BESPOKE FURNITURE

WOOD CONCRETE METAL

This book is the first edition of "The Collections of Works" produced
by Harris Creations (Pty) Ltd. A celebration of our official fifth
birthday and the incredible journey thus far.

Within these pages you will find a dynamic range of commissions,

spanning three workshops. Each piece is uniquely designed
and built to fulfill the needs of our discerning clients.

--

"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and work with your hands"
1 Thessalonians 4:11
ABOUT
Founded in 2013, Harris Creations is a bespoke furniture
company based just outside of Hillcrest, KZN, in the heart
of the Camp Orchards estate. We are a team of skilled
craftsmen who build furniture in the mediums of wood,
concrete and metal.

VISION
Grow our collaborative, multi-medium studio into a
well-regarded center of excellence. With a dedicated team
of skilled artisans, we aim to undertake challenging projects
for discerning clients both locally and internationally.

MISSION
Design and build furniture that is functional, aesthetically
pleasing and enduring. Promote sustainability through
careful material sourcing and selection. Support local
businesses through purchasing and collaborations.
 DEDICATION 1 THE BOOKKEEPER 17

CONTENTS A|V|M

CONTENTS

OUR STORY
2

4
CHESHIRE 1

CHESHIRE 2

CAMP ORCHARDS
18

19

20

MATERIALS 5
FLAN'S 21

WORK
THE eX 22
THE OFFICE 6
FANCY SLAT 23
THE LONDON I 7
SHENGI'S CHAIR 24
LIVE
CANT-I-LEVER 25
MR SHELBY 8
TILER 26
HANGMAN 9
JOHAN 27
WOOD PAWN 1 10

SLEEP
WOOD PAWN 2 11

THE TWINS 28
PASO STOOL 12

13 INDLULAMITHI 29
ORGANIC SANITY

DELFT BLUE 14 GET A GRIP 30

UNIT | 1 15 THE CRIB 31

THE CHAP 16 CONTACT US

 Durban based Harris Creations was co-founded in
2013 by two cousins, Andrew and Joel Harris.
OUR STORY
Initially started as a part-time business making
downhill longboards, the cousins separated their
interests in 2015. Andrew, an exceptionally skilled
and business minded artist went on to establish a
successful custom paint shop, AH Designs.
Joel had ongoing exposure to the trades from
a young age. He showed a keen interest in
woodwork and was often the recipient of tools
for birthday and Christmas gifts. With a growing
arsenal, he undertook his first private commission
for a physiotherapy practice aged fifteen.
After finishing high school in 2014, Joel went on
to work at a local board upgrading factory. Here
he was exposed to the world of veneers,
wrapping, moulding, CNC, and mass production.
This position was the first step to his next
venture. For two years thereafter, he held the
role of Senior Carpenter at a prestigious furniture
and kitchen manufacturing company. Invaluable
experience was gained as the award-winning team
undertook challenging builds for reputable clients
and popular restaurants. These projects included
a Visi featured apartment and feature stands for
the national Decorex show.
During this period, Harris Creations had quietly
simmered away as Joel spent many of his
evenings and weekends in his home-based
studio. Finally, in 2017, the decision was made
to pursue the dream full-time. From day one
the order books were full and the client base
quickly grew, until April 2018.
Joel was presented with the opportunity to spend
three months in California working alongside the
prolific Jory Brigham. This was undoubtedly not
to be missed and so, with business on pause,
he set off on a riveting adventure.
Following many hours working in Jory's shop,
tours of The Gamble House, and Sam Maloof's
private residence, Joel returned in July to pick up
where he left off.
In 2021, Harris Creations moved to the dream
location, nestled in the hearts of Camp Orchards.
The rest of the story, is yet to be written...
Follow the team on Instagram @harriscreations.za
as we undertake challenging commissions for
clients across the globe.
See you there!
--
Credits:
My photographers - Dan and Jackie
Jory and Ali: For extending an arm of friendship,
welcoming me into your home, and affording me
the opportunity of a lifetime. You folks shared
kindness and generosity that will never be
forgotten.
Our legend clients: Thank you for every order,
every payment, every word of encouragement,
and occasional criticism you have shared with me.
May the furniture in your homes be loved beyond
your years!
Frank: For keeping the taxman at bay and for
your guidance through the complexities of finance,
UIF, Sage, and Payroll.
To my staff, mentors, friends, and family:
Your continued investment in my life and Harris
Creations does not go unnoticed. Its success is a
testimony of abundant blessing and a story of an
infant being raised by a village.
Cheers,
Joel Harris
WOOD 5
French Oak Kiaat Iroko Mahogany Walnut

