Estate Carpentry Edinbugh | Renovation Specialist

0131 221 6555 | 07774 117117

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First Step on the Ladder

Getting started can often be the tricky part of a new career choice, but this wasn't the case for Ken as the first man to truly see his potential was his high school woodwork teacher, Mr Elder, who put Ken's name forward for a one-year carpentry apprenticeship.

One year turned into four as his mentor, Willie, recognised his potential and gave him the opportunity to learn and develop a feel for his tools, literally, as back in those days everything was done by hand. They worked together on many shop fitouts, creating handmade, bespoke solutions for each project.

Ken thrived under Willie's watchful eye, honing the trade of his grandfathers, developing a respect for the tools and a natural feel for the material.

Spreading His Wings

After four years of Willie's tutelage, it was time for Ken to spread his wings and go to college to learn new aspects of his chosen trade. During his four years at college where he attained his City and Guilds, Ken was very fortunate to be taught by Ronnie, another man to see his true potential.

After college Ken met Jim Gifford who instantly recognised Ken's natural ability and hired him to work on a range of new build and bespoke projects, despite Ken's lack of site experience.

Ken thrived under Jim's watchful eye, as he picked up and refined new skills, developed those he'd learned in college and throughout his apprenticeship.

Life Changing Introduction

Around 10 years later Ken was introduced to master iron monger and self-proclaimed perfectionist, Bob Whyte, who was looking for an expert joiner to build a bespoke roof for his house located in an exclusive area of Edinburgh. Meeting and working with Bob was to change Ken's life and career path as Bob gave Ken the confidence to strike out on his own, to forge his own career path.

Together they worked on huge commercial projects, employing a raft of carefully selected tradesmen, each bringing their unique skills to the task.

And Today...

Around 23 years ago, Ken was introduced to Andrew Balfour and flourished as he developed new skills with modern techniques and systems.

After working together for many years, they decided that it was time to give another budding talent an opportunity to flourish, and they took on Lee as an apprentice. The three still work together today on restoration projects, new builds, renovations, and extensions.

Leaving a Legacy

Some might suggest that it's time for Ken to put down his tools and relax as he approaches retirement, but his passion for wood is as strong as ever and he is determined to leave a legacy and pass on the wealth of knowledge and experience that he has amassed during his lifetime.

As they bring the business into the 21st Century, Ken and Lee feel that it's time to take on a new apprentice under Lee's watchful eye, who will benefit from learning the traditional techniques that Ken mastered many years ago and to take advantage of new techniques and the machinery available today.

The Estate Carpentry Company

First Step on the Ladder

Spreading His Wings

Life Changing Introduction

And Today...

Leaving a Legacy

Video Testimonial