Custom Wood Turning for Historic Restoration

Custom Wood Turning for Historic Restoration

Handmade Turned wood rounds

We hand turn solid wood round pieces for historic restoration projects.  That means that we pickup the damaged or worn parts to recreate them in our Charlottesville VA shop.

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CUSTOM

REPAIR

HAND
MADE

CALL MATT

If you are searching for unique pieces for historic restoration building – call Matthew to discuss your needs!  We can build whatever you need, from whatever time period you are restoring.  These hand carved or turned pieces are being delivered to New Kent Virginia 

 

804.938.2094

solid wood round historic hand turning services

Handmade wood turnings made to order by Virginia craftsmen.  Whatever your project calls for we will make it to your specifications.  First step will be getting ‘shop drawings’ done, completely accurate architectural drawings.  From there we just need time!

Watch Them Turn Solid Wood

@gepetto.millworks Matt is making #handturned column bases from solid mahogany today in the shop - if you don’t think that you can find the parts and pieces for your #historicrenovation ♬ original sound - Gepettomillworks

GEPETTO CRAFTSMEN MAKE

Shop Magic

Hand Turned Solid Wood Column Base for Historic Restoration
Hand Turned Solid Wood Column Base for Historic Restoration

A Legacy in Woodworking

At the heart of the historic restoration narrative lies Gepetto Millworks, a revered name in the woodworking realm, known for its unrivaled dedication to traditional craftsmanship. Situated in the woodlands of Virginia, Gepetto Millworks boasts a legacy spanning three generations, breathing life into the art of woodturning and historic restoration. Starting with Robert Wiley, now retired, Matt Wiley was trained by the demands of rural western Virginia farm life. Pragmatic attention to planning and time management crucial for farm life made Matt ready to manage a Millwork Shop. Robert’s 40 years of carpentry experience passed on to Matt a wide understanding of the building trades, common problems and historic solutions not readily available on Google or Youtube. Starting in 2022 now the 3rd generation began their apprenticeship under Matt with the understanding that fine wine takes time to mature! Gepetto now operates the shop facility from a nearly hidden hollow of 100 acres of farmland in the historic hills around Charlottesville VA.

The Art of Turning Solid Wood Pieces

The process of turning solid wood pieces is a harmonious blend of skill, precision, and patience. This age-old technique involves placing a wood blank on a lathe and shaping it using various cutting tools while it spins. For historic restoration, this technique offers the ability to recreate ornate profiles and subtle curves that were the hallmarks of architectural decoration in a bygone era where time & labor were less costly. Gepetto runs a very small staff of highly experienced craftsmen, so that projects are completed in a timely manner – and the trade skills and secrets are maintained. If you are seeking a unique piece – don’t worry, we’ve heard of it – and can recreate it accurately!

Column Bases: Echoes of Elegance

Column bases are architectural features that have graced structures for centuries, each reflecting the design trends of their time. In historic restoration, crafting column bases involves not just replicating their appearance but also understanding the construction techniques and materials that were prevalent during the structure’s era. Gepetto Millworks’ mastery shines in meticulously recreating column bases, capturing the very essence of the original design while ensuring structural integrity. We can craft a base from a single piece of solid mahogany so that environmental stressors are less likely to damage the piece. Historic building methods often have pragmatic reasons for their implementation. While we are capable of making a plywood style layered composite, the effective durability of a solid slab of weather durable mahogany is higher than a manufactured material. Architectural millwork encompasses a vast array of components, from intricate cornices to elaborate friezes. In historic restoration, these elements are the pièce de résistance, embodying the grandeur and attention to detail that defined the architecture of yesteryears. The artisans at Gepetto Millworks approach architectural millwork with a profound respect for tradition, using age-old techniques to replicate every fine detail, ensuring an authentic restoration that stands the test of time.
Hand Turned Solid Wood Column Base for Historic Restoration
Hand Turned Solid Wood Column Base for Historic Restoration

Turned Solid Wood Pieces

Historic restoration is a noble endeavor that bridges the gap between the past and the present, preserving the essence of bygone eras for generations to come. One of the essential elements in such restoration projects is the art of turning solid wood pieces. Gepetto craftsmen are some of the only professional supply options for general contractors, architects and restoration specialists looking to recreate solid wood pieces. Delve into the intricate world of historic restoration construction with us! That world where turned wood components like column bases, balustrades, and newels, meticulously handcrafted on the wood lathes of Gepetto Millworks in Virginia continue to be exemplary producers of timeless craftsmanship that lasts centuries.

