2019 02 01 - Visi PDF

AXMINSTER TILE
a new generation of crafted carpets

sa852019/59/e
Terrazzo | Custom designed Axminster tile

Proudly woven in Harrismith, South Africa | Head Office 058 623 2805
monn.co.za
OUR BIGGEST ISSUE EVER *
ICONIC
COVER ART BY
ALEXIS CHRISTODOULOU
PAGE 213
100th
EDITION
EXCLUDING TAX
R65,22
OTHER COUNTRIES
SA R75
FEATURING ADRIAAN HUGO & KATY TAPLIN • ANDILE DYALVANE & ZIZIPHO POSWA • ATANG TSHIKARE
• ATHI-PATRA RUGA • BOYD FERGUSON • CHRIS WEYLANDT • CHU SUWANNAPHA • CRYSTAL BIRCH • DAVID KRYNAUW
• FAATIMAH MOHAMED-LUKE • GERHARD SWART & ANTHONY HARRIS • GREGOR JENKIN • HALDANE MARTIN
• JODY PAULSEN • JOE PAINE • JOHAN WENTZEL & GRETE VAN AS • JOHANN SLEE • JOHN VOGEL • KATE OTTEN
• LADUMA NGXOKOLO • LAURIE WIIDVAN HEERDEN • LUCIE DE MOYENCOURT • LUCILLA BOOYZEN • MARIANNE FASSLER
• MARIOARA DE LATARA • MERVYN GERS • MICHAEL CHANDLER • NANDIPHA MNTAMBO • NELSON MAKAMO
• PAUL PAMBOUKIAN • PIETER MATHEWS • PORKY HEFER • RICH MNISI • RONEL JORDAAN • SILVIO RECH
& LESLEY CARSTENS • SIWA MGOBOZA • THABISA MJO • TRACY LEE LYNCH • TREVYN & JULIAN MCGOWAN
OUR BIGGEST ISSUE EVER *
ICONIC
COVER ART BY
ALEXIS CHRISTODOULOU
PAGE 213
100th
EDITION
EXCLUDING TAX
R65,22
OTHER COUNTRIES
SA R75
FEATURING ADRIAAN HUGO & KATY TAPLIN • ANDILE DYALVANE & ZIZIPHO POSWA • ATANG TSHIKARE
• ATHI-PATRA RUGA • BOYD FERGUSON • CHRIS WEYLANDT • CHU SUWANNAPHA • CRYSTAL BIRCH • DAVID KRYNAUW
• FAATIMAH MOHAMED-LUKE • GERHARD SWART & ANTHONY HARRIS • GREGOR JENKIN • HALDANE MARTIN
• JODY PAULSEN • JOE PAINE • JOHAN WENTZEL & GRETE VAN AS • JOHANN SLEE • JOHN VOGEL • KATE OTTEN
• LADUMA NGXOKOLO • LAURIE WIID VAN HEERDEN • LUCIE DE MOYENCOURT • LUCILLA BOOYZEN • MARIANNE FASSLER
• MARIOARA DE LATARA • MERVYN GERS • MICHAEL CHANDLER • NANDIPHA MNTAMBO • NELSON MAKAMO
• PAUL PAMBOUKIAN • PIETER MATHEWS • PORKY HEFER • RICH MNISI • RONEL JORDAAN • SILVIO RECH
& LESLEY CARSTENS • SIWA MGOBOZA • THABISA MJO • TRACY LEE LYNCH • TREVYN & JULIAN MCGOWAN
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CONTE NTS
EDITOR’S LETTER ....................................................................................................................................... PAGE 22
COVER IMAGE ALEXIS CHRISTODOULOU COVER DESIGN CRISPIAN BROWN
CONTRIBUTORS ......................................................................................................................................... PAGE 26

VISI.CO.ZA ................................................................................................................................................... PAGE 28
VISI FINDS .................................................................................................................................................... PAGE 32
FUTURE FORECAST: LI EDELKOORT INTERVIEW ............................................................................. PAGE 46
VOICES Chris Roper ............................................................................................................................... PAGE 48
VOICES Vanessa Raphaely ................................................................................................................. PAGE 50
VOICES Seth Shezi .................................................................................................................................. PAGE 52
VOICES Ruda Landman ........................................................................................................................ PAGE 54
VOICES Ashraf Jamal ............................................................................................................................. PAGE 56
142
Features
DARGLE VALLEY FARMHOUSE .............................................................................................................. PAGE 62
KNYSNA HOLIDAY HOME ........................................................................................................................ PAGE 82
ROBERTSON COTTAGE ........................................................................................................................... PAGE 96
KEW ARTIST’S HOME ............................................................................................................................... PAGE 106
KUILS RIVER HISTORICAL FARM ........................................................................................................... PAGE 114
LIMPOPO BUSH LODGE ........................................................................................................................... PAGE 126
GROOT DRAKENSTEIN COTTAGES ..................................................................................................... PAGE 142
CAPE TOWN CITY BOWL LOFT ............................................................................................................. PAGE 160
HIGGOVALE HOME .................................................................................................................................... PAGE 176
NAMIB DESERT LODGES ......................................................................................................................... PAGE 188
100 reasons to celebrate iconic design

