Dominic Chinea Relocates to Cornwall, Embraces New Journey

Dominic Chinea, a prominent figure from the popular television show “The Repair Shop,” has made a significant career move by relocating his workshop and family from Kent to Cornwall. He describes this transition as a “life-changing” moment, emphasizing the profound impact the move has had on both his personal and professional life.

The metalworks expert shared his thoughts on the relocation, stating, “It is completely life-changing. It really is. I’m never moving again.” Chinea acknowledged the challenges associated with the move, which he described as “stressful.” Yet he expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to have his workshop close to home, a long-held dream. He remarked, “It has been a lot of work, a huge amount of work,” noting that the workshop is still in the process of being fully developed.

Chinea joined “The Repair Shop” in 2017, initially as part of the crew before becoming a main presenter. Reflecting on his unexpected journey into television, he said, “I was at my workshop in Hackney Wick, making props, designing and building props, and so on set, but behind the camera. Never in a million years did I think I was going to end up on camera.” His experience illustrates how seizing opportunities can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths.

Advocating for Sustainability and Small Businesses

In addition to his television work, Chinea is collaborating with Smart Energy GB to promote sustainability and encourage individuals and businesses to rethink their disposal habits. Recent research from Smart Energy GB revealed that 39% of people admit to discarding items that could have been repaired, resulting in an average loss of £163 on unnecessary replacements. Despite this, 75% of respondents indicated a preference for purchasing durable and long-lasting products.

Expressing his motivation for joining the campaign, Chinea said, “I’ve spent a lot of my time helping and supporting and trying to encourage new business owners and small craft people to start their own business.” He understands the hurdles that new entrepreneurs face, having navigated similar challenges in his own career.

Chinea highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses, particularly in today’s competitive landscape. “It’s a nice time when this opportunity came along,” he noted, emphasizing the relevance of the campaign. He also mentioned how installing a smart meter can help small business owners monitor costs and manage overheads more effectively, stating, “Every penny counts. Every penny helps with a new small business.”

Through his relocation and advocacy work, Dominic Chinea not only embraces his new beginnings in Cornwall but also aims to foster a culture of repair and sustainability. His journey reflects a commitment to both personal fulfillment and community support, underscoring the value of resilience and adaptability in the ever-changing landscape of work and life.