10 “AD”-Approved Millworkers to Perfect Your Next Project’s Built-Ins

The artisans featured here represent the pinnacle of high-end craftsmanship, offering an expertise that extends far beyond simple decorative trim. These AD-approved millworkers elevate interior projects through precision and design-forward execution, serving as the essential foundation of a stylish and flexible home.“Working with the right millwork team is essential,” says Holly Freres, principal of AD PRO Directory firm JHL Design in Portland, Oregon. “The details that you touch and interact with—like millwork and cabinetry—are where the experience of great design lies.” Below, AD PRO Directory architects and designers across the country recommend the millworkers they trust to deliver this interior essential.NortheastStructure NYCNew YorkTo craft complex, custom millwork in luxurious New York homes, top designers tap Structure NYC’s detail-driven artistry, as well as its expertise as a general contractor.“Their exceptional craftsmanship, reliability, and collaborative nature have made them a trusted partner to our discerning clients and us.” —Bradley Stephens, founder of AD PRO Directory firm Stephens Design Group in New YorkWoodmeister Master BuildersHolden, Massachusetts, and Nantucket, MassachusettesFor over 40 years, this family-owned firm in Massachusetts has fabricated fine architectural millwork for ground-up homes and historic residential renovations.“Woodmeister Master Builders understands the nuances of high-end residential work and is a trusted partner in bringing a design from concept through execution. The team’s craftsmanship and attention to detail are exceptional, as is its thoughtful, collaborative approach to the entire process.” —Henry Boyle, founder of Brooklyn-based design firm HB StudioSouthKerns-WilcheckMemphis, TennesseeFounded over 40 years ago as an import business for antique European millwork, paneling, and architectural detailing, Kerns-Wilcheck has evolved into one of the most preeminent studios restoring and reproducing them. Exceptional examples are brought to life in-house at its Tennessee manufacturing facility.“Kerns-Wilcheck’s passion for the craft, precision, and understanding of wood and architectural detailing is exceptional. During installations, it is truly like watching wood surgeons at work.” —Brad Shapiro, founder and CEO of AD PRO Directory firm Shapiro & Company Architects in MemphisMevers Custom KitchensMt. Pleasant, South CarolinaDon’t let the name fool you: This South Carolinian studio’s custom millwork spans the interiors of stately Lowcountry residences, from kitchens and baths to wine cellars and butler’s pantries.“I love working with them because they are able to customize colors and profiles and work around the unique dimensions and conditions that exist within historic homes. Having a partner who appreciates and understands stewardship of these types of homes is so important.” —Emily Sanford, founder of AD PRO Directory firm Sanford Design Collective in Mt. Pleasant, South CarolinaMidwestGillpatrick WoodworksOverland Park, KansasCustom cabinetry made by this studio can suit homes of any style, from modern to traditional to everything in between. What remains the same across all is the artistry of its craft.“Gillpatrick Woodworks’s solid-wood cabinetry has a materiality and substance we value, but it’s their attention to detail that truly sets them apart.” —Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett, founders of AD PRO Directory firm Kobel + Co in Kansas City, MissouriMerritt WoodworkMentor, OhioRenowned firms including Foster + Partners, Yabu Pushelberg, and Peter Marino Architect turn to Merritt’s team of craftsmen to deliver millwork and hand-carved architectural elements for high-end residences and yachts.“Merritt Woodwork is my go-to for the most beautiful and sometimes most challenging projects. They understand that true luxury is in the details.” —Suzanne Tucker, cofounder and principal of San Francisco–based AD PRO Directory firm Tucker & MarksO’Brien HarrisChicago; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Petoskey, MichiganKnown for bespoke cabinetry that melds the historic charm of unfitted British kitchens and its own Midwest heritage, O’Brien Harris’s classic designs are truly forward-thinking, made with renewable materials in a circular system (even recycling the wood shavings for local horse bedding) at its 20,000-square-foot workshop in Grand Rapids, Michigan.“Their level of quality and craftsmanship is exceptional, their process is incredibly thoughtful and organized, and they have an ability to execute something highly custom while still making it feel timeless.” —Sasha Adler, founder of Sasha Adler Design, an AD PRO Directory studio in ChicagoParenti & RaffaelliMount Prospect, IllinoisParenti & Raffaelli combines old-world quality with advanced fabrication technology. Dedicated to sustainable design, the firm’s team of LEED Green associates has deep knowledge of the certification process and is invaluable to architects and designers.“We often turn to the family-owned Chicago-area woodworking company, Parenti & Raffaelli, which continues a tradition of European craftsmanship.” —Joan Craig, founder of AD PRO Directory firm Craig & Company in ChicagoWestCabinet Shop USSan FranciscoWhether crafting a dream kitchen or a cozy reading nook, bespoke millwork by the Cabinet Shop US supports contemporary living in style.“They are highly collaborative, thoughtful problem-solvers, and, perhaps most important, always willing to take on a challenge.” —Ansley Majit, founding principal of AD PRO Directory firm Lark + Palm Interiors in Sausalito, CaliforniaWillamette CarpentryVancouver, WashingtonWillamette Carpentry’s portfolio may go far beyond the basics, encompassing totally custom designs for saunas, secret doors, and rock-climbing walls, but the firm is just as skilled applying its delicate precision to a historic renovation.“Willamette understands how to build complicated paneling profiles with precision. We need proportions and scale to be very accurate, especially when working on historic homes, and they are a great partner in building exactly what we detail.” —Holly Freres, principal of AD PRO Directory firm JHL Design in Portland, Oregon