Harp Design Co: A Legacy Of Craftsmanship & Community

Kelley Reinger 18 Jun 2025

In the heart of Waco, Texas, a story of dedication, artistry, and community unfolded through the journey of Harp Design Co. More than just a furniture store, it became a beacon of handcrafted quality, a testament to the power of reclaimed wood, and a beloved fixture in homes across the nation. Founded by Clint and Kelly Harp, this unique venture, made famous by its frequent collaborations with Chip and Joanna Gaines on HGTV, carved out a distinctive niche, offering pieces that were not merely functional but imbued with character and meaning. Their commitment to creating beautiful, lasting furniture and home goods resonated deeply with customers seeking authenticity and a touch of the extraordinary for their living spaces.

From its humble beginnings to becoming a nationally recognized brand, Harp Design Co exemplified the spirit of American craftsmanship. This article delves into the rich history, the enduring philosophy, and the bittersweet farewell of a company that left an indelible mark on the design world and the lives of countless individuals. We'll explore the vision of Clint and Kelly Harp, the unique appeal of their handcrafted pieces, and the lasting legacy of a business built on passion, purpose, and unparalleled artistry.

The Enduring Legacy of Harp Design Co

For over a decade, Harp Design Co stood as a symbol of bespoke quality and heartfelt design. It was a place where furniture wasn't just made; it was meticulously crafted, each piece telling a story of its origins and the hands that shaped it. The company's philosophy, deeply rooted in the dual focus of "creating and giving," ensured that every item, from grand farmhouse tables to intricate charcuterie boards, carried a sense of purpose beyond mere utility. Their work filled homes across the United States and even abroad, bringing warmth and character through items handmade with love and precision.

The distinctive style of Harp Design Co, characterized by the use of reclaimed wood and century-old joinery techniques, set them apart in a market often dominated by mass-produced goods. Clint Harp, the visionary behind many of the designs, approached each creation with a story in mind, ensuring that the finished product would not only serve its function but also add a unique narrative to a home. This commitment to artisanal quality and meaningful design is a core aspect of their enduring legacy, resonating with customers who valued authenticity and the timeless beauty of handcrafted items.

Who Are Clint & Kelly Harp?

At the heart of Harp Design Co were its founders, Clint and Kelly Harp, a couple whose passion for design and community became the driving force behind their successful enterprise. Their journey from relative obscurity to national recognition is a testament to their talent, perseverance, and genuine connection with their audience.

From HGTV Fame to Furniture Empire

Clint and Kelly Harp gained widespread fame through their frequent appearances on HGTV's hit show, Fixer Upper, where Clint's woodworking skills and amiable personality quickly made him a fan favorite. His collaborations with Chip and Joanna Gaines, transforming dilapidated houses into dream homes, showcased his incredible talent for creating custom, handcrafted furniture that perfectly complemented the Gaines' signature farmhouse style. This exposure catapulted Harp Design Co into the national spotlight, drawing attention to their Waco, Texas storefront and online shop.

The company, which was made famous by the HGTV show, quickly became a destination for fans and design enthusiasts alike. While much smaller in size than Magnolia Market and not nearly as crowded, Harp Design Co offered a more intimate and personal shopping experience, allowing visitors to see the craftsmanship firsthand. This direct connection to their audience, fostered through television and their physical presence in Waco, was instrumental in building their brand and loyal customer base.

The Heart Behind the Handcrafts

Beyond the television fame, Clint and Kelly Harp were driven by a profound philosophy. They founded Harp Design Co with the dual focus of creating and giving, believing that each piece of handmade furniture should bring people together and add character to a home. Their great hope was that these handcrafted items would become cherished parts of family life, passed down through generations. This ethos permeated every aspect of their business, from the selection of reclaimed wood to the meticulous joinery techniques employed by their team of craftsmen and designers.

Their dedication extended beyond just furniture. The Harps were deeply involved in their community, with their former home, The Harp House, located right next door to Harp Design Co. This proximity to their business and the community, within a mile of Magnolia Silos and downtown Waco, and just two miles from McLane Stadium/Baylor, underscored their commitment to the local fabric. Clint and Kelly's personal touch and their genuine desire to build something meaningful were evident in every piece they created, making Harp Design Co not just a business, but a reflection of their values.

