When Alexander M. Reid first contacted me to create two custom pieces for his clients in Bellport, N.Y., I knew it was an extraordinary opportunity. As one of New York’s preeminent designers, Alexander has cultivated a reputation for working with a discerning, high-profile clientele. His design philosophy, rooted in a deep appreciation for vintage details, celebrates the balance of timeless elements within modern spaces. Alexander’s ability to craft homes that feel layered, personal, and cohesive has earned him features in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Vogue, Elle Decor, and numerous other prestigious publications. To collaborate with someone of his caliber was a true honor.
Seeing these pieces showcased in House Beautiful was a moment of immense pride—a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship that went into their creation. Partnering with Alexander to bring his vision to life for his Bellport clients was a rewarding experience. To have our work celebrated in such a respected publication underscores the enduring value of thoughtful, well-executed design. Moments like these remind me why I love what I do: creating pieces that not only serve a purpose but also tell a story and enhance the spaces they inhabit.
From the outset, Alex and his team emphasized the need for simplicity, timelessness, and a sense of history. They envisioned pieces that felt like heirlooms—crafted with care, steeped in character, and destined to endure for generations.
Inspired by classic provincial furniture, I aimed to design pieces that prioritized function while offering subtle nods to the past. My goal was for the finished work to feel like cherished artifacts rather than brand-new creations.
For the china hutch, Alex shared a photo of an antique piece his client had found online. The goal was to replicate its lines and overall aesthetic while adjusting the proportions to suit the intended space.
I crafted every part and panel from solid wood, staying true to the materials used in the original. The antique’s unique edge profiles weren’t achievable with modern router bits, so I ground custom blades from steel, just as the original builder might have done. Using traditional joinery and finishing techniques, I sought to imbue the hutch with the character of a well-worn antique.
The finish features India ink, traditional shellac, and locally sourced beeswax from a nearby beekeeper, ensuring a rich patina. Heavy, solid brass hardware—left uncoated—was selected to age gracefully with time and use. Together, the thoughtful proportions, intricate joinery, and authentic finish make this china hutch a piece I am especially proud to present.
The trestle table strikes a balance between utility and classic elegance. Drawing inspiration from the robust architecture of railroad trestles, I incorporated substantial proportions and a hand-hewn texture to evoke a sense of weathered history.
Using large, rough alder lumber, I applied texture with a modified spokeshave—a tool I customized myself. Crafting and fine-tuning my tools from raw steel allows me to achieve one-of-a-kind profiles and textures, ensuring every piece I create feels truly unique.
The table was stained in a mellow antique oak tone and sealed with a durable topcoat from General Finishes, my go-to brand for longevity. A final buffing with local beeswax provided a smooth, silky finish. The result is a table that appears to have existed for centuries, carrying with it a sense of timeless stories and enduring craftsmanship.
Seeing my work featured in House Beautiful has been a dream come true and a powerful affirmation that I am on the right path. I’m grateful to Alexander M. Reid for entrusting me with this meaningful collaboration. It has been an honor to help bring his vision to life.
If you’re interested in custom furniture that reflects your story and complements your space, I’d love to work with you. Let’s create something truly special together.
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