The Essence of Historic Restoration

Historic restoration construction involves a delicate balance between honoring the architectural legacy of a structure and ensuring its continued viability for modern use. In this context, turned solid wood pieces play a pivotal role because so many general contractors are not aware of services like Gepetto provides. The general contractor of today does not have an army of skilled woodworkers supplying their job sites any longer as in the historic time periods we are task to restore. You can return to the essence of an era, preserving the stylistic intricacies that defined the architectural preferences of that past time period. These pieces when installed properly continue the irreplaceable charm of the historic building.

Column Bases: Echoes of Elegance

Column bases are architectural features that have graced structures for centuries, each reflecting the design trends of their time. In historic restoration, crafting column bases involves not just replicating their appearance but also understanding the construction techniques and materials that were prevalent during the structure’s era. Gepetto Millworks’ mastery shines in meticulously recreating column bases, capturing the very essence of the original design while ensuring structural integrity. We can craft a base from a single piece of solid mahogany so that environmental stressors are less likely to damage the piece. Historic building methods often have pragmatic reasons for their implementation. While we are capable of making a plywood style layered composite, the effective durability of a solid slab of weather durable mahogany is higher than a manufactured material. Architectural millwork encompasses a vast array of components, from intricate cornices to elaborate friezes. In historic restoration, these elements are the pièce de résistance, embodying the grandeur and attention to detail that defined the architecture of yesteryears. The artisans at Gepetto Millworks approach architectural millwork with a profound respect for tradition, using age-old techniques to replicate every fine detail, ensuring an authentic restoration that stands the test of time.

Balustrades and Newels: Stairways to History

Balustrades and newels are often the visual centerpiece of historic buildings centered around the staircase. Adorning staircases with intricate designs that were once the high style elegance in that era. In the meticulous restoration of these components, Gepetto Millworks’ woodturning expertise comes to the fore. Every spindle, rail, and newel is handcrafted with the utmost care, ensuring that the soul of the original design is captured and the handmade nuances remain. What sets Gepetto Millworks apart is not just its remarkable craftsmanship, but its commitment to historical accuracy. The artisans delve deep into architectural records, scrutinizing historical documents and photographs to unravel the design elements of anything lost to the past. This dedication extends to sourcing the right wood species, using traditional joinery methods, and applying authentic finishes, ensuring that each turned wood piece is a faithful representation of its era.

Preservation Through Education

The legacy of historic restoration lives on through education. Gepetto Millworks recognizes the importance of passing on the torch of craftsmanship to the next generation. The woodworking workshops and apprenticeships offered by the millworks provide budding artisans with the opportunity to learn the nuances of turning solid wood pieces, perpetuating a tradition that might otherwise fade away. In the realm of historic restoration construction, turned solid wood pieces embody the essence of eras long past. Gepetto Millworks, nestled in the heart of Virginia, breathes life into this legacy, crafting column bases, architectural millwork, balustrades, and newels that stand as testaments to the artistry of yore. As we gaze upon these masterpieces, we are reminded that the past is not merely history; it is a living, breathing entity that continues to enrich our present and inspire our future.

Timeline

VCU SCOTT HOUSE Window Restoration

                  THE SCOTT HOUSE is one of Richmond’s most significant examples of American Renaissance architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was completed in 1911 and acquired by...

Accoya Approved Manufacturer VA

We have been using Accoya Acetylated wood for exterior applications since it's introduction into the United States market in 2012. Acetylated wood stands truer and weather's better - read the acdemic articles below to start your education for specifiying the...

Accoya Wood Window Builder VA

Windows made of Accoya Acetylated Wood In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains craftsmanship meets innovation in the form of Solid Wood windows made at Gepetto of Accoya Acetylated Wood.  Your new windows will stand as a testament to old world historic quality and...

