Phil Gautreau

I wasn't looking to fall in love - it just happened. Can you fall in love with a cutting board I hear you ask? Yes, yes you can. 

There's something identifiably outside-the-norm about Phil's work. In the best way possible. A warm man and talented artist, Phil creates art pieces in his Brooklyn woodshop. With a focus on craftsmanship and storytelling through everyday objects , Phil's creative process starts by sourcing the wood.  In what is clearly a gratifying experience for him, Phil talks about re-imagining raw wood, be it from a large tree limb or pieces of discarded floor planks from a residential renovation. The joy he has in transforming these raw materials into artistic and functional pieces very much parallels my own passion for this business. 

Each piece made by Phil is carefully considered and crafted - the work seemingly revealing the unique character therein. The result is contemporary, minimalist, and warm, with a spirit as lustrous as his creations. 

Can you tell us about your dad? How has he influenced you?

My dad is the inspiration for my work. Growing up in New England, woodworking became a hobby that I picked up from my Dad. He’s an original do-it-yourselfer still living in the house designed and built by my grandfather.

My Dad and I worked on projects in our woodshop and it was through his example I learned a simple concept: “build and repair”, rather than “discard and replace”. That’s also where I discovered the complexities and the tactile beauty of wood, and where I developed my artistic instinct to make functional pieces . 

About 10 years ago, in the throes of a successful career in healthcare management, I started taking woodworking classes. It was infectious – I really loved the freedom to design and create something with my hands! Eventually, I was spending more weekends in the shop, my skills improved, and so a few years ago, right around my birthday,  I decided to swap my wingtips for work boots and start my own woodworking business. It was time to return to what had become my new passion: making things with wood.

Phil and his dad are still very close. Phil plans on sharing this post with his father, when they meet on Father's Day.