Westenburg craftsman builds miniature homes
Shawn Harmse creates detailed, unique miniature house models, blending his passion for interior design, woodworking, and nature.
POLOKWANE – Your dream home in the palm of your hand, is what Shawn Harmse creates with each of his housing models.
The 54-year-old from Westenburg said from a young age, he always had a love for interior design, but never considered it as a career, instead opting to become a cabinetmaker.
“Even though I am not a qualified interior designer, I have always lived my passion for the field in my woodwork. Each cabinet designed was with creativity and attention to detail. I am a perfectionist, and I believe that when you make something, you have to make it wholeheartedly or not at all.”
Every house model has a unique design, with beautiful colours and small details – whether a swimming pool, wooden window frames or doors, and many other elements to create a homey feel.
Some of his designs also include holiday homes along the beachfront.
A creative spark ignited by a school project
According to Shawn, his new hobby started with a school project for one of his nephews.
“The young guy had to make a house out of a cart box, and when his aunt asked for help, I looked forward to the creative challenge. I must say, after finishing the house, I surprised myself and could not wait to make the next one.”
Shawn explained that he doesn’t work according to a set blueprint. “It is like a puzzle, I just take the pieces I have and put it together and when I am done, the product is what I get. When I work on the models I feel relaxed and it takes my mind off the everyday stress.”
Family support and a signature green touch
His wife, Nicolette Harmse said her husband is a very creative person. “About six years ago when our grandchildren moved to South Africa, he built beautiful doll houses for them. It was so amazing. Each project he takes on, he completes with originality, creativity and perfection.”
Each of Shawn’s designs has a touch of greenery to it too. According to Shawn, he loves nature and, “what is a home without a garden?”
His wife agreed that Shawn has green fingers and loves to work in the garden at home and on the farm. “It just makes sense that he would put that into his housing project. I find it quite sweet, and it just adds that special touch it,” she said.
For more information on Shawn’s little houses contact him at 082 817 4356.
