"…The material has always been my inspiration."

TURK FURNITURE

Rick Turk, Proprietor
707-822-3470

Since I was very young I have built things with my hands. My professional career began as a jeweler. I made my own designs, cutting stone and working metals. Later I worked in many phases of the construction industry. As a finish carpenter I developed a passion for wood. Whether in metal, stone, or wood the material has always been my inspiration. In furniture I favor simple lines that "feature" the material. My designs are contemporary and clean using Shaker and Arts and Crafts furniture as my principal influences Reconciling function and beauty is a challenge that I particularly enjoy. I work with a client to develop a design that makes their custom piece of furniture unique. Knots and figure are often incorporated into the design. These natural features of the wood are rarely seen in production line furniture since the uneven grain around knots makes it difficult to work.

I don't hesitate to use techniques that are hundreds of years old if modern versions have not improved them. Thus I use dovetail joints on drawers, and mortise and tenon joints to assemble table bases, face frames and doors. Power tools are frequently set aside to machine a surface or a joint by hand, using hand planes, scrapers and chisels.

Each piece is designed and built as if I was going to live with it in my home.

In 1989 I set up a shop in a 100-year-old building located in Arcata, California. Working alongside several other woodworkers, I've learned to use the best joinery, and the finest material and finishes to produce furniture that satisfies my personal idea of integrity. I know that my furniture will stand up to daily use and retain its function and beauty long after I am gone.

Every order begins with a price-not an estimate. If the price is approved I ask for a 50% deposit. The balance is not due until the piece is completed. I do a drawing and refine it until the client and I feel confident that it represents what they want. I usually give an estimated date for completion, but I will commit to a date if needed. Most orders are filled within sixteen weeks.

Rick Turk lives and works in Humboldt County, California. When he is not in his shop, he is usually riding horses on the beach or in the redwood forests that surround his home.