| How do I commission work?
Please see Custom Services page.
How does a contract work?
A proposal and contract are prepared for all projects. Typically, a design fee is paid first. The fee is dependent upon the complexity of the project (see Custom Services page). Once the drawings are complete, you will receive copies of these drawings as well as a proposal and a contract. If you approve the drawings and proposal, you sign the contract and return it to me with a deposit of 50%. (Note: Half of the design fee is deducted from the deposit.) When the project is at 75% completion, a payment of 25% is due. A set of photo will be provided to ensure that you are pleased with the progress of your project. When the project is completed, delivered or installed and you are completely satisfied, the remaining 25% is due. At that time, or when the project is finished and in use, I would appreciate a photograph and your permission to include the picture in my portfolio and gallery.
How do you accommodate equipment, components, TVs, etc in entertainment centers, computer workstations, wet-bars, kitchen islands, etc.?
Much thought is given to the accommodation of components, equipment, wiring, plumbing or anything else involved. Space requirements, ventilation, the unimpeded use of remotes, effective location of speakers and a host of other issues are all taken into serious consideration. We will thoroughly discuss all of your needs. I will make a site visit to obtain measurements whenever necessary. If a site visit is not necessary, I will ask you to send me photographs of the room that will be home to this project, as I often can find surrounding details that can be incorporated in the new project that often times livens up the surrounding décor.
How long does it take to construct my project?
After the initial drawing review and revisal process is completed and signed off, I will give you a realistic time frame for completion and delivery. I try to conduct my approach to my clients one project at a time, which allows me to immerse myself into that project, maintaining focus throughout and ultimately achieving an end result that pleases me every bit as much as it pleases you. Because I build everything myself to your specifications, it is truly custom woodworking. Patience has come to be part of the equation. You may have to wait a while for your project to be started, but you can rest assured that you are getting every bit of my focus and attention to detail during its construction. It is my sincere belief that it is worth the wait.
What kinds of drawings will I receive?
You will receive a highly detailed set of drawings depicting elevation floor plan, cross-section plans, as well as molding profiles and any other unusual features.
How much is it going to cost?
Like most other trades or crafts, I am in the business of selling my time and expertise. Many people make the mistake of equating price to the size of the project, but in fact, a master craftsman can build two cases, one of vast volume and the second of a much smaller volume but more intricate, complex design. The smaller, more complicated case may require an extra two weeks of labor to attend to all of the bells and whistles needed to accomplish whatever form and function it may serve. Perhaps the first case is little more than a shelving unit, while the second has bone moldings, inlaid panels or unusual space restrictions that require elaborate fittings. It is always the complexity of the design that dictates the cost. Please see the Sample Contracts to get an idea of what your project may cost.
I don’t live in the Santa Cruz area. Can I still commission work from Westside Woodworks? How does that work?
First off, just call me. We can work out the details over the phone. We can walk through the measurements over the phone and with a little patience I can assure you we will ultimately have a successful outcome. I have yet to stumble in acquiring accurate dimensions. If I need to make a site visit, we can arrange that. Once I’m ready to ship, I shop all available avenues for the best shipping rate. I take responsibility for providing adequate shipping structures to ensure that your product arrives unblemished. There are occasions where there may be a need for a qualified finish carpenter, and I have found little difficulty in coordinating all issues over the phone before, during and after the project and achieving a successful outcome. Finally, there some projects that require my presence throughout, and that can be negotiated.
How do I order something from the Gallery?
The Gallery is a place for you to see the diverse types of projects I have done throughout my career. Each piece is custom made. If you see something you would like me to re-create for you, you can commission it. See Custom Services and give me a call.
Does the price include installation?
When you receive my proposal it will spell out the cost of everything, including installation if the project is not free-standing. The cost of delivery and installation will be based on the time it takes to install it and whether I can do it myself or need to hire an assistant. Whatever the case may be, there will be no hidden costs. When you sign the contract you will know exactly how much the project will cost.
How can I contact you?
Westside Woodworks
Gary Silva
2533-B Mission St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Shop/ Fax: 831-459-0721
Email: Gary@WestSideWoodWorks.com |