Accoya Acetylated Wood Doors Made in VIRGINIA

Unlock the Value of Accoya Acetylated Wood Doors by Gepetto Millworks: Elevating Architectural Millwork Across Virginia Doors are more than just functional elements within architectural design; they serve as gateways that seamlessly blend practicality with aesthetics...

Arch, Round Top, and Radius Window Builder

Arch, Round Top, and Radius Window Builder

Round & Arc Top Windows

Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built to Order or Restored in Virginia by local craftsmen with historically accurate methods

Gepetto craftsmen have been restoring windows with half-round lights above the window or full arc keystone panes (pictured in next photo) for over 15 years.  Restoration of water rot or damaged sashes, or completely new solid wood replication to fit your historic Virginia home or church.  Gepetto uses a mixture of modern shop tools and hand assembly to speed the building process.  Historic homes of the 18th and 19th century relied heavily on the natural light from windows as remember it was either candles or oil lamps for light after the sun had hit the horizon.

Made with Love in the Blue Ridge Gepetto Craftsmen supply plantation house, row house, and all manner of 18th and 19th centrury historic replica windows.  Specifically hard to find are craftsmen skilled and trained to replicate or repair uniquely shaped round windows or upper window panes of various arc lengths.

 

Rounded Top Replica Historic Windows

Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built
Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built

If you are a homeowner who needs window service, it’s best to bring in a local contractor because Gepetto acually supplies local contractors.  If your local contrator or handyman seems shy to work with your historic wooden windows, have them give Matthew a call and we’ll be glad to assure them of the skills or techniques they would need to have the hardware fabricated at our millwork shop, and installed by them locally.  Our craftsmen are generally millwrights and while they can install windows, it’s simply not time efficient for us as most general contractors can do a good job.

Arch & Radius Arc Wooden Window Builder

Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built

Historically Accurate Round Windows

Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built to Order or Restored in Virginia by local craftsmen with historically accurate methods
Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built to Order or Restored in Virginia by local craftsmen with historically accurate methods

Arc top classic southern historic window builder supplying replacement windows from our Virginia shop.  Built by hand to historic standards and matching solid wood mortise and tennon construction of the original windows.  Whether it’s a specific wood rot, that just needs some restoration we can replace anthing from a section to the whole window.  Bring in a single sash to our shop in the blue ridge and we’ll gladly restore it by hand.  We have also handled large scale commercial restorations supplying as many as 900 sashes (450 windows and frames) to a single building historic restoration.

Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built to Order or Restored in Virginia by local craftsmen with historically accurate methods
Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built to Order or Restored in Virginia by local craftsmen with historically accurate methods
Historic Church Restoration Wooden Doors & Decorative Elements
Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built to Order or Restored in Virginia by local craftsmen with historically accurate methods
Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built
Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built
Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built
Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built
Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built to Order or Restored in Virginia by local craftsmen with historically accurate methods
Arch & Round Top Radius Wooden Windows Custom Built

Round Window Builder Virginia

Country Chic Interior Design for Fabrication

The country charm of the rolling blue ridge hills opens in to a delightfully designed 19th century farmhouse.  The reclaimed barnwood used for paneling has dated period newspaper adhered to the finish for an authentic dated feel.  Gepetto Craftsmen finished the kitchen counters with solid walnut counter tops, contrasting with bright white finish on the cabinetry.  Joining the small kitchen space to the dining room is a custom butcher block style countertop.  We crafted a solid wood live or raw edge dining table with three inch thick hardwood top.   Solid wood counter tops in the bathroom and other antique chic features unify the rooms throughout the house. Richmond Custom Kitchen Builder Services.

Reclaimed Barnwood for Wall Paneling

You’ll notice the wall paneling in many rooms was speckled with period newspapers which we found while cleaning out the walls.  To build the legend of the house, as well as period color to the walls we ripped and pasted sections into the old boards as we sealed them for final install.  The pant chips are authentic and the final patina a priceless touch that both unifies the rooms while adding unique details that are worth bending over to read.  If you are designing a country house look and feel contact us to discuss techniques to build the story, legend and look in your finished project.

