Services
How we can work together
Most projects start with a short conversation about the space and what it needs to do. From there I can sketch options, source materials, and give a real estimate.
Residential builds
The main focus: custom pieces and improvements for homeowners. Planters, raised beds, decks, gates, pergolas, screens, and built-in furniture. One-of-a-kind work scaled to your space.
Commercial work
Larger or repeated builds for businesses, restaurants, garden centers, and event spaces. Same care, planned for higher volume.
Subcontract / collaboration
Available as a sub on bigger jobs where another GC or builder needs reliable carpentry hands. Frame-to-finish skills, comfortable on site.
The process
From first call to installed
Say hello
Call, text, or send the quote form. Photos of the space and a rough idea are plenty to get started.
Site visit & sketch
On San Juan Island I'll come measure, look at the light and the ground, and talk materials honestly.
A real quote
A written number with a materials list and a timeline — not a guess.
The build
In the shop and on site. You'll see progress photos as it comes together.
Install & walkthrough
Set, leveled, finished, cleaned up. I'll walk you through how to care for it.
What gets built
Planters & Garden
Cedar planter boxes, raised beds, cold frames, and garden structures.
See examples →Questions
Fair questions, straight answers
What does a custom piece cost?
It depends on size, materials, and complexity. A planter box is a different job than a deck. Once I've seen the space (or photos of it), you get a written quote with a materials list — the number is real, not a teaser. Materials are where most of the range comes from: cedar, hardwoods, and composites each price differently.
Do you charge for quotes?
No. Quotes are free, and on San Juan Island a site visit is free too.
Where do you work?
I'm based on San Juan Island and serve the island and Friday Harbor. Other islands and Anacortes are possible by arrangement — ask, and we'll figure out the ferry logistics together.
How long will my project take?
Small pieces (planters, benches, birdhouses) usually take a week or two once started. Larger builds like decks and pergolas run longer and depend on weather and materials. Your quote includes a timeline, and I'd rather quote honest and deliver early than the reverse.
What wood should I use outdoors?
Cedar is the classic: naturally rot-resistant, ages to a silver grey, smells wonderful. Pressure-treated lumber is the budget workhorse for structure. Composites cost more up front but shrug off coastal weather with zero maintenance. I build in all three and will tell you straight which suits your project and budget.
Can you build from a photo or a Pinterest idea?
Yes — that's how many projects start. Send the picture, tell me what you like about it, and I'll adapt it to your space, your climate, and honest materials.
How do payments work?
Typically a deposit covers materials to get the build started, with the balance due at completion. We'll agree on the details in writing before any work begins.
Do decks or structures need permits?
Sometimes — it depends on size, height, and where it sits on the property. We'll talk through what San Juan County requires for your project before the build starts.
Have a project in mind?
The quote form takes about a minute. Send what you have — sketches, photos, a rough idea — and I'll reply with the next step.
Request a quote