MODEL KATRYN KRUGER HAIR & MAKE-UP MARZANNE GERICKE CLOTHING FOR SALE AT BABYLONSTOREN AND SHOP.BABYLONSTOREN.COM
1. The full collection of VISI covers spanning 100 issues and two decades .......................................... PAGE 214
2. We asked 3D artist Alexis Christodoulou how he approached VISI’s 100th cover design ...........
3. VISI’s most powerful, playful and poignant portraits from over the years .................................
PAGE 216
PAGE 218
188
4. Animal Planet: Our all-time favourite four-legged models ................................................................... PAGE 222
5. Some of the remarkable places VISI has featured over the years ................................................. PAGE 224
6. A timeline of some significant South African design milestones ................................................... PAGE 228
7. Chris Weylandt looks back on two decades at the helm of Weylandts ........................................ PAGE 232
8. Tracy Lee Lynch is focused on promoting young creatives and curating good design ........... PAGE 234
9. South Africa’s original fashion influencer: Marianne Fassler ........................................................... PAGE 236
10. Adding homeware to his mix, Laduma Ngxokolo is taking Africa to the world ........................... PAGE 237
11. Des Armstrong explains how Hadeda became synonymous with hand-painted tiles ............... PAGE 237
12. Smeg and Dolce&Gabbana have once again collaborated on a stylish kitchen collection ....... PAGE 238
13. Wild Olive Artisans’ mission is to put Africa on the map of natural beauty ................................. PAGE 240
14. Cécile & Boyd turns 30 this year – Boyd Ferguson shares some secrets to their success ...... PAGE 242
15. Lighting maestro Paul Pamboukian has championed illumination in all its forms ...................... PAGE 244
16. Brandkonnect is infusing the international hospitality industry with local design ..................... PAGE 244
17. Amatuli Artefacts is a treasure trove of collectibles .............................................................................. PAGE 245
18. With Skinny laMinx, Heather Moore turned a hobby into a household name .............................. PAGE 245
19. Designer Peet Pienaar conjures up a visual language that captures the imagination ............... PAGE 246 96
20. Hamzeh Alfarahneh has collaborated with PUMA SA on a capsule collection ........................ PAGE 247
21. Furniture designer David Krynauw is carving out a singular place on the design scene .......... PAGE 248
22. Julian and Trevyn McGowan have been at the forefront of promoting African design ........... PAGE 249
23. Artist Faatimah Mohamed-Luke is proving that making art can be grown-up child’s play ...... PAGE 250
24. Founded in 2006, Imiso Ceramics continues to soar locally and internationally ........................ PAGE 250
25. The Afrofuturistic designs by Atang Tshikare have a dynamic texture .......................................... PAGE 251
26. Founder of SA Fashion Week Lucilla Booyzen reflects on the keys to longevity in fashion ... PAGE 252
27. CHULAAP, the label of fashion designer Chu Suwannapha, reflects his inimitable style ......... PAGE 253
28. Textile and fashion designer Sindiso Khumalo is committed to sustainable practices ........ PAGE 253
29. The seventh Investec Cape Town Art Fair takes place from 15 to 17 February 2019 .................. PAGE 254
30. Architect-turned-artist Lucie de Moyencourt has added ceramics to her portfolio ............... PAGE 256
31. Artist Athi-Patra Ruga remains fiercely committed to narrative .......................................................... PAGE 258
32. Mervyn Gers’s hand-made functional ceramics are inspired by nature ........................................ PAGE 259
33. The duo behind Egg Designs are infinitely positive about the future of design in SA .............. PAGE 260
34. Adam Hoets’s willowlamp designs show an appreciation for nature’s sculptural forms .... PAGE 261
35. With an expanded showroom, Tonic Design is set to launch more new product ...................... PAGE 262
36. Vernacular design holds the answers to the world’s problems, says artist Porky Hefer ......... PAGE 264 126
37. Stephen Wilson and Phillip Hollander of Houtlander love to work with their hands ............. PAGE 266
38. Interior design consultancy Generation has been on our radar since our very first issue ...... PAGE 266
39. Durban-based creative Clinton Friedman on the future of design ................................................. PAGE 268
40. You’ll find Mud Studio’s ceramics in exclusive shops and celebrity homes .................................... PAGE 270
41. Astrid Van Der Heim has been in interiors for “what seems like forever” ...................................... PAGE 272
42. Artist Nelson Makamo is taking on the world, one portrait of hope at a time .............................. PAGE 274
43. Maria McCloy’s work puts the spotlight on the richness of African culture .................................. PAGE 274
44. “More collaboration” is what designer Thabisa Mjo hopes for the future of SA design ......... PAGE 275
45. Siwa Mgoboza’s textile collages are a blend of history, fashion, identity politics and more .. PAGE 275
46. Jody Paulsen talks escapism, growing up, and how he got out of a creative rut ......................... PAGE 276
47. Architect Mariam Kamara is one of the speakers at Design Indaba 2019 ...................................... PAGE 278
48. Mpho Vackier of TheUrbanative applies her engineering skills to her designs ........................ PAGE 280
49. Liam Mooney’s work has evolved from pure furniture design to interior design ....................... PAGE 280
50. Architect Pieter Mathews’ firm is helping to shape the Pretoria skyline ....................................... PAGE 281
176 51. Architects Thomas and Sureen Gouws have advanced our capital city’s design heritage .... PAGE 282
52. Fashion designer Rich Mnisi is equal parts groundbreaker and collaborator ............................... PAGE 282
53. Ceramic Matters has proven the potential for design in clay ............................................................. PAGE 283
54. Artist and gallerist Michael Chandler talks past, present and future design ............................... PAGE 284
55. Design provocateur Crystal Birch is pioneering an à la mode hat business ................................. PAGE 286
56. Architect Johann Slee remembers his first encounter with VISI ....................................................... PAGE 288
57. Felt artist Ronel Jordaan believes environment holds the key to creativity .................................. PAGE 289
58. Photographer Lien Botha’s series of plant portraits was the growth of a good idea ................. PAGE 290
59. Mungo has been designing, weaving and making in SA for more than 20 years ........................... PAGE 292
60. Colour and craftsmanship collide in furniture designer Bonga Jwambi’s pieces ....................... PAGE 294
61. This year, Mema Designs is launching its third range of pendant lights ........................................... PAGE 295
62. Architects Gardiol and Johan Bergenthuin are deeply rooted in the modernist era ............... PAGE 296
63. Nandipha Mntambo artfully combines concepts to mirror her shifting gaze .............................. PAGE 296
64. Raw Studios has a reputation for imaginative modern work spaces .......................................... PAGE 298
65. Designer-maker John Vogel is looking to break into e-commerce ............................................ PAGE 300
66. We’ve been fans of Gregor Jenkin’s work since we first featured him in 2004 ........................... PAGE 302
160 67. Designer Joe Paine’s tongue-in-cheek approach to design continues to set him apart ......... PAGE 304
68. Dokter and Misses, first featured in VISI in 2007, has a new solo exhibition ................................... PAGE 306
69. Lisa Firer’s hand-rolled porcelain vessels are acclaimed for their delicacy ............................... PAGE 308
70. Here’s a sneak peek of new furniture pieces from Haldane Martin ................................................. PAGE 310
71. Thebe Magugu knew from a young age that he wanted to work in fashion ............................. PAGE 311
72. Architect and furniture designer Richard Stretton puts sustainability first ................................. PAGE 311
73. Cecil Nurse is defining and refining the workplace of the future .................................................... PAGE 312
74. Textile design studio The Ninevites weaves a story that pays homage to heritage ................... PAGE 313
75. Laurie Wiid van Heerden masterfully straddles the line between design and art .................... PAGE 313
76. Robin Sprong Wallpapers is primed to expand its world-class surface design offering ......... PAGE 314
77. Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens have rewritten the script on bush camp architecture ........ PAGE 316
78. The founders of Platform and 100% Design SA offer insights into the future of design ........ PAGE 318
79. Art has been fabric connoisseur Tanya Sturgeon’s biggest influence ............................................ PAGE 320
80. The founder of the eponymous Tessa Sonik Fabrics turned a passion into a profession ...... PAGE 320
81. Fox Browne Creative’s successful design formula centres on guest experience ...................... PAGE 321
82. Earthworld Architects is forging relationships between architecture and craftsmen ........... PAGE 322
83. Daikin is innovating to make air conditioners not just clean and quiet but smart, too ............. PAGE 324
82 84. A Schmidt kitchen is an investment that continues to reward .......................................................... PAGE 325
85. Interior designer Krysia Back’s work always resonates with the architecture ............................ PAGE 326
86. Anne York is inspired by nature in her work as an interior designer ................................................... PAGE 326
87. Kate Otten has forged a way of working where women architects can thrive ............................ PAGE 328
88. In the flooring business for more than 40 years, Rebtex is constantly innovating ...................... PAGE 329
89. Interior designer Andrea Graff is known for her fearless use of colour .......................................... PAGE 330
90. Sumari Krige of La Grange Interiors finds inspiration from travel ................................................. PAGE 331
91. Dom Pérignon and Ellerman House offer a night to remember to celebrate VISI 100 ............ PAGE 332
92. One of Francois du Plessis’s latest projects is the interior of Tjing Tjing Momĳi ........................ PAGE 334
93. The latest collection by Evolution Product honours conservation heroes .................................... PAGE 336
94. W Design Architecture Studio’s unique point of view continues to surprise and delight .... PAGE 338
95. Responding to trends, AMERICAN shutters has expanded its colour range.................................. PAGE 340
96. Family-owned Hertex has grown into the largest fabric company in the country ...................... PAGE 342
97. Join us in raising a glass to our 100th issue with Méthode Cap Classique wines ......................... PAGE 343
98. With subjects ranging from architecture to graphic design, these books are keepers .......... PAGE 344
99. Motoring man Dieter Losskarn shares his 10 favourite automobiles of all time ....................... PAGE 346
114 100. 100 prizes to be won in VISI’s biggest competition ever: 10 brands x 10 products ............... PAGE 348
SMART IDEA ................................................................................................................................................................. PAGE 352
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VISI EDITOR’S LETTER
CELEBRATE OUR
TH
100ISSUE WITH US
PHOTO PARIS BRUMMER, TAKEN AT THE ELECTRIC, DISTRICT SIX, CAPE TOWN
SJOE! gone all out to nurture
100 issues and counting… this important local
What a pleasure and love-brand.
memorable adventure it Thank you to all who
has been to put together have let us into their
the biggest-ever issue homes over the years, and
of VISI. all the super-talented
Since 2001, I have been architects, artists, crafters
fortunate to work on this and designers who have
very special magazine shared their work with us.
alongside some of the For me, André Eksteen
most inspiring and of Earthworld Architects
talented people in South sums it up best: “VISI
Africa. Every one of us defined a whole new
here at VISI has always approach. For the first
pulled out all the stops time someone was
to delight and surprise making it ‘cool’ to be
The all-women dream team: Kay-Ann, Michaela, Lindi, Lené, Amelia, you, our loyal followers in South African.”
Annemarie, Sumien and Samantha. print and online, and has SUMIEN
EDITORIAL TEAM PUBLISHING TEAM PUBLISHER & PRINTER

