About
McMillan started making cabinets in 1987, as a part of a residential construction and remodeling firm. We set out on our own in 1994, to serve a wider audience.
BEGINNINGS
In 1987, Steve McMillan started a quality-focused residential remodeling and general contracting business out of a small space in Dogtown, not far from the old St. Louis Arena.
Not satisfied with the cabinets available on the market, he decided to set up his own shop. So Steve hired a cabinetmaker (actually, a guitar-maker!) and then another, and another. They did good work, and the cabinet shop soon earned a reputation on its own.
The Last 20 Years
In to serve a wider audience, McMillan Cabinetmakers became its own company in 1995. Since then, we have been building cabinets for contractors, architects, designers, and homeowners all over the St. Louis area.
Steve McMillan, Owner
Steve’s love for architecture and fine art began in his childhood years. He received his degree in fine art with an emphasis in architecture, and after school went to work in the construction industry. Between school and work he developed many skills, and he wears many hats which help him be successful. “After 40 years of working, I still retain that passion and love for great design and the process of cabinetmaking that brings a sense of great personal satisfaction.”
Apart from being a contractor and designer, Steve gives back to the community in several ways. The Nature Conservancy is a non-profit organization that strives to protect our lands, water, animals, and other natural resources. Steve has been serving on the board of trustees for 15 years and continues to stay involved with this wonderful organization. Another non-profit organization is the Central Institute for the Deaf. This institute focuses on “teaching children that are deaf and hard of hearing to listen, talk and read.” Steve has been on the board of trustees for 8 years and continues to volunteer his time with them. For more information about these organizations please refer to the links provided.
https://cid.edu/
https://www.nature.org/
Dave Scheu, Designer
Dave developed an interest in woodworking and furniture design while studying architecture at Washington University, and upon graduating he went to work for a craft furniture-maker, intending to approach architectural design from the bottom up. Dave learned the trade working in several custom wood and metal shops before joining McMillan in 1994. As a cabinet designer, he draws on his architectural design background as well as his hands-on experience with the materials and methods, to design cabinets and spaces that are not just beautiful and functional, but also properly put together. As someone who loves to cook, Dave particularly enjoys designing kitchens.
When he’s not working, Dave is likely to be on his bicycle. As well as riding to and from work each day, he enjoys long-distance rides, and is slowly working towards his dream of riding across all 50 states. (Four down, forty-six to go). Since 2008 Dave has also ridden to raise money for the National MS Society each fall.
Ellen Beggs, 
Designer
Ellen’s woodworking interest was also sparked in college and graduate school building architectural models while getting her architecture degree at Washington University and the University of Michigan. Ellen’s first career was as an architect working in commercial architecture. In 2019, Ellen happily transitioned to residential cabinet design where she enjoys the design challenges and direct contact with the end users and seeing her projects being built right in our shop.
Ellen enjoys tending her garden or planning her next travel adventure when she’s not at work. She spends some free time tutoring elementary students as a volunteer for AmeriCorps.