Meet Fabrice: The Journeyman Carpenter at Heirloom Builders
Fabrice’s story reads like an adventurer’s diary. Born in France, his early years were spent learning the art of craftsmanship alongside his father, maintaining and designing their family home. "I've always been handy," Fabrice says, crediting those formative years for sparking a lifelong passion for building and problem-solving. But his journey to becoming one of Heirloom Builders' most skilled carpenters was anything but linear. From serving in the military in Berlin during the fall of the Wall to teaching scuba diving in the turquoise waters of Honduras, Fabrice’s experiences have shaped his meticulous approach to his craft.
When Fabrice landed in the U.S. in 1996, he didn’t even know how to use a tape measure. Yet his drive and attention to detail quickly propelled him through the carpentry world, crafting everything from custom cabinets to multi-million-dollar builds in the Bay Area. Along the way, he developed a deep appreciation for old-world craftsmanship, particularly in San Francisco’s historic homes.
“There’s something magical about preserving the integrity of these old spaces. They don’t make homes like they used to, and I think it’s important to honor that while still innovating.”
A chance Craigslist encounter reconnected Fabrice with Zach Heir, founder of Heirloom Builders, years after the two had collaborated on custom homes in Lafayette. "When I saw the listing, it had a picture of a kitchen I’d installed. I knew it had to be Zach," Fabrice recalls. Their shared dedication to quality and detail made it an easy decision for both, and Fabrice quickly became a vital part of the team. Today, his role allows him to bring nearly three decades of wisdom to every project, whether he’s crafting solutions for unconventional spaces or navigating the challenges of installing full-wall cabinetry. "Those are the toughest," he admits. "They’re heavy, and getting them into small spaces without damage requires precision and patience."
Fabrice doesn’t give away all the tricks up his sleeve, but his design principles speak volumes about his craft. He focuses on meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that screws are hidden and finishes are flawless. His solutions are often intuitive, backed by a deep knowledge of how things are built and how they should function over time. "It’s about understanding the structure, not just what’s visible," he explains. Despite embracing the evolution of materials and techniques, Fabrice holds firm to his perfectionist tendencies. "I want to sleep at night," he laughs. "If something doesn’t turn out the way I envisioned, I’ll redo it until it’s just right." With Fabrice, every project is a blend of history, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence—a reflection of the extraordinary life he’s lived and the craftsmanship he’s perfected along the way.
“I want to sleep at night. If something doesn’t turn out the way I envisioned, I’ll redo it until it’s just right.”
