Hardwood Accessories Archive

After attending the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco and
working for several years as a chef, Stephen decided to look for a creative
outlet where the result was more permanent than a chocolate souffle'. He
took up woodworking as a hobby and soon he'd found his passion. He went on
to complete an apprenticeship with master furniture-maker and restorer
Dieter Kuhnert in San Francisco in 1993. Stephen now designs and builds
custom furniture at his business, Heartwood Studio, in Applegate,
California. He has collaborated with Francine on numerous projects. " I
enjoy the challenge of making accessories fine enough to accompany the
exquisite artistry of Francine and J.P." says Stephen.

The appreciation is mutual. Over the years Stephen has revealed himself to be an artisan with an eye for lovely and balanced proportion and flawless execution. He fashions display boxes, knife racks, knife blocks, and cutting boards for us that are designed with functional strength and simplicity. When desired by the customer, he employs advanced cabinetry techniques to create intricate and decorative embellishments.

All of Stephen's work is custom made to order. Woods and other materials used in inlays and trims can be matched to the knife handles, ringsets, and even your home decor. He can execute your design, or take your lead and come up with something wholly original and unique.