When Mikel Welch invited me to collaborate on his room for the 2024 Kips Bay Designer Show House, I knew it was a special opportunity. Mikel’s reputation as a
celebrated designer—having worked with clients like Faith Hill, Steve Harvey, Michelle Obama, and Oprah—speaks for itself. Add his features in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, and Veranda, and it was clear this project would be both inspiring and a significant milestone for me and my little shop.
Our first Zoom conversation set the tone for a remarkable collaboration. Mikel shared his vision: a room inspired by the Cotswolds in England, renowned for its pastoral beauty and timeless architecture. He envisioned handcrafted wooden ceiling beams as a focal point—infusing the space with structural character and authenticity. He wanted the room to transport you to a centuries-old English cottage on a misty morning, warm and inviting. However, there was one challenge: the beams had to be completed and shipped to New York in just three weeks!
I faced a decision: do I let this opportunity pass, or drop everything and make it happen? You can probably guess what I chose—all my other projects were put on hold until these beams were shipped.
My team and I got straight to work. To bring Mikel’s rustic vision to life, I selected alder wood for its natural beauty, marked by color variations, distinctive knots, and twisted grain patterns. To keep the beams lightweight, easy to ship, and simple to install, I crafted them as hollow boxes. Each beam was then meticulously distressed to achieve a hand-hewn appearance, as Mikel requested. Using an adze, draw knife, and even an awl to mimic insect holes, we added layers of texture and character, making the beams look as though they were reclaimed from a centuries-old English home.
After distressing, I stained the beams with a mellow antique oak finish, enhancing the wood’s natural warmth and depth. The result was a rich, timeworn patina that perfectly blended rustic charm with refined craftsmanship. Thanks to their lightweight design, we shipped the beams via UPS as regular parcels, ensuring they arrived at the Kips Bay Show House on time.
The installation was seamless. The lightweight beams, paired with included cleats and detailed instructions, were easy for the installers to carry and secure to the ceiling. Once in place, the beams transformed the room
, grounding Mikel’s design and amplifying the timeless elegance he envisioned. Seeing how our work fit so seamlessly into his concept was a proud moment for me and my team.
Collaborating with Mikel Welch on this project was truly unforgettable. From our first conversation to the final reveal, Mikel’s ability to blend classic inspiration with modern refinement left me in awe. I’m honored to have played a role in bringing the timeless charm of the Cotswolds to the heart of New York City.
If you’re looking for custom, handcrafted woodwork to bring authenticity and artistry to your next project, let’s connect. Whether it’s beams, furniture, or other unique pieces, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Reach out today, and let’s create something extraordinary together!