Growing up in Newtown, CT, DJ developed an appreciation for the natural world by exploring the deciduous forest around his childhood home. From an early age, DJ was drawn to the challenge and satisfaction of building wooden airplanes in the school wood shop.
While studying architecture at Tulane University, DJ enjoyed the culture and flavors of New Orleans and continues to draw inspiration from the spirit of the city. In the mid-1990’s DJ moved to Chapel Hill, NC, and worked as a framing and finish carpenter, rediscovering the sweet smell of sawdust and the satisfaction of working with his hands. After a year working as a Journeyman Carpenter in New York City and another year as a cabinet maker in a high end production shop in Exeter, NH, DJ moved to Beaufort, South Carolina, with his wife of ten years to realize his dream of opening a wood studio.
Since 2004 DJ has operated under the contracting brand "Fish Hawk Design and Build." He has been producing custom cabinetry and heirloom quality furniture in its studio in historic downtown Beaufort. DJ is also a licensed contractor and has completed several unique residential projects. He specializes in the work of historic renovation and creating homes that blend with the natural environment.
DJ gains influence and from the works of contemporary woodworking masters Sam Maloof, George Nakashima, and James Krenov. He admires far eastern aesthetics and gravitates toward lines invoking elegant Shaker simplicity. DJ believes that natural form must dictate the direction a design will take.
He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist.
- St. Francis of Asissi (1181-1226)