In August 2026, Paul Brydges marked 50 years with Laurysen Kitchens. He joined the company in 1976, just six years after it was founded, and he has been part of nearly every chapter of our story since.
When we shared the milestone on social media, the response went well beyond anything we expected. Former colleagues, past clients, and friends filled the comments with congratulations and memories, many about the difference Paul has made in their homes, careers, and lives. Fifty years of dedication, craftsmanship, and knowledge is something few people ever achieve, and Paul is truly special to all of us at Laurysen.
Where It All Began
Paul’s journey began when he was hired by Laurysen Kitchens founder John Laurysen, learning the craft alongside the cabinet makers in the original Laurysen shop. He started in cabinet assembly, and his natural talent soon shone through.
Some of the people who worked beside him in those early years are still part of Laurysen today. Caroline Castrucci, now our CEO, shared a memory from when she was just a teenager:
“Congratulations, Paul! I still remember making drawer boxes alongside you in my early teens. It’s a great honour to have you on our team.”
Caroline Castrucci, CEO, Laurysen Kitchens
From the Specials Department to the Customer’s Home
Over the years, Paul moved into commercial millwork and specialty projects, spending many years in the Specials Department creating unique and challenging pieces. Eventually, he began installing many of the special cabinets he’d built himself, bringing his craftsmanship full circle from the shop to the customer’s home.
Few people get to see their work from both sides of the business: the precision it takes to build a piece, and what it means to a homeowner once it’s finally in place. Paul has spent decades doing both.
The Name Customers Ask For
Today, Paul is an invaluable member of our Service Department. If anyone knows a Laurysen kitchen inside and out, it’s Paul. His knowledge and experience, paired with a real gift for solving problems, are something both our team and our customers rely on.
Many of our customers request him by name. Once you’ve worked with him, you understand why. His attention to detail and his commitment to getting everything just right have earned him the trust of countless homeowners over the years:
“Congratulations, Paul! As a former client, I appreciate your workmanship and attention to detail!”
Harriet S., former client
“Paul worked on cabinets at our home! He was a pleasure and extremely professional! Congrats, Paul! What a wonderful celebration.”
Elisa F., former client
A Bigger Impact Than He Realizes
Fifty years in one place means generations of colleagues have learned from Paul. Adam, who worked alongside him nearly 25 years ago, shared a memory that has stayed with him ever since:
“You were incredibly knowledgeable and always willing to take the time to teach anyone, all while staying calm no matter what was thrown your way… One thing that always stuck with me was that you never complained about a problem; you simply found a solution. I never forgot that, and it’s something I’ve carried with me throughout my own career. You’ve had a bigger impact on people than you probably realize!”
Adam P., former colleague
Sharon summed up what many people were thinking:
“We knew it was a long time, but ‘WOW’… way to go! Most businesses in the future will never be able to say they had employees that have worked for that long.”
Sharon L.
Thank You, Paul
Half a century is an extraordinary achievement. Paul’s skill is seen in countless Laurysen projects, and his influence lives on in the knowledge and craftsmanship he’s shared with those who’ve worked beside him. We’re incredibly proud and fortunate to have Paul as part of the Laurysen Kitchens team.
Congratulations, Paul, on this amazing milestone, and thank you for 50 years of craftsmanship.
Paul is an important part of our history. Discover how Laurysen Kitchens has grown since 1970:
