Clint Harp Designs: The Enduring Legacy Of Reclaimed Wood Artistry
In the bustling world of home design and renovation, few names resonate with the warmth and authenticity of handcrafted furniture quite like Clint Harp. For many, the mention of "Clint Harp Designs" immediately conjures images of rustic elegance, reclaimed wood, and the unmistakable charm that became synonymous with his work on hit television shows. From his early days as a furniture maker to his rise as a beloved TV personality, Clint Harp, alongside his wife Kelly, built a brand that was about more than just tables and chairs; it was about bringing families together and creating pieces with a story.
This article delves into the journey of Clint Harp, exploring the origins of Harp Design Co., the unique philosophy behind their creations, their meteoric rise to fame, and the eventual, bittersweet decision to close their beloved business. We'll examine the craftsmanship, the vision, and the lasting impact of a company that truly carved out a special place in the hearts and homes of many.
Table of Contents
- The Man Behind the Wood: A Biography of Clint Harp
- The Genesis of Clint Harp Designs: A Dream Built from Reclaimed Wood
- The Fixer Upper Phenomenon: Clint Harp's Rise to Stardom
- The Artistry of Clint Harp Designs: Crafting Stories in Wood
- Harp Design Co.: A Waco Landmark and Beyond
- The Difficult Decision: Why Clint Harp Designs Closed Its Doors
- Beyond Harp Design Co.: Clint Harp's Evolving Journey
- The Lasting Impact of Clint Harp Designs
The Man Behind the Wood: A Biography of Clint Harp
Before Clint Harp became a familiar face on television, before Fixer Upper and national fame, he was a man driven by a desire to create and connect. "My name is Clint Harp, and my wife Kelly and I are the owners of Harp Design Co., a furniture and home goods company based in Waco, Texas," he once shared, introducing himself to a world that would soon fall in love with his craft. His journey into woodworking was not a straightforward one, but rather a winding path that eventually led him to discover his true calling.
From Sales to Sawdust: Clint's Unconventional Path
Clint's professional background is surprisingly diverse, showcasing a man of many talents and experiences. Before starting Harp Design Co., Clint worked in medical sales, a career path far removed from the sawdust and power tools he would later embrace. But even before that, he also worked as a minister and missionary, and even served as an area director for a kids' organization. "I've done so many different things," Clint has reflected, underscoring the varied life experiences that ultimately shaped his unique perspective and hands-on approach to design. These early roles, though seemingly unrelated to furniture making, likely instilled in him a strong sense of purpose, community, and the value of meaningful work – principles that would later become cornerstones of Harp Design Co.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Clint Harp |
| Spouse | Kelly Harp |
| Children | Two (as of available data) |
| Company Founded | Harp Design Co. (2011) |
| Company Location | Waco, Texas |
| Former Professions | Medical Sales, Minister, Missionary, Area Director for Kids' Organization |
| Known For | Furniture maker on HGTV's Fixer Upper, Star of Magnolia Network's Restoration Road, Author, Podcaster |
| Wife's Role at HDC | Designs handmade home goods, manages family, avid reader, coffee drinker, foodie, NPR lover |
The Genesis of Clint Harp Designs: A Dream Built from Reclaimed Wood
The story of Harp Design Co. is one of passion, perseverance, and a profound belief in the beauty of repurposed materials. Founded by Clint and Kelly Harp in 2011, the company began as a custom furniture and decorating business. It was a true dream built from reclaimed wood, a vision born from Clint's innate talent for seeing potential in discarded materials and transforming them into timeless pieces.
The Harps didn't just build furniture; they built a philosophy. Their focus was on bringing families together through high-quality wood tables and home goods. They believed that each piece of handmade furniture could contribute to creating a space where people could connect, laugh, and carve out lasting memories.
Founding Principles: Craft, Community, and Sustainability
From its inception, Harp Design Co. was rooted in a dual focus of creating and giving. This ethos permeated every aspect of their business. Clint Harp designed each piece with a story in mind, often using century-old joinery techniques and, whenever possible, environmentally sustainable items. This commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship set Harp Design Co. apart, making their furniture not just functional but also imbued with character and history.
Kelly Harp played an equally vital role in the company's success. While Clint was the maestro of wood, Kelly designed handmade home goods for HDC, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic that extended beyond the large furniture pieces. Her keen eye for design and her ability to make "everyone in the Harp family look good" were instrumental in shaping the brand's overall appeal. Beyond her design contributions, Kelly is described as a lover of just about anything on NPR, an avid reader, a coffee drinker, and a foodie, highlighting the well-rounded and grounded nature of the couple behind the brand. Together, Clint and Kelly formed Harp Design Co. with a clear mission: to create beautiful, meaningful pieces that fostered connection.