The Craftsmanship of Harp Design Co: More Than Just Furniture

At its core, Harp Design Co was a team of craftsmen and designers, always looking to build something that would provide meaning and add character to a home. Their commitment to quality and unique design was evident in every product they offered, from large custom pieces to smaller, curated home goods.

Reclaimed Wood and Timeless Techniques

The hallmark of Harp Design Co's furniture was its construction using reclaimed wood and century-old joinery techniques. This approach not only gave each piece a unique aesthetic but also contributed to its durability and sustainability. Clint Harp designed each piece with a story in mind, often incorporating the history of the reclaimed materials into the narrative of the furniture itself. This commitment to using historical methods and materials meant that every table, bench, or cabinet was not just new, but also carried a piece of the past, adding depth and authenticity to any space.

If you were looking for a quality, handcrafted, wooden table to be the staple of your home, Harp Design Co was a premier destination. Their selection of handmade wooden tables by Clint Harp was renowned for its robust construction and timeless appeal. These weren't just tables; they were gathering places, designed to withstand the test of time and become central to family memories.

Curated Home Goods: Beyond the Table

While their custom handmade furniture, particularly their farmhouse tables, was a significant draw, Harp Design Co also offered a wide array of curated home goods. This included everything from charcuterie boards and rolling pins to planters and decor for your tablescape. All handcrafted by Clint Harp and his team, these items extended the company's aesthetic beyond large furniture pieces, allowing customers to bring the unique Harp Design Co touch into every corner of their homes.

Their selection of high-quality wood pieces, including charcuterie boards, planters, and more, showcased their versatility and commitment to functional beauty. Whether you were looking for a small accent piece or a grand statement, Harp Design Co had what you needed for your kitchen and beyond, ensuring that every item was not only beautiful but also practical and made with the same dedication to craftsmanship.

Harp Design Co's Impact on Waco, Texas

The presence of Harp Design Co significantly contributed to the revitalization and popularity of Waco, Texas. Located at 808 N 15th Street, their storefront became a key attraction for tourists visiting the city, often in conjunction with a trip to Magnolia Market. The physical store offered a tangible experience of their brand, allowing visitors to see, touch, and appreciate the handcrafted quality of their products firsthand.

The store's location, nestled near other popular Waco landmarks, made it an accessible and integral part of the city's burgeoning tourism industry. For many, Harp Design Co was a must-visit, offering a unique shopping experience that celebrated local craftsmanship and the charm of Waco. Their impact went beyond just sales; they fostered a sense of pride in local artistry and contributed to the city's identity as a hub for design and home decor.

The Bittersweet Farewell: Closing Doors, Lasting Impression

In a poignant announcement, Clint and Kelly Harp shared the emotional news that they were closing the doors to Harp Design Co, their beloved furniture and home goods business in Waco. After a lot of thought and consideration, the decision was made to shut its doors at their 15th Street Waco store and close its website. The announcement stated that the store would shutter its doors next Friday, and its website would close at midnight that day as well, with the company no longer accepting any new orders.

This news marked the end of an era for many loyal customers and fans. For over a decade, the Harps had been fortunate enough to fill homes across the United States—and even abroad—with products they made and loved. The closure was a bittersweet moment, acknowledging the immense opportunity they had been given to share their passion and craftsmanship with the world. While the physical storefront and online presence ceased operations, the legacy of quality, purpose, and community that Harp Design Co embodied continues to resonate with those who cherished their work.

What Made Harp Design Co Unique?

