Heaven on wheels

From his workshop in the heart of West Sussex, Joe Fudge builds miniature worlds with his handcrafted shepherd’s huts

- Carol Ann Strange

When Joe Fudge started pursuing a career in carpentry, little did he know that he’d go on to make beautiful tiny houses on wheels for customers far and wide. Since establishing Sussex Huts in 2012, Joe has successfully combined his fascination for crafting wood with his enthusiasm for providing practical small living spaces.

Joe, who grew up in the pretty village of Slinfold, near Horsham, inherited his passion for wood from his grandfather who worked on restoration projects at Hughenden Manor and Cliveden House. “As a child, I loved watching and helping my grandfather work on wood-turning projects in his workshop. I have fond memories of crafting wooden eggs made from offcuts as well as making bowls, mushrooms and other small items,” recalls Joe.

“My grandfather was such an inspiration. He could turn his hand to anything, from wooden bowls to fine furniture. My mother has a grandfather clock he made. It reminds me of him every time I see it.”

Under his grandfather’s guidance, Joe began to hone his carpentry skills, learning to fully appreciate the quality and hours taken to make something beautiful and timeless. After leaving school, Joe trained as a carpenter at Chichester College for three years. He then gained valuable traditional skills working for a company that specialises in restoring period properties.

Following time off work due to an injury, Joe became interested in shepherd’s huts (also known as shepherd wagons), which were traditionally used by shepherds tending to their flock, particularly during the long days and nights of lambing season. As the huts often had iron wheels, they could be moved from one remote terrain to another, providing the shepherd with somewhere to rest and shelter from extreme elements. Joe quickly realised the potential of the hut as an alternative garden living space and decided to make one for himself in his spare time.