In a world of fast fixes and prefab everything, webber Coleman Woodworks stands out by proving that craftsmanship, collaboration and a deep sense of place still matter.
Its story starts more than a decade ago, in 2011, when two custom cabinet shops in Watkinsville and Athens, Georgia, merged to become one company. Prior to the merger, The Cabinet Man and Coleman Cabinets had operated independently under the leadership of Dan Webber and Bill Claxton, respectively—both of whom had taken the helm of their well-established shops from the founding owners. What the two men envisioned with their newly formed, collaborative company was a business rooted in craftsmanship, community and family values. That ethos carried them to success over the next nine years, until a new generation rose to carry on the legacy.
In 2020, Webber’s daughter Jessica took over operations, bringing a fresh perspective while maintaining the deep commitment to design excellence that has been a part of Webber Coleman Woodworks since day one. “Our tagline is ‘Always raising the bar with unique designs, quality finished product and superb customer interaction’—and that is a standard we hold ourselves to every day,” says Jessica Webber of the company culture and what sets them apart.
“Unique designs mean every project starts with your story,” she explains. “We listen first, then design with intention, blending creativity with functionality to create spaces that truly reflect the people who live in them. A quality finished product is nonnegotiable. From the materials we select to the craftsmanship that goes into every cabinet, we hold ourselves to the highest standards because we know these aren’t just cabinets—they’re a part of your daily life. Our customer interaction is how we build trust. We guide clients through the process with clear communication, transparency and care. Whether it’s a client’s first project or their fifth with us, we’re committed to making the experience just as excellent as the final result. Ultimately, these values shape how we design, build and serve—always with excellence in mind.”
Within the scope of a new build or a complete home renovation, cabinetry is an important detail that isn’t always given the focus it should have. Webber, however, believes that to be a missed opportunity in creating a more dynamic design. “Cabinetry is often the most-used and most-seen element in a home. It sets the tone for how a space feels and functions. Well-designed cabinetry can transform not just a room but how you live in it—whether it’s a kitchen that brings people together, a bathroom that infuses peace at the end of the day or a mudroom that keeps chaos at bay,” she says. “Investing in quality cabinetry is investing in the heart of your home. We encourage the homeowners we work with to focus on areas that see daily use—kitchens, bathrooms and mudrooms. Custom solutions in these spaces can significantly enhance both functionality and property value. I always think about what will make their lives better. It is also important to make sure the spaces work for you personally and that they are not just a cool trend on Pinterest or something you saw on Instagram.”
While trends are a point of focus, Webber Coleman prioritizes timeless appeal in each of its projects. Trends are, by definition, fleeting and disposable, while the company’s cabinetry is built not to be. “Balancing timeless design with modern trends involves careful consideration of materials, finishes and layouts,” Webber says. “We guide clients through choices that reflect current styles while ensuring longevity. Our goal is to create spaces that fit the function and style that speaks most to the client. We also make sustainability integral to our process by sourcing materials responsibly, optimizing production to minimize waste and designing with longevity in mind. By creating durable, timeless pieces, we reduce the need for frequent replacements, contributing to environmental stewardship.”
Design trends aren’t the only thing that has changed over the last 10 years of Webber Coleman’s operation. “Over the past decade, cabinetry and woodwork have evolved with technological advancements and changing design trends,” Webber says. “We’ve embraced these changes by integrating modern tools and expanding our services. For example, we have added commercial laminate cabinetry through the acquisition of Cappy’s Custom Cabinets in 2023. But some things—the most important things—remain the same, and the most important thing we do is listen to our clients and design solutions just for them.”
Listening to clients and custom designing solutions for their spaces is part of what sets Webber Coleman apart. Naturally, its work comes with challenges as the design and construction teams work with clients to navigate the space in each project and address their individual needs and desires. “Our delight comes in collaboratively creating a space that feels both timeless and tailored to the client’s lifestyle,” says Webber.
That collaborative process begins with an in-depth consultation with each potential client to understand their individual vision and needs as well as the space within the home. Next, the design team at Webber Coleman works to develop detailed plans using CAD software, creating a more complete picture that allows the client to visualize the final product in their home. After design is complete and approved, the plans go into production at the Georgia-based manufacturing facility, where skilled craftsmen build each piece of cabinetry with precision and care.
Then, of course, comes the best part of the process: delivery to the client. “At delivery and installation, we coordinate with the client’s schedule to ensure a smooth installation process,” says Webber. “Once everything is installed in place, we conduct a final walk-through to ensure every detail meets our high standards and the client’s expectations.”
It’s a far cry from prefab installation from big-box stores, where customer satisfaction is given little weight once the cabinets have been delivered. But then again, custom work like this is an art.
“Our work is something that definitely requires precision and artistry—both of which are nurtured through continuous training and a culture of excellence within the company,” Webber explains. “Our team includes certified designers and experienced craftsmen who collaborate closely, ensuring each project reflects our commitment to quality and creativity. Continuous growth is one of our core values, and we are always learning, exploring new products and leaning into how we can better serve our clients.”
Those core values feed into their reputation for quality, just as their deep ties to the community help strengthen their position in the industry and ensure their longevity as a company. “Being a long-time local business in the Athens/Watkinsville/Lake Oconee area shapes our approach to service and community engagement,” says Webber. “We have been here for many years and plan to be here for many more years ahead. We go to church with our clients, run into them at the ball field or the grocery store. We value the relationships we’ve built over the years and take pride in contributing to the homes and lives of our neighbors. When we reflect on the legacy of Webber Coleman Woodworks, we hope to be remembered for our unwavering commitment to quality, our dedication to clients and our role in crafting spaces that enhance everyday life.” *
Liesel Schmidt lives in Navarre, Florida, and works as a freelance writer for local and regional magazines. She is also a web content writer and book editor. Follow her on X at @laswrites or download her novels, Coming Home to You, The Secret of Us and Life Without You, at amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.
