A CIVIL engineer from York has recently left the drawing board in a bid to set up his own design company.

Richard Frost, 50 from Tadcaster Road said he had a 'eureka moment' and decided to retire from a successful 27-year career in engineering for Network Rail to set up an independent design company specialising in making bespoke fine furniture.

He swapped the vocational hustle and bustle for the more laid-back atmosphere of a local carpentry workshop.

Mr Frost said that he took inspiration from a conversation he had with friends during a short break in the Lake District.

He said: “We all went round the table and asked each other what would you do if you had the chance to do it all over again?

“I had always been interested in art, aesthetics and carpentry so decided to combine all three and make the leap into self-employment. Growing up as a boy, my dad was a metal work lecturer and I learnt about the formation of jewellery. I think this is where I learnt my passion for carpentry. I can spend the days building new projects.”

So far, Mr Frost has produced three standout designs which include a console table made out of walnut, a chair containing interconnecting curves with an art deco influence and a highly patterned oak media unit with scallop shell inspired sliding doors. The designs took ten weeks to produce and the material was locally sourced from from Duffield Timber near Ripon.

Mr Frost, who splits his time between his home office and workshop in Copmanthorpe, said he is looking to expand his work.

He said: “I have three goals for my independent company.

“I would like to open up a new store in York next year so people can come in and showcase the designs.

“I hope to market my company and show people throughout York my design as I think there is a good market for independently sourced furniture and finally, I hope to get my work in a local exhibition.”

Mr Frost also gave his thanks to Explore Wealth Management, who gave him guidance and a financial plan as he made the daunting move into self employment.

If you would like to see any of Richard Frost's work you can visit www.richardfrostdesign.co.uk or follow Richard on Instagram at Richard Frost Design.