The Fixer Upper Phenomenon: Clint Harp's Rise to Stardom
While Harp Design Co. was steadily building its reputation in Waco, a chance encounter would catapult Clint Harp and his unique craft onto a national stage. Clint Harp, owner of Harp Design Co., became a frequent collaborator of Chip and Joanna Gaines, the stars of HGTV's smash hit, Fixer Upper. For five seasons, Clint Harp served as the carpenter on HGTV’s Fixer Upper with Chip and Joanna Gaines. Viewers got to see him utilize his craftsmanship to make custom, often show-stopping, pieces for the homes being renovated.
Clint quickly became Joanna Gaines's favorite carpenter, and his work became a signature element of many Fixer Upper reveals. He was the person who made all the beautiful wood farm tables and islands for many of the houses on Fixer Upper. His ability to transform raw, reclaimed wood into elegant and functional pieces captivated audiences, making him a beloved figure on the show. The exposure from Fixer Upper was immense, bringing Harp Design Co. into millions of homes across America and creating a significant demand for Clint Harp Designs. The Harps themselves acknowledge that their success from Fixer Upper played a pivotal role in the trajectory of their business and Clint's career.
The Artistry of Clint Harp Designs: Crafting Stories in Wood
What truly set Clint Harp Designs apart was the profound artistry and intentionality behind each piece. Clint didn't just build furniture; he breathed life into wood, giving each creation a unique narrative. Handcrafted using reclaimed wood and century-old joinery techniques, Clint Harp designed each piece with a story in mind. This commitment to traditional methods and sustainable materials resonated deeply with customers seeking furniture that was not only beautiful but also ethically produced and rich in character.
The aesthetic of Clint Harp Designs was distinctly farmhouse chic, yet timeless enough to blend with various decor styles. Whether it was a grand dining table that would become the centerpiece of family gatherings or a custom island that anchored a kitchen, each item bore the unmistakable mark of Clint's skilled hands and thoughtful vision. The pieces were designed to be durable, functional, and beautiful, embodying the company's hope that "each piece of handmade furniture brings people together in your home, carving" out moments and memories. Kelly's handmade home goods complemented Clint's larger furniture pieces, offering a complete design solution that allowed customers to infuse their homes with the signature Harp Design Co. warmth and style.
Harp Design Co.: A Waco Landmark and Beyond
Harp Design Co. was more than just a furniture workshop; it became a destination. Its storefront in Waco, TX, located on 15th Street, was a tangible representation of the brand's commitment to quality and community. For fans of Fixer Upper and those drawn to the charm of Waco, a visit to Harp Design Co. was often a must-do, offering a chance to see Clint Harp Designs up close and perhaps even meet the man himself.
The company also embraced the digital age, with an active website that allowed customers from all over to purchase their unique pieces. For a time, customers could even use a special code, "harp10," for a discount on their orders, making the handcrafted items more accessible. The idea of owning a "Clint Harp original farmhouse" piece or a custom-made item was incredibly appealing to many.
Adding to the Harp Design Co. experience was "The Harp House," the former home of the Harps for over two years. Located next door to Harp Design Co., within one mile of Magnolia Silos and Downtown Waco, and just two miles to McLane Stadium, The Harp House became an Airbnb. This unique offering allowed visitors to truly immerse themselves in the Harp aesthetic and the Waco experience, further solidifying the brand's presence and appeal. Clint is an ace at building, and this extended to creating an inviting and memorable experience for his customers and guests.
The Difficult Decision: Why Clint Harp Designs Closed Its Doors
Despite its immense popularity and success, Clint Harp Designs eventually faced a crossroads. In January 2023, Clint and Kelly made the difficult decision to close Harp Design Co., their beloved furniture business. The announcement was made on the official Harp Design Co. social media channels, where the two stated they came to the decision after "a lot of thought and" consideration. The store officially shut its doors at their 15th Street Waco store on Friday, January 20, 2023, and its website closed at midnight, after being in business for more than a decade. The closure was attributed to a confluence of factors, primarily Clint's expanding career and the sheer demands on his time.
