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Branch out with artful décor crafted from B.C. wood

Five inspiring woodworkers with local roots
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Kate Duncan has been a frontrunner in the Vancouver design and woodworking scene for years | Photo: contributed

As I explore B.C. this summer, what I have been most inspired by is the natural beauty of this incredible province.

At every turn, our local resources make a statement, whether untouched in nature or repurposed for design.

This week we’re taking note of our beautiful home and looking at five top local woodworkers who bring the art of wood into local decor.

Kate Duncan Design kateduncan.ca

A self-proclaimed “badass woodworker with a serious side of sass,”Kate Duncan has been a frontrunner in the Vancouver design and woodworking scene for years. Her signature nod to the traditions of joinery combined with a beautifully structured modernity has built a fanbase for her designs that far exceeds our city limits. When I asked Kate what inspires her to create, she replied: “The thought that my work will last for generations to come. I always wonder who my work will get passed on to and what kind of life each piece will lead.”

Kate Duncan Design | Contributed photo

Bowyer & Toulson bowyerandtoulson.com

The team at Bowyer & Toulson, whose studio is in Ladner, has taken the unique design philosophy of giving new life to trees that have fallen from natural causes or have been removed. The tree lives on within the end product, as each of their pieces are handcrafted from a single board. Offering an array of serving and cutting boards, the brand designs small collections of products that bring the beauty of wood into functional decor. Available at Nineteen Ten Home.

MTH Woodworks mthwoodworks.ca

Since 2010, Michael Thomas Host has reshaped the boundaries of high-end wood furnishings. Blending his family history in forestry and years of experience building yachts, Host has designed a niche collection of furnishings and art combining salvaged wood and resin epoxy. Host keeps finding unique ways to collaborate and share his work – most recently he joined forces with local real estate duo Ashley Smith and Thu Pham to create a pop-up gallery within a luxury penthouse suite that was up for sale. In a swanky, New York-esque take on an open house, Host’s work was featured throughout the loft as potential buyers mingled over a scotch tasting.

MTH Woodworks | Contributed photo

Union Wood Co. unionwoodco.com

With a heavy utilitarian influence, Union’s custom pieces bring high-end, polished designs to market that pay homage to the nostalgia of Vancouver’s forgotten industrial foundries. A go-to for designers, the local shop, which opened in 2009, creates upscale furnishings that add a coveted element of edginess to even the most contemporary space (as seen in this home designed by Angela Robinson.

Union Wood Co. | Photo: Janis Nicolay

Bowerman’s Handcrafted Furniture bowermans.ca

With a history in restoring antiques and artifacts, it’s no surprise that Squamish-based Rick Bowerman has built a name for himself through attention to detail and quality craftsmanship. Bowerman’s furniture and custom millwork and cabinetry designs are a top choice for homeowners seeking a full service woodworking studio.

Vancouver Westender