Editor-in-Chief Sumien Brink Group Account Director Cat Anderson Publisher New Media,
Deputy Editor Annemarie Meintjes Senior Account Manager Cecilia du Plessis a division of Media24 (Pty) Ltd
Art Director Lené Roux Group Managing Editor Chantel Kleinsmidt newmedia.co.za
Managing Editor Samantha Charles Production Manager Shirley Quinlan Reproduction New Media
Features Editor Amelia Brown ABC Manager Roxanne Holman Printing CTP Printers, Cape Town
Online Editor Lindi Brownell Meiring
Content Producer Michaela Stehr EXECUTIVE TEAM
Copy Editor Kay-Ann van Rooyen Managing Director Aileen Lamb
Commercial Director Maria Tiganis
Content Director Andrew Nunneley
ADVERTISING & MARKETING TEAM
Head of Advertising and Sales Chief Financial Officer Venette Malone CTPprinters CAPE TOWN
Jeanine Boshoff Chief Executive Officer Bridget McCarney

Business and Digital Sales Manager Executive Director John Psillos
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visi.co.za FEB/MAR 2019 22

HAPPY SPORT COLLECTION
PORTRAITS BABETTE KAHLO (NEIL), EMILIE GAMBADE (MALIBONGWE), GEOFFREY DAVIES (LAURIAN), JAN CRONJE (ANNETTE), JAN RAS (AMI, MICHAELA), JEREMY DEPUTAT (TRACY L), KATE MCLUCKIE (KELLY), MARC SHOUL (GRAHAM),
3 5
2 4
6
7 8
11
9 10 12
VISI 100 CONTRIBUTORS

The writers, photographers, editors and creatives behind this mega issue
13 14 16 18
19 17
22
15
MICHAEL LA GRANGE (SAM W), NASH MARIAH (JABULILE), PATRICK DINNEEN (LINDI), SHAVAN RAHIM (LAUREN)
20
25
23
21
24
26
27 28
32 33
30 31
29
1 Lindi Brownell Meiring, online editor. 2 Michaela Stehr, content producer. 3 Kay-Ann van Rooyen, copy editor.
4 Lené Roux, art director. 5 Samantha Charles, managing editor. 6 Crispian Brown, creative director.
7 Malibongwe Tyilo, multimedia creative producer. 8 Amelia Brown, features editor. 9 Annemarie Meintjes, deputy editor.
10 Sumien Brink, editor-in-chief. 11 Jan Ras, photographer. 12 Annette Klinger, writer. 13 Les Aupiais, writer.
14 Tracy Lynn Chemaly, writer. 15 Micky Hoyle, photographer. 16 Jabulile Dlamini-Qwesha, writer. 17 Elsa Young, photographer.
18 Kerryn Fischer, writer. 19 Graham Wood, writer. 20 Palesa Kgasane, writer. 21 Lien Botha, photographer.
22 Celeste Jacobs, writer. 23 Lauren Goldman, writer. 24 Ami Kapilevich, writer. 25 Dook, photographer. 26 Neil Vosloo, photographer.
27 Sam Woulidge, writer. 28 Biddi Rorke, writer. 29 Tracy Greenwood, writer. 30 Julian Koski, writer. 31 Kelly Berman, writer.
32 Dieter Losskarn, motoring writer. 33 Laurian Brown, writer.

Get your daily dose of decor, design and architecture at
VISI.CO.ZA
#READERLOVE
Can’t get enough of our 100th issue? Help us celebrate by taking a pic and tagging us on Instagram,
Facebook or Twitter. We’d love to see where you’re enjoying VISI’s bumper collector’s edition.
I had a VISI and then I started pouring VISI! We could not be more proud On our coffee table this month. When your nails are on point with
Champagne #lettheweekendbegin to be a part of this beautiful issue I always look forward to a new issue the new VISI magazine and new
#visimagazine #fridayfeels and incredible magazine. #Design of @visi_mag. One of my favourite & trendy colours monochrome with
#summergoals #millennialpink #Architecture #Interiors well curated local interior & design millennial pink #newmagazine #design
– @we_are_dreamworld @zeanneandgoss – @zeanneduminy magazines. – @astoldbytiffany #architecture – @anlimari
WHICH SUMMER ESSENTIALS ARE YOU

MOST LIKELY TO SPLURGE ON?
More than 700 of you answered our online
poll to let us know.
An outdoor
lounger
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WIN WITH
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Courtesy of Obbligato, one An ice-cream
lucky VISI reader will win maker
one round planter with
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Go to VISI.co.za/win to enter.
INSTANT INSPIRATION Follow @visi_mag on Instagram, where we share some of the best and most beautiful designs from around the globe.

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VISI FINDS
FINDERS KEEPERS
Our shopping
pages have
always aimed
to make you
smile. With
the curated
selection of
items based
on current
designs, global
trends and
must-have
lists, we invite
professionals
to select the Smeg ‘50s
Retro Style
best and 1,5-litre
jug blender
comment
on the rest.
Here are some
of our most MY BLENDER, MY
PERSONAL CHEF
memorable. VISI deputy editor
Annemarie Meintjes
PHOTOS
DOOK “THE SKY
PRODUCTION
ANNEMARIE IS THE
MEINTJES
LIMIT
WHEN
THERE’S
A SMEG
BLENDER
IN YOUR
KITCHEN
ARSENAL.”

