Wood Essence

Our Story

Wood Essence began its journey in 1985 when brothers Ken and Craig Manuel, with a shared passion for woodworking, founded the company in Houston, Texas. Driven by a vision to provide exceptional, custom-designed millwork and cabinetry, Wood Essence soon established itself as a leader in high-end carpentry. Operating from Manvel, Texas, we have proudly served clients throughout the greater Houston Metro area, Texas, and beyond.

Our Team

Our dedicated team comprises experienced professionals with diverse backgrounds in woodworking, design, and project management. We are passionate about crafting innovative and visually stunning projects that reflect the unique tastes and aspirations of each client.

Craig Manuel: A master carpenter with over four decades of experience, Craig is the co-founder and driving force behind Wood Essence. His unwavering attention to detail and meticulous craftsmanship are hallmarks of every project.

Mike Grubbs: An expert in project management, estimating, and cutting-edge CAD/CAM software, Mike ensures that every project runs smoothly and efficiently from conception to completion.

Julio Garcia: A skilled carpenter and electronics expert, Julio brings over four decades of industry experience to our team. His diverse skills and unwavering dedication make him an invaluable asset.

Alfredo Flores: With 16 years of experience and a meticulous eye for detail, Alfredo leads the shop team in flawlessly executing intricate fabrication work on-site.

Tina Munoz: A skilled draftsperson and design enthusiast, Tina contributes her technical expertise to ensuring that our vision translates flawlessly into precise shop drawings and technical specifications.

Our Services

Wood Essence offers a comprehensive range of services to meet all your woodworking and design needs, including:

• Custom cabinetry and millwork: Kitchens, bathrooms, closets, entertainment centers, office furniture, and more.
• Woodworking and fabrication: Unique furniture pieces, custom stairs, built-in shelving, and more.
• Rot repair and restoration: Rejuvenating damaged wood surfaces to their former glory.
• CNC fabrication: Precise and intricate custom designs for a wide range of applications.
• Consultations and design services: Collaborative brainstorming and planning to bring your vision to life.