Fred Eche

Mike nice job.I would like to know more about the vanity tops.,material etc.They look like integral bowl and Top.Thanks again.GRRRREAT JOB Fred

This has been largely a 1 mans 31 year quest to do a total restoration of this 1869 victorian. Restoration started in 1979. Restoration as we all know is a process that continues to some degree for years and years. Actually,what you can see is only the tip of the iceburg. The inside has been transformed totally with such things as extensive use of corian as countertops for all of the 6 baths and kitchen. Solid teak is the major bathroom theme. Fred has been onboard since the beginning as a subscriber of Fine woodworking,following with Fine homebuilding. I should note these great great magazines have been a major reference and sorce of inspiration from the beginning to the present. Fred wishes to thank all his supporters for their kind thoughts but would like to express to all being chosen as a finalist is the true reward. Posting a pictorial of his 31yrs of work is his way of giving back to show all those who are professionals,as well as beginners alike. We all create with our hands and our hearts,but passion leads the way to personal reward. Strive to do the very best,learn from any one who has something to offer,and take NO shortcuts in the quality of your work. Remember when that voice in your head says to you that what you are doing is probably stupid and dangerous STOP!!!! A final thought; I use to create all my projects to the standard of "machine shop" tolerances and found I had great results. Joints,finishes,etc were breathtakingly beautiful but would take me hours and hours to complete a project. I eventulally ran into a Wise Man who shared this secret with me,and I pass this on for all. STRIVE NOT FOR PERFECTION,INSTEAD STRIVE TO CREATE THE ILLUSION OF PERFECTION. Wow after many months of reflection "I have a very dense head" I realized how important this really was. Now I get my honey do list done in half the time and my wife is happy. A real "Weedhopper my son" moment. Thanks for your kind flattering recognition,Freds wife Joan