LET THERE BE (STREET) LIGHT
Architect Mokena Makeka
“WELCOME
TO MY MIND.”
Tolomeo
Lampione
Outdoor
floor lamp,
designed by
Michele de
Lucchi and
Giancarlo
Fassina for
Artemide
33
VISI FINDS
HYBRID DESIGN
Designer-maker Joe Paine
“THE WRAP BUREAU WAS DESIGNED TO

OFFER A SMALL PERSONAL SPACE FOR
WORKING ON A LAPTOP.
The ceramic vessels can be used to hold plants, stationery or the severed heads of people
who got up in your face while you were doing your tax returns.”
Wrap writing bureau

by Joe Paine

Rimowa
Bolero cabin
multiwheel
suitcase
TRAVEL IN STYLE
The Fox Browne Creative team Chris Browne and Debra Fox
“I LOVE COMPARTMENTS
AND POCKETS, BUT
“Easy pull, smooth glide. A fast mover when one is late for the
plane. But I panic about my wardrobe. What would I wear with
THESE ARE ALL BLACK!
this case! And there are too many hiding places. I don’t want to I WOULD HAVE TO THINK
even think about where I’m supposed to put my socks! It would
have been better with a light interior. I have lots of black in my
COLOUR WHEN
wardrobe and would need a headlamp to find things.” – Chris PACKING.” – DEBRA
35
VISI FINDS
Rosette drinks unit by Egg Designs
HOST WITH THE MOST

Influencer, entrepreneur and
creative Maps Maponyane
“I CAN’T
PICTURE THIS
CABINET IN MY
LIVING SPACE,
BUT IT IS
A STAND-OUT
PIECE OF
DESIGN.”

IN THE SWING OF THINGS
Sales consultant Siviwe James
and interior designer
Tristan du Plessis
“WHIMSICAL
PENDANTS!
THESE
EXQUISITELY
MADE LIGHTS
DISPLAY A
DELICATE
APPROACH
TO MIXING
MEDIUMS.”
– SIVIWE
“Rich textures and materials
wrapped up in beautiful
weightless forms.” – Tristan
KNOT
collection
of pendant
lights,
designed by
Chiaramonte
Marin for
Brokis
37
RECYCLING IS MORE THAN A TREND
Architect Friedrich Strey
“GREAT IDEA! EVEN

SHOPPING BAGS –
WHICH YOU PAY
FOR ANYWAY – CAN
BE RECYCLED TO BE
UTILISED TO
RECYCLE.”
Checkas bin by
Dokter and Misses

VISI FINDS
Odea sofa,
designed by
Roberto Tapinassi
and Maurizio
Manzoni for Roche
Bobois
SOFA TALK
Interior designer Donald Nxumalo
“FLUTED, WELL
TAILORED.
IT LOOKS LIKE
A CLOUD.
I CAN SLEEP
ON IT ALL DAY
– SITTING
OPTIONAL.”
39
VISI FINDS
MIRROR MIRROR
Creative Almarie Kleingeld
“I AM MAD ABOUT THE IDEA OF A CHEST

OF DRAWERS AS A MIRROR.
It will make a brilliant focal point, because it will reflect everything in the room from four sides.”
Tessa mirrored chest of

drawers from Hartmann
& Keppler

SHO6 PROFIL wall-
mounted shelf by
Jörg Schellmann
for e15
GOOD BOOKS DESERVE PRIDE OF PLACE

Writer Nakhane Mahlakahlaka
“SIMPLE AND CLEAN

LINES IN NEUTRAL
COLOURS. MINIMALISM
AT ITS BEST!”
41
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VISI INTERVIEW
A BRIGHT FUT URE

Lidewĳ Edelkoort returns to South Africa to share her insights
and predictions for the future at the Design Indaba Festival 2019.
PORTRAIT KOEN HAUSER INTERVIEW LINDI BROWNELL MEIRING
HEAD of her seminar in Joburg on 25 February and What can we expect to see from the world of textiles? Will
A in Cape Town on 2 March, renowned Paris- and New

York-based trend forecaster Li Edelkoort gave VISI
insight into what to expect from colour palettes,
sustainability be front and centre? I believe this might become
the century of textiles. Fabrics have already made a come-
back in the home and will take over most domains of design
textiles and smart tech. According to our favourite soothsayer, and innovation in the future. First signs tell us that fabrics will
the future is looking bright. take on diverse roles: constructing bridges, crafting boats and
Looking forward to 2020, why do you believe homes will em- planes, healing wounds, designing dwellings, protecting build-
brace the use of colour more than ever before? Twenty years ings and communicating codes. From locally crafted clothes to
of great autonomous design coincides with the development 3D laces and robotic knitting, designers will explore textiles
of innovative materials, the testing further. The journey will be astound-
of outsized volumes, and the adap- ing! These endless possibilities are
tion of changing rituals, and I predict why the MFA in Textiles course I’ve
that the new focus will be the use of created at Parsons School of Design
colour. This taste for colour is just is called Textiles Unlimited. Sustain-
beginning and will grow in the next ability will be integrated into all
decade, influencing consumers to aspects of materials, such as natu-
become happier. People’s innate ral or biotech ingredients and slow
fear of using colour is gradually giv- craft, and circular design will see
ing way to the joy of manipulating it fibres from natural sources valued
to transform materials and give new and reincarnated.
life to otherwise forgotten spaces Do you think the trend of homes
and furniture. Colour will impose as sanctuaries will continue? Ab-
its rules and ruffles, changing ob- solutely! In chaotic and fearful
jects by giving them another, more times, humanity will naturally look
vibrant energy, possibly modifying for answers and find solace in its
the way we move through space, own inner circle. People will give
how we design different rooms and more focus to their own way of liv-
live out a more expressive existence. ing, making a house where they can
Which colours will make up the cultivate everything human, as if
2020 colour palette? Many col- designing their own sanctuary. On
ours are making waves and have a quest for inner peace, people are
the power to transform a home. trying to make the ordinary extra-
A splash of yellow will wake up a ordinary and paying attention to
room; a shadow of grey will design all the senses. People are aspiring
a space; and a touch of pink will make people smile. With the to take time out of time, searching for a world within a world,
renaissance of colouring comes new codes of conduct, a con- a moment to experience simply being present. A place to
temporary culture of more local choices and unusual colour share our lives with the people and animals that we cherish,
ranges that create incredibly sophisticated interior harmonies: acknowledging the connecting force between all living things
A green range includes blue and yellow; a terracotta range and creating an atmosphere that needs to be consoling and
includes pink and slate; and a neutral range can include skin comforting – the idea of a house that heals.
tones and bone. Slightly off combinations make the same-old designindaba.com
look brand-new and enticing. edelkoort.com

The Elemental Cabinet by Kostas
Lambridis is based on the Badminton
Cabinet, a grand piece of furniture
made in Florence, Italy, in 1726. Whereas
the original is made of inlaid ebony and
gilt bronze, this one is made of a mix
of minerals, metals, woods, plastics
(melted plastic chairs) and textiles.
VISI VOICES
LIFE AND DEATH AT

