When journeyman cabinetmaker Pat Gaudin decided to take a break from working with a Powell River builder to create furniture for a show in Vancouver, he had no idea the move would snowball into his own local business: Pat Gaudin Woodwork.
“It was just through osmosis that I started this business,” says the company’s owner-operator. “While I was working on the show my former employer recommended me to do some work for a local architect.”
That opportunity led to another referral to do finishing carpentry, which then grew to completing a curved staircase, a kitchen and a pantry, says Gaudin.
“Then while I was doing that, another individual hired me on to do a kitchen to match their 1920s home complete with a colonnade. This is how my business morphed; it’s been completely word of mouth until now.
Gaudin says his goal is to provide quality workmanship for customers in a timely fashion with a great attitude. He has been renovating kitchens in Powell River since December 2017.
“I’ve been a journeyman cabinetmaker for 32 years,” he says, “and I've been in the trade for 36-plus years, including my apprenticeship under German, Italian and Japanese masters.”
He provides options for clients, whether they are seeking high-end products or budget-minded results for their kitchens, including quality woodworking for every budget and a one-year plus parts and labour warranty.
“We have a wide variety of doors and frames to choose from and something for everyone’s taste, style and budget; there are over 100 different frame and panel door styles a client can choose from,” says Gaudin. “My experience in architectural millwork allows me to design any concept a client wants to achieve.”
He purchases lumber locally, as often as he can, and also uses suppliers in the Lower Mainland to enhance offerings and price points.
“I was once supplied BC spruce beetle wood to construct a kitchen for a log home,” he adds. “It was quite a stunning result. Dream it, I’ll build it.”
In addition to kitchens, Gaudin creates bathroom vanities, closet organizers and custom furniture, including desks, display cabinets, dining room tables and chairs, as well as coffee and end tables.
“I have been making furniture for as long as I’ve been a cabinetmaker,” says Gaudin.
For anyone wondering where to begin, the whole process starts with a meeting.
“I’ll show you my portfolio and go over your needs, wants and wishes,” he adds. “Once we know what we are building, then there is measuring, design and drawings for the client’s approval and selection of materials.
Gaudin helps them through that selection and design process, conveys the pros and cons for each material and design choice, and then a price is determined, final drawings are made and the product starts to be built.
“Then comes the installation, resulting in big smiles on everyone’s face, including mine,” says Gaudin. “I’m one of the luckiest guys on the planet. I get to do what I love for a living and have created lifelong relationships with my clients.”
For more information, call 604.223.3550 or email patgaudinwoodwork@gmail.com. References are available.
