ABOUT
WHO WE ARE
Blackburl Works creates one-of-one functional objects shaped by material, landscape, and deliberate design.
Each piece begins with carefully selected hardwoods, reclaimed materials, and fragments of skateboards that carry a history of their own. Through handwork, precision, and restraint, these materials are transformed into objects designed to be used, lived with, and kept.
Inspired by mountain ridgelines, shifting water, geological layers, and the quiet forms created by time, these influences appear throughout the work in sculptural forms, flowing lines, layered materials, and subtle reveals of reclaimed skateboard veneer.
The skateboard is never intended to overwhelm the piece. It becomes a trace of what came before—a flash of colour, a line through the landscape, or a detail discovered only on closer inspection.
Every object is designed and made by hand in Fernie, British Columbia. Some pieces are created in small collections. Others exist only once.
Blackburl exists somewhere between woodworking, functional design, and art—creating objects that are distinctive without being loud, refined without becoming precious, and made to be kept.
PURPOSE BEYOND THE OBJECT
Blackburl believes that strength includes the willingness to speak openly about mental health.
Men are often expected to carry difficult things quietly. Through Blackburl, I want to support organizations and initiatives working to improve men's mental health, reduce stigma, and make it easier for men to seek help when they need it.
As Blackburl grows, giving back to men's mental health initiatives will remain part of what the brand stands for.
THE MAKER
Blackburl Works was founded by Brad Filgate, a career firefighter and craftsman based in Fernie, British Columbia.
Working as a firefighter has shaped the values behind Blackburl: patience, discipline, attention to detail, and an appreciation for the things that endure.
The workshop became a place to work with my hands, explore ideas, and create objects with purpose outside of the fire service. Over time, that practice evolved into Blackburl Works.
The work remains intentionally small-scale. Every piece passes through my hands—from the first cut and initial composition to the final sanding, finish, and inspection.
OUR VALUES
Intentional Craftsmanship
Every decision matters—from the selection of materials and composition of a piece to the final surface and finish.
Material Integrity
Natural variation, grain, colour, and evidence of a material's previous life are respected and incorporated into the design.
Reclaimed, Elevated
Reclaimed materials are not used as a novelty. They are transformed with restraint into considered elements of the finished object.
Originality
Blackburl does not mass produce identical objects. Every piece carries variations in material, composition, and process that make it uniquely its own.
Function as Art
Objects should earn their place in a home through both their usefulness and their presence.
Purpose Beyond the Object
Blackburl believes good work can contribute to something larger. Supporting men's mental health and encouraging more open conversations around mental well-being are part of the values we intend to carry forward.
Continue The Story
Contact us
Have a question, interested in a piece, or considering custom work? Get in touch using the form below. We’ll respond as soon as we can.