Designing furniture for churches is different from other custom design. Normally the nave or other sacred space is already furnished with elaborate woodwork built(sometimes hundreds of years ago) by craftsmen who are no longer around. The existing woodwork is beloved by the congregation and any new addition must complement it. By photographing and studying design elements in the existing pieces, I design new works that meet the modern needs of the congregation while feeling like they've always been there.
The free standing altar above is a perfect example. The design of the altar rail was scaled up and adapted to create the design. Rubbings of the stylized lettering were used to create the inscription on the front of the altar. The drop pendants were turned and carved to match . The white oak was stained to match the existing woodwork.
Each piece I design is as unique as the space it is built for. Normally I visit the space if at all possible however, I've done complete designs from photographs e-mailed to me. There is no fee for design work and a central piece like an altar is usually very attractive to parishioners interested in making a memorial gift. If your fair linen is hiding a card table, consider giving me a call at 302-220-3377.
Other custom work is on the next few pages.
Rick Kirk
