This miniature dollhouse was modeled after one of Joe and Jan Haring’s favorite restaurants, Mimi’s Cafe. Joe put the base for this model on a rotating stand, so viewers could turn it to see the whole cafe. The front has finished walls, but the back is open for viewing the tiny 2-story dollhouse. 

Retired marine Joe Haring was a sailor and a craftsman. He and his wife, Jan, shared a passion for building and furnishing miniature houses. Though often referred to as dollhouses, they are actually scale model stages built to showcase both the craftsmanship of the builders and the decorating skills of the collector. Typically built at a scale of 1”=1’, the various structures in the Haring collection include correct architectural details from staircases to gas meters, and even tiny accessories like fuse boxes. Many of the furnishings were made by other skilled craftsmen who specialize in building miniature furniture for collectors. 

This miniature dollhouse was modeled after one of Joe and Jan Haring’s favorite restaurants, Mimi’s Cafe.

Exhibit added: April 9, 2013 - Last modified: November 13, 2023

Presented by The Joe Martin Foundation for Exceptional Craftsmanship