Sustainability
Timber should be harvested responsibly.
Craftsmanship
Timber should be machined precisely and finished properly.
Relationships
Dedicated to long term partnerships and mutual growth.
Freedom & Prosperity
Committed to family, faith, and the blessings of honest work.
Integrity
Guided by the Golden Rule, we act with honesty, predictability, and respect in all we do.
ABOUT US
At 1st Choice Millworks, our story is rooted in family, craftsmanship, and a shared passion for woodworking. Since 2007, we’ve been creating exceptional architectural woodwork. Combining timeless techniques with a commitment to sustainable practices. From humble beginnings to becoming trusted partners for super premium home builders, our journey has been defined by a dedication to quality, relationships, and integrity.
OUR STORY
It all started in 2007 when my dad scored a great deal on some woodworking equipment and decided to offer custom mouldings to local building supply centers in the Coeur d’Alene area. For a decade, he worked tirelessly, building a reputation for reliability and precision. In 2017, I joined him, bringing fresh energy to the business. By 2019, we decided to shift our focus, partnering with super premium home builders to deliver bespoke solutions that elevate high-end homes.
A pivotal moment came in 2023, when a local builder trusted us with a major opportunity in the prestigious Black Rock development in Coeur d’Alene. Pre-finishing exterior cladding for that project opened new doors and solidified our place in the industry. Today, our facility produces nearly a million linear feet of lumber annually, and every stick reflects our commitment to craftsmanship and excellence.
WHY CHOOSE US?
When you choose 1st Choice Millworks, you’re not just offering custom woodwork– you’re supporting local families and helping to strengthen the Coeur d’Alene economy. Every project we wake on reflects our passion for creating exceptional architectural woodwork and our deep commitment to the community we’re proud to call home.
Whether you’re designing a high-end custom home or need specialty millwork, our team is dedicated to delivering results that exceed your expectations. With decades of experience, a focus on sustainability, and a steadfast commitment to integrity, we’re honored to be the trusted partner of the region’s finest builders.
Reliability & Effeciancy
We know your time is valuable. That’s why we prioritize delivering projects on time and within budget without ever compromising on quality. Our proven track record of meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations speaks for itself.
Sustainability Commitment
We care deeply about the environment. Our sustainable practices include offering eco-friendly wood options and optimizing our processes to minimize waste. With us, beauty and responsibility go hand in hand.
Comprehensive Services
From design and fabrication to installation, we handle every stage of your project with consistency and care, ensuring seamless quality control and exceptional results. By choosing 1st Choice Millworks, you’re investing in craftsmanship, collaboration, and customer satisfaction. Let s bring your vision to life with timeless, custom woodwork that reflects your values and enhances your space. Together, we’ll create something extraordinary.
Exceptional Craftsmanship
Each piece we create is a testament to our skilled professionals’ dedication and expertise. We combine traditional woodworking techniques with cutting-edge technology to ensure every product is beautifully crafted, precise, and built to last.
Tailored Solutions
Your vision is our priority. We specialize in creating custom designs that reflect your style and meet your functional needs — whether it’s exterior siding, interior paneling, or specialty millwork, every detail is personalized for you.
Collaborative Approach
We work closely with architects and builder to bring your ideas to life. Transparent communication and a commitment to understanding your needs make the entire process smooth and enjoyable from concept to completion.
When you choose 1st Choice Millworks, you’re investing in a partner who values craftsmanship, collaboration, customer satisfaction. With a reputation for excellence and a passion for woodwork, they bring your vision to life with timeless results.
Ryan & Morgan
Owners, 1st Choice Millworks
Running 1st Choice Millworks is truly a family endeavor. Morgan and I (Ryan) first met in Coeur d’Alene during the summer of 2010. We spent the next six years in San Clemente, California, building our life and family together. Morgan taught at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School in San Juan Capistrano, while I worked for Jay “Sparky” Longley at Rainbow Sandals.
We welcomed our first two daughters, Alice and Lucy, and made the most of beachside living in our cozy two bedroom, one and a half bath apartment. In late 2016, my dad called with an intriguing offer: the chance to take over the family mill shop. With my growing interest in business, the opportunity sparked real curiosity. That winter, we packed up and moved back to Coeur d’Alene with Morgan’s mom Laura in tow.
I apprenticed under Dad for two years, learning the craft and operations hands on, until we finalized the ownership transition in 2019.Since then, I’ve handled the day to day leadership of the company, while Morgan manages the books and finances. In 2024, our family grew again with the arrival of our third daughter, Pearl. Today, we’re proud to lead a talented team that brings precision and passion to every project. We’re deeply grateful for our loyal customers who trust us with their custom millwork, doors, and architectural details.
It’s an honor to see our work leave a lasting mark in the community and we look forward to growing, refining our craft, and serving you even better in the years ahead.
OUR TEAM
Rob Loudenback
Shop Foreman
Eric Olson
Vice President
Mike Good
Moulding Operator
Taylor Glidewell
Finish Specialist
Ben Burke
Operator
Rochelle Rivera
Estimator
OUR PARTNERS
OTHER RESOURCES
THE MOVEMENT OF WOOD
Wood’s natural response to humidity changes is a critical consideration in woodworking. architecture, and construction. As a hygroscopic material, wood…
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LUMBER STORAGE
Proper lumber storage is essential to preserving the quality, appearance, and usability of wood. By storing wood correctly, you can…
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DOOR SWINGS
At 1st Choice Door & Millwork, we offer a wide selection of high-quality pre-hung and slab doors — carefully