Meet the Makers: Hand Joinery
A walk through our workshop is inspiring – not only to see the furniture passing through the stages of production, but also to witness the diverse group of makers under one roof, focused on building something of true beauty and lasting value.
Read more about our Hand Joinery process below. We look forward to giving you an insider’s peek into the other areas of our workshop in the coming weeks.
Tremendously difficult to weld, aluminum requires the hands, eyes, and artistic sensitivity of a master craftsperson. Far stronger than a conventional surface weld, our labor intensive technique allows the weld to be inset without sacrificing strength and integrity. Our complex and sophisticated joinery techniques enable our unrivaled estate furniture to last for generations.
Get to know jacob
Jacob has been a McKinnon and Harris team member for 1.5 years and is one of our skilled craftspeople with a natural talent for working with aluminum.
What did you do before working with McKinnon and Harris?
I went to school for welding and built freight train cars in Roanoke, Va.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy hiking and camping, live music, and spending time with my two dogs, a Husky Lab Mix (Briggs) and an Australian Cattle Dog Mix (Shadow).
What's your favorite thing about living in Richmond?
Richmond is a lot more diverse compared to where I grew up, and there’s a lot more to explore.
Most recent show or movie you watched?
I recently watched all three John Wick’s and was really impressed.
Would you rather live in the tundra or the desert?
Tundra. I went to Burning Man last year and quickly realized the desert was not for me!
Favorite quote or impression?
“Do not pray for an easy life; pray for the strength to endure a difficult one.” -Bruce Lee
Get to Know Braxton
Braxton began welding in high school and has been with McKinnon and Harris for four years.
What did you do before working with McKinnon and Harris?
My high school offered welding as a tech class. I then joined McKinnon and Harris after graduation and have worked in many different departments. I’ve been welding here for the past two years.
What’s your favorite piece of furniture and why?
The deCamp Club Chair. I like the modern look and the design makes it more challenging to weld. I also like the style of the Rives Dining Chair.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I like to work on cars and hang out with friends.
What's your favorite thing about living in Richmond?
I grew up here and enjoy that everything is close to each other. I also like going on drives and spending time outside the city in Goochland.
Favorite food?
Butter Chicken
Do you have a favorite quote or impression?
“A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.” - William Shakespeare
