Meet the Maker: Jason Spencer
Jason Spencer, a Nashville-based millworker who has spent over a decade turning raw lumber into incredible custom cabinetry and built-ins. His work is guided by a conviction that great millwork disappears into a space entirely.
For the Music Row Duplex, Pembrooke & Ives brought Spencer in to execute some of the project’s most detail-intensive elements, including custom furniture, cabinetry, and built-ins throughout the kitchen, den, bathrooms, and home office. We sat down with him to talk craft, process, and what it really takes to make a space feel complete.
What is your favorite aspect of working in this field?
The constant challenge, figuring out a way to seamlessly construct someone’s concept. I never accepted the words “it can’t be done”. In fact, quite the opposite! Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
How do you approach crafting custom cabinetry so that it blends seamlessly?
From the beginning of a job, I spend a great deal of time studying the details, control lines, and layout. The points which draw your attention. These details are what I believe make it feel as if it was always there.
What does a typical day in the shop look like?
A typical day usually begins around 2 a.m., loading up materials needed for the day’s project. I always begin by milling the rough lumber first. This is a very time consuming process, but also one of my favorites. I love being able to take a twisted or bowed piece of rough lumber and turn it into something straight, flat, and beautiful, exposing all its natural beauty.
Are there particular wood species you prefer to work with?
I don’t know if there is a particular species of wood that I prefer to work with. Over the last 10-12 years, nearly every project has been primarily White Oak Rift Sawn, Black Walnut, or Painted Hard Maple. However, over the last few years, I’ve been using mostly European White Oak in all cuts. It typically has a much more consistent color from board to board.
Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration in a lot of things. It often starts with a beautiful wood grain and how it flows. Maybe you see a picture or a piece of furniture that just hits you. Those kinds of things always drive my inspirations.
What was the design directive or scope for this project?
The design directive was quite detailed and challenging. There were dozens of control lines throughout the entire space that all demanded attention. From the lighting layout to the doorways to the 3/8” reglet detail in all of the casing and baseboards. This was definitely a difficult task to accomplish.
Were there any moments on this project where the design pushed you to try something new or solve a problem you hadn’t encountered before?
There were plenty of moments that pushed me to try new things, to step outside the box. Every job has its challenges, however, the incredible amount of detail in this project took it to a whole new place. I loved the challenge!
What do you wish clients and designers knew going into a project? What advice or tips can you share?
If I could offer advice to a client going into a project it would be to spend the time in the beginning to work out the design thoroughly. Often jobs tend to get rushed whether by the contractor or the client, this leads to lack of detail and unsatisfactory workmanship. A great plan will lead to great success!
What do you hope people feel when they’re living with something your team built?
I hope that when a client walks into their home at the end of a project, they look around and admire the details. Running their hands across the surfaces, opening up the doors, drawers, studying the lines. I want them to feel the luxury. I want them to love their decision for doing the project.