Written by Megin Potter | Photos Provided
Beneath the silvery winter moon, with sawdust at his feet, he crafts gifts for the generations.
This is the stuff of modern folklore - the pleasant warmth of well-built wooden furniture.
Timeless because of its smart, purposeful construction, the unadorned lines and simple symmetry of Shaker furniture inspires woodworker and Wylie Wood Co.’s master craftsman Ryan Moore.
“Shaker-inspired pieces are something I’ve always admired. Shaker furniture is a big part of the history here because of its simplicity, function, and nice, clean lines,” he said.
Meanwhile, Rustic is Refined
The pleasant purity of Wylie Wood Co. furniture makes it right at home in a variety of dwellings.
“I consider the style I work in as rustic refined. It has an authentic antique feel with weathered components, giving it a distressed look. I lean on traditional ideas and incorporate them into the design,” explained Ryan.
“The simplicity is the beauty in my work. The wear adds to the piece, and the story, that’s told years down the road, as it’s passed from generation to generation.”
After dabbling with the fine arts in his youth, Ryan found furniture ten years ago. It started as a hobby but rather quickly became a passion. He began making pieces for family and friends, then requests for commissioned projects started coming in. Seven years ago, with his first child on the way, Ryan opened Wylie Wood Co., and named it for his son, Wylie.
Worth Your While
The sincerity of Ryan’s intent shines through the smooth lines of his finely-crafted furniture. Not strictly Shaker, Ryan’s reach extends into farmhouse, cottage, and even Queen Anne styles. While he gravitates toward a particular aesthetic, he remains flexible, he said, and is always open to working with clients on custom designs.
“The customer can get exactly what they want and not have to settle.”
Because of its uniqueness, Butternut wood is Ryan’s favorite species to work with.
“It’s absolutely gorgeous! It has a very beautiful natural color and dark streaking. They call it ‘White Walnut’ because it’s a soft wood with very unique tonality and a grain that’s almost sporadic.”
Come and Stay Awhile
Peacefully peruse Wylie Wood pieces in person at Front Street Home, 6 Front Street, Ballston Spa. See Ryan’s portfolio and his in-stock inventory at www.wyliewoodco.com.
(For your gift to arrive by Christmas, order by December 19th.) Deliveries are made within 100 miles. For those outside the area, furniture is available for customer pick-up. Custom orders fluctuate based on design, but typically take between one and three months to complete.
For joyous simplicity anytime, follow Wylie Wood Co. on Instagram and Facebook.