At NJW Renovations Unlimited, we have the privilege of working with some of the most talented artisans in the industry. One of those experts is Tom Jacob, the creative force behind Columbus Range Hood. With over 35 years of experience, Tom has been crafting custom range hoods that are simply works of art as well as functional kitchen pieces. We recently sat down with him to learn more about his craft, his creative process, and the trends shaping the world of custom range hoods.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
Tom Jacob founded Columbus Range Hood 35 years ago, beginning with restaurant interiors before transitioning into high-end residential work. A graduate of Columbus College of Art & Design and The Ohio State University, Tom has spent decades perfecting the art of interior finishing, creating original, handcrafted pieces from his 1860s farmhouse workshop. His expertise spans a variety of materials, including plaster, wood, metal, copper, brass, stainless steel, zinc, and bronze. Each hood is meticulously designed and manufactured in-house, ensuring that every piece is truly one of a kind.
The Creative Process
When working with new clients, Tom collaborates with architects, designers, and builders, and meets with the homeowner on-site. Inspiration plays a key role—clients often bring design ideas, photos, and personal preferences to the table. From there, Tom conceptualizes a unique hood that complements the home’s aesthetic.
“The hood is the centerpiece of the kitchen,” Tom explained to us. “It’s not just functional—it’s a piece of art. We customize everything, from patinas to finishes, making sure it blends seamlessly into the space. Our clients can see different samples, and we even finalize patinas on-site under the kitchen’s lighting, ensuring they get exactly what they envision.”
Trends in Custom Range Hoods
Tom has noticed a growing trend toward bold, statement-making range hoods. Brass has become a particularly popular choice, often accented with zinc or brass strapping. Homeowners are gravitating toward large, eye-catching designs that complement their overall kitchen aesthetic.
“I’ve worked on enameled black wood-metal combinations, cobalt blue hoods, and stainless steel finishes,” Tom shared with us. “We tailor each design to the kitchen, making sure every element works together harmoniously.”
Preparing for a Custom Hood
For homeowners looking to invest in a custom range hood, Tom recommends researching design sites, Pinterest, and other resources to gather inspiration. Having a clear vision helps ensure a seamless collaboration and a final product that aligns with their aesthetic and functional needs.
A Trusted Partnership with NJW Renovations Unlimited
Tom has worked with our design-build home remodeling team for over 20 years, forming a trusted partnership built on quality and reliability.
“NJW is great to work with. They have a solid process, keep scheduling tight, and their clients love them,” Tom said. “When you work with a team you trust, it’s like a dance—we know what to expect from each other, and everything falls into place.”
The Reward of Craftsmanship
For Tom, the most satisfying part of his work is seeing the finished product exceed client expectations.
“I once worked with a client who was extremely particular and always found something to critique. But when they saw their finished range hood, they said, ‘You knocked this out of the ballpark.’ That moment made it all worth it.”
We are proud to collaborate with experts like Tom Jacob, who bring passion and artistry to every project. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping range hood or a full kitchen renovation, we’re here to bring your vision to life.