Meet Thomas Harvey of Earthwood Builders in Lakewood

Today we’d like to introduce you to Thomas Harvey.

Thomas, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was always making things as a kid from whatever was around and had a strong interest in art and architecture from a young age. I started college in sculpture but finished with an industrial design degree. I hated sitting in front of a computer, and have never had much affinity for plastic, so industrial design wasn’t a really appealing career choice. However, during a wood furniture design class, I fell in love with the materials and processes, and of course, the design education has been great. I started making and selling things to friends and family while I was still in school, and have never looked back. Slowly, I started leaning towards timber framing as well, because of the appalling state of home building. Over time I have found a great niche with smaller timber frame projects where I can bring a high level of design and craft to the table. Earthwood Builders is currently in a building phase as we increase our capabilities and I try to move out of the daily administrative tasks and focus more on design leadership and training, as well as ongoing client relationship development.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Parts of the road have been smooth, but there have been some major bumps and dips as well. 2010 hit pretty hard, and I had to close my doors for a few months and go to work for a commercial contractor. I got laid off because they were slow as well, but that opened the door to several wonderful relationships that have allowed me to build a much more robust business. One of the hardest things for people like me is putting as much effort into the business as into my craft, but I have to always keep in mind that the business is the vehicle for the craft and that if I am not doing business well, I can’t serve the people that want what I have to offer. Recently, I have spent the last two years looking for a good long term shop.
Being semi-homeless as a business is really stressful, but we are settling into a great place now and I can reallocate the brain-power that the uncertainty was taking and put it into building a stronger business.

Let’s talk about business. Tell us about Earthwood Builders – what should we know?
Our business is all about beautifying our clients lives through the amazing material and fine craft of woodworking. Our main values are the truth, beauty and service. I love sitting and listening to a clients desires, figuring out how to turn what they want into an object or space, and then executing in a way that will delight them and hopefully last for generations. For me, its more about the character of the project than the specific type of project. I have done everything from small objects like boxes all the way up to entire buildings. I love doing the things that truly define an experience. Doors are an excellent example, so are feature pieces of furniture, gates, gazebos, etc. I try to bring a focal point to every project that inspires rest and contemplation. My personal desire is to bring people into contact with the divine through what I do.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I have had many amazing mentors, both formally and informally. Bruce Davidson who used to teach at CSU, was the first to show me what a truly sharp tool could do. All of the faculty at the RRCC Fine Woodworking program where I used to teach were amazingly open, we were always learning and challenging each other. I learned something every time I worked with Chris Hollis. The people who have supported me over the years as I was becoming established are too many to count. My wife Jenny especially has supported and encouraged me. Tom Kimball of Kimball Productions has been a great friend to navigate the world of being a professional artist with. All of my amazing clients who have trusted me with their money and in their homes, you are the ones who give me the opportunity to do this work. 3to5 club, which has provided invaluable business support and training. Jasper, my first stakeholder, who started last year, is excelling. And first and last, my lord and savior Jesus Christ, who gave me the calling and ability to glorify him through my gifts.

Contact Info:

• Address: 1617 Reed Street
  Lakewood, Co 80214
• Website: www.earthwood.design
• Phone: 303-522-0238
• Email: tom@earthwood.design
• Instagram: @earthwooddenver

Image Credit:
Stephanie Wetherby Photography

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