I’m Joe Tokarsky, the founder, owner, and lead craftsperson of Compass Preservation.

The Traditional Trades run deep for me. From the literal translation of the Slovak word Tokar (Lathe), to a lifetime of living in, learning about, working on, and appreciating historic buildings - my work is a direct link to what has been too often ignored in this era of planned obsolescence.

Compass Preservation is part of a movement of working people educated in the Traditional Trades, and committed to the principles of historic preservation, environmental responsibility, affordability, and a pursuit of the skills, knowledge, and common sense too often ignored by the modern building industry.

With these principles in mind, I welcome you to my unique world of artisanry and thank you for inviting me on this journey of discovery and connection to your historic building.

Thanks,