The Weight of Success: New Ventures and Time Constraints
The success from Fixer Upper, while a blessing, also opened new doors for Clint that ultimately led to a significant shift in his professional life. After Fixer Upper came to an end, Clint landed his own show, Restoration Road, on Chip and Joanna’s Magnolia Network in 2021. This new venture required substantial time and commitment, as he traveled across the country to explore historical homes and unique restoration projects.
Beyond television, Clint also hosts his podcast, Man Unmade, which delves into personal growth, faith, and life lessons. Alongside these commitments, there was also the Harp House Airbnb to manage. The Harps candidly admitted that there simply was not enough time for Clint to be on Restoration Road, host his podcast, Man Unmade, work at Harp Design Co., and take care of the Airbnb. The furniture builder's expanding portfolio meant that something had to give. The Harps say their success from Fixer Upper led Clint to close Harp Design Co., allowing him to focus on his new ventures and creative outlets.
The Official Closure: Acknowledging a Decade of Dedication
The closure of Harp Design Co. on January 20, 2023, marked the end of an era for many fans and customers. It was a bittersweet moment, acknowledging more than a decade of dedication to craftsmanship and community. The decision, though difficult, was a strategic one, allowing Clint to fully invest his energy into his new roles and passions. The company made efforts to clear inventory, discontinuing certain items to make room for other great products before the final closure. The sentiment was clear: "Thank you for shopping with Harp Design Co." – a heartfelt farewell to a loyal customer base.
Beyond Harp Design Co.: Clint Harp's Evolving Journey
While Harp Design Co. may have closed its physical and online doors, Clint Harp's journey in media and design continues to evolve. His primary focus now is on Restoration Road, where viewers can watch him explore and restore unique properties, showcasing his deep appreciation for history and craftsmanship on the Magnolia Network. This show allows him to blend his love for woodworking with storytelling and travel, reaching a broader audience with his passion.
His podcast, Man Unmade, offers a more personal and introspective side of Clint, where he shares insights on life, faith, and the challenges of being a modern man. He also presented an inspirational memoir that celebrates meaningful work, turning your passions into purpose. Clint Harp, maverick carpenter on HGTV’s smash hit Fixer Upper and the star of Wood Work on the DIY Network (now part of Magnolia Network programming), has clearly transitioned from primarily a furniture maker to a multifaceted media personality, author, and speaker. Kelly, alongside Clint running Harp Design Co. for years, is now studying psychology, indicating her own evolving interests and pursuits. The couple, with their two kids together, continues to navigate their public and private lives with grace and authenticity.
The Lasting Impact of Clint Harp Designs
Even with the closure of Harp Design Co., the legacy of Clint Harp Designs endures. Clint's work profoundly influenced home aesthetics, popularizing the use of reclaimed wood and emphasizing the value of handcrafted furniture in an era of mass production. His commitment to creating pieces with a story, built with integrity and intended to bring people together, left an indelible mark on the design world and on the homes of countless families.
The company's focus on environmentally sustainable items and century-old joinery techniques highlighted the importance of thoughtful consumption and the beauty of traditional craftsmanship. Clint Harp's journey from medical sales to a celebrated carpenter and media personality serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that passion and hard work can lead to unexpected and fulfilling paths. The "Clint Harp original farmhouse" aesthetic, whether in a dining table or a charcuterie board, remains a symbol of quality, warmth, and the power of design to foster connection. His contributions to Fixer Upper and his subsequent ventures have cemented his place as a significant figure in the home improvement and lifestyle landscape.
Conclusion
The story of Clint Harp Designs is a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and the ability to adapt. From its humble beginnings in Waco, Texas, as Harp Design Co., a dream built from reclaimed wood, to its rise as a nationally recognized brand thanks to Fixer Upper, Clint and Kelly Harp created something truly special. They didn't just sell furniture; they sold the promise of quality, sustainability, and the joy of gathering around a beautifully crafted piece that held a story within its grains.
While the doors of Harp Design Co. may have closed on January 20, 2023, the spirit of Clint Harp Designs lives on through Clint's continued work on Restoration Road, his podcast, and his various creative endeavors. His journey reminds us that true craftsmanship transcends a single business, evolving with the individual. We invite you to share your favorite Clint Harp Designs piece or memory in the comments below. What did his work mean to your home? And if you're curious to see what Clint is up to now, be sure to check out Restoration Road and his podcast, Man Unmade, to continue following his inspiring path.
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Our Photoshoot with Clint Harp Designs - MY 100 YEAR OLD HOME
Our Photoshoot with Clint Harp Designs - MY 100 YEAR OLD HOME
Our photoshoot with clint harp designs – Artofit
