Our Work

Chicago, IL — The Joinery Company and Plankmaker reclaimed over 12 million board feet of heart pine timber from the historic Sears & Roebuck Complex in Chicago, one of the largest wooden structures ever built.

Built in 1905 and completed in 1906, the Sears complex spanned two city blocks and featured 5 million square feet of floor space. This architectural marvel housed over 9,000 employees at its opening and later grew to employ 22,000 workers at its peak, fulfilling millions of orders annually for what was famously called the “World’s Largest Store.”

The complex, celebrated for its size and innovative post-and-beam design, stood as a testament to early 20th-century engineering. By 1995, The Joinery Company and Plankmaker had salvaged the largest collection of heart pine timbers in history, transforming these materials into premium wide plank flooring, custom millwork, cabinets, and fine furniture.

Today, this reclaimed wood preserves the legacy of the Sears & Roebuck Complex, bringing its history into homes and businesses nationwide.