LINCOLNSHIRE, IL -- Finalists have been selected by a panel of industry judges for Woodworking Network's Best in Wood (formerly known as Custom Woodworking Design Portfolio) Awards, which are given annually to honor custom woodworkers for their outstanding craftsmanship.
 
The 2016 finalists (see the list below) were selected from the following categories: residential furniture, freestanding; residential furniture, built-in; architectural millwork; kitchen/bath cabinets; and specialty products. All award winners and honorable mentions will be announced in Woodworking Network's Best of the Best December 2015 digital issue and will be celebrated at a gala awards reception during the 2016 Cabinets & Closets Conference & Expo, March 22 - 24, 2016 in Pasadena, CA.

However, while the judges have made their choice, Woodworking Network will open up the process to let the public have their say with a People's Choice Award contest. In the coming weeks, look for the online ballot featuring all Best in Wood contest entries. For more information about the 2016 Cabinets & Closets Conference & Expo and to register to attend, visit cabinetsandclosetsexpo.com.

Special thanks to this year’s judges: 

Doug Rappe, an instructor as well as recruitment coordinator for the Greater West Town Training Partnership, Woodworkers Training Program; Robert Kleeman a full-time woodworker since 1975; Tom Gleason, sales/project management at Bernhard Woodwork Ltd.; and Scott DeGenova, vice president of the commercial division at Danville, IL-based T.H. Snyder Co.

2016 Best in Wood Finalists:

Three Brothers Boards for "12' Stand Up Paddle Board"

Carved By Ramsey for "Orca Dreams Entry Doors"

Hayslip Design Associates for "Brutal Rose Console"

Architectural Furnishings for "Spanish Walnut Social Table"

Bespoke for "Butler's Pantry," "Library Desk," "Regency Kitchen" and "Paneled and Coffered Dining Room"

Select Woodworking for "Luminous Lumonyx Powder Room"

Hollywood Woodwork for "Bellman/Valet Desk--Hyatt Regency Tysons Center"