Energy Efficient Historically accurate restoration windows

by | Mar 23, 2011 | Historic Restoration

Gepetto Craftsmen have found a way to produce Energy Efficient Historically accurate restoration windows with a double pane system.

Energy Efficient historical windows with double pane

We can’t show you these window frames too close because we don’t want our competitors to copy our intricate and difficult construction process. We are not aware of any other manufacturer offering these type of windows in the historical restoration niche.  We have brought the look, feel, and authentic historically accurate materials and construction – while adding the modern energy efficiency of a double pane.  To achieve this goal we hand build the window parts using custom machines allowing us to make them in an affordable production schedule.  Yes, they will likely fit in your budget for historical restoration and may meet energy efficiency standards, although we have not had them tested.

Energy Efficient historical windows with double pane

Give us a call or fill out the form below to chat with us about our unique handmade product.

Project Spotlight: Theater Room and hybrid spaces

Project Spotlight: Theater Room and hybrid spaces

by | Mar 8, 2011 | Architectural Millwork, Built-in Storage VA, Custom Cabinetry, Kitchen Renovation, Project Spotlight, Richmond VA Woodworkers, Shelving

I was hired for this large home hybrid kitchen design project by a local contractor I have years of experience working with.  Trust is a valuable and scarce commodity in the building industry unfortunately.  I write these articles in the trust building process with you, as you consider hiring your contractor, because creativity and successful design come out of a trusting working relationship!  The theater room hybrid project showcases a design suggestion made by the Gepetto Craftsman after looking at the plans drawn by the architect for elliptical windows topping off the glass doors to the porch.  When I got the architectural drawings and took a look at them I felt that the drawings were leaving out a huge opportunity in the woodworking in the room. Let me give you a picture to set the stage:

The arches are a repeated architectural theme throughout the home and I felt that the architect didn’t draw this wall with a grasp on the abilities of a skilled modern woodworker. Drawing on the relationship I have with the builder and client,  I suggested some changes to the plans to include a solid wood arched raised panel to finish the look of the wall.  The builder and client agreed with me that the warmth, classicism, and functional results of my proposed drawings would be a great direction to refurbish this 1920’s home.

Eliptical raised panel – all solid wood – no veneeering – click to enlarge

A solid wood, arched raised panel is a difficult construction challenge because the solid wood used in construction doesn’t naturally conform to the designed arch.  I have to measure precisely and use old world wood bending techniques.  The highly technical machinery setups to manufacture the wooden arc of trim would baffle less accomplished craftsmen.

Arched Panel Detail – click to enlarge

While I am very proud of the arched panels – they’re only the beginning of the mixed spaces designed into this home renovation.  Take a look at three more detail pictures and then let’s move on into the kitchen.

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Frank Lloyd Wright inspired custom kitchen design

by | Jan 31, 2011 | Architectural Millwork, Custom Cabinetry, Kitchen Renovation

The Story of a Kitchen’s 3rd renovation

Creatively the client wanted a little diversity through out this kitchen design. Originally the client had a very dark raised panel Kitchen that they renovated  20 years back so this was the 3rd renovation this customer had done in this house. The conversation about how they had evolved the house through the years was very educational. In this renovation, they wanted a timeless, simple, and open approach to their central living environment as the kitchen adjoins an open sitting room and is the most used space in the house.  The open transitions and framework are to facilitate family conversations while doing mixed tasks like homework and food prep.

The first idea on the drawing board was filling the whole room with cabinets, but as we talked with the client about their needs and style we evolved into a super simple result. The original kitchen was full of late 80’s raised panel and dark cherry when we started.

In the design process we opened up the feeling with open-front shelving to achieve a sleeker, clean, zen feeling. The craftsman feel was brought out with an eclectic warm touch and breaking the kitchen into sections.  The front area is composed of the wooden front dishwasher, the mosaic tile back-splashes behind the sink and granite counter tops for food preparation next to the stove and between the sink.

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Authentic Historic Restoration Wooden Windows

Authentic Historic Restoration Wooden Windows

by | Jan 3, 2011 | Architectural Millwork, Historic Restoration, Wooden Windows

Gepetto Craftsman have years of expert, hands on experience restoring wooden windows from projects across the mid-Atlantic area.

