He wanted to pursue a career that combined his love of art and working with his hands. He considered being a sculptor, but then he studied the work of Harry Bertoia in college, where he discovered the connection between sculpture and industrial design. That is when Dan knew he wanted to build things that were inherently functional and beautiful.

After graduating from The Center for Creative Studies, Grabowski worked on a range of projects, including power tools for Sears Craftsman and infant care products for Gerber. His primary focus, however, has been furniture design, with a special passion for wood casegoods. After three decades spent perfecting his craft and 25 years as an independent designer building a portfolio of successful products for top brands in the industry, Grabowski launched dog.studio in Grand Rapids, Michigan.