CONCRETE

Black Grey White

+
Custom Colours

METAL

Aged Brass Aged Copper Raw Copper

+
Powder Coating
Raw Brass
WORK
 6
THE OFFICE
The Office is the epitome of space-saving solutions. A unique, handcrafted
fine furniture item that requires only 0.25m2 of floor space.

Made from American Oak and clad with solid copper paneling. The doors hinge
on a discrete, Brigham-inspired pivot system. Each compartment is functional
and bears endless opportunities for technology integration. Think lighting,
wireless chargers, power outlets etc

dims: 2000(h) x 1000(w) x 250(d)

 7
THE LONDON I
The London I was our first significant international commission,
destined for a historic apartment window on the banks of the Thames.

The design is based off the iconic work of the late George Nakashima.
Evolving with the times, it boasts an array of power options including
hidden wireless charging, USB and 220v.

In place of a timber, a steel leg with fabricated and aged with

a patina process. I love how the rigid linear geometry of the leg
plays off the organic rhythm of the wood. The language of the legend!

dims: 1800(l) x 800(w) x 780(h)

LIVE
MR SHELBY
8
"I'm often asked which projects are my favourite," says Joel "naturally,
everything we do requires the investment of our passion, but if Walnut
and brass are involved, it's a party!"

The origins of this hatstand and plans for its development remain
roughly chalked on a wall of our old factory.

Materials: US Black Walnut with solid brass capping and inlays.

The base was fabricated from mild steel and sprayed gold.

dims: 1700(h) x 600(w)

 9
HANGMAN
Named by my sister, who helped edit this book. Occasionally she trumps me
in wit and dry humor.

The keyrack forms part of The Shelby Collection, designed for the hallway of
your home. Solid brass or copper hangers are custom turned and fitted
to exquisite blanks of timber.

Whether you are coming or going, your keys will delight in dwelling here.

dims: 500(l) x 220(w)

 10
WOOD PAWN 1
The game of chess is estimated to be some 1500 years old. It is hard to
imagine all the variations of pieces and boards created during that period.
I am exceptionally proud of our interpretation of the battlefield and its soldiers.

Each piece is expertly hand-turned by a local legend and good friends, whose skills
are second to none!

dims: 680(h) x 650(w)

 11
WOOD PAWN 2
Episode two of the chess set features a unique but striking combination of
Walnut and French Sycamore. Instead of dovetails, as I had done in the
adjacent build, I opted for a more delicate spline inlay on the drawers.

It has been exciting to witness the recent resurgence of the game. Hopefully
with it will bring more opportunities for us to explore the evolution of this design.

dims: 680(h) x 650(w)

PASO STOOL
12
The Paso Barstool inspired by my time spent working on the outskirts of a
small Californian town called Paso Robles. If not covered by glue and dust,
the original concept remains jotted on the surface of one of Jory's work benches.

It is a light-weight yet solid character, designed to be easily pulled up at a

breakfast nook or bar counter. The seat was carved free-hand using an angle
grinder, fitted with a rotary rasp. Leather foot caps allow the chair to slide freely,
preventing surface damage to flooring.

dims: 500(h) x 450(w) x 450(d)

 13
ORGANIC SANITY
Following my return from the US, this was the first commission
that I undertook. A French Oak vanity with a custom cast,
white concrete top.

The left, touch to open door is carved free-hand and swings

on a ball bearing hinge. A single, deep, touch to open drawer
beneath a false panel caters to a range of vanity products.

dims: 1100(w) x 580(d) x 620(h)

 14
DELFT BLUE
A true reflection of our passion for working in mixed mediums.
This piece incorporates the use of wood, steel, and concrete.

