Custom Design by Cullen Grace, including CAD
Custom Design is our only mode of operation; it's what we always do for our clients.
We work with numerous designers, architects and builders as well as directly with clients who know what they want for their home, office or studio.
On page 1 (left) is an architect's early design stage watercolor sketch that became part of the basis for a kitchen installation. We use sketches, drawings, models and descriptions to create our one-of-a-kind pieces for any sort of application that requires high quality woodwork and inspired attention to detail.
On page 2, the design has evolved; this is the CAD "3-D" model we made of the final design for the kitchen. Computer Assisted Design, or CAD, has become another tool that makes our working process just that much smoother and more efficient. It helps us ensure both that the design satisfies the need and that the construction is most suitable.
With CAD at our fingertips we are able to communicate quickly and efficiently with designers and architects to confirm that we are all developing what the client needs. Our own process for creating working drawings, plans and cut lists is much streamlined. We are also then able to communicate with other builders on location about exactly how all the parts of the project will fit together. The photo on page 3 shows the finished kitchen for this project.
CAD drawings on our computers are not only easy to modify but also quickly become 3-D representations which can be examined from all perspectives. Click the CAD drawing to download a CAD-created pdf file which illustrates some of the capabilities of this technology (2.7 Mb). (Adobe Acrobat Reader 8.0 or above required to manipulate the image; download a free copy from the Adobe website if necessary.)
We use a wide range of woods, choosing the appropriate species and then selecting material for color, grain, and figure depending upon the requirements of the piece at hand. Our broad experience with cabinetry and furniture of all types gives us a deep store of knowledge on which to draw when working on each project. In fact we thrive on the challenge of presenting our clients with finished pieces which far exceed their mental image of what to expect; we are proud to say that we get to do just that - time after time.