THE CHELSEA HOTEL
Visiting a New York City landmark, Chris Roper found a building embodying
life in its death.
HE friend who showed me the Chelsea Truman on the mantle with a plaque that read: “Sculpture by
Hotel killed himself three months later. René Shapshak”. Coincidentally, I was only in New York for an
T A month after that the Chelsea was taken

over by developers, and its 70-plus years of
bohemian excess and wonder were over.
Inadvertently, I’d managed to see an iconic
afternoon, on my way to Texas to meet up with South African
tech journalism legend Toby Shapshak. It made me love the
Chelsea even more when I learnt that Toby’s grandfather had
lived at the Chelsea, and, like so many other artists there, had
building, one that had always figured large on my list of artistic paid his rent with artworks.
landmarks, just before its essence was forever destroyed. It’s a deeply encouraging thing to realise that the world of
The friend who took me around the hotel in 2011 was Mark counterculture is just that: an interconnected world. But what
Kramer. He’d been my friend for makes that world mean some-
15 years, yet this was only the sec- thing is its fragility, its mutability,
ond time I’d met him in person. As the way it always teeters on the
with the Chelsea Hotel itself, blind edge of change.
luck had prompted me to visit him After showing me around the
just before his life also ended. Chelsea, Mark took me for lunch
Mark was the embodiment of at the famous adjoining restau-
American openness, and espe- rant El Quijote, opened in 1930.
cially of New York. We’d become As with the Chelsea, there is a
friends when, randomly, I had long list of famous people who’ve
tracked him down online in 1997 hung out there. Lola Schnabel,
and asked him to do an article on daughter of artist Julian, would
dwarf-tossing. The Chelsea Hotel do her homework at the bar. If
was home to many people whom I’d read her memory of the place,
I imagine to be like him, described I might not have munched the
by one-time resident Patti Smith tapas quite so devoutly: “I would
as “gifted, hustling children from every rung of the ladder”. always order a croquette, until one day, when I found a human
The Chelsea was no stranger to suicides, or indeed to mur- tooth in my croquette. Then I stopped eating food there.”
ders. The roster of deaths is extensive: Sid Vicious killing Nancy El Quijote is also dying now, bought by the same group that is
Spungen, poet Dylan Thomas dying after a drinking binge, and redeveloping the Chelsea.
many more. But that’s just the trite part of its mystique, and it’s After our meal, Mark takes me outside, and we stand and
not the reason it is one of my favourite buildings in the world. look at the Chelsea’s dour red-brick front. At this point I have no
What makes it special is how it nurtured artists and musi- idea that I’m saying a final goodbye to both my friend and to the
cians, prostitutes and pimps, and the strange and wonderful dream of the Chelsea Hotel. Next door is Chelsea Guitars, and so
PORTRAIT ADAM WELZ ILLUSTRATION SHAUN GAYLARD
way its heart spread out to the rest of the world, making us I blithely pop in to buy a guitar strap. The one I choose is embla-
believe in a certain type of freedom that is only incidentally zoned with skeleton figures from the Mexican Day of the Dead,
American. Playwright Arthur Miller, who lived in the Chelsea when people remember friends and family who have died.
after his divorce from Marilyn Monroe, said, “This hotel does Now, when I look at that strap and remember my dead friend
not belong to America,” and he was right. It’s an embodiment of and the Chelsea Hotel he showed me, I hear The Velvet Under-
much that makes American culture great, and of the essential ground & Nico singing about one of the
engine of that culture: openness and the willingness to share. Chelsea Girls: “Her perfect loves don’t
For a building to be great, it not only has to translate its sur- last / Her future died in someone’s past.”
rounds, cultural and physical, to the people who have to live
with it, but it also has to open up a conversation with travellers Chris Roper is deputy CEO of Code for
from afar and give them something to take back that changes Africa and co-director of the African Net-
work of Centres for Investigative Reporting.
the way they see their home. When I was looking around the @ChrisRoper
eccentric lobby of the Chelsea, I noticed a bust of President superwhatever.co.za

VISI VOICES
BITCH HOUSE
Vanessa Raphaely has a passionate love-hate-love relationship with
her ramshackle seaside home.
HEN we were the bright-eyed parents of nicer houses for three weeks a year and call a landlord when
just two very young children, my husband the geyser bursts.”
W and I, in a fit of financial and romantic

delusion, bought “a little holiday house up
the coast”.
If I remember correctly, and at my
It is hard to argue with such wisdom.
But, as a famous philosopher (oh, okay, it was me) said:
“Amour fou is a force that is très difficile to resist.”
Of course, like every other owner of a bitch house, I find my-
age my memory can be patchy (especially when it suits me), self juggling the passion for the place with the cost of owning
I did promise him faithfully that, in order for us to even dream it. Never mind the quiet but persistent voice that tells me how
of affording this mad extravagance, I would become frugal immoral it is that I own a second home in this country at all.
overnight, work like a dog till the day I died and never again And here’s another rule of bitch houses: “Absence makes
eat anything but bread and cheese. In the face of all his very the heart grow harder.”
sensible reservations, I swore, most importantly, to never, ever It’s the being there that blows all the arguments against them
get pregnant again. to smithereens. All I can say, in explanation and defence, is that
there is nowhere else on earth
that feels lovelier to me. No
one else’s smarter houses for
rent “at a fraction of the outlay”.
No glamorous resort hotels.
Not even, it seems, a healthier
bank balance.
To me, there is no emotion
comparable with the way my
heart soars when, after the
ridiculously long drive, I turn
my car into the road leading
up the dune on which the still-
shabby, unimproved money
pit of a house perches. There,
I drink in its signature scent of
But. Oh, dear. fynbos and sea air, then clamber up its stairs to throw open the
Long, romantic nights in an isolated beach house with no shutters and luxuriate in our precious view.
connectivity and untrustworthy electrics can wreak havoc with I sleep better on that dune that anywhere else on earth.
the best… er, laid plans and resolutions. I experience an immense sense of joy and gratitude as our
I got pregnant. family and friends gather on its deck to toast our holiday, good
And at that point I think my poor husband learnt the very fortune, the dolphins and the sunset. PORTRAIT CATHERINE MAC ILLUSTRATION SHAUN GAYLARD
first, undeniable rule of bitch houses: that for most of us What a privilege to have the years of golden memories
mortgage-/school-fee-paying parents, owning one will never of family holidays within its walls to sustain me through the
make any financial, moral or practical sense, at all. No matter winters, the bad times and the tough times.
how passionately the purchase is justified. None of this hyperbole is a good enough argument, of
Of course, it also demonstrates how people who are fixated course. But there often isn’t a good enough argument for
on a basically indefensible idea are not to be trusted. crazy love.
My poor husband.
Bitch houses suck up money like no other foolish purchase. Vanessa Raphaely is an editor, writer
In support of this observation, let me draw your attention to the and author of Plus One, a novel recently
published by Pan Macmillan South
fact that there are currently 3 000 of them for sale in Plettenberg Africa. She is also the administrator of
Bay, The Hamptons of South Africa. the Facebook group The Village, where
And as anyone who has never bought one says – every year, parents of teens and tweens can share
experiences, insights and resources.
from various glamorous destinations around the country or @RaphaelyVanessa
even the world – “For a fraction of the outlay you can rent much facebook.com/groups/1718861155110611

