By working with local tree companies and Marborg, Seaborn uses the trees that would otherwise be thrown away. The salvaged trees can be milled lumber with or without natural edges. Seaborn Designs turns these recycled trees into custom woodworking that cannot be found anywhere else. Monterey Cyprus, Black Acacia and California Redwood become epic counter tops, tables and cabinets. A fine display is at El Capitan Canyon Store. Completely natural all the way through, the good vibe of the place starts with the work Seaborn Designs did.

Everything moves in waves John tells me: sound and light, the ocean and tides. Everything revolves around the ocean so he focuses his designs to reflect the grace of the waves. This doesn’t mean that when the waves are good he’s gone surfing. He’s grateful for the time he has spent in the water and just being by the coast. And it’s this time spent that shows in his work.

Custom

An accomplished artist, John is able to adapt his skills to fit the needs of each client and still express his own emotion. Frames are his favorite type of work to create. The interaction of complimenting another artist’s unique look with his frames brings both forms of artwork to another level. An original example is at the Natural Café on lower State Street. Surf photography with a natural edged frame becomes something else; it’s unreal.

Inspirations

Randy Cone and Brad Johnson are the first of John’s inspirations to come to mind. Brad has really influenced the lifestyle of surfing. He shapes his own boards and for others as well. He gets his work done like everyone else, the difference is he’s surfing more than most and enjoying the time now rather than waiting until retirement to have a good time.
Another surfer/craftsman inspiration is Randy Cone. John watched and learned from Randy the process of working with tools and creating functional sculptures. The transition to woodworking became a natural one. No chemicals. Wood became the medium of choice because it doesn’t have the unfortunate side effects of working with resin and foam.

Family

Born and raised in Goleta, and soon to be married, John Birchim feels really blessed to live in the Good Land. He has raised two beautiful daughters and he’s stoked to see them follow his footsteps in this amazing place. He gives thanks every day and keeps things positive.

Future

John is also focused on starting a real estate career to help people afford land and stay in town. In combination with a background in sustainable living, it looks like John will be here for a few more generations and make it a little nicer along the way.