And I’m looking forward to sharing it with you.

Wood carries a story.
I’m working with reclaimed wood from trees that have lived through storms and seasons, pieces that already carry decades of life. Giving this wood a second life feels right, and it’s becoming something meaningful.
I’ve been developing wooden urns from this reclaimed wood, rooted in nature, capturing the beauty in its grain and carrying the quiet strength of the Ottawa Valley forests.
But this project is about more than just making an urn. Losing someone leaves a space that goes beyond what words or objects can fill. Alongside these urns, this venture will offer grief counselling and support — helping the living heal, as well as honoring those we’ve lost.
I’m getting close to sharing more, and I can’t wait to show you what’s coming.

Saw 5440... waiting for Foreigner

Check out the collection in the House of Commons.

Contact - History, Art and Architecture - Parliament of Canada Contact - History, Art and Architecture - Parliament of Canada