  • authentic antique glass
  • Historic Restoration standards
  • Wooden Windows and Sashes
  • partial restoration
  • energy efficient glazing

We have experience with partial restoration and remake to fit specialty jobs.

historic restoration windows

historic restoration windows

wooden windows and sashes for custom restoration

beautiful historial window restoration project by virginia small business

beautiful historial window restoration project by virginia small business

beautiful historial window restoration project by virginia small business

wooden sash restoration by local VA company

Historic Restoration wooden window shutter fabrication by local Virginia craftsmen

wooden sash restoration by local VA company

wooden sash restoration by local VA company Historic Restoration wooden window shutter fabrication by local Virginia craftsmen

Historic Restoration wooden window shutter fabrication by local Virginia craftsmen

Historic Restoration wooden window shutter fabrication by local Virginia craftsmen

Historic Restoration wooden window shutter fabrication by local Virginia craftsmen

Antique glass historic wooden window handmade renovation

Antique glass historic wooden window handmade renovation

Historic Restoration wooden window shutter fabrication by local Virginia craftsmen

Historic Restoration wooden window shutter fabrication by local Virginia craftsmen

Historic Restoration wooden window shutter fabrication by local Virginia craftsmen

Historic Restoration wooden window shutter fabrication by local Virginia craftsmen

Antique glass historic wooden window handmade renovation

Antique glass historic wooden window handmade renovation

Antique glass historic wooden window handmade renovation

Request your quote or start your project here:

  • Richmond VA
  • Chesapeake Areas of Virginia & Maryland
  • Historic Williamsburg
  • Glouchester, West point
  • Newport News – Hampton – Norfolk – Virginia Beach
  • Washington DC: Montclair, Manassas, Rockville, Silver Spring, Fort Washington, Waldorf
  • Charlottesville – Lynchburg – Appomattox – Roanoke

Rustic Bar Construction | Custom Restaurant Fittings

by | Jul 7, 2010 | Reclaimed Wood Builder, Restaurant Fittings

Countryside tourists visiting the blue ridge mountains and countryside enjoy a stop off at the Old Toad Pub. The rustic ideal and design theme were desired in this project to attract the weekender tourists from the Washington DC, Baltimore, and Richmond metro areas as they spend a weekend at a nice countryside bed and breakfast or tour the local wineries near Charlottesville VA. The reclaimed barn wood facing used on the bar was taken from a barn not twelve miles from the restaurant’s location by Gepetto Craftsmen who finished out the bar design to serve both the drinking patrons, but also the speed and accessibility of the staff serving the drinks day in and day out. The L shaped bar with service corner helps separate the bar area from the seated dining area. Our commitment to solid wood as a craft shows through in every polished inch of the bartop surface! A proprietary mix of curing, polishing and chemical finishes builds a deep luster on top of the gorgeous wood grain that you won’t hesitate to serve, spill or clean on top of. Contact us to start your custom bar construction for your home or business.

Rustic Bar Construction | Custom Restaurant Fittings

Rustic Bar Construction | Custom Restaurant Fittings

reclaimed_barnwood_resturant_build_0010

Elements of a “rustic’ design:

reclaimed_barnwood_resturant_build_0009

Reclaimed Barnwood Solid Wood Bar Custom Made

Reclaimed Barnwood Solid Wood Bar Custom Made

Rustic Wood Bar Construction Virginia

Rustic Wood Bar Construction Virginia

We bid and create complex architectural drawings:

 

Rustic Wood Bar Construction Virginia

Rustic Wood Bar Construction Virginia

Project Spotlight: Pecky Cypress Custom Kitchen and Hand-Crafted Built-Ins

by | May 18, 2010 | Architectural Millwork, Built-in Storage VA, Custom Cabinetry, Kitchen Renovation, Richmond VA Woodworkers



The concept for the pecky cypress kitchen project came from a lack in the home builder’s kitchen’s ‘spirit’. The floor plan layout make the kitchen viewable from the entry hall, and left much to be desired in it’s style and warmth for this central piece of the home design.  The homeowner was not able to get a satisfactory response from the general contractor and so turned to Gepetto.  We brought a willingness to listen, and extensive design experience to the table to help the home owner make an organic visual and tactile experience come to life in their central living space.