VISI VOICES
HOME AND AWAY

Only recently has Seth Shezi realised that his love of plants is an unconscious
yearning for the childhood motifs that informed the man he has become.
O one, least of all me, would have thought in the seven-year-old boy in Umlazi eager to explore and take
the time I spent living in Chicago would in the world. Walking to and from school, my favourite house
N have as vivid an impact on my percep-

tion of design and aesthetics as it has. By
“Chicago” I do not mean the city on Lake
Michigan known for being the birthplace of
was not the same as those eyed by my friends – any house
deemed palatial in size – but, rather, it was No. 1881. I liked the
palindrome of the house number; it was modest in size and
the only house on the 4 km route to school that was a blinding
Kanye West, but the AA section of Umlazi township in Durban. chalky white (as opposed to beige and face-brick); and it
My childhood was a happy albeit solitary one. Chicago had a flat roof, louvred glass windows and a lone palm tree.
was the newer and perhaps posher side of Umlazi. The bru- At seven years old I didn’t know about South Beach, Miami
tal demarcation of spaces had been done away with, meaning Beach, Florida, but I knew I loved that design – the simplic-
properties were left to cascade one into another, leading to ity, the angles. Even their furniture was mid-century Palm
landscaping squabbles with the neighbours over uncut grass. Springs-inspired, and burnt into my mind was the cool, furry
feeling of a bottle-green velvet seat
on a silver steel frame that remains
one of my earliest tactile memo-
ries. I didn’t know the owners, but
one blazing afternoon the family’s
white cat was shut out, meowing. I
promptly knocked on the door and
the lady of the house was so pleased
she invited me in for a glass of
“Oros”. She called it Oros, but I saw
her mixing it and it was Hall’s – this
was indeed a fancy household! I
wondered if I should tell her that we
also use Hall’s and if she would let
me come back to again sit on this
fancy chair beside the shining glass
dining table.
In contrast to the parts of the township where houses lined That chair sparked a lifelong fondness for bottle green and
up neatly along the road, here we lived in a cul-de-sac – quite a covetousness for all things velveteen.
the mark of sophistication in my mind. Ours had six houses, The sweet irony is that the very influences I rejected when
which meant no traffic, and, although we had no parks we had I opted to move to the more creatively fertile Cape Town,
the dead-end street in which to play cricket and street soccer. I now, in my adulthood, regard as authentically beautiful. Like
At times Durban got so hot the tarmac would soften and, a yearning to return home, I unwittingly crowd my life with
on these days, my friends and I would take refuge in the over- subconscious allusions to my childhood and the aesthetic
PORTRAIT EMMA BECK ILLUSTRATION SHAUN GAYLARD
grown trench at the bottom of our property. Although one memory they evoke.
could never escape the humidity, this is where most of the The imprint of shapes, colours and scents left over from
neighbourhood children spent a lot of time sheltering from the the dreamy years of wandering about in the humid heat of
blistering sun. It had a tiny stream running through it and was the Durban sun are always filtering into the fabric of my daily
dense with banana trees. On top of eating the fruit, we found life – a kind of personal history punctuated with objects and
myriad uses for the thick fleshy leaves: We played with them, impressions without which I would not
created umbrellas out of them and, a whole 15 years before be me.
Solange’s “Cranes in the Sky” music video, fashioned outfits
out of them. When I’m asked about my love for plants and
nature, I often recall this place in all its tropical overgrowth.
Today, my home in Cape Town has one perfect Natal wild Seth Shezi is a lifestyle strategist and
writer. He was named the GQ Best
banana plant as its centrepiece and, needless to say, I adore it. Dressed Man of the Year 2018.
Other design motifs I gravitate towards find their origins @seth_shezi

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VISI VOICES
AVANISHED PLACE
OF HEAT AND STARS
Veteran journalist Ruda Landman travels back in memory to a place that shaped her.
EIMOES, a small town on the Orange River, outside bed stood in the red sand under a big silver oak. I would
was the reference point of my childhood, wake at dawn on a Saturday morning as my brothers gathered
K though we lived in other places for the first

12 years of my life. On the outskirts of town,
surrounded by four morgen (three-and-a-
half hectares) of vineyard, stood a house
tennis racquets for a game before the sun drove them back to
our dam.
In my grandparents’ time the house was quiet and dim, with
all the doors carefully shut and the windows heavily curtained.
built mostly out of mud bricks. My grandparents lived there. It was cooler inside than out, at least until the sun went down.
My mother had grown
up there. Later, after my
grandparents had died,
we moved there and
my parents christened
it Viljoenhof, after my
mother’s maiden name.
Both my parents would
die in that house.
My first memories
are of visiting my grand-
parents as a little girl. The wide sandy street only served three When we lived there as a family it was brighter, but probably
properties, dead-ending against my grandfather’s vines. In the hotter, children coming and going and the doors never proper-
long summer evenings the neighbours from the three homes ly closed. But then we had the dam, emptied once a week so we
would carry out kitchen chairs to sit in a loose circle in the could all get in and scrub it down before refilling it, the water
middle of the street, each with his or her preferred evening running icily clear from the borehole. After lunch on a Sunday
drink. My grandmother drank beer from a huge glass mug. My I would take a nap in my swimming costume, only properly
grandfather drank “tiger’s milk”, brandy. waking up as I hit the water.
We sat in the street because the open space allowed the heat School started at 06.35 in summer. Often, we would cycle
to escape after long, shimmering days when the temperature past sleeping figures on stoeps along the way. We were home
routinely rose above 40°C. The sand would grow cool under by 12.30. The shops opened from 07.00 to 12.00 and from 15.00
PORTRAIT LIBBY EDWARDS/NB PUBLISHERS ILLUSTRATION SHAUN GAYLARD

my bare feet. The walls of the house and even the stoep, on the to 18.00. In-between, the town slept.
other hand, retained the heat like someone sulking long after On weekend evenings friends would join us around the
an argument is laid to rest. In the days before air-conditioning, braai. My father would stand at the fire, quietly smiling to him-
living in the Northern Cape meant living with heat. Finding self as he tended the meat, a friend at his elbow. The smoke
somewhere cool. Creating somewhere cool. would rise in a perfect column, no breath of wind. The stars
When I was seven years old I stayed with my grandparents were bigger and brighter than I have ever seen them since.
for three months. The house had no electricity, cold brown river I’ve been back once. The house was neglected, the garden
water in the taps, and a pit toilet about 50 m from the house overgrown, the grove of orange trees gone, as was the vineyard.
beyond the chicken coop – far in the dark when you’re seven. It doesn’t matter. The physical structure, even the physical
My grandmother would go with me and stand outside with the place, is irrelevant. Part of what I am was made there. Nothing
torch, whistling. She always referred to going to the toilet as can change that.
“om te gaan fluit”, to go whistle. In the late afternoon she and Ruda Landman was co-anchor of Carte
I would sit on the back stoep, using a hand pump to fill the Blanche on MNET from 1988 to 2007. She
has since anchored a programme on
lamps with oil from tall drums. I slept on the stoep. Everyone
kykNET and written a book, Tell Me Your
had an inside and an outside bed in summer. My grandmother Story (NB Publishers), for which she talked
would get into bed with me and read from the Bible by the light to prominent South Africans about life
choices and how change has affected
of a torch, and then I would go to sleep in the quiet darkness.
them. Royalties go towards the NGO
Later, when the house belonged to my parents and it had StudyTrust. “Blessedly retired”, Ruda now
electricity, clear municipal water and an inside flush toilet, my turns her hand to projects that interest her.

