About Us
OUR STORY
South Forty Specialties isn’t just a business, it’s our founder’s legacy. After building, growing, and selling over twenty successful ventures, he has set out to create one final brand that brings everything he loves under one roof. A business rooted in family, fun, and the pursuit of joy through the spaces we live, work, and play in.
Born from his passions for classic cars, sports, and above all, quality time with family and friends, South Forty Specialties is a tribute to the moments that matter the most. The name itself is a nod to our roots: South Dakota, the 40th state in the nation. But it’s about more than geography; it’s about pride in where we come from, what we build, and doing things the right way. Everything we design combines craftsmanship with modern innovation to deliver quality that lasts.
We partner with you to design the spaces that inspire how you live. Your dream barndominium. The ultimate garage. A lake retreat where memories are made. Whatever your vision, we custom design it, creating spaces that support your passions, bring people together, and turn the ordinary into something extraordinary.
At South Forty, we believe life’s best moments happen when we make room for them. That’s why we offer handcrafted indoor and outdoor furniture, smart storage solutions, original art, apparel, wellness equipment, and more. Everything you need to create your space, your way, and turn what you love into how you live. Read more about our story here.
South Forty Specialties. Crafted from experience. Rooted in South Dakota.
A Message From Our Founder & CEO
A Message from Our Founder & CEO
Jim Engels
I have spent most of my life building companies. What I have learned over the years is simple. The best businesses are not built around products. They are built around people and the standards you refuse to compromise.
South Forty is the result of that belief.
For me, this brand is about building things the right way and building them with people you respect. It is about caring how something is made, how it performs, and how it makes you feel when you walk into the room. I have never believed in cutting corners, and I have never believed that good enough is actually good enough.
The spaces we create for ourselves matter more than we realize. They shape our routines, our habits, and the time we spend with the people who matter most. If you are going to invest in those spaces, you deserve products that are thoughtful, durable, and designed with intention.
My promise to you is simple. We will show up. We will listen. We will build with discipline and pride. And we will stand behind what we create.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to be part of your space.
— Jim Engels
Founder & CEO
South Forty Specialties
Based in Watertown, our team brings design, fabrication and creative services together under one roof.
Explore furniture and cabinetry options that suit your dimensions, style and how you use your space.
Materials, finishes and construction details matter. We’ll help you understand the options for your project.
Have something specific in mind? Talk with us about custom dimensions, finishes, graphics and layouts.
Get answers to product questions and guidance on the next steps for your project.