Accolades & Testimonials

Tried & True...

Al is an artisan; one who is imbued with the skill to move dimensional lumber into a beautiful piece of functional furniture. But he is much more than a craftsman...he is a teacher and mentor. He patiently determines what the client envisions and then provides the mentoring to move from a dream, to a concept and to a functional design.

We stumbled into Al at the Lunenburg Craft Fair in 2003. The first piece he made for us was an 8’ edition of the C-4 canoe display case. We now also have two magnificent pieces of Mission-style quarter sawn white oak furniture...a book case, and a buffet with an insert of Nova Scotia marble in the top. It is joy to have met him for he has enriched our lives with his friendship, his tutelage and the fruits of his labours.

- Ron Nicholson

The two skiff boat shelves and barrel stave votive holder we bought from Riverworks Studio truly are works of art and are greatly admired by all who see them for their beauty, individuality and craftsmanship. We will certainly be visiting again soon to add more unique pieces to our cabin. Al and Charlotte offer a warm, friendly service and to visit their showroom is always a pleasure.

- Anne Holland, London, UK (summer home in East Dalhousie)

Al built some custom built-in bookcases and a corner cabinet a few years ago for my last home and they blended seamlessly with the room, the workmanship was excellent. I have seen many of his Arts and Crafts pieces at craft shows and am really impressed! Beautiful detailed work.

- Mary Dixon, Newcombville, NS

Al made us an extraordinarily beautiful Memory Box that we took to the U.K. recently as a wedding present. It was all the more special because Al consulted with us throughout its design and creation - suggesting Nova Scotia woods and stains to use. The results were spectacular, and it made a meaningful and intimate gift.

~ Deborah Woolway, Producer, Maritime Noon, CBC Radio, Halifax