Reception Desk
I custom designed and built this reception desk and beverage bar for my client's new photo studio in LaCrosse. The design process was a fun collaboration with lots of back and forth, discussing ideas, materials, etc. I really think the pieces compliment the space nicely. The reception desk features an interesting mix of solid cherry and maple and more industrial materials like cement and aluminum, which fit the historic building in the downtown studio space very well. The work surfaces are hard maple which will hold up very well to everyday use. The drawers are solid poplar joined with dovetail joinery and slide on top quality hidden undermount ball bearing drawer slides with soft close that are a joy to use. The cabinets for the beverage bar feature soft close hinges and adjustable shelves. The pieces are hand finished in multiple layers of oil polyurethane to highlight the figure of the wood and provide maximum protection.
Long-time member
A Maker who has been a valued part of this community for several years.
Fast shipper
Customers say that this Maker ships promptly after completing a project.
Great service
This Maker has consistently demonstrated excellence in craftsmanship and customer service.
My name is Aaron Maes. I'm an artist, designer and master furniture maker. My work is known for its quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
My formal training is in studio art. I like to draw and paint, but in school I quickly gravitated to sculpture in wood and metal.
The physical process, the immediate feedback and the noise and smells and dust-the overall experience really engaged me creatively. The transition to furniture making was a natural one. I have always appreciated the art of finely crafted furniture, the beauty of the wood itself and the design challenges involved. It also lends itself well to my perfectionist nature as I strive to create art in a functional and beautiful piece.
My work is based on my love for the craft. I especially appreciate the design of the Arts and Crafts Movement and the simple lines of Shaker furniture, but I also thrive on the challenge to create a beautiful and well engineered piece that compliments an existing space or existing furniture.
- JY
Judy Yanover
For Black Walnut And Curly Maple Dresser And Nightstands5.0I love, love, love my new dresser. From beginning to end Aaron was fabulous. From planning to execution to delivery the experience was flawless. Helpful in planning, great communicator and such gorgeous work. I would highly recommend Aaron for any furniture project!
- JP
Julia Phillips
For Custom Designed Walnut And Curly Maple Bed4.7Aaron and his son just left after delivering out bedroom set. We are THRILLED!! The pieces are gorgeous and extremely well made - they will last more than a lifetime. Aaron has been a pleasure to work with as we worked through details of the design, dimensions, hardware options, etc. He has always been extremely responsive to messages and has regularly kept us posted on the progress. This has been a particularly challenging year for him and his family, which led to a delay in delivery (hence the lower rating on "timeliness"), but the pieces were really worth waiting for. If we have other furniture needs, we will definitely contact Aaron.
- JM
Julie Morrison
For Julie's Bathroom Vanity Base5.0Very communicative. Wonderful work. Would hire again.
- CB
Clarissa Bodde
For Cherry four post spindle bed5.0 - PS
Prabhat Shukla
For Quotation for Writing Desk5.0Aaron delivered my writing desk today, personally driving from Wisconsin to NY City (his regular delivery service was indisposed). His workmanship, follow through with accurate and prompt communication is worth emulating. He walked me through each step of the process, selecting the wood, the design and the finish. The product is perfect. I couldn't be more pleased and can recommend Aaron with the highest rating possible on all fronts. Prabhat Shukla New York City
- N
Nikki
For Mantle clock5.0Aaron did a great job making a custom mantle clock for me. His drawings in the bid were just like the final project. He was a pleasure to work with. I wish we had more custom wooden things we needed!
- JB
Jim Bartels
For Coffee/end table frames5.0Aaron is great to work with. He built 2 cherry end tables and a coffee table for me that turned out even better than my expectations. While I had a very good idea of what I wanted, Aaron's suggestions helped reduce the overall project cost without compromising quality of the product. His communication was great - usually got back to me in hours (or less) and kept me informed through pictures every step along the way. He will be my first choice for any future custom furniture project. His knowledge, skill and craftsmanship are top notch.
- RW
Ron Wald
For Home office desk5.0Aaron is a professional craftsman. His professionalism comes out in his communication throughout the process. His accessibility, responsiveness, openness and honesty all blend effortlessly to make a sizable online purchase like this a truly fantastic experience. His craftsmanship is incredible. I wanted a special desk, worthy of being "showcased" just off the entry way of our home. I have purchased custom pieces before; I had high expectations. Aaron surpassed them all. On time, on budget and delivering amazing quality.
- MG
Mark Goldstein
For Mission-style stand-up desk5.0Just thrilled. This was a different sort of project - an unconventional piece of furniture (a standing desk, set up for computer access) in a mission/arts and crafts style. Aaron put in a ton of time at the front end to ensure that the design was exactly right. Tremendous attention to detail, and beautiful craftsmanship. Delivery coincided with the 2012 Fine Furnishings show, at which it was featured and highly complimented. Aaron was a pleasure to work. Thanks again.
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