Hand Hewn Beams and Fireplace Mantels in Leonia, NJ

Although we did not provide the original wood flooring in this home in Leonia, New Jersey, it played an important role in shaping our overall design approach. The existing floors set a strong visual foundation, and our goal was to introduce architectural wood elements that would complement their tone, grain, and natural character. In the kitchen, we created and installed a set of hand-hewn white pine beams, carefully selected so their color and texture aligned seamlessly with the flooring. The result is a cohesive, balanced look that feels intentional rather than over-designed.

That same attention to detail carried into the den, where a hand-hewn fireplace mantel was crafted to mirror the warmth and rustic character of the surrounding space. By matching the mantel’s finish and proportions to the beams and floors, we were able to create a consistent design language across the home’s main living areas. These kinds of custom wood details help tie rooms together visually, especially in open or semi-open floor plans common in many New Jersey homes.

In the basement, our work expanded further. We provided and installed additional beams, another fireplace mantel, and a custom set of doors as part of a two-phase project. During the first phase, we replaced the home’s original back doors with silver siding barn doors, transforming the area into a functional playroom while maintaining a rustic, reclaimed aesthetic. We also installed a hand-hewn mantel above the stone fireplace, adding warmth and texture to what had previously been a more utilitarian space.

Phase two focused on completing the basement’s tray ceiling. To achieve the desired architectural depth, we fabricated a series of L-shaped beam wraps designed to conceal existing soffits and ductwork. This process required combining multiple pieces to achieve the correct scale and fit, ensuring the beams appeared solid and intentional once installed. The remaining ceiling beams were then installed to complete the trayed effect, giving the basement the same level of craftsmanship and visual interest found throughout the rest of the home.