A FINISHING TOUCH THAT SHINES

Within the residential spaces of Jackson Hole, design sensibilities are embraced with forward-thinking style. The craftsmanship must be in keeping with the vision of the design and brought to life with care. For the past 25 years, Willow Creek Woodworks has been offering their cabinetmaking expertise into this innovative design landscape, and the evolution of their full-service woodworks mill reflects the aesthetic needs of a homeowner. “Whatever new trend is happening,” says proprietor Jaxon Ching, “we stay ahead of the curve because of the foresight of the designers.”

Most recently, Ching has brought metal fabrication into the fold of his woodworking operation. “Going into metal work was done to meet the needs of the architects who are integrating a lot of steel work into the cabinetry,” he explains. This is the call of the mountain modern aesthetic. “The companies we were subbing out to do the metal work couldn’t always keep up. That’s when we decided to do it ourselves. It’s become especially active over the past five years.”

Willow Creek’s manufacturing facility in Idaho Falls is well established and has seen its fair share of change. Ching had put part of the space up for sale—a 12,000 square foot shop—and found himself in the unusually lucky position of not selling. That space is now dedicated full time to metal fabrication. “The fact that we are pressed to do unique things has us buying equipment ahead of those demands, driven by the design community.”

Aside from crafting cabinetry, Ching’s team applies their deft hands to staircases and other custom finishes found in some of the finest homes in Jackson Hole. For a recently completed build, he took pride in a bunk room ladder system that allowed Willow Creek to fabricate every component. “I have this thing where I never say no. The challenge motivates me, and it’s a puzzle I like to figure out. Every time, you gain experience and do better next time.”

Willow Creek Woodworks has a reputation that shines especially in a home’s kitchen. Metal details can be had in these spaces and play a beautiful role in the daily lives of the homeowners. Culinary tasks are executed in an environment of clean lines and refined surfaces, all a result of this team’s talent and dedication.

It’s clear that Jaxon Ching is content with his work and by the design partnerships that feed his creative spirit. “What keeps me going is that there is always something new. In the end when it’s all put together and installed, that is what satisfies me. Right now, I’m working on an all-bronze door that will be 1,100 pounds. I don’t know how many people told me not to do it, but I’m going to try it. I’m up for the challenge.”

THE FACT THAT WE ARE PRESSED TO DO UNIQUE THINGS HAS US BUYING EQUIPMENT AHEAD OF THOSE DEMANDS, DRIVEN BY THE DESIGN COMMUNITY.
—JAXON CHING, WILLOW CREEK WOODWORKS