Ed Conroy
Inquiries: keepingitcoastal@gmail.com
Ed Conroy and I sat down at his custom-built Kittery, Maine home to discuss his craft. Conroy’s work and influence permeate every aspect of his well-designed home, from the framing and roofing to the interior finish work.
How did you get started with woodworking?
Straight out of college, I moved to Pepperell, MA. Not knowing anyone, I flipped through the paper for something to do and found a woodworking class at Lawrence Academy.
This newfound passion sparked a friendship with S-Bent Chair company foreman Ray Moore, who helped me build my first custom piece—a swinging cradle for my newborn son, Ben.
What are your favorite things to make?
I make many coastal-themed cutting and charcuterie boards with whales, mermaids, sharks, and other maritime insets. Those are fun, but I also enjoy crafting mission-style furniture, wall art, puzzles, and doing home carpentry projects. Drawing inspiration from all around, I will see something and think, ‘Oh, I can do that.’ Like a hand-built Nok hockey table, I am making for my grandsons.
Creating functional pieces from unique hardwoods is a passion but sadly, many go unused. People tell me they’re too nice, so they remain on display.
Where do you source your wood?
A lot of my hardwood comes from local builders with scraps left over from larger projects or friends who have fallen trees. I am always happy to take some hardwood off your hands.
Where can we find your work?
Items are sold locally, but I am mostly commissioned for custom gifts, such as charcuterie boards or unique desks and furniture for local shops and offices.
