Wood Shop

Inside the quaint shop in a quiet East Vancouver neighbourhood, Chris Nichols is re-purposing some maple shelving from the 1960's: taking it apart and sanding it down. He's going to rejuvenate it and make something new. Chris's dog, Lucia, hangs out and keeps him company while he works. Neighbours and potential clients stop by to chat or to talk over an idea for a piece of furniture.

Despite its simple name, Wood Shop is much more than just a wood shop. It's structured as a worker co-op with an environmental and social ethic as a serious component of the business. They up-cycle old wood to make tables, bed frames, crates, benches and shelves for Vancouver residents looking for distinct yet affordable wood products. “Unique wood products that fit unique spaces, but at an accessible price and one that contributes to ecological and economic justice,” says Chris.

The three founders, who met at an alternative business school run through Groundswell Cafe, have each brought a different skill set to Wood Shop, but share common values and a vision for the company. Chris framed houses for a number of years in between his studies in sociology, Andrew Hewins previously managed a wood shop in Vancouver, and Ben Huff is the tech-oriented member of the group, bringing a modern touch to the rustic products.