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Bespoke Craftsmanship

Bent Nail Architectural Millwork's Custom Doors and Millwork Effortlessly Blend Durability with Aesthetic Appeal

Article by Erin Baka

Photography by Bent Nail Architectural Millwork

Originally published in Medina County Lifestyle

Bent Nail Architectural Millwork is a family-owned business rooted in the legacy of John Fetherolf, who was remarkably talented in construction by trade. Known throughout Lodi and its surrounding areas, John built a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and an unwavering dedication to quality.

The story of Bent Nail begins in the late 1970s when John, who was deeply involved in construction, encountered a recurring challenge: finding high-quality doors and millwork for his projects. This realization sparked his journey into crafting his own custom doors and millwork, a pursuit that quickly became his passion. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence established him as a trusted name in the community.

In 1992, John and his wife, MaryAnn, officially launched his custom door and millwork business, which has since become synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. Today, John’s son, Dave, carries on his father’s legacy with pride and dedication. Dave continues to uphold the reputation that John, now retired, worked tirelessly to build for Bent Nail, ensuring that every piece reflects the same standard of excellence that has defined their work for decades. 

Bent Nail is renowned for their custom doors that effortlessly blend durability with aesthetic appeal, showcasing the company’s ability to combine timeless craftsmanship with functional beauty. Each door is meticulously crafted with precision from the highest quality wood to meet the unique needs and tastes of their clients. Whether it's a classic or contemporary style, the team at Bent Nail ensures that every detail is tailored to perfection.

Dave says he takes pride in creating one-of-a-kind custom doors and millwork with each project as unique as the client who commissions it. “We very rarely build the same design twice, reflecting [our clients'] commitment to bespoke craftsmanship. We take the time needed to ensure every detail is meticulously executed, prioritizing quality over speed,” says Dave. Honesty and transparency are at the core of their process, as they communicate openly with clients about timelines and expectations, ensuring a product that is truly worth the wait.

In recognition of their expertise, Bent Nail was honored in 2015 with a Historic Preservation Award from the Cleveland Restoration Society and AIA Cleveland for their contributions to restoring the Preservation House in Akron. Bent Nail is a trusted partner for city governments and historical societies throughout the tri-state region. They are frequently called upon to re-create, repair and restore intricate wooden elements of historic buildings, ensuring these architectural treasures are preserved for generations to come. A more recent favorite commissioned project was Lonz Winery on Middle Bass Island.

Visit Bent Nail's working showroom at 830 Bank St. in Lodi for the unique opportunity to explore a variety of designs and witness ongoing projects in real-time. You'll receive an inspiring glimpse into the craftsmanship and dedication that define Bent Nail's work. 

Learn more about Bent Nail by checking out their website, BentNailMillwork.com

"We very rarely build the same design twice, reflecting [our clients'] commitment to bespoke craftsmanship."