Reclaimed Paneling Case Study
Martis Camp Study
Reclaimed American chestnut paneling brings gravitas and warmth to this mountain retreat, honoring both craftsmanship traditions and environmental stewardship with 140-year-old timber.
Project Overview
A mountain retreat study wrapped in reclaimed 1880s American chestnut, combining historic timber with modern engineering for a space that is both sanctuary and workspace.
Location
Truckee, CA
Style
Mountain Modern
Size
380 sq ft
Duration
4 months
Budget
$185,000
Year
2023
Key Features
Historic timber meets precision craftsmanship in every detail of this mountain study.
Reclaimed American Chestnut Panels
Traditional raised panel construction from 1880s Pennsylvania gristmill timber, preserving original patina and hand-hewn character
Hand-Rubbed Oil Finish
Multi-layer hand-rubbed tung oil finish that enhances natural grain depth while providing lasting protection in mountain climate
Built-In Desk & Work Area
Custom desk with concealed cable management, pull-out keyboard tray, and integrated task lighting for a functional workspace
Custom Bookshelf Millwork
Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves with adjustable shelving, integrated LED lighting, and rolling library ladder
Challenges & Solutions
Working with irreplaceable reclaimed timber at high altitude demands exceptional engineering and craft.
Reclaimed Material Consistency
Sourcing enough reclaimed American chestnut—a species devastated by blight in the early 1900s—with consistent character for floor-to-ceiling paneling across the entire study.
Our Solution
Located a demolished 1880s Pennsylvania gristmill providing 1,800 board feet of hand-hewn chestnut beams. Each board was carefully denailed, kiln-treated, and graded for consistency while preserving authentic patina.
Altitude & Climate Adaptation
At 6,000 feet elevation with extreme temperature swings and low humidity, wood movement posed significant challenges for tight-fitting raised panel construction.
Our Solution
Engineered floating panel systems within the frame-and-panel construction, allowing seasonal wood movement without cracking. All lumber was acclimated on-site for 30 days before installation.
Modern Integration in Historic Material
The client wanted built-in technology (hidden speakers, motorized TV, smart lighting) without compromising the authentic, historic character of the reclaimed wood.
Our Solution
Designed concealed technology compartments behind matching hinged panels, with acoustic fabric hidden behind carved grille details and motorized mechanisms integrated into the millwork structure.
Our Process
From salvaging century-old timber to precision installation at 6,000 feet—every step honored the material.
Material Sourcing & Design
Located and acquired reclaimed chestnut, developed design concepts with the architect, and created detailed shop drawings.
Deliverables:
- Reclaimed timber acquisition
- 3D renderings
- Panel layout plans
- Material grading
Timber Processing
Denailed, kiln-treated, and milled the reclaimed timber, then shipped to site for 30-day acclimation at altitude.
Deliverables:
- Denailing & cleaning
- Kiln treatment
- Milling to spec
- On-site acclimation
Panel Fabrication
Hand-crafted raised panels, frames, and molding profiles in our workshop using traditional joinery methods.
Deliverables:
- Raised panel construction
- Frame assembly
- Molding profiles
- Test fitting
Installation & Finishing
Precision installation with floating panel systems, followed by multi-coat hand-rubbed oil finishing on site.
Deliverables:
- Panel installation
- Technology integration
- Hand-rubbed finishing
- Final inspection
Client Testimonial
Hear what our clients have to say about their mountain retreat study.
“The study PineWood Cabinets created is the soul of our mountain home. There's something deeply moving about sitting in a room paneled with wood that has 140 years of history. The craftsmanship honors both the material and the tradition it represents.”
David & Laura Chen
Truckee, CA
Ready to Create Your Dream Study?
Let's discuss your vision and create custom paneling that brings warmth, character, and history to your home.