FAQ
We'll Begin with a Conversation:
Although I have a number of pieces that are available immediately, most items will be custom made for you (taking 6 to 12 weeks). Just pick up the phone or send me an email and we can put our heads together. If you see something in my portfolios that suits you, the conversation might be short and work can begin soon. Other times, there is a longer conversation, a design process, and a little more conversation. Either way, I listen well and will help you identify solutions and aesthetic choices that work for you and contribute fresh energy and feeling to your home or business.Within the Chicago area, I can visit you for a no-obligation consultation. Nevertheless, most of my clients are from out of state and we don't find this to be any problem at all. Ideas, photos, and illustrations are easily transmitted by email. Shipping to all states is routine and dependable.
On-line Images:
My work is available for viewing here - most as PDF portfolios, some as thumbnail pages. If you don't have Adobe (PDF) Reader on your computer download it here.Custom Design:
I welcome custom requests. Typically we will first discuss your needs, your preferences, design, size, and materials. After our first conversation, I can provide a rough cost estimate and rough completion date so that you can decide whether we should proceed to the design stage. Design work will incur a small, up front design fee (typically $300) that will be applied toward the cost of the final project. You can expect to see renderings of custom ideas or sizes within 2 to 4 weeks. The renderings I will show you are often photographic in quality and accuracy, so that you can easily understand the designs. Example 1. Example 2. Later when we agree on a design, I will give you a firm price, a detailed drawing, and a written proposal - anything that you need to feel comfortable about where this is headed. The building process is timely and short delays only happen when I need an extra week or two to get your project just right.Prices:
Prices can be quoted at any time by email, phone (815-943-4099) or fax (360-937-6485). Here are some rough guidelines:
Wood or steel coffee tables and side tables $3-4K.
Steel pedestals $2K
Wood or steel dining tables start at $7K.
Bronze prices average 1.7 times steel prices
Steel prices average 60% of bronze prices.
There are exceptions to these prices - do ask, regardless of your budget.
Please check out my rare bargains page.Steel vs Bronze:
Steel can be substituted for most of the bronze items at a fraction of the cost. Both come in several rich, natural patinas. Check toward the back of the bronze & steel portfolio (5M PDF) for more information on the variety steel finishes that can be used as an alternative to bronze.Guarantees:
Work is guaranteed to be free from defects of craftsmanship and materials for 3 years.Trade business welcome:
I encourage the public to work with their designers and architects. Please contact me for information.Loaner samples:
Loaner samples of materials are available for a $25 deposit. They must be returned to my sample archive for a refund when you are finished with them.Delivery:
Generally you can expect delivery in 8 to 12 weeks from the placement of the order, but this will depend on the time of year and other factors. Please confirm your approximate delivery date at the time of order. We provide free delivery and setup within the Chicago/Milwaukee/Rockford area. Installation work will incur a reasonable fee. We have had very good luck with shipping all over the US - not a single scratch in 30 years - knock on wood. Coffee tables and side tables will typically ship for about $450 to points in Florida or California.Payments:
Payments by check or credit card (via PayPal) are welcomed. A 30% deposit is required to lock in the price and begin the work. If the project is large, then a second 30% deposit may be requested when the construction is completed and the item is ready to be finished. Otherwise final payment is required at the time of delivery. If your project is to be shipped then I will send you detailed photos of the completed project, you will make the final payment, and I will call the shippers.