What we do

Custom Furniture: Bespoke tables, chairs, beds, and cabinetry designed for your home.

Commercial Millwork: Custom designed and built pieces for office spaces, storefronts, and commercial interiors.

Woodworking Classes: Whether you're just beginning or refining your skill, our classes are tailored to bring your own design to life in a fully equipped and inspiring studio environment.

A glass of beer with a logo reading 'al beautiful brewing' is on a long wooden bar counter, with empty green and black chairs along the bar in a bar or brewery setting.
Close-up of a wooden chair with a small black logo or initials on the side, illuminated by sunlight.

About the Artist

A man with a beard wearing a white t-shirt and a stained apron stands at a workbench in a woodworking shop, looking at a notebook and writing with a pencil.

Michael Joseph Carlyle Holton is a master furniture designer and maker, born and raised in Calgary, Alberta. His journey into woodworking began in high school, where a passion for craftsmanship began. Eager to refine his skills, Michael pursued formal education and excelled in the Fine Woodworking Program at Selkirk College in Nelson, British Columbia.


The name "Joseph Carlyle Designs" is more than just a brand; it’s a tribute to Michael’s heritage, honoring both of his grandfathers. This deep respect for tradition is reflected in the meticulous attention to detail and timeless quality of his distinctive designs.

A man with dark curly hair and a beard concentrating as he works on crafting a piece of wood in a woodworking shop.
A smooth, polished wooden heart-shaped object resting on a wooden workbench with drilled holes.

New Works in Wood - Southern Alberta Woodworkers' Society

Canadian Furniture Exhibition - Featured "Executive Desk" for a nationwide tour

Wood Canada - International Wood Collectors Society Annual Meeting

With over two decades of professional experience, Michael's creations have been celebrated on both national and international stages. His work has been exhibited in prestigious venues, including:

Curriculum Vitae

Celebrated In These Publications

Joseph Carlyle Designs

6604 Bowwood Drive SW mholton@josephcarlyle.com (403) 818-4224