Interior Millwork & Trim

Simple or ornate, the success of an interior finishing project is completely dependent on precise attention to detail. In millwork and trim projects, my love of craft and dedication to care really comes to life.

Precision, passion, and practicality

Balanced design

One aspect I love most about interior finish, trim, and millwork projects is that it’s all about soothing the eye and creating focal points of interest. I achieve this balance through a combination of profile, shape, texture, colour, and detail. In the end, you’re left with an environment that you are is proud to showcase.

Crafted with care

I believe that my craftsmanship and attention to detail boils down to the fact that I care. I honestly care for the product I produce. I cannot express this enough, and it’s at the core of my work and my being. So while my training is in modern technique, I make the conscious choice to add the value of craft to every project. This is what sets me apart from the average carpenter.

Collaboration

Customizing a space to an client’s specific personality or preference is truly rewarding, and I find this is best achieved through collaboration. Collaboration is truly remarkable, weaving multiple styles, thoughts, or personalities into a grounded, solution-based creation. Great collaboration is imaginative creation at its absolute finest. And when done in an attentive manner, ideas can really start to flow. This is where the magic happens!

Portrait of Liam Donnelly with a green hedge in the background; Liam is the owner and carpenter at Donnelly Woodworking in Nanaimo, BC

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Custom interior finishing solutions


  • Crown Moulding

    Crown moulding is a decorative trim that is installed at the top of the walls, where they meet the ceiling.

    Crown moulding adds an elegant touch to a room, and serves to visually “crown” the space.

    This type of trim is the perfect way to create a seamless transition between your walls and ceiling. You might even say it’s the crowning touch that adds elegance to your space, framing it with a touch of sophistication.


  • Baseboards

    Baseboards are installed along the bottom of interior walls, covering the joint between the wall and the floor.

    Baseboard trim provides a finished look to the room, and protects the wall from scuffs and damage.

    But baseboards are more than just functional elements; they’re an opportunity to add character and style to your space.

    Whether you choose a modern style with little embellishment or a more ornate contour design, baseboards will provide your walls with a clean finish and a seamless transition between wall and floor.


  • Window & Door Casings

    Casings are the pieces of trim that are installed around windows and doors.

    Casing trim serves both a decorative and functional purpose. They frame the openings, and provide a transition between the wall and the door or window.

    When chosen with care and installed well, casings add character to a home. They literally frame your views and entrances with a touch of style designed to enhance the architectural aesthetic of your home.

    I am proud of my careful trim work. Here’s a snippet of one client’s feedback:

    “Liam can trim windows and doors like a beast! Even though the drywaller butchered the job and nothing was flat, or level, somehow Liam came in and made it look like it was meant to be. In short time I might add.”


  • Wainscotting & Panelling

    Wainscotting is a type of decorative wall panelling that typically covers the lower portion of a wall.

    Available in traditional wood or more modern materials, panelling can transform walls into works of art, adding texture and depth to your living spaces.

    Whether you choose the warmth of traditional wood or opt for more modern materials, panelling can turn room into a stylish and comfortable space.


  • Chair Rails

    A chair rail is a horizontal piece of trim installed on the wall, typically at chair height.

    Originally designed to protect walls from chair damage, this decorative trim now serves as a stylish way to break up wall space.

    While still a functional guard against scuffs, chair rails adds charm and divide spaces effortlessly.


  • Picture Rail

    Elevating your walls, picture rails offer a versatile way to display artwork and create visual interest.

    A picture rail is a moulding installed near the top of the wall, and it’s designed to hold hooks from which artwork or pictures can be hung.

    This practical yet stylish trim allows you to hang artwork without damaging your walls. Picture rails are not particularly common, which makes them all the more effective as a means to add character to your home.


  • Staircase & Handrail Components

    Staircases are constructed from a wide range of components, including handrails, balusters, and newel posts.

    When they’re working together, these components are not only functional but also serve as a focal point in your home. They’re not just a means of ascent, but contribute to the visual journey.

    So while essential for safety, staircase and handrail components also contribute to the aesthetic of the staircase. This makes them a perfect candidate for custom woodworking!


  • Custom Cabinetry

    Custom cabinetry involves designing and building cabinets tailored to the specific needs and dimensions of a space.

    More than that, however, custom cabinetry is functional artistry for your storage needs.

    I offer tailored solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, and beyond, and my custom cabinetry maximizes storage while also enhancing the aesthetics of your space.


  • Built-ins

    Built-ins are fixtures or furniture pieces that are permanently integrated into the structure of a room.

    Examples of common built-ins include shelving, seating, bookcases, libraries, and entertainment centres. But the term encompass anything that becomes part of the room itself, really.

    As they seamlessly blend into the design of the space, built-ins are a great way to utilize space efficiently while adding a custom, high-end look to your home.

    And of course, built-ins are incredibly practical additions, as they maximize your available space and have the potential to enhance the overall flow of your interior.

FAQs

Here are some of the questions I am most commonly asked about building interior millwork and trim.

View all FAQs

Do you also specialize in finish carpentry, or is your work limited to structural carpentry?

Absolutely, finish carpentry is among my expertise. My proficiency encompasses both classical and contemporary millwork techniques, ensuring that every project benefits from my exacting attention to detail and high-quality craftsmanship.

Do you build the railings as well or do I have to hire another company?

You bet I take care of the railings. I have experience in building wood and wood/glass railings, and can also install steel or aluminum if that is your preference.

Can you replace my tired and worn out interior trim?

Yes, I certainly can. Full replacement isn’t always necessary, and in many cases the original millwork might just need a little TLC (touch-ups and a fresh coat of paint/stain). I am happy to discuss options in order to find the best solution.

Can you trim out my entire house or do you just do smaller jobs?

I have extensive experience in installing full house trim packages. Big or small, I can help!

  • Other Carpentry Services

  • Small Structures

  • Fences & Privacy Screens

  • Doors & Gates

  • Decks & Outdoor Living

  • Exterior Stairs

  • Interior Millwork & Trim

  • Cabinetry & Built-ins