Jim apprenticed in industrial woodworking prior to meeting Simon in 1990 when they were studying furniture design and construction at Sheridan College School of Craft and Design in Oakville, Ontario. While at the college, Simon was awarded the Brian Dines Memorial Award given for demonstration of leadership. Both Jim and Simon won separate juried competitions, through the college, for the design and construction of one-of-a-kind awards for the Oakville Mayor’s Award for Business and the Arts. They both graduated from Sheridan in 1993.

After graduating, Jim further developed his cabinet making skills at several quality custom cabinetry shops, and Simon spent two years building sets for the movie business, both in Toronto.

Simon and Jim currently conduct occasional lectures at Sheridan College’s furniture program. They have also appeared as special guests on HGTV’s “In The Workshop” television show with John Silhouts. In addition, they represent Freud Tools at the International Woodworking Show, demonstrating their extensive line of tools and blades.

Two Degrees North employs a group of skilled builders and graduate cabinetmakers. The 8,000 square foot studio is located on Dufferin Street in downtown Toronto, Ontario.