American Made

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.

Adam studied Geology in college, but when his employer asked where he saw himself in five years, his reply was “building furniture”. When he left that job he did just that, working first at an established shop; then setting out on his own. Naturally, an extra set of hands came in handy, so Nicole soon joined him, helping out in the woodshop, at installs, and running the other aspects of the business.

In fifteen years, the business has evolved from a sole proprietor to a partnership, and now to a S-corporation this year. We’ve had a handful of employees over the years, but at our core it’s two people working together, and one very experienced set of hands. Much of our work is custom- we receive input from the client, and we listen carefully to their desires, refine the design and select the most appropriate materials and finishes. Adam thrives on making new original furniture, allowing the wood to speak for itself and creating a piece that is functional, beautiful, and durable.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORKSPACE, SHOP, OR STUDIO.

We started our business in a neglected 18th century springhouse on a horse farm where we lived in our early twenties. Currently, the woodshop operates from a much roomier 4,000 square foot former sawmill building with a separate finishing room, making for superior end products. We’re utilizing a one room schoolhouse as our furniture showroom. The company office is located in a decomissioned timber-framed Methodist church, which is now our home, and only a short walk away from the woodshop. As a family business, this is optimal, since our kids can take a quick stroll over and play at the shop, watch Papa build, and make little wood sculptures by his side. The larger shop space allows for storage of a large inventory of locally sawn and dried lumber and slab wood to draw from for any project without having to go hunting through the stacks at the sawmill or lumberyard.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

As an isolated craftsman working alone in a rural setting, Adam is inspired by the community of woodworkers on Instagram. Being involved in a conversation about the work, and receiving feedback from such a wide range of individuals is great, as is seeing all the amazing craftsmanship out there by other makers. We’re lucky to live in a sylvan paradise where there are four beautiful seasons and the most incredible forests. As woodworkers, this is fortunate; and as outdoor people it is extraordinarily fulfilling to have hiking, foraging, paddling, and more – just minutes from our doorstep.

 WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND OUT?

Springhouse Shop and Studio combines time honored joinery skills with the highest quality workmanship and materials. We offer original design and fabrication of nearly anything built of wood, serving clients from the mountains to the cities of New York, Philadelphia and beyond.

 WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE AN ASPIRING CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR?

Go with what you’re passionate about. Be authentic. Look for your niche. Ask for help from those who are more experienced. Learn as much as you can. Feed your inner fires.

WHAT DOES AMERICAN MADE MEAN TO YOU?

Buying American made products supports real sustainability. Choosing American made work is a vote for the long picture over the quick bottom line. American made craftsmanship might cost a little more than the imports, but that choice nourishes American families, and American jobs. When you buy products made with local materials, by local labor, you are demonstrating your wholehearted belief in your community and making a choice you can feel good about.