Craftsmanship Behind Eaves Ferry: Custom Spindles by H.A. Stiles

At Eaves Ferry, every detail matters. From the architectural lines to the finishing touches, our goal has always been to honor craftsmanship that stands the test of time. One of the most distinctive elements of the home is the stunning wraparound porch. To bring it back to life, we carefully replaced and rebuilt several deteriorated sections, restoring it to its former glory.

To bring this vision to life, we partnered with H.A. Stiles Company, a Maine-based millwork shop with a legacy of precision woodworking dating back over a century. Known for their expertise in historically accurate reproductions and custom architectural elements, H.A. Stiles was the ideal partner for this project.

Why Custom Spindles Matter

Spindles may seem like a small detail, but they play a major role in defining the character of a home—especially when they line a two-story, wraparound porch. At Eaves Ferry, the bannister is a defining architectural feature, inspired by classic steamboat-style design with its layered porches, rhythmic lines, and Southern charm. We needed spindles that could carry that vision—something timeless, visually striking, and true to the home’s original style. Off-the-shelf options simply couldn’t deliver the level of detail, scale, or authenticity required. Custom fabrication allowed us to faithfully recreate the original spindle design—preserving the historic character of the home while ensuring modern durability and consistency.

Partnering with H.A. Stiles

H.A. Stiles Company brought unmatched craftsmanship and technical expertise to the process. Founded in Boston by Harry Stiles, the company has grown from a small woodworking operation into one of the nation’s premier suppliers of custom wood components. Today, their team brings over a century of combined sales and manufacturing experience to every project. Specializing in repeatable, made-to-spec wood components, H.A. Stiles combines advanced turning technology with time-honored techniques to ensure precision, consistency, and durability. Their ability to balance craftsmanship with scalability made them an ideal partner for the Eaves Ferry restoration. From initial design to final production, their team worked closely with us to replicate the original spindles with precision—ensuring every piece matched the historic profile while meeting today’s standards for quality and performance.

A Detail That Defines the Home

Now installed along the expansive wraparound porch, the custom spindles do more than support the bannister—they define the experience of the home. Their repetition creates a sense of movement and symmetry, echoing the elegance of traditional steamboat architecture while framing views from every angle.

It’s the kind of detail that draws you in from a distance and holds your attention up close—a reminder that thoughtful design, executed well, makes all the difference.

Honoring Tradition, Building for the Future

Working with a company like H.A. Stiles allows us to bridge the gap between tradition and modern living. Their reputation—built on lasting relationships, responsive service, and dependable delivery—aligns seamlessly with our own approach to building: thoughtful, intentional, and rooted in craftsmanship.

At Eaves Ferry, we’re proud to incorporate elements that tell a story. These custom spindles are a perfect example of how collaboration with experienced artisans and manufacturers can bring that story to life—blending heritage, precision, and purpose in every detail.

To learn more about the craftsmanship behind these pieces, visit H.A. Stiles Company and explore their long-standing tradition of custom millwork.