Commissions
From concept to delivery, O’Brien Design Works crafts design solutions made-to-order.
How It Works
Learn more about the process for commissioning custom furniture, storage, or other special design projects.
1. Saying hello
Contact Tom, owner of O’Brien Design Works, to share your request or idea; you are welcome to stop by his workshop if you’re in Woodstock. Many clients have ideas related to a unique design need or they have particular requirements related to size, design, material, or color. If you’re not quite sure, that’s okay too. Tom is happy to chat with you and talk through the possible design directions your project could take.
2. Going deeper
After your initial conversation with Tom, he will reach out for more information related to your project. Often the inspiration or story behind your request is worthy of consideration. Is this a gift for someone? Do you need this item by a certain date? Together you’ll delve deeper into the project details. A site visit might be required depending on the project.
3. Considering what’s possible
After you’ve had a chance to collaborate with Tom on the project’s requirements, he will use the information gleaned from your conversations to produce initial drawings, material samples, and a pricing estimate for you to review.
4. Coming to an agreement
Based on your feedback related to Tom’s initial draft proposal, he will produce a more formal project problem that includes: final drawings, pricing and payment schedule, and a timeline. Upon your acceptance, the design magic begins!
5. Staying informed along the way
As the design is being fabricated, Tom will keep you in the loop, sending you updates and welcoming you to stop by the shop if you wish to see the progress. He enjoys documenting his work and will be eager to share the process with you.
6. Preparing for your one-of-a-kind piece
As your project nears completion, you’ll have a chance to discuss pick-up or delivery logistics.
Spalted maple and epoxy dining table
Fly rod display stand
“Tom was wonderful to work with. I came to him with the vision of a custom wooden rod rack that incorporated the feel of a river. He is an absolute perfectionist and took the time to physically go to Orvis to research the best setup for the rack. Thereafter, I so very much appreciated his creative genius to put a known sentimental River through the middle of the wood within the rod rack, making it all the more special for my loved one. Finally, he really took his time to find just the right wood that was unique to our area of Vermont which again made the piece feel all the more personalized.
— Kathryn, New York City
Bring beauty and functionality to your home or business.
Make the most of your space with furniture, cabinetry, and other storage solutions that suit your style and requirements. By commissioning handcrafted, custom-designed items, you are investing in something of true value to you and your home that will last for generations.
Tables
Farmhouse tables
Live edge tables
Wood and epoxy tables
Home and Kitchen
Kitchen islands
Vanities
Butcher block tops
Sliding barn doors
Wooden countertops
Cabinets
Storage and Organization
Home theaters
Built-ins
Home offices
Desks
Bookcases
Window seats
Mud rooms
Storage solutions