At Excelsior Wood Products, we pride ourselves on sustainability – utilizing reclaimed and scrap wood is one of our favorite ways of working towards environmental consciousness while showcasing creativity. Craftsman Chris 'Wally' Wambach shares a glimpse into the creation of a custom couch built from stacked reclaimed beams—an innovative and fun project born from leftover materials around the shop. This one-of-a-kind piece highlights how reclaimed wood can be transformed into something practical, beautiful, and full of character.

Crafting a Couch from Reclaimed Wood

Wally explains how the idea for this custom couch came together using beams that were reclaimed twice already, “ reclaimed cubed,” as he puts it. The materials were not premium stock saved for clients but rather pieces that had been used and repurposed multiple times and were no longer good enough to sell to the public. He stacked the beams for the couch’s base and sides, securing them to form a solid structure. By using what was available, Wally turned a simple concept into a remarkable piece full of character, without drawing on valuable inventory.

The Beauty of True Originality

This reclaimed beam couch is truly unique, not just in its design but in its materials. Wally notes that each piece of wood is different, making the couch one-of-a-kind. If a customer wanted something similar, it wouldn’t be a perfect replica; rather, it would capture the “flavor” or “essence” of the original. This approach celebrates the natural variation in reclaimed wood, ensuring that every piece is distinct and something only the client will have.

For projects like this, Wally emphasizes the importance of trust between the craftsman and the client. With reclaimed materials, there’s an element of unpredictability in the final look, and clients who appreciate this flexibility often end up with the most extraordinary pieces. 

Take a Chance on Custom Reclaimed Pieces with Excelsior

At Excelsior, we’re passionate about custom projects that make use of reclaimed materials. Whether you’re inspired by this couch or have a unique idea of your own, we work with you to create pieces that reflect your taste and style. Contact us today to start your custom project and experience the Excelsior difference!