The key component that breaks the design mold, achieving the goals of the homeowner in the process, was to use the exotic and difficult to work with Pecky Cypress wood species. Matthew Wiley’s modern eclectic design sensibility and daring to work with the unique scarred grain pattern in the cypress brings the unique look and functional success to this kitchen and bookshelf project. You may be wondering where the difficulty comes from.  Take a look at this closeup picture:

pecky cypress kitchen

pecky cypress kitchen

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Spiral Staircase Manufacture

by | Feb 24, 2010 | Architectural Millwork

Architectural millwork for spiral staircase construction across Virginia, Maryland, Deleware, Philadelphia and Southern PA.  Virginia Custom Spiral Staircase Builders  project slideshow is above.  Get a quote for your custom staircase manufactured by hand from local VA craftsmen.  The most complex designs fit intricate spaces and can be quoted and completed efficiently to meet your project’s deadlines from our Richmond shop.  Warehouse renovation from the ground up with reclaimed materials from exposed beams or old flooring can be done on budget and timeilne with a shop as capable as Gepetto.  Builders of exquisite wood architectural elements like spiral staircases and curved railings like pictured here in this slideshow take great care with the materials to bend and twist with the wood grain.  Along with the complex measurements that are required to accurately build in the three dimensional turns of a spiral, we take great care to meet the structural strength and weight bearing needs of the staircases we build.

We have used solid wood joinery with the center column in several projects, but here we blended the the flexibility and strength of steel to meet the architectural needs of this project.  The three levels of the Ladybird Hat Factory renovation were connected with this spiral staircase built around the elevator shaft.  The new addition of an elevator to this late 19th century building left us plenty of structural integrity from which to hang the floating staircase.  The extra large internal diameter allowed us to use a lower angle between steps as we completed the arc between levels.  Walk in sometime to experience how the arc of the staircase moves through the space.  Complete the turn on solid wood planks as you rise from level to level and feel the craftsmanship that we intended.

Custom Built in Storage for girl’s room

Custom Built in Storage for girl’s room

by | Dec 7, 2009 | Architectural Millwork, Built-in Storage VA, Custom Cabinetry, Richmond VA Woodworkers, Shelving

These dark black built in cabinets contrast with the hot pink walls of this children’s room.

Specialty storage systems custom designed to fit your room add’s elegant grace to hide children’s toys and adds permanent value to your historic home built without closets. In this 1890’s home with 12ft ceilings and without modern closets custom built storage systems make a very elegant statement in a room that could easily be overcome by clutter or oddly sized storage solutions. The design team at Gepetto will ensure that clever treats like matching bench seating under your windows provide for both space and function.

Custom built hand made hutch cabnents (more…)

made to order custom round wooden turned millwork

made to order custom round wooden turned millwork

by | Dec 2, 2009 | Wood Turning

In the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush greenery, you’ll find a place where craftsmanship and artistry converge to create timeless wooden treasures. Gepetto Craftsmen, renowned for their mastery of custom round wooden turned millwork, stand as paragons of excellence in the world of woodworking. In this exploration, we delve into the realm of Gepetto’s unparalleled expertise, uncovering the diverse array of objects and types of made-to-order wooden masterpieces they meticulously craft.

The Essence of Gepetto Craftsmen

Before delving into the world of custom round wooden turned millwork, it’s essential to understand the essence of Gepetto Craftsmen. Rooted in tradition and driven by innovation, Gepetto’s artisans possess an innate passion for woodworking, nurtured by the breathtaking natural surroundings of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Every piece that emerges from their skilled hands carries not only their expertise but also a deep connection to the land that has inspired generations of craftsmen.

The Artistry of Turning Wood

At the heart of Gepetto Craftsmen’s offerings lies the art of turning wood. Turning is a woodworking technique that involves rotating a piece of wood on a lathe, while cutting tools shape and carve the material into various forms. Gepetto’s artisans have honed this craft to perfection, enabling them to create a myriad of custom round wooden turned millwork pieces.

1. Table Legs and Pedestals

One of the most notable applications of Gepetto’s expertise is in crafting exquisite table legs and pedestals. Whether it’s a dining table, coffee table, or a grand conference table, Gepetto’s craftsmen can fashion wooden supports that enhance the aesthetic and structural integrity of any piece of furniture. The richness of wood grain and the precision of their turning techniques result in unique, eye-catching pieces that can elevate any space.

2. Balusters and Spindles

For architectural and interior design projects, Gepetto’s ability to create custom balusters and spindles is unparalleled. These finely turned wooden components can be used in staircases, railings, and decorative paneling, adding an element of elegance and sophistication to homes, hotels, and public spaces. Each baluster or spindle is a testament to the precision and attention to detail that defines Gepetto’s work.

3. Porch and Deck Railing Posts

In outdoor spaces, the beauty of custom round wooden turned millwork truly shines. Gepetto’s craftsmen can fashion porch and deck railing posts that combine functionality and aesthetics seamlessly. These turned posts not only provide structural support but also lend a touch of rustic charm to any outdoor setting, making them ideal for cabins, lodges, and country homes.

