TAMPA - Ever since he was a little boy, Chris Davenport loved to build things with Legos and erector sets.
As he grew older, he spent time working with his dad, a carpenter, and then took welding classes in high school. While in college studying engineering, he joined the U.S. Army in 2009.
After serving in Afghanistan and Germany, he finished his degree in electrical engineering. Then he entered the corporate world for four years.
"I didn't feel like there was a greater purpose to anything I was doing," Davenport said. "Not being fulfilled at work, I kind of rekindled my passion for building stuff in my spare time. I'd much rather be working with my hands."
Davenport started building and selling custom bars and wine racks online and had great success. Next, he did some projects for Six Ten Brewery and positive word of mouth led to more business.
"It took off fairly quickly," said Davenport, owner.
In February, Davenport decided to leave the office behind and launch his custom furniture and bar business full-time. Raise the Bar Design features hand made wood and metal bars, wine racks, and furniture.
Davenport currently sells his designs at local beer festivals and farmers markets, but is looking for a space to open up a shop. Once open, his goal is to hire fellow veterans.
"I want to do something to give back," said Davenport.
For more information about Raise the Bar Design, call (606) 344-4406 or visit facebook/raisethebardesign.
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