Real Men Shop for Dollhouses, Says Royal Oak Retailer

About half of the customers who shop at Miniature Makers Workshop—a dollhouse specialty shop in Royal Oak—are men.

Surprised by that? 

Well, some of the store's customers are actually model ship builders and model railroaders, but Miniature Makers Workshop also has its share of men who are simply hoping to charm a niece, granddaughter or wife with a fabulous dollhouse.

Here are five things to know about the Miniature Makers Workshop.

1. Same business, staff at new location

Miniature Makers Workshop has been around for more than 30 years, but only recently moved to its new location at 28120 Woodward Ave., just north of Catalpa Drive. (The business was formerly located at 32755 Woodward Ave., south of 14 Mile Road, in Royal Oak.)

The new location has plenty of curb appeal and is attracting more foot traffic. Floor to ceiling storefront windows are inviting to window shoppers.

2. Everything you need

From extravagant collectibles to moderately priced dollhouses for children, new items are arriving all the time. Whether you are trying to create a medieval castle or looking for miniature mid-century modern furniture, there are a variety of items to choose from.

The store also has a collection of references and resources and offers repairs.

Miniature Makers Workshop is also a fantastic resource for students. It attracts its share of architecture and design college students, as well elementary school students, who need to build a model or diorama. The staff pointed out, they always know when schools are teaching Michigan lighthouses.

3. Start a new hobby

Looking for a new hobby? A Victorian dollhouse with seven rooms could set you back $399; a beachside bungalow with five rooms is $169; a small cottage $89.

Another less expensive option is to create a room box. Room boxes start at $19 and allow a person to focus on one fabulous room. The store has many handsome examples of completed room boxes throughout the store.

Note: Prices are for the dollhouses or room boxes only and do not include furnishings.

4. Take a class

Miniature Makers Workshop brings in artisans to teach a variety of classes throughout the year. For example learn how to make a bunny/frog table and chairs on Aug. 21. 

Visit www.facebook.com/MiniatureMakersWorkshop for class schedules and times.

5. Store hours

Miniature Makers Workshop is open 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Tuesday; noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday; 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.  Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The store is closed Sunday and Monday. Call 248-549-0633 for more information. The store is located at at 28120 Woodward Ave.