VISI VOICES
THE PLACE
CALLEDHOME
Ashraf Jamal’s 1970s childhood home on the Cape Flats resembled a spaceship in
more ways than one.
N 1974, my father bought a plot of land on he would drink his clove tea and read the paper, ferns all about,
the Cape Flats, a sour-green puke of a scrub- the area alive with the hiss of water, the skylight tinted blue.
I land pockmarked with vygies. Now known

as Gatesville, this gnarled and dusty out-
back abutted Rylands Estate. Gatesville was
to be the next Indian-designated block. My
In the heart of apartheid, and the unscrupulous deeds it
compelled him to do, my father, in truth, lived best in his own
mind. Not given to care for others, though revered all the same,
he served as a broker, a bridge between the ambitions of the
father knew this long before, being in the business of buying and leading businessmen in the community and the brutally unjust
reselling houses in zones destined for reclassification. It was a world at large. Every Sunday evening, these wealthy yet fallible
profitable business, and he had no qualms about what he was men would sit at my father’s table, sup on curried lobster tails,
doing. I recall standing before a long table at the Rotary Club, and scheme. Their Africa was a satellite station, monies des-
awed by the ease with which he sang the national anthem. patched to Murud-Janjira and other far-flung villages in the East
What my father wanted was his own home, a home he could where they hoped to return but never would. Africa had claimed
build from scratch, but with all his connections. As an Indian, the them; it was here they would grow their families, far from the
home he built would have to be here, he said, the two of us stand- land of monsoons and jackfruit, and build their little fiefdoms.
ing on the edge of a plot that resembled a rifle: the front of the Perhaps the strange futuristic pods they built were sympto-
property a broad butt, the length of it cocked at an acute angle. matic of this deeper sense of transience; the Cape, after all, was
“Nobody wanted it,” he said. “People want things in boxes.” And always seen as a tavern by the sea, a way station and, for these
so, of course, my father bought the plot for virtually nothing. Muslim traders from India, a docking station in outer space.
It seems odd to think that he knew what our house would be I myself had been schooled in Panchgani, a mountain vil-
called even before the foundation had been laid. “The Place,” lage south of Bombay, but when my sister moved to a school in
he said, not bothering to repeat himself, assuming, as he always the South of England I wished for nothing more than to return
did, that I’d heard him the first time. to South Africa and my own secret world as snug as a cream
The Place, an inhospitable abstraction, and yet for my father Gommagomma lounge chair where, unperturbed, I could listen
a precise name for a Gujarati busi-
nessman from a seaside village
on the west coast of India who
had made a killing in a land of
strangers. He had even named the
street Shaanti Crescent (shanti
PORTRAIT CASIAN JOHNSON WRIGHT ILLUSTRATION SHAUN GAYLARD

means peace in Sanskrit). Why,
I wondered, build a home without
a name and then place it in the
cusp of a holy crescent? Was it a joke, a riddle? My father, who to Jet Jungle and Squad Cars and Hospital Hour, the opening
was also an excellent wicket keeper, valued stealth. refrain by Erik Satie lulling me into my own stupor.
The architect he chose was unknown but, once he’d de- The 1970s in my South Africa was an otherworldly place
signed my father’s house, would become sought-after by the where moustached men smoked Pall Mall and built rare-
Indian community. My father, it seemed, didn’t want a house fied worlds that resembled the plush sprawling interiors of
but something that looked more like a spaceship. The facade Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. Years later, reading
was low and angular, suggesting the wings of a rocket; the Baudelaire’s Fleur du Mal, I found the
garage door was angular too, and wide enough to house my phrase that defined our lives in South
father’s chocolate-brown-and-bronze Beaumont and his red- Africa then, the life of my father and my-
and-orange Mustang. The first was the family car, the second, self: anywhere but here.
I imagined, was for his many lovers.
At the core of the house was a marbled atrium, flanked on Ashraf Jamal is a cultural analyst, editor,
academic and author of a number of
three sides by arches, the fourth wall obscured by a thin sheet of books, most recently In the World: Essays
running water. It was here, seated in his bright-orange chair, that on Contemporary South African Art (Skira).

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VISI DARGLE VALLEY FARMHOUSE
WILD AT H EART
Neville and Sharon Trickett’s farmhouse in the
KwaZulu-Natal Midlands is part family home and
part autobiographical showcase for their extensive
and artfully arranged collections.
PHOTOS ELSA YOUNG,

FRANK FEATURES
PRODUCTION LUANNE TOMS
WORDS KERRYN FISCHER
63
here is a line in a then for us,” he says, referring to the

Tom Waits song succulent nursery that they started
that goes: ‘And here more than 20 years ago. “Prior
you take on the to that we had a forge and foundry
dreams of the on the farm that made the most in-
ones who have credible delicate wirework, which
slept there’,” says Neville Trickett. was woven by a family of Zulu men.”
“That’s our home all in one line of Here too, was where Neville
a song.” As a creative director and dreamt up his retail vision for the
retail visionary, Neville is a mav- original Saint Verde shop on the
erick and mercurial soul, with a farm, which was followed years later
home to match. The 165-year-old by the botanically inspired Saint
Dargle Valley farmhouse in which Verde in Durban for those who loved
he and his wife Sharon have lived their things green and gorgeous. In
for more than 25 years is crammed the early noughties it was bought
with the things they love. So much in its entirety by luxury department
so that entering it is much like being store Liberty and shipped back to its
delivered into a version of Sir John Regent Street store in London.
Soane’s Museum in London. You So, five years ago, when the
get the sense that their passion for opportunity arose to make some
collecting is a visceral affair, where changes to the layout of the house,
instinct rules the day. they knew exactly what they wanted
“Sharon has strict criteria when it to do. “We opened up the previous
comes to aesthetics, while I don’t,” warren of rooms downstairs into
says Neville, “but the marriage one big living space that leads out ABOVE Neville in a faux
of the two makes for perfection.” to the garden, so that now there are snakeskin jacket.
The Tricketts have amassed a size- essentially four rooms downstairs: “I have a very fine
able collection that spans vintage the kitchen, the lounge, the annex tailor who makes my
jackets,” he says.
French and English furniture, an- or guest room, and the courtyard at
tique Japanese slipware, Dansk the back that we doubled in size.” OPPOSITE An antique
Kobenstyle enamelware, religious A contemporary black staircase chest of drawers and
two cubes in bronze
iconography and much more. leads upstairs to three bedrooms,
and maple from
“Whatever we buy, we buy it en a lounge and two spare bedrooms France back onto
masse, so it’s never just one but “that are really storage for our ridic- a sofa that faces the
50,” says Neville. And so you’ll find ulous collection of fabrics”. two beds (one French,
X-rays transformed into wall lights, They also added three buildings one English) in the
main bedroom.
a staggering array of objects such as to the existing 13 on the farm – a
pen knives, old syringes and vintage studio for Neville, a utility room and PREVIOUS SPREAD,
LEFT The front terrace
hand-made silk flowers, all beauti- a guest suite – as well as generators
has been enclosed
fully presented and artfully backlit and a water system linked to three with a conservatory
in display cupboards. dams to get them off the grid. window. The floor tiles
But then there is history in The Tricketts’ mutual interest in are slate and Carrara
this house. It is where Neville and art, architecture, design, fashion, marble, and the
botanical prints are
Sharon raised their two children, food and gardening is well reflect-
from a Taschen book,
Sara (a grower of rare tropical plants) ed in their home. As a result, it’s Cabinet of Natural
and Lex (an animation artist and a dynamic space that can easily Curiosities by Albertus
design director), amid an assort- accommodate Neville’s flamboyant Seba, given many
ment of dogs, rare white donkeys personality and love of statement layers of varnish.
and equally rare succulent plants. as well as Sharon’s passion for PREVIOUS SPREAD,
“We lived here for 20 years before nature and need for calm. Moving RIGHT Neville and
we made any major changes to the through their house is an intense Sharon made panels
out of antique cast-
place,” says Neville. “Our passion curatorial experience that takes you
iron railings to build
has always been to build spaces first from Tokyo to England, Africa and this greenhouse, one
for plants, then for our animals and beyond… in a matter of minutes. of five on the property.

