Love, wood and fire.

 The Carpenter and Sons Story

We sat down with the Deon and Carina Malherbe, the heart and hands behind the bespoke carpentry we can’t get enough of.

The Carpenter and Sons is a family-owned carpentry business built on a love for woodworking and a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship. In 1989, Deon Malherbe stepped away from a successful career as mechanical engineer, deciding to pursue his love for woodwork and cabinet making.

“Driven by a desire to create beautiful and functional pieces, I took a leap of faith and founded The Carpenter and Sons.” Setting up his workshop in Tarlton, Gauteng, his meticulous engineering background blended seamlessly with his artistic talent for woodworking. As with any start-up, the road wasn’t always smooth.

Carina comes into the picture

In 2004, Deon married Carina and they embarked on a new chapter, working side-by-side to build the business and establish The Carpenter and Sons as a trusted brand. Today, the business thrives due to the combination of Deon’s technical knowledge and Carina’s keen eye for design.

“We remain passionate about using high-quality materials and traditional techniques to create custom carpentry solutions that are not only beautiful but also built to last.”

Something for every client

“We specialize in custom carpentry, crafting unique and bespoke pieces tailored to our clients’ specific needs and styles,” says Carina. “This allows us to create one-of-a-kind furniture and built-in solutions that perfectly complement any space.”

Seeing a gap in the market and knowing that some projects might require a quicker turnaround or a more budget-friendly option, they also offer some ready-made carpentry solutions. They offer a curated selection of standard pedestals, chairs, and bookshelves This means they can cater to a wide range of clients, offering the flexibility of bespoke carpentry as well as the convenience of pre-made furniture.

From Ashes to Art: Overcoming devastation to build a brand.

Just after Carina and Deon joined forces to launch their dream business, a fire ripped through their workshop. The blaze destroyed the building, all their machinery, and valuable equipment. In a selfless act of courage, Carina managed to salvage nearly a cubic meter of precious Rosewood, earmarked for a client’s special study. Deon, meanwhile, bravely fought the flames, sustaining severe third-degree burns on his arms, head, and hands.

The fire cost them their workshop as well as their home. With income streams severed, Carina and Deon, along with their two teenage daughters, found themselves living in caravans on a vacant plot in Tarlton.

Keep faith and carry on!

Faced with this unimaginable setback and unable to secure traditional financing, Carina and Deon drew strength from their unwavering faith and remained determined. They refused to give up on their dream.

“With grit and resilience, we began the long road to rebuilding,” they both agree.

A testament to perseverance

Their hard work paid off and the business, though small, is a powerhouse of efficiency. “We are known and trusted for crafting exquisite bespoke works that translate our clients dreams into beautiful reality.”

Balancing Bespoke Expertise with Scalable Offerings.

“At The Carpenter and Sons, we take pride in our bespoke carpentry, crafting unique pieces that perfectly match our clients’ visions and needs” says Deon. However, one of the biggest challenges they have faced is striking the balance between custom expertise and offering a selection of pre-designed furniture.

“Initially, we focused exclusively on the bespoke market. While this allowed us to deliver exceptional one-of-a-kind pieces, it limited our reach to a specific clientele. We recognized the need to broaden our offerings while still maintaining our commitment to high-quality craftsmanship,” explains Carina.

The solution was to develop a curated collection of standard furniture pieces, including pedestals, chairs, and bookshelves. These pieces are meticulously crafted using the same techniques and materials as their bespoke work, ensuring exceptional quality and timeless design. “This approach has allowed us to cater to a wider audience seeking beautiful and functional furniture without the full custom design process,” says Deon. This balancing act is why The Carpenter and Sons remains a leader in the carpentry industry.

Sustainability lies at the core of their business.

They prioritize using sustainable wood sources to create beautiful and long-lasting furniture. They understand the importance of responsible forestry practices and actively seek out suppliers who share their commitment to environmental stewardship.

Love what you do.

“We take immense pride in crafting custom carpentry solutions that not only meet functional needs but also exceed aesthetic expectations,” says Deon. Seeing the joy on their clients’ faces when they experience the finished product – a beautiful built-in bookshelf, a meticulously crafted kitchen cabinet, or a stunning statement piece – is truly fulfilling. This is a testament to the collaborative process they share with their clients as well as their unwavering dedication to each project.

Misconceptions about carpentry

“Many people come to us with misconceptions about custom carpentry, particularly regarding cost and materials,” explains Deon.

• Solid Wood vs. Veneer: One common misconception is that solid wood is always superior, and veneer is a cheap substitute. While solid wood offers undeniable beauty and strength, it’s not always the most practical choice. Veneer provides a stable and cost-effectivealternative for larger surfaces like cabinet interiors and bookshelf sides. It allows for a wider variety of finishes, including exotic wood grains that might be cost-prohibitive in solid wood.
• Price and Customization: Another misconception is that custom carpentry is inherently expensive. While bespoke pieces require skilled craftsmanship and often higher-quality materials, they are willing to discuss budget expectations and explore design options that achieve the clients’ desired aesthetic. They also offer a free consultation for this purpose.

“By understanding these misconceptions and having an open conversation, we can help our clients make informed decisions about their projects and create beautiful, functional pieces that fit their needs and budget.”

More than any finished product or project, they are most proud of their legacy and the roll they play in crafting their clients’ dreams.  

Building a Family Legacy.

The Carpenter and Sons began as a one-man passion project by Deon, fuelled by his lifelong love for woodworking. In 2004, Carina joined the journey, and together they transformed it into a thriving family business.

Crafting dreams.

They believe that exceptional carpentry has the power to transform spaces and elevate everyday living.

“Our greatest pride lies in collaborating with clients, understanding their needs, and crafting custom solutions that not only meet their functional requirements but also exceed their aesthetic expectations.”

Rapid Fire:

• Beach or bush? Bush.
• Braai or brunch? Braai.
• Sunrises or sunsets? Sunsets.
• Shopping or hiking? Hiking
• Favourite province in Mzansi? Mpumalanga!