John Hennis, Owner of Hennis Handcrafted Homes LLC

John Hennis has spent his life around construction sites, learning the trades from the ground up. His late father, Pat Hennis—owner of Phoenix Construction LLC in Lexington, Virginia—had over 40 years of experience in the construction industry and instilled in John a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and hard work that continues to guide him today.

John began his journey in construction as a middle schooler, hauling boards and cleaning job sites. By high school, he had joined the crew of carpenters at Phoenix Construction, learning hands-on from seasoned professionals. Throughout college, he expanded his skillset, working in a cabinet shop to hone his carpentry and later with a large commercial masonry company to gain broader trade experience.

John holds a Bachelor’s degree in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management from Brevard College. After graduating, he returned to Phoenix Construction as a Project Manager and lead carpenter. He was later transferred to the company’s Daytona Beach branch to oversee construction of an office and production facility for McNeil Sign. After completing the project, he returned to his hometown of Lexington to lead the build of a large custom home for the Kappa Alpha Order’s national headquarters.

Over the years, John completed a range of notable projects with Phoenix Construction, including a custom home in Lexington, a bathroom renovation at a local elementary school, and several historic restorations and remodeling projects. One of his most memorable builds was the custom “Snowbird Chapel” in Amherst, Virginia—a fully personalized private chapel that serves as a cherished space of worship for the client and their family.

In 2012, John moved to Charleston, South Carolina, to pursue new opportunities and a change of pace. Since then, he has completed numerous residential projects across the Lowcountry and also served as Director of Operations for Vintage Porch Swings LLC on Johns Island.

In 2017, John and his wife, Tori, founded Hennis Handcrafted Homes LLC with a shared vision of building high-quality homes rooted in craftsmanship, communication, and care. A licensed, bonded, and insured Residential Builder, John brings decades of hands-on experience, leadership, and a personal touch to every project.

John lives in Charleston with Tori, their two young sons, and their chocolate Lab, Bocephus. When you choose Hennis Handcrafted Homes, you’re choosing a builder who treats your dream home as if it were his own.