In Greenport, a creative mother-son team is turning salvaged wood and vintage hardware into something both stylish and functional. North Fork Coolers, the brainchild of Jade Eckardt and her 15-year-old son Kaulualoha Aipa, brings new life to reclaimed materials through handcrafted patio coolers that are anything but ordinary.
The duo sources wood from old fences, furniture, and scrap piles, while hardware—often eye-catching brass and copper—is picked up at local yard sales. Each piece is assembled by hand in their home workshop using Eckardt’s grandfather’s vintage workbench, blending family legacy with sustainable design. The only new part? The cooler insert itself, for sanitary reasons.
What began as a small side project has quickly become a passion, especially during the slower winter months. With no prior building experience, they learned through YouTube tutorials and inspiration from a family friend. Their coolers are now available via Etsy or by direct order, and each one can be customized—from the wood finish to shelving and counter space.
Rooted in sustainability and creativity, North Fork Coolers offers more than just summer-ready drink stations. It’s a story of shared purpose, resourcefulness, and a fresh take on craftsmanship in the heart of the North Fork.
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