A gold, mild steel frame supports the French Oak cabinetry.

The cast white drawer fronts, airbrushed by AH Designs,
are inspired by the 1700s Dutch art movement.

A collaboration with Redesign Interiors.

dims: 1500(l) x 450(d) x 900(h)

UNIT | 1
15
A collaboration with South African mural artist Giffy Duminy
whom I have known since primary school. I do not believe the
thought ever crossed our minds that we would be building kiff
stuff together twelve years later! This unit is the first in a limited
edition range of furniture I hope to develop with him.

The unit is constructed with a European Birch Ply carcass sitting

on American Walnut feet. Doors swing on Austrian soft close hinges.

Featured here is a Secretary Bird, endemic to Africa and a joy to observe.

dims: 1200(l) x 500(w) x 600(h)

 16
THE CHAP
Uncomplicated. Distinguished. Practical. Timeless

A Walnut TV unit with sliding doors. The soft close drawers feature custom
solid brass knobs.

dims: 1500(l) x 450(w) x 800(h)

 17
THE BOOKKEEPER
The saying "simple is difficult" is certainly true of this unit.

Combining mixed mediums in a single commission bears numerous challenges

as each material comes with its unique properties. Accounting for these,
and utilizing them discerningly, yields a truly bespoke object of beauty.

French Oak, steel, fluted glass, and brass were crucial to the
form and function of this build.

dims: 2100(h) x 1500(w) x 480(d)

 18
CHESHIRE 1
"Can you stand on your head?" - Cheshire Cat

CNC has quickly become a crucial component in our production process.

We rely on the precision and repeatability of the technology, along with
the knowledge of traditional furniture building.

The cast white GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete) acts as an anchor
and ensures total stability for the wide-spanning unit.

We pushed the boundaries with this build, but at the end of the day...
"We're all mad here!"

dims: 3000(l) x 550(d) x 900(h)

 19
CHESHIRE 2
"Perfectly balanced, as all things should be." - Thanos

I have thoroughly enjoyed working with clients who allow us the opportunity
to undertake the unusual. One day, if their great-grandchildren are fighting
over a commission, it will have been a job well done!

Once again, Walnut steals the show as a statement media console

for a client with impeccable taste.

dims: 1800(w) x 500(d) x 600(h)

CAMP ORCHARDS
20
The significance of this build stands among the greatest!

When I first drove through the gates of Camp Orchards, I was a young,
newly employed, and had little prospect of pursuing my own business full time.
Awestruck by the beauty surrounding me, I knew my heart had found a home.
I never considered that the wild dream I had at the time, a factory in the old barn,
would ever come to fruition.

I am exceptionally grateful to have become the noisy and dusty tenant

of this (otherwise tranquil) paradise.

In the boardroom of the estate's original manor house, the mahogany server
stands proud behind a conference table, for which we were also commissioned.

dims: 3200(l) x 700(d) x 900(h)

 21
FLAN'S
This dining table was the final piece for a home outfitted with our work.
At the time, it was our biggest job to date and was one of the motivating
factors that landed us our first proper factory.

Silky Oak top with a welded steel sub-frame. The natural, live-edge of
the tree was used to join the slabs together, a technique we hope to
explore further and refine. We know this awesome family love it!

dims: 2400(h) x 1100(w) x 760(d)

 22
THE eX
This is the perfect ex you keep going back to:

All your best memories. Tight with your family. Not that complicated.
Believe it or not, stable. Super stable!

So, maybe it was you?

Iroko with a welded steel frame. Suitable for alldoors (indoors and out).

dims: 1200(l) x 600(w) x 500(h)

 23
FANCY SLAT
In an outdoor setting, slatted furniture has numerous practical advantages.
This means of construction mitigates the effects of timber movement,
provides improved drainage and is easier to maintain.
Aside from these benefits, it also looks rad!

Iroko, paired with a powder-coated steel frame is an exceptionally

durable combination. Built for life!

dims: 3000(l) x 1100(w) x 780(h)

SHENGI'S CHAIR
24
An Iroko dining chair with a hand-woven, Danish Cord seat,
suitable for dining and occasional environments. Dedicated
to our late brother, whose final work was this chair, before
his untimely passing.