4. Newel Posts

Newel posts, often found at the base and top of staircases, are another specialty of Gepetto Craftsmen. These vital architectural elements serve as focal points, and Gepetto’s artisans understand the importance of crafting them with precision and style. The variety of wood species available ensures that newel posts can be tailored to match the overall design theme of a space.

5. Finials and Caps

For those seeking to add distinctive ornamentation to their projects, Gepetto offers an extensive range of finials and caps. These decorative wooden accents can be used to crown the tops of newel posts, fence posts, or bedposts. The possibilities are virtually limitless, with Gepetto’s craftsmen capable of crafting intricate and custom-designed finials that reflect the client’s unique vision.

6. Custom Knobs and Pulls

In the realm of cabinetry and furniture, Gepetto’s expertise extends to crafting custom wooden knobs and pulls. These small yet essential details can significantly impact the overall look and feel of cabinets and drawers. The hand-turned knobs and pulls created by Gepetto’s artisans are not only functional but also works of art in their own right.

7. Vases and Decorative Objects

Beyond structural elements, Gepetto’s craftsmen showcase their artistry in crafting decorative objects that serve as both functional items and pieces of art. Wooden vases, candle holders, and decorative bowls are meticulously turned to highlight the wood’s natural beauty. These objects add warmth and character to interior spaces and make for thoughtful gifts.

8. Custom Lighting Fixtures

Gepetto Craftsmen’s innovation extends to the realm of custom lighting fixtures. Whether it’s pendant lights, chandeliers, or sconces, they can turn wooden components that infuse warmth and character into any space. These bespoke lighting fixtures are designed to complement the unique aesthetic of each project, providing both illumination and visual appeal.

9. Furniture Components

Gepetto’s artisans are often called upon to create custom wooden components for furniture makers and designers. From intricately turned chair legs to decorative inlays, their expertise in custom millwork ensures that every piece fits seamlessly into the overall design of the furniture, enhancing its beauty and functionality.

10. Architectural Restoration

Preserving the architectural heritage of historic buildings is a noble pursuit, and Gepetto Craftsmen excel in this area. They can replicate and restore wooden millwork components for historic restoration projects, ensuring that the craftsmanship of the past lives on in the present.

Wood Species and Finishes

One of the distinguishing features of Gepetto Craftsmen’s work is their commitment to using a wide variety of wood species. Each wood species carries its own unique characteristics, from the rich, dark tones of walnut to the warm, honeyed hues of cherry. Clients can choose the wood species that best aligns with their design vision and preferences.

In addition to the selection of wood species, Gepetto offers an array of finishes that enhance the beauty and durability of their creations. From natural oils that bring out the wood’s natural luster to stains that add depth and color, clients have the opportunity to customize the final appearance of their wooden millwork.

Collaboration and Customization

What truly sets Gepetto Craftsmen apart is their commitment to collaboration and customization. Every project they undertake is a collaborative journey with the client, where ideas and concepts are transformed into tangible works of art. Whether it’s a simple design concept or a complex, highly detailed piece, Gepetto’s artisans are dedicated to bringing their client’s vision to life.

With their state-of-the-art facilities and a team of skilled artisans, Gepetto Craftsmen can turn even the most intricate designs into reality. Their ability to customize millwork ensures that each piece is unique and tailored to the specific requirements of the project, whether it’s a historic restoration, a contemporary design, or anything in between.

Quality and Sustainability

Quality is the cornerstone of Gepetto Craftsmen’s work. Every piece of custom round wooden turned millwork that leaves their workshop is a testament to their unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and excellence. These pieces are not just functional; they are heirlooms that can be passed down through generations.

In an era where sustainability is paramount, Gepetto Craftsmen are also dedicated to responsible practices. They source their wood from sustainable and responsibly managed forests, ensuring that their work contributes to the conservation of natural resources. This commitment to sustainability aligns with their deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Modern organic: the woodcraft of Si Restaurant

by | Nov 30, 2009 | Architectural Millwork, Built-in Storage VA, Richmond VA Woodworkers, Williamsburg VA

Gepetto brought handmade care to the architectural drawings for Si Restaurant in Downtown Richmond.

View the gallery above to see this heart pine and maple custom milled with circular passageways, arcs and slanted wine rack shelves. The bar style table extends from the vertical curve of the wine rack for bar height seating. The unique table construction utilizing cross grain square cut tiles planed and polished with an epoxy sealer brings the natural warmth and organic fingerprint to the entire surface of the restaurant interior. The bench seating formed from a wave of finish grade ply melds up into the walls and their block and line modern design. The natural organic unstained wood complements and warms the minimalist modern design. (more…)