The Dad Renovations.

During the beginning months of 2015 my family and I relocated to northern California to the small town I grew up. The purpose was based on a transition as well as a way to lend a hand to my father who has been in the midst of a massive home renovation project for some time. We were there for about 8 months. I had hoped to accomplish more for him (my father) but I am happy with what we were able to get done. 

The biggest victory comes in the form of a new kitchen island. I can remember a time when I was very young, having a kitchen island. An old green washer and dryer set under crappy counter with some cheap sides. When the washer and dryer went out the replacements did not fit in there place. So my father, being the handy man that he is, decided to tare the old island out and build the perfect replacement. The problem with this was not that my dad was unable to accomplish such a feat. the problem was that it became another project on the ongoing list of things to do. 

My dad was an single parent and did his best raising me. But having a full time job and an 8 year old boy, it's a wonder anything got finished in that house.  So when i got the oportunity to offer my expertise and give my family a new life in an amazing state, it was a dream come true. 

The new island is a simple 2x4 frame with panels made from waistcott and 1x4's. The top is douglas fir 2x planks that we planed down and joined together. The base is painted a dark brown to match the general color palate of the house (my Dad takes tonality to a whole new level) and the top we kept natural with a clear wood sealer.  

My dad loved the finish of the top so much he decided to protect it he would get a large piece of oil cloth to cover it and defend it from normal everyday use. Me, i would have left it uncovered to enjoy it's beauty, but hey, it isn't my house and he should be able to do what ever he wants with it.  

This was a project we worked on together. It has been a really long time since we've gotten to do something like this together. Two years ago i was out for a week helping him replace a retaining wall but doing this kind of work together was much more rewarding. It was great to be able to share my passion for woodworking with him and help him make an original piece of furniture for his home.