Rooted in Oklahoma. Refined by Hand.

The shop

A Place to Build

In 2004, Nathan and Ashley Gardner bought their first 12 acres together, along with a 40-by-50-foot shop. That land gave 12 Acre Woodwork its name — and a place to grow.

What began as a way to earn extra income alongside Nathan's career as an EMT grew through word of mouth and the trust of people who brought their ideas to the shop.

Nathan's interest in woodworking began on the farm. Working with trees led to sawmilling, then to building furniture from the wood itself. Each project became an opportunity to learn, solve a new problem, and refine the craft.

A defining chapter came through Nathan's brother Jeremy Gardner and Gardner Studio — an architecture and interior design practice. Jeremy's trust and design commissions gave Nathan the opportunity to move from EMT work into leading the studio's fabrication and build shop full-time in 2017. Many of the shop's most detailed projects — Black Optical, Bryant Avenue, Day Club — came through that collaboration. In 2024, Nathan chose to devote his time fully to 12 Acre Woodwork. Nathan and Ashley continue to collaborate with Jeremy and Heather Gardner at Gardner Studio on custom projects.

Today, Nathan and Ashley are growing 12 Acre Woodwork together in Chandler. Nathan leads the craft, while Ashley manages projects and the business side, often lending a hand in the shop. Their sons are often involved in the shop, with their son Tanner taking an active role alongside Nathan and Ashley. Together, they bring a personal approach to custom cabinetry, furniture, and millwork — working closely with each client, from the first conversation to the finished piece.