woodwork Refined is a premier woodworking business dedicated to designing, crafting, and installing quality custom furniture, cabinetry, and distinctive wood decor for residential and commercial clients. We specialize in blending time-honored craftsmanship with contemporary and traditional design, creating unique pieces that elevate every environment.   woodwork Refined was established by William Cavanagh and Amy Doan in 2006.  William’s passion for woodworking and transforming natural materials into beautiful custom furniture was the foundation of our business. William recognized a growing demand for sustainable, custom-made furniture in an era where mass-produced options often lacked soul and longevity. Frustrated by this gap, woodwork Refined was launched in a modest workshop in Chicago, driven by a commitment to craftsmanship, environmental responsibility, and client collaboration. What began with a single custom project has grown into a trusted name, fueled by word-of-mouth, a dedication to excellence, and the joy of creating pieces that become cherished parts of our clients’ lives.

woodwork Refined sets itself apart by combining artisanal craftsmanship with innovative techniques combined with exceptional customer service. Our expertise in veneering -- using hand-selected, eco-friendly veneers for stunning designs like sequencing, balancing, and sketch face patterns -- allows us to create truly unique pieces, highlighting the true natural beauty of wood. Our meticulous design process begins with in-depth client consultation, leading to concept sketches, wood/veneer samples, and finish samples, ensuring every project reflects the client’s ultimate vision. We handle finishing and installations ourselves, with our craftsmen -- who build and engineer each project -- ensuring flawless execution. This end-to-end control, from design to installation, combined with our commitment to quality and sustainability, makes woodwork Refined a standout in the custom woodworking field.

At woodwork Refined, our many years of woodworking experience has taught us the value of investing in quality and personalization to transform a living space. For residents looking to enhance their homes, we recommend prioritizing pieces that reflect your unique style and needs -- whether it’s a custom console table, a new kitchen island, or a tailored office built-in. Opt for sustainable materials, like responsibly sourced hardwoods or eco-friendly veneers, to ensure durability and environmental responsibility. When planning a project, collaborate closely with your craftsman from the start. Share your vision through photos, sketches, or even a favorite furniture piece that is truly personal to you. All of these elements can spark a design. Don’t shy away from bold elements -- whether it’s a gilding or textures like leather or vellum -- to add character. Finally, consider researching different woodworking techniques to deepen your appreciation for the craft and inspire your home’s design. By choosing quality and interjecting personalization, you’ll create spaces you love that are unique, functional, and timeless.

William got his start building custom Mission-style furniture in Oak Park, IL, and often restored original Stickley and Greene & Greene furniture pieces. A dining room table built by William was highlighted in an early edition of “The Wright Style: Re-Creating the Spirit of Frank Lloyd Wright” book, showcasing Frank Lloyd Wright's craftsman-era furniture. In their off time, William and Amy like to travel -- whether it’s to a local festival or across the country to see a unique art exhibit or a favorite zoo. William especially likes to tour historic architectural homes and has a keen interest in glasswork. They are planning the vacation of a lifetime to Japan in the near future. William and Amy share their home with their favorite Savannah cat, Shinobi, and can often be found working with and supporting local cat rescues.

At woodwork Refined, we’re more than just a business -- we’re a family and a team passionate about creating meaningful spaces and connections. Beyond the workshop, we’re deeply committed to our community, fostering creativity and confidence in the next generation whenever possible. We often donate excess wood to local artists, ensuring our work leaves a positive impact. Recently, we’ve been exploring new finishes inspired by global design trends, which we’re excited to showcase in upcoming projects. Whether it’s crafting a bespoke piece or actively working in the community, our goal is to make every interaction with woodwork Refined a memorable, personal experience. We live by our motto, “To make something for others is the true heart of craftsmanship.”

725 Morton Avenue - Aurora

Ph: 630.340.4588

Web: woodworkRefined.com 

EM: wcavanagh@woodworkRefined.com 

FB & IG: @woodworkRefined