Sitka spruce splendor
October 2002 - Architect Damon Zumbroegel with Figa Architecture of South Lake Tahoe specified trusses of Sitka spruce to be a highlight in a unique Lahontan Residence. "The 17 structural trusses and 6 structural arches make a dramatic design statement," noted Millwork Manager Barry Phipps. "The Sitka spruce, which was hand selected by the owner, is a joy to work with and it plays well with the home's other wood species, including Alaska yellow cedar, Douglas fir and hemlock.

Zumbroegel also designed handsome steel straps that wrap the collar ties. The straps are fastened together with metal wedges, a design theme repeated on the sides of the arches in the great room." Phipps said Zumbroegel's truss design is unlike any he's seen in his 43 years as a millman. "They have the function of trusses and the beauty of furniture pieces. We can't wait to install them to see the finished effect."

Award-winning estate is expanding
October 2002 - Artéfice is currently manufacturing casework for an 800-square-foot addition to an award-winning 17,000-square-foot home in Lake Tahoe's Glenbrook.

"The estate features intricate ceilings, beam caps, custom trims, moulding and cabinets in numerous species of woods," noted Millwork Manager Barry Phipps. "Because the addition underway is a home gymnasium, the finishes aren't as elaborate as some of the things we created for the formal areas on the original home." The home won a Gold Nugget Award in 1992.

Crank up the wood drying kiln
October 2002 - Artéfice has also been invited back to provide lots of wood and ceiling paneling in a craftsman style estate home on Lakeshore Boulevard in Incline Village, Nevada. "We manufactured approximately 55,000 board feet of vertical grain Hemlock and 30,000 board feet of Maple for the walls, ceilings and cabinets when we installed finishes in their 1999 remodel," said Millwork Manager Barry Phipps. "We expect the new expansion to also be complex and wonderful.".