Restoring a Marmot Basin Chairlift
This project gave an original Caribou Chair from Marmot Basin a new life far from the ski hill. The retired chair was restored while keeping the character and history that make it such a unique piece. The original frame was cleaned up and refinished, new Douglas fir slats were fabricated for the seat and back, and the completed chair was installed at the cabin, creating a one-of-a-kind piece of ski history and a great place to sit and enjoy the view.
Caribou Lift at Marmot
Once part of the Caribou Chairlift at Marmot Basin, this retired lift chair was worth preserving. Rather than simply displaying it, the goal was to restore it as a functional piece while maintaining the recognizable look and character of the original chair.
Paint & Doug Fir Slats
The metal frame was cleaned up and given a fresh coat of paint, while new seat and back slats were made from Douglas fir. Each piece was cut, fitted, sanded, and finished to bring warmth to the chair while staying true to its original design.
Installation
With the restoration complete, it was time for the fun part...installation. Using the tractor, the chair was carefully lifted into position and mounted outside the our farmhouse in Parkland County, where this piece of Marmot Basin history now has a permanent new home.
Garage Sink
This project started with an old cast-iron farm basin and a vision to give it a new purpose. Rather than replacing its character with something new, the original basin was cleaned up, carefully drilled to accommodate new plumbing and transformed into a fully functional garage sink.
Cast Iron Basin
The cast-iron basin was a Kijiji find that had the perfect vintage character for the project. I carefully drilled new holes to accommodate the faucet and plumbing, giving this old farm sink a second life as a practical and one-of-a-kind garage sink.
Wood Cabinet
A custom wood cabinet was built specifically for the basin, providing a sturdy base while adding warmth and a handcrafted farmhouse feel. A solid wood countertop and simple barn-style cabinet door complete the design, blending practical storage with rustic character.
Custom Garage Sink
The finished piece is a great example of what TL Workshop is all about, seeing the potential in something old, repurposing it thoughtfully, and creating something unique, useful, and built to last.
Custom Built-in Benches
Designed and handcrafted by TL Workshop, this custom L-shaped bench was built to fit seamlessly into a warm, rustic interior. The project began with solid wood components individually cut, fitted, assembled, and finished in the shop before being installed on site.
Two Custom Benches
The project began with rough Doug Fir, plained, individually cut, fitted, assembled, and finished in the shop before being installed on site.
Three Wide Planks
Showcasing the natural knots and grain of the wood while giving the bench a substantial, handcrafted character.
Upholstered Cushions
Custom upholstered seat and back cushions complete the installation, transforming the solid-wood structure into a comfortable built-in seating area.
Garage Feature Wall
Designed and handcrafted by TL Workshop, this project transformed a simple garage alcove into a warm, rustic feature that brings character and function to the space. The recessed wall was finished with horizontal wood planks that were left over form the flooring to create a natural focal point that complements the surrounding timber details.
A Warmer welcome was needed
As the first space guests walk into at our FMV Airbnb, this overlooked garage entry needed an upgrade, so we repurposed leftover hardwood flooring as wall material to create a warm, welcoming first impression.
Up-Cycled Wood Flooring
Rather than building everything new, the project incorporates a unique antique table sourced specifically for the space. Its aged character pairs naturally with the handcrafted wood backdrop and adds an authentic, collected feel that new furniture simply can’t replicate.
Antique Windows
The feature wall was completed with a vintage window frame from Mont -Tremblant, Quebec showcasing Spirit Island in Jasper National Park adding depth and an outdoor-inspired feel.
Wood Projects
Doug Fir Table top
A simple desk was given new life with a handcrafted Douglas fir top. The boards were carefully fitted, sanded, stained, and finished to bring out the beautiful grain and warm tones of the wood, turning a practical workspace into something with character.
Reclaimed 4x4 planter
Made from a reclaimed 4x4 timber, this little planter proves that great projects don’t need to be complicated. The wood was cut and hollowed out, then finished to preserve its weathered character. Add a succulent, and an old piece of lumber becomes a unique tabletop accent.
Hearts all day long
Scrap wood never has to go to waste! These little wooden hearts were cut and shaped from leftover pieces around the workshop, with each one showing its own grain, texture, and personality. Simple, handmade, and a fun way to turn small offcuts into something worth keeping.
Reclaimed Pallet Shelf
Built during the extra time at home during COVID, this project started with a simple request from my youngest, a LEGO shelf for his room. With limited space to work with, I designed a compact corner unit using an old pallet and leftover mouldings from the workshop. A practical solution made almost entirely from materials already on hand, and a great example of turning scraps into something useful.
Douglas Fir Bud Vases
These little vases were handcrafted from leftover Douglas fir scraps, turning small offcuts into something beautiful and useful. Each vase was individually shaped to highlight the natural grain and character of the wood, then stained and oiled to create a rich, warm finish. Filled with simple sprigs of dried lavender, they’re a great example of how even the smallest pieces of wood can be given a second life.