From Front Yard Ash Tree to Front Door Centerpiece
I recently had the privilege of completing a project that truly embodies why I do what I do. The clients approached me with a unique resource: an ash tree they had cut down and milled on their own property three years ago. Their goal? To turn that timber into a front door that would tell the story of their land, maximize natural light, and serve as a piece of history for future owners.
Massive Ash boards milled directly on the client’s property.
Here is a look behind the scenes of how I turned a stack of lumber into the “handshake” of their home.
Design Meets Sentiment
The lumber was sentimental, but the design had to be practical. The homeowners wanted to highlight the wood while solving a specific architectural challenge: matching the sash height of the original windows and bringing more light into their foyer.
I didn’t want the clients to guess what the final result would look like. For every stage of the design — from the overall size and side lights to the finish options — I provided multiple realistic mock-ups. This allowed us to iterate quickly. If an option wasn’t perfect, I went back to the drawing board until the design matched their dream.
Digital concept.
Physical reality.
The “Handshake” of the House
One of my core philosophies in door making is that “the handle is the handshake of the house.” It has to be right.
I worked with the clients to select hardware that wasn’t just secure, but felt satisfying to use. We settled on a set that provides a solid, reassuring “thunk” when closed — a tactile reminder of the door’s quality every time you come home. I also engineered functional details, like a door sweep that locks in place when closed but lifts up and out of the way when opened, ensuring the door is as smart as it is beautiful.
Radical Transparency (and Video Updates!)
Custom woodwork shouldn’t be a black box. I believe the client should enjoy the making of the door as much as the installation.
Throughout this build, I sent the clients frequent video updates. They got to watch their ash wood being planed, joined, and finished. It turns the waiting period into an educational and exciting part of the process. As the client noted, “It was fun to watch and learn from.”
The Result
The final door is sturdy, flooded with light, and rich with the history of the property. It’s not just a barrier against the elements; it’s a story.
Are you looking to create an entrance that adds history and value to your home? Whether you have your own lumber or need me to source the perfect species, I’m ready to design your home’s handshake.
For the Makers: Interested in the joinery or techniques used on this build? I have plans and templates available on my plans page.
