Dillon Fretz, Carpentry Branch Manager

“We’re not only in the business of building beautiful interior and exterior spaces… we’re in the business of building respectful and trustworthy relationships with our clients. Together we can make a lasting and positive impact on our private spaces, public spaces and the environment.”

When an indoor or outdoor space is not living up to its full potential, it’s a good time to talk with our carpentry branch! With 15+ plus years of experience, team manager Dillon Fretz, lead carpenter Matt Fonash and the crew bring attentive craftsmanship, professionalism and a whole lot of integrity to a wide range of projects. Whether its updating an existing space, creating a new area entirely or rethinking an under-used space, we’re here to help bring your ideas to reality.

We strive to keep lines of communication open throughout a project, so that clients know they can ask as many questions as they’d like or share concerns. We take pride in focusing on the details, selecting high quality and whenever possible, sustainable building components. Our focus on natural materials initially stemmed from our concern over end of use issues, but the absence of harsh chemical treatments also makes these goods healthier for our clients and the environment. Although the construction industry as a whole has a long way to go in developing environmentally friendly products, it's always our goal to minimize our impact whenever possible.

Indigenous Ingenuities launched Carpentry in 2019 when it acquired local company, Finished Spaces. Since then, the branch has expanded its menu of services and completed scores of exterior and interior projects. As we continue to grow, we’re committed to implementing projects intentionally, constantly exploring new tools, materials and technologies that improve our work and world. 

…From initial consultation to design to execution we were so impressed by their attention to detail, genuine care in producing a flawless product and dedication to their craft. The team truly cares and that is what makes them unique. In addition to their skill, they are wonderful people to have in your home.

Swarna Alcorn

The Process

In an effort to deliver the highest quality product, we work on a limited number of carpentry projects per year, so it’s helpful to hear from clients as early as possible, in order to schedule their projects for the upcoming season.

  • After Indigenous Ingenuities' Design branch has completed their work, Carpentry examines those drawings and produces an estimate for the client.

  • Once details are finalized and agreed upon, a deposit request will be sent by our office. Upon receipt of the deposit, we’ll schedule a date for the project start.

  • A kick-off meeting onsite allows us to review any concerns and questions. A payment is due when work begins, another at the midway point, and a final one at completion.

  • If outdoor stonework or garden elements are included in the scope of work, Carpentry will coordinate the details and timing with Indigenous Ingenuities Outdoor Build branch.

  • Depending on the project scope, Carpentry can introduce Indigenous Ingenuities’' Outdoor Build team to tackle stone structures and/or garden planting and restoration elements.

  • As we reach completion of the project, your manager will reach out via email or phone to see if there are any outstanding issues and if your expectations have been met. 

  • After we finish a final punchlist and walk-through, the project is completed and final payment will be due.

  • At project end, our carpentry manager, Dillon, can discuss future maintenance needs and get you on a program to care for your exterior carpentry.

  • Time to enjoy the new space!

Dillon’s Recommendations

Music To Build By

Spotify is always on and I like to keep it eclectic following the mood of the project or day. You’ll most likely catch me enjoying Queens Of The Stone Age, Tyler Childers (above) or Jurassic 5. 

Best Gear

Truewerk T2 Werkpant. Lots of well placed pockets, pencil holder, water resistant, wind proof, super comfortable on a summer day or in the snow… what more could you ask for?!

Indispensable Tool

Pica Fine Dry Longlife Automatic Pencil 0.9mm - just as their website says “precision without sharpening”. Whether I’m building cabinets, framing a deck or making notes on architectural drawings, I carry three of their pencils in my toolbelt of various styles and lead colors… I never leave home without it.

Great Read

Mortise & Tenon Magazine - Issued twice annually the publication is beautifully written helping to keep wood craft alive & carpenters sharp.

Favorite Fuel

A very large cup of coffee, preferably french roast and always black unless you count sawdust.