Architectural wood carving

A traditional craft

Carvings have been used for many centuries to adorn furniture and buildings, bringing individual personality into the interior. There is a strong tradition of wood carving in Cumbria, with Arts & Craft houses like Blackwell for instance featuring gorgeous carvings by Arthur Simpson. Carving was a way to convey a story and add individual personality.

Case study

The project illustrated was a collaboration with highly skilled carpenter craftsmen that were building a new barn in the medieval style. The project featured two large bressummers, one for the main fireplace (featured) in the large central hall, and one for a smaller fireplace. I produced the decorative floral carving which was carved in green oak in the carpenter’s workshop. 

A photo of a medieval carving had been provided for reference and then adapted. The motif was drawn straight onto the timber, before being carved by hand.

Green oak continues to loose moisture and the resulting cracks contribute to the authenticity of the medieval character that was reinforced further by smoking the hall. The fireplace looks like it has been there for centuries and creates a strong focus in the large hall.

Interested in some bespoke carvings?

  • Get in touch for an informal chat to discuss your idea

  • The process will be explained and an itemised fee proposal will be provided

  • A drawing or a model will usually be created and we will discuss the choice of timber to suit the project