Michael Burrey is a timber-frame joinery specialist renowned for his expertise in 17th-century building techniques, including roof thatching, interior wall construction, and historic paint finishes. After earning a degree in Early American and Colonial Life, he served as an Interpretive Artisan at Plimoth Plantation, blending research with hands-on interpretation of colonial craftsmanship.
In 1999, Michael founded MLB Restorations, focusing on restoring historic buildings and designing sustainable structures rooted in traditional craftsmanship. His work on significant historic preservation projects has established him as a leader in the field. Michael was selected in 2014 to restore the Tower of London and, more recently, contributed to the restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral after its 2019 fire. Collaborating with Handshouse Studio and French carpentry firm Asselin, he helped reconstruct the Cathedral’s iconic timber spire, which debuted during its December 2024 reopening.
Michael’s work has been featured by CNN, Elle Decor, and The Boston Globe, celebrating his role in preserving and restoring some of the world’s most treasured landmarks.