Several factors contributed to the distinctive identity and success of Harp Design Co, setting it apart in the competitive world of home furnishings:

Authentic Craftsmanship: Unlike mass-produced items, every piece from Harp Design Co was handcrafted, often using reclaimed wood and traditional joinery techniques. This commitment to authenticity ensured that each item was unique and built to last.
Story-Driven Design: Clint Harp designed each piece with a story in mind, giving the furniture a soul and a narrative that customers could connect with. This personal touch elevated the pieces beyond mere objects.
Community Focus: The Harps' philosophy of "creating and giving" extended to their local community. Their physical presence in Waco and their engagement with visitors created a strong sense of connection.
HGTV Exposure: Their collaboration with Chip and Joanna Gaines on Fixer Upper provided unparalleled exposure, bringing their brand to millions of homes and establishing their reputation for quality and design.
Personal Touch: Clint and Kelly Harp were the public face of the company, and their genuine passion and warm personalities endeared them to customers, making the brand feel more personal and trustworthy.
Curated Selection: Beyond large furniture, their curated collection of smaller home goods allowed customers to bring the Harp Design Co aesthetic into various aspects of their lives, making their style accessible.

Beyond Harp Design Co: The Future of Craft & Design

The closure of Harp Design Co, while marking an end, also prompts reflection on the broader landscape of craft and design. The success of the Harps' business highlighted a significant consumer demand for authentic, handcrafted items that tell a story. In an increasingly digital and mass-produced world, there remains a deep appreciation for the human touch, for objects that carry the warmth of skilled hands and thoughtful design.

The principles that guided Harp Design Co—sustainability through reclaimed materials, the preservation of traditional woodworking techniques, and the creation of meaningful pieces—are more relevant than ever. As consumers become more conscious about the origins and impact of their purchases, businesses that prioritize ethical sourcing, artisanal quality, and genuine connection are likely to thrive. The legacy of Harp Design Co will undoubtedly continue to inspire new generations of craftsmen and designers to pursue their passions with integrity and a focus on creating lasting value.

Lessons from Harp Design Co: Building a Brand with Purpose

The journey of Harp Design Co offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. It demonstrates that a brand built on authenticity, quality, and a clear purpose can resonate deeply with consumers. Clint and Kelly Harp proved that it's possible to scale a handcrafted business while maintaining its core values and personal touch.

Their story is a powerful reminder that at its core, Harp Design Co was a team of craftsmen and designers, always looking to build something that would provide meaning and add character to a home. This unwavering commitment to their mission, combined with their talent and the visibility gained through HGTV, allowed them to create a beloved brand that extended far beyond Waco. Even as their doors close, the impact of Harp Design Co as a model for purposeful entrepreneurship and the enduring appeal of handcrafted quality will continue to inspire.

Clint Harp: Personal Data & Biodata

Clint Harp, the co-founder and lead designer of Harp Design Co, became a household name through his appearances on HGTV's Fixer Upper. His passion for woodworking and his ability to transform reclaimed materials into beautiful, functional furniture captivated audiences. Below is a summary of his personal data and key biographical details related to his public persona and business ventures.

Category	Details
Full Name	Clint Harp
Known For	Co-founder of Harp Design Co; Woodworker & Furniture Maker on HGTV's Fixer Upper
Spouse	Kelly Harp
Business	Harp Design Co (furniture and home goods business, now closed)
Location	Waco, Texas (Primary business location)
Specialty	Handcrafted furniture, reclaimed wood, century-old joinery techniques
Notable Collaborations	Chip and Joanna Gaines (HGTV's Fixer Upper)
Former Residence	The Harp House (next door to Harp Design Co in Waco)

Conclusion

The story of Harp Design Co is a compelling narrative of passion, craftsmanship, and community. From its origins in Waco, Texas, to its national recognition through HGTV, Clint and Kelly Harp built a brand that stood for authenticity and meaning. Their dedication to creating handcrafted tables and home goods using reclaimed wood and traditional techniques resonated with countless individuals seeking unique, character-filled pieces for their homes. While the physical doors of Harp Design Co have closed, and its website has ceased operations, the legacy of their commitment to quality, purpose, and the art of creation endures.

We hope this deep dive into Harp Design Co has offered valuable insights into their journey and the impact they made. What are your favorite memories or pieces from Harp Design Co? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, or consider exploring other articles on our site that celebrate the beauty of handcrafted design and the stories behind beloved brands.

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