Those who met Shengi would know his remarkable intelligence,

quick wit, and keen eye. Before the days of Harris Creations
we were co-workers. From the beginning, I had the privilege
to teach him the art of the craft. We became close friends as
we navigated life's passages. In hindsight, he probably taught
me more about the things that matter.

He did not let his "foreigner" status hinder his pursuits.

Obtaining his driving license, purchasing a car, operating CNC
machinery and dedicating his life to fathering two children were
just some of his notable achievements. Our seven-year journey
came to a close when he peacefully passed away in his sleep.

Without his loyalty and dedication, we would not be the company

we are today. His legacy now lives on in the beauty he created,
scattered across South Africa, into Botswana, and abroad.

I know he is at home with The Lord and that one day we will
have the opportunity to meet again.

- John 11: 25-26

"I am just imagining the kind of hunger that hooked the person
who discovered that the coconut could be eaten!"

Shingirai Chidharara 13/05/1985 - 23/05/2022

 25
CANT-I-LEVER
A cantilevered French Oak dining table.

For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by

architecture and mechanics. I can largely attest my intrigue
to a childhood plenteous in Lego, Mechano, and many hours
alongside a very handy grandfather. While the intellectual
component of these matters generally alludes, all of our
furniture items (still) stand evidence to the practical
application thereof.

Cant (n) – A beam of lumber typically machined

on three sides.

dims: 2400(l) x 1100(w) x 780(h)

 26
TILER
Iroko coffee table with a beautiful Neolith insert.

Collaboration with Colleen Pitchford Interiors

dims: 800(l) x 800(w) x 450(h)

 27
JOHAN
Many years ago, a man salvaged a few timber planks of Australian Blackwood.
Skilled in several trades, he promised to make his wife a coffee table to add
to her prized collection of his handiwork. Sadly he lost his life to cancer
before he could complete the project. We were honoured when asked
to see the final work of a man's life and legacy through to fruition.

dims: 1200(l) x 600(w) x 500(h)

SLEEP
 28
THE TWINS
"Two are stronger than one," a wedding gift for close friends.

With my Dad being an identical twin, we have gotten pretty used

to the idea of "same-same but different." Just like these two units.

Made from French Oak and finished with a traditional Danish Soap
that retains the timber's natural light colour. Brass handle detailing
and foot-caps complete the Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.

#twinning

dims: 500(l) x 400(w) x 600(h)

 29
INDLULAMITHI
Zulu for giraffe, a tall boy.

Not quite the tallest in the furniture world, but perhaps we have moved on,
evolved, decluttered? I mean, what a pity! (sob) There is no space to display
Great Grandma Gertrude's tea set!...

Initially, I thought of calling this unit "Jim." Does not skip chest day, takes pride
in his legs, exceptional looks, lots of space inside. Your (almost) perfect oak.

dims: 1000(h) x 850(w) x 480(h)

 30
GET A GRIP
As a diagnosed "creative," one often has a plethora of ideas circulating
around the mind at a frantic pace and in no particular order whatsoever.
On a rare occasion, when one of these ideas proves to be slightly half-decent,
the challenge is to convert it into reality!

I had long been chewing on the concept of this design and building method,
going against the grain. An unconventional means of construction, yielding
aesthetically pleasing results. I consent it breaks a few laws of traditional
furniture building, but it was a risk I was prepared to take.

Commissioned by a loyal client, these French Oak bedside tables are

paired in their home with a beautiful king bed and lamps.

dims: 1200(l) x 600(w) x 500(h)

 31
THE CRIB
Flat-pack is back. Simplier.

Assembled using only eight bolts. Any self-respecting husband and

his father's rusty no4 Allen key can knock this up. Call it a labor of love.

dims: 1200(l) x 640(w) x 830(h)

 CONTACT US
We would love to hear from you!

Call Mail Address

+27 79 4909 350 joel@harriscreations.co.za Camp Orchards | Inanda Road
Hillcrest
KZN

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