10/21/2026
When the Bellevue College Railing project first landed in our shop, our shop manager, Ezra, felt equal parts intimidated and excited. Organic forms, sweeping curves inspired by butterfly wings, and almost nothing square or predictable. This project was a challenge unlike anything him or his team had ever completed before. Throughout the process, they have succeeded in honoring the designers vision while also learning much along the way. Here are a few of the most poignant lessons and notes, gleaned from this build so far:
-Wood doesn’t always respond to force. It asks for patience, observation, and a willingness to adapt.
-Respect the material. The wood spent decades growing before it reached our hands. The least we could do, was utilize it thoughtfully.
-Not all meaningful work announces itself. The difference between “good enough” and “right” is dozens of small decisions no one else will ever notice.
-Know when to step back. Randy brought the vision, Jesse and the shop team shaped the craftsmanship, and Ezra learned to trust their strengths, instead of controlling the entire process.
Craftsmanship isn’t just skilled hands and high-end tools. It’s the patience to do the same careful thing again and again until it feels effortless.
📸: Ezra
Design-Build Collaboration With: Annette Jannotta
