Duncan Gowdy

In the shop he built near his house in Holden, Mass., Duncan Gowdy builds furniture that reflects his early interest in fine art. He began by studying illustration but switched paths to furniture making at the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth. Now his work often blends realistic relief carving with functional furniture forms. Gowdy earned a master’s in furniture design at San Diego State University. Before launching his furniture-making career, he spent six years building timber-frame houses. These days he splits his time between building furniture and caring for his son, Carter.

Rock-Solid Miters with L-tenons

March 14, 2018

For Duncan Gowdy, the L-tenon miter joint allows for more straightforward assembly than typical splined miter joints
Duncan Gowdy’s Illustrative Carving

December 14, 2016

Part furniture maker, part illustrator, Duncan Gowdy's carvings are a signature that makes his work unique
Behind the Design – Duncan Gowdy

June 1, 2016

Furniture maker Duncan Gowdy walks you through his design process—from inspiration to sketching, scale mockups, full-size mockups, and finally the finished piece.
Contemporary Chest with Colonial Roots

May 31, 2016

Designer's Notebook
Add Muscle To Your Miters

March 30, 2016

Shopmade L-shaped tenons create a powerful joint
Man or Machine?

November 1, 2008

Learn Duncan Gowdy’s distinctive carving and finishing techniques