We have brought the unique texture and feel of reclaimed wood installations to office space construction, creative restaurant building, hospitality spaces in hotels, and rustic bar fabrication.  If you have a barn on your property you would like to convert it to furnishings for your kitchen cabinets, tables, wall coverings or any other design elements for your new construction drop us a note to start your project.

Virginia Wood Window Restoration

The history of America beats from the heart of VA, particularly during the pre-Colonial period. Jamestown Virginia was founded in 1607 and was credited as the first permanent English settlement in North America while Henricus was even earlier, but was moved due to flooding.  The surrenders ending both the American Revolution (Yorktown) and the Civil War (Appomattox) occurred in Virginia. The state is called the “Mother of Presidents” because eight U.S. presidents were born there.  The colony nearly failed until tobacco emerged as a profitable export. It was grown on plantations, using primarily indentured servants for the intensive hand labor involved.  The Virginia Colony became the wealthiest and most populated British colony in North America, with an elected General Assembly. The colony was dominated by rich planters who were also in control of the established Anglican Church. Baptist and Methodist preachers brought the Great Awakening, welcoming black members and leading to many evangelical and racially integrated churches. Virginia planters had a major role in gaining independence and in the development of democratic-republican ideals of the United States. They were important in the Declaration of Independence, writing the Constitutional Convention (and preserving protection for the slave trade), and establishing the Bill of Rights. The state of Kentucky separated from Virginia in 1792. [source: WikiPedia]

Wooden Window Restoration VA

Is our specialty because there are so many rich layers of history that can be preserved in architecture.  Gepetto builds to order or repairs existing window frames, casings and sashes so that you can receive historic tax credits for your renovation or building budget.

https://gepettomillworks.com/virginia-wood-window-restoration

Historic Virginia Wood Window Restoration Project

https://gepettomillworks.com/virginia-wood-window-restoration

Charlottesville Virginia Wooden Window Historic Restoration

Washington DC Historic Window Craftsmen

Washington DC Historic Window Craftsmen Gepetto Millworks

Begin your renovation by familiarizing yourself with your local’s architectural style and how your home fits in. The period in which it was built does matter although Gepetto Craftsmen can match any construction style from 1600 and onward. Learn about the types of windows, doors and details that were used in the original construction – you may be surprised that the original construction methods were more sturdy, stable or energy efficient than today’s homebuilding techniques.

Northern VA Historic Window Craftsmen

Northern VA Historic Window Craftsmen

Hire an experienced Architecht

A historic building consultant can save you time and energy in the early stages and give you confidence in your choices as you start out. Keep in mind that previous remodels over the years may have hidden the original details. Visit your local historical society to see if there are records available to help you learn about your home and community. You may uncover hidden gems as you restore your house to its original design or the gem may be created in your hearts and minds as you fall in love with your own home. Wooden details and accents bring organic warmth and a centering style to any interior modern or historic.

Antique Wooden Window Restoration Services Virginia

Antique Wooden Window Restoration Services Virginia

Removing your home’s original windows inevitably destroys the character of a historic house. New windows were designed for new houses. And while there are companies that make windows that look like historic ones they are still quite quite right. Lacking this major architectural element almost guarantees a lower resale price for a historic home. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking newer is better. On an old home this is rarely the case.

Historic Wooden Windows Barnwood Facing

Historic Wooden Windows Barnwood Facing

Historic windows only require a couple construction details to perform as good or better than new windows. Firstly quality weatherstrip will produce the largest thermal gains. Secondly, they must be properly maintained with paint to prevent rot and other naturally occurring maintenance concerns. And lastly, you should consider adding historical storm windows to provide the multiplier for energy efficiency and an airtight seal. You can add a second ‘storm’ pane on the inside to preserve your home’s appearance from the street and minimize any recurrent drafts that may be seeping in around the windows. Quality restoration contractors will focus on the internal walls to provide airtight sills and winterizing especially in the temperate Virginia climate.

If you choose solid wood, historically accurate windows from Gepetto you will have windows that last centuries, retain your home’s value and meet even the toughest energy-efficiency standards in the market today.