Unique Functional Sculptures

Unlike most other backyard structures on the market, Poetic Spaces are neither gussied-up garden sheds nor mass-produced playhouses. They are whimsical and sophisticated, never merely “cute”. They will always be artist-created (not factory-built), crafted one-by-one with simple hand and power tools, the finest materials, and minute attention to detail.

Although each is different, a Poetic Spaces house might include found architectural elements such as columns, corbels, windows and doors, as well as reproduction hardware appropriate to the building’s style. Molding and other detailing is scaled to the size of the building, and created specifically for the building when necessary. Windows are functional, and frames and casings are made of wood, not plastic. Gingerbread trim is typically handmade, and can be customized to reflect a buyer’s tastes or interests.

Castles, Victorian cottages, Arts and Crafts bungalows… anything is possible. I build for childlike adults as well as for children. Contact me to see what’s in the works, or to have a dialogue about the house of your dreams.

You Can Take It With You

Poetic Spaces are small buildings, less than 100 square feet. They are built in panels that can easily be transported and reassembled. A typical structure comes in about a dozen pieces, which can be bolted and nailed together in a day by an able-bodied crew of two or three. The base of the building is made from pressure-treated wood and rests on concrete blocks. Because they are tiny, can be disassembled, and don’t have permanent foundations, in most communities Poetic Spaces don’t require a building permit. Check to make sure this is true in your town. It is the buyer’s responsibility to be familiar with local zoning laws and to provide a level building surface.

Please contact me to work out shipping and setup details and pricing. I am available to assist with on-site placement in southern New England.

Tiny And Tough

While they are works of art, Poetic Spaces are also sturdy and built to last, designed to withstand tempests, temper tantrums, and the full scope of artistic temperament. Great care has been taken in their construction, and high quality materials are used throughout. Walls are carefully primed, sealed and painted. Whenever possible, hardware is brass or stainless steel. Windows and doors are glazed with a thick (1/4”) Plexiglas -- virtually indistinguishable from real glass, except that it is virtually impossible to break. Original architectural components, where used, have been stripped to bare wood to remove all traces of old paint.

I take pride in my work and I want the buyer to be happy. Poetic Spaces are warranted for a year from date of purchase. During this time, I will repair or replace, at my option, any defects of material or workmanship – excluding normal wear and tear, problems that are the result of the purchaser’s alterations, repairs or assembly, or damages from abuse or misuse. This warranty specifically excludes any labor incurred for replacement. The buyer is responsible for inspecting and maintaining the structure to avoid hazards, and, if the structure is to be used as a playhouse, for choosing one that is age appropriate and for supervising play activities.

Purchasing and Pricing

Each Poetic Space is unique. They are created in a range of styles, in a variety of sizes, and with individualized detailing. Prices are accordingly varied, and are determined by material costs and labor involved. I use the best quality materials available, red cedar roof shingles, and stainless steel or solid brass hardware, for example. I am meticulous in my work, often creating my own gingerbread and shaping my own molding and trim so that it is in the proper scale. Consequentially, Poetic Spaces aren’t inexpensive – but they are also never cheap.

House prices start around $9,000 (a dream house for less than $10,000!). Additional features such as porches, lofts, and full interior detailing add to the total. If you’d like to purchase your own little building, contact me. I will provide photos and prices of completed houses. If you are interested in commissioning something, we can work out the details and costs in advance.