The view from the Sandwerf chappel overlooking Joseph Dream Stud and the rest of the Sandwerf property.

the founders' story

Crafting Dreams, Building Legacies

Annika amidst her horses at Sandwerf.
Annika and Leon with one of the Joseph Dream Stud Horses at Sandwerf.
Leon joyfully enjoys the fruits of his labour at Sandwerf.

At the source of Sandwerf lies the captivating story of visionary founders Leon and Annika Barnard. Their journey is a unique blend of architectural and equestrian dedication, braced by a tangible commitment to environmental stewardship and community enrichment.

Leon, an architect by trade, is the creative energy behind Sandwerf's transformation. His passionate designs blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, turning Sandwerf into a haven of aesthetic and functional innovation. Sandwerf is the realisation of his lifelong dream to truly live in a community.

Annika, a lifelong conservation activist and equestrian enthusiast, breathes life into Sandwerf through the Retreat and Joseph's Dream Stud. Her vision of approaching every animal as an individual is the foundation of Joseph's Dream signature horsemanship training program. The healing energy of animals is coming to shine in her teaching to listen and communicate with animals with mutual respect and unconditional love.

Leon and Annika have forged a synergistic environment where architectural simplicity meets agricultural and animal care passion. Sandwerf transcends the conventional; it manifests their collective dreams and aspirations. Beyond business, Sandwerf is a project with heart, soul, and purpose - a testament to the transformative power of a shared vision.

Join us in uncovering the narrative of Leon and Annika's journey, where each chapter unfolds a story of passion and commitment and creates a sanctuary that stands as a beacon of sustainable living, community development, and equestrian distinction.

Annika and Leon enjoy an evening stroll with the horse in the wilderness of Sandwerf.

"What lies behind us and what lies before us
are small matters compared to what lies within us."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson -

The Joseph Dream Stud amidst the dramatic light at Sandwerf.