Bearwood Mill is a one man operation in Carpinteria, California. Born and raised in Santa Barbara, Ken Ruiz began his artistry of woodworking at the young age of 12. He honed his skills under the tutelage of his father who owned a framing construction company in Southern California. 

 

This artistic gift received public recognition during his years restoring historic adobes in the Santa Barbara area. The most well-known being the El Presidio of Santa Barbara, and the Casa de la Guerra and Ennisbrook adobes. While working closely and collaboratively with the archaeologist for the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation, Ken developed a keen sense and appreciation for primitive and earthen construction. As was the custom during the early construction of these structures, he collected and used timbers from the local mountains. Additionally, for these treasured buildings, he replicated furniture from the 1800s based on items housed at the Santa Barbara Mission.

 

After building his own house at the age of 28, Ken’s career expanded to constructing noteworthy residences on unique and challenging parcels on the Santa Barbara Riviera and surrounding foothills. Each featuring his one-of-a-kind custom enhancements.

 

Ken’s appreciation and love for the structure and function of wood evolved through the years. Through Bearwood Mill Products he melds his passion for the history of each unique piece of wood with its artful form. With his wood mill, he is able to mill his own slabs, and offer clients custom products.