Werkgut - About

The Joy of Creating

I'm Mikaela Dörfel, Founder of Werkgut and Product Designer

We bought and restored our estate, todays Werkgut, in Naturpark Aukrug, Schleswig-Holstein, in 2000. As a designer, I have spent more than two decades developing products for international brands in design-oriented home interiors and the hospitality sector.

In 2020, I transformed my estate into the Werkgut, a centre for art and culture. It was time to start something new. After so many years working in industry, I wanted to support people to discover their own creativity and to build a place with a special atmosphere, inspired by art and design: a space to relax and get creative, learn something new in many different workshops and connect with other people.

For me, it was the next step: from product design to arts and crafts - they're both connected through the love of material, form and function. Accordingly, I curate workshops that bring together art and craft — such as ceramic techniques, figurative sculpture, wood and stone carving, printmaking, or textile art. I select the artists for their particular expertise and for their ability to share their knowledge in an inspiring and personal way.

www.doerfel-design.de www.doerfel-designshop.de

By now, the weekends at the Werkgut are regularly filled with art and craft workshops. On our grounds, you can hear tapping, carving, weaving, throwing, drawing, painting, chiselling or modelling – and it is simply wonderful to see how participants leave after a weekend feeling proud, fulfilled, and carrying their own handmade artwork home. New encounters and friendships often emerge along the way.
Through these workshops, participants develop a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and for the skills of the artists themselves. This experience directly supports all of our artists and craftspeople.
This special atmosphere is what defines the Werkgut today – a place for creative retreats, fine craftsmanship, and inspiring workshops in the heart of Schleswig-Holstein.

My Path:
1982–1988: Industrial Design studies at the University of Fine Arts Hamburg
1988–1996: Design Manager at Rosenthal
Since 1997: Own studio, Dörfel-Design — working internationally in the fields of tabletop and hospitality
2017–2019: Visiting Professor at Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design Halle (Product Design / Ceramic and Glass Design)
Since 2020: Founder of Werkgut – a centre for art and culture in the Aukrug Nature Park

My Team

Damaris

As a tourism and marketing manager, she oversees all behind-the-scenes tasks. From planning, budgeting and press work to website maintenance, social media and guest relations – she handles it all, always accompanied by her office dog, Luna.

Nina

is our cook during the workshops and supports the service team at events and weddings. With great dedication, she searches for new delicious dishes and recipes to delight and care for our guests.

Joey

As an equine osteopath and physiotherapist, she runs STALLGUT with its stopover station for trail riders and supports us during weddings. With four horses, a dog and a tiny house, she spends much of her time outdoors.

Bianca

takes care of our bookkeeping. She enjoys bringing order to our receipts and handles the payroll accounting.

Arne

keeps the house, grounds and stables in good shape and is the go-to person for all major and minor repairs. Even when unusual tasks come up, he is always there with a good mood and a helping hand.