I'm a freelance developer working as Quellabs, specializing in PHP and JavaScript. I've spent nearly 20 years modernizing legacy systems and building tools that bring structure to unstructured codebases.
Available for contract work — particularly projects where the "just rewrite it" answer isn't realistic or desirable.
I maintain several open-source tools that reflect how I approach problems:
Canvas - PHP framework for legacy integration. Lets you add modern architecture incrementally without torching your existing codebase.
ObjectQuel - ORM alternative using QUEL-inspired syntax. Data Mapper pattern, no magic methods, actually readable queries.
WakaPAC - JavaScript reactivity without the ceremony. Inspired by KnockoutJS, React and Vue.
Discover - Automatic service provider discovery for PHP. Eliminates manual registration boilerplate.
Sculpt - CLI toolkit that powers the rest of the ecosystem.
Most frameworks optimize for getting started quickly, then become obstacles. I build for what happens after month three:
- Explicit over clever - You shouldn't need to read framework source to understand your own code
- Incremental modernization - Legacy systems have value; replacement isn't always the answer
- Rejection of magic - If you can't trace how it works, you can't fix it when it breaks
Through Quellabs, I take on projects involving:
- Legacy modernization - Adding structure to aging codebases without full rewrites
- Custom tooling - Building frameworks/libraries specific to your problem domain
- Architecture consulting - Technical decision-making for long-term maintainability
If you're stuck with a system that works but can't grow, or need someone who won't immediately suggest starting over, let's talk.
📍 Haarlem, Netherlands
🌐 canvasphp.com
🐦 @quellabs