Every custom piece begins with a conversation. Whether you arrive with a fully formed vision or a simple point of departure, we invite you to share your ideas, inspirations, and the setting in which the work will live. From there, we guide the process with care, precision, and respect for both the material and the space it will inhabit.

Because final pricing depends on design decisions—materials, proportions, and construction details—custom projects begin with a design engagement rather than an upfront percentage deposit.

Our Process

1. Initial Inquiry & Consultation

Begin by contacting us to discuss your project. This initial conversation helps us understand your goals, intended use, approximate dimensions, material preferences, and any site-specific considerations. We also review preliminary timing and delivery logistics.

There is no charge for this initial consultation.

2. Design Engagement

If the project is a good fit, we proceed under a Design Engagement Agreement. This is a fixed-fee phase focused on defining the piece before any fabrication commitment is made.

The design engagement may include sketches, drawings, material exploration, structural planning, and refinement of scale and proportion. At the conclusion of this phase, the design is fully resolved and ready for execution.

Design engagement fees are earned upon commencement of design services and are applied as a credit toward fabrication should the project move forward.

3. Design Completion & Final Pricing

Once design development is complete, materials, dimensions, construction methods, and finishes are confirmed. At this point, we establish final pricing and prepare a fabrication authorization.

4. Fabrication Authorization & Materials Reservation

Once final pricing is established, we issue a Fabrication Authorization. The design engagement fee will be applied as a credit toward the total project cost.

At this stage, an additional deposit bringing the total to 50% of the project cost (less packing, crating or shipping) is required before fabrication begins. Materials are then secured and your place in our shop schedule is confirmed.

5. Fabrication

Your piece is handcrafted in our workshop using traditional techniques and carefully selected materials. Throughout fabrication, we focus on joinery, surface quality, proportion, and finish—allowing the character of the wood to guide the final expression.

Progress updates may be provided for longer or more complex commissions, including potential changes.

6. Completion, Delivery & Final Payment

Once fabrication and finishing are complete, we prepare each piece for pickup, including professional packing or custom crating, providing accurate finished dimensions and weights, and coordinating pickup once a carrier is scheduled. Smaller items may ship directly; larger furniture pieces may require white-glove delivery or third-party freight.

The remaining 50% balance, along with applicable crating, shipping, and California sales tax, is due prior to release or shipment.

We believe great pieces begin with great conversations.
If you have questions at any stage, we welcome them.