CRAFTED IN
Story by Courtney Tuck • Photography by Matt Bolt
CHARLES ON
The CraftSmAn:
Ronnie Harrell of Veneer Works
The Craft:
From a homegrown business, Ronnie works with his clients to produce custom-veneered woodwork. These wood furnishings are products of years of self-taught handiwork with a mission to give customers their own unique, decorative furniture. Ronnie is also known for his exquisite artistry in sheet goods and custom kitchens. His specialty? Custom veneer, which is a process by which a thin piece of decorative wood is adhered to a premiumgrade, domestic core.
The Backstory:
Originally from Horrell Hill, South Carolina, Ronnie was his own teacher when it came to learning his craft. At age 12, he was working alongside his father in his familyowned upholstery and antique repair shop. Early on, Ronnie learned how to master skills such as making buttons and tearing apart furniture, allowing him to see just how a piece is built from the beginning to the end. For a number of years, Ronnie worked for a high-end, commercial woodworking firm.
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CH+D • Spring 2013
There, he realized that his passion for veneer work had always been a part of who he was. Ronnie sought to bring the elaborate veneer that one can see in commercial buildings to the home.
The Process:
Once a client presents their idea of what they want to see in their home, Ronnie uses that idea as a foundation for his craft. He continues by asking the client his or her likes and dislikes as well as viewing the place in the client’s home where the piece will be placed. Through this process, Ronnie confirms the exact piece of furniture that will be constructed. At his shop, he cuts the wood to the exact specifications needed and applies the veneer. Once the pieces have dried, Ronnie assembles them into the custom furniture requested by the homeowner. A perfectionist at heart, he always makes sure that the finished product is flawless. He notes, “If you take pride in what you do, the quality will take care of itself.” For more information about Veneer Works of Charleston, call (843) 442-8241 or visit veneerworks.com.
(top left) Ronnie Harrell of Veneer Works (top right) A custom-veneered A/V cabinet created by Ronnie (above) The possibilities of veneer designs are as endless as wood grain striations. (below) Ronnie’s shop houses a precision cutting machine to help construct his masterpieces. (bottom) Located on John’s Island, Ronnie’s art is produced in a modern, domed facility.