Architectural Woodwork

Architectural woodwork is so varied in design and complexity that it becomes difficult to define. It is specified for special applications by designers or architects, and is manufactured by woodworkers. It includes all exterior and interior wood components exposed to view.

Examples of these components include built-in cabinetry, library shelving, wall paneling; wainscoting, moldings and appliques, specialty doors and interior windows, firplace mantels, coffered ceilings, casings and trim, columns and pilasters, carved pieces, corbels or brackets, or any other type of decorative wood.

The Process

Let's say you're converting an underused living room to a library, and you want to include paneling, shelving, cabinetry, a custom desk, moldings and a pocket door - all in the same style and finish. What has to happen?

First, you need an architect or designer to create blueprints showing everything that you told him or her to include. You have to approve it or ask for changes, but ultimately approve the design. Then you have to find a woodworker.

You should get a minimum of 3 prices from people who have been recommended to you. Recommendations can come from the architect, from contractors or other construction professionals, or from freinds and neighbors who have had a good experience with a woodworker. Based on price, projected duration, and your comfort level, you make your selection.

The woodworker cannot produce architectural woodwork from a designer's drawings. He has to make shop drawings. These are more detailed, to the point that they instruct the factory workers as to how the pieces will be made, how they will go together, and how they will get installed. These instructions should allow for any field conditions or other contingencies.

The appropriate material is ordered and the production begins. Since everything is custom-made, it will take 4 to 6 weeks for machining, assembly, and finishing. Then it has to be delivered to your home and installed.

Depending on the size of the job, the installation of your architectural woodwork can take another week or two (for the project described above - small jobs can be installed in a day or two).

For more information about specific types of architectural woodwork, click on the appropriate links.

Beadboard. When most people think of wall paneling, this is what first comes to mind. It's a wood siding with vertical lines (beads) cut into the surface. This can be purchased as individual boards, or as 4 ft by 8 ft panels. I have it, painted white, in my kitchen (my wife's idea) and I was stunned by how good it looks. It was very inexpensive when bought in boards.

Coffered Ceilings.

For built-in bookcases, click here.

Wall Paneling.

Wainscoting.

Pediments.

Wood Columns.

Moldings.

Corbels.

If you have any comments or questions, contact me about architectural woodwork by clicking here.

If you're planning a large renovation, you should get your hands on HOW TO CONTROL YOUR REMODELING PROJECT. Just click here for more information.

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