the carpenter

Something has come to my mind recently. I've been spending some time helping out at our Craftsman project. It gave me a chance to observe the working environment from a new perspective. (up until recently, I've always been off chasing my own career path so have only heard about the Carpenter's day second hand.)

It is amazing at how much he has to handle.. all the subs coming and going, electricians, plumbers, flooring and fireplace stone to name just a few. Our crew. All working in a really tight environment, stepping over one another, getting in each other's way- kind of like a sawdust square dance. It's intense, it's focused, it's "get the job done". And it's a bit overwhelming to watch if you've never experienced it. ...


I thought about the homeowners. How we come into their home- with all this "controlled" unsettling disturbance. Not to mention the dust- fine white coat everything dust- the dirt, the noise. I've lived in this environment being married to a carpenter but I know the carpenter and what to expect!

It made me think about the importance of really liking and getting along with your contractor. Trusting him. He and his crew are in your home, your intimate space, in some cases larger projects for months. You lose your kitchen or a bathroom or your livingroom is filled with cabinet boxes. The house is freezing, your dogs are barking, as well they should be. (can you imagine from their perspective?) Even though you know beauty will rise out of the "rubble" and it's your choice to enter into this fray... it's still stressful. It has to be. So having a relaxed, enjoyable, trusting, honest relationship with your contractor is just as essential as hiring a highly skilled contractor. Kind of like... finding a greatly skilled doctor that also has a wonderful bedside manner. It's important.

And that's one thing that the Carpenter has going for him over other contractors out there... his customers love him. (his clients dogs love him ;) Trust me.. I'm not biased here. Just read our Kind Words (endorsements) on the website. http://applewoodremodelers.com/kind-words/. He's honest, straight forward, no nonsense, able to handle any situation and above all he does what he says he's going to do. And when we finish a large project... we feel we're saying goodbye to good friends. It's a happy time, a satisfying time but just a tiny bit sad time too.

So when you know of someone who is thinking of bringing in some "controlled disturbance" to fulfill a dream for their home... you know where to find the right guy for the job. You won't regret your decision. The Carpenter's heart is as big as his construction experience and knowledge.

~ the Artist