As part of the most recent

renovation, the kitchen, living
room and dining room were
turned into one big salon-
type room. The shelves and
dressers are old apothecary
cabinets and ornate dressers
that Neville bought in France.

Stone walls, low
ceilings and wooden
floors make for
a highly atmospheric
backdrop for Neville
and Sharon’s display
of furniture, art and
colourful things.
“We like to think of
our home as a gallery
for living,” says
Neville. “And this is
merely a mid-career
perspective.”
OPPOSITE Looking
into the long living,
kitchen and dining
area from the
courtyard at the
back of the house.

Yoko snuggles on a custom-made sofa

upholstered in an over-dyed raw linen.
OPPOSITE In the living room, Neville and Sharon
painted the wood of an original mantelpiece
black and then put acid on the metal to make
it rust. They bought the lamp from a French
importer of vintage lighting.

The blue steel staircase

in the living room is
a contemporary addition.
On the round table are
bowls by Tom Dixon,
Jeff Koons and Ruan
Hoffmann, and an Indian
marble bowl filled with
porcelain doll heads.
OPPOSITE The guest suite
is accessed via a room
featuring Moroccan tiles
and furnishings sourced
on a trip to Morocco. “It’s
the only themed room in
the house,” says Neville.
73 visi.co.za FEB/MAR 2019

In the kitchen, a Gregor Jenkin table is covered with a printed linen tablecloth from
Babylonstoren. The hanging lamps are all vintage finds from Clignancourt Market in
Paris, and the horn chairs were bought at The Conran Shop about 15 years ago.
OPPOSITE Misty atmospheric scenes abound on the farm.

Cabinets of curiosity
are painted Prussian
blue inside and feature
interior lighting. The
frames, from an old
school nearby, are
filled with implements
such as kitchen tools.
OPPOSITE The
courtyard leading
off the kitchen was
extended during the
recent renovation
to accommodate
a 12-seater table.
Neville bought
hundreds of the yellow
chairs at an auction
and has started giving
them away as gifts.
The chair in Neville’s studio where he paints and creates photographic still life studies
was a gift from a friend. “This is my private hideaway where I work uninterrupted.”
OPPOSITE In the metal conservatory, the tiles, newly laid, are from Union Tiles.
Sharon has been collecting succulents for 38 years and has a collection of more
than 2 000 varieties. The table is an old refectory table from Marianhill Monastery
and the wire stools are from Mr Price Home.
79
Every window and door affords views

of the bucolic landscape.
OPPOSITE Neville walking with five of
their nine dogs along the enclosed front
terrace. His brother made the ornate
window guards, inspired by something
similar he’d seen on an overseas trip.
visi.co.za FEB/MAR 2019

81
VISI KNYSNA HOLIDAY HOME
NO
PLACE
LIKE
HOME
When a UK-based family built a holiday home in Pezula Estate,
it became a symbol of their strong South African roots.
PHOTOS JAN RAS

PRODUCTION SUMIEN BRINK
WORDS AMI KAPILEVICH
ROM the moment aesthetic tribute to two cultures but

that Paul Spambo, also a space where they could meet,
a South African meld and grow together. “As a South
doctor travelling in African working in the UK,” says Paul,
the UK at the time, “I wanted a space that could give our
fell in love with his daughters a sense of their South Afri-
future wife Viki, who was working as can roots.”
an ER nurse, their relationship has Guy enlisted Rik Ørts-Hansen of
been a synthesis of different cultures. TCNO Architects to work within the
Viki wanted to get married in a aesthetic framework set out by Pezula’s
castle, but instead of settling on a ball- design committee.
room in Cheshire the couple held “In the end,” says Rik, “the scheme
their wedding ceremony in a castle is a combination of TCNO’s input and
on Noetzie Beach and the reception Guy’s original concept of having a hub
at Zachary’s at Pezula Golf Estate in where family and friends can gather
Knysna. – like the central space in a village for
The following year, Paul bought a an imbizo [“gathering” in Zulu, usually
plot of land at Pezula and they reached one called by the traditional leader] –
out to Guy Ailion of KSR Architects to with individual living units attached
design a house that was not only an to galleries that weave the spaces

together. Each bedroom is orientated to have a unique framed slaughter a sheep,” says Paul, “so the butchery is reminiscent of
view of the landscape.” that tradition, but interpreted in a contemporary way.”
The imbizo concept came from Viki’s desire to create a space The humidor near the bar also takes on an interesting cultur-
where the two families can come together for celebrations and al nuance. “Smoking is part of African culture as an after-dinner
to relax. “I just wanted a very sociable house,” she says. “I have activity,” says Paul, “but the concept of a cigar lounge itself is
many good memories of my family from the UK and Paul’s South European. So again there is a mix of cultural traditions.”
African family meeting over the Christmas and New Year period.” The house is decorated in a style that Paul calls “contemporary
For Paul, who grew up in Umtata and whose father had a farm tribal”, which blends the family’s modern lifestyle and traditional
in Maclear in the Eastern Cape, the house also needed to reflect roots. But this special house is where two worlds will come
his Hlubi tribal heritage. One of the rooms is a walk-in cold room together to make shared memories for generations to come.
designed to accommodate a whole slaughtered sheep hung abnb.me/47WEZJyuoT [The One - Pezula Private Estate on Airbnb]
from the ceiling. “Every time we had a gathering, my dad used to facebook.com/leopardsdrive
ABOVE LEFT Viki, Paul, Olivia and Holly Spambo live in the UK but visit South Africa regularly. ABOVE RIGHT The fabric cable
chandelier is a custom-made Molecular design by Ashlee Lloyd, who designed the lighting at The Skotnes Restaurant at the
Norval Foundation. In the background is Paul‘s humidor next to the granite bar counter made by sculptor Angus Taylor.
OPPOSITE Paul describes the aesthetic of the house as “contemporary tribal”, where modern Western design blends seamlessly
with African tribal flourishes. Above the fireplace is a print of a David Ballam photograph, Rendille Moran VI, Lake Turkana, Kenya.
PREVIOUS SPREAD The distinctive screen is made of vertical garapa hardwood blades. “It gives the building a lightness and harmony
with its surroundings,” says architect Guy Ailion. Paul and Viki bought the loungers at Nikki Beach on the island of Ibiza.

“Once inside, you are received in a gallery hall

with a double-volume turret and a view through
a courtyard, past the living room and out to the
deck,” says architect Guy Ailion. “This engages
a visitor with the depth of the house and its sitting
in the landscape.” A collection of African baskets
and a large print of a David Ballam photograph of
a Hamer woman from the Omo Valley in Ethiopia
adorn the walls.

For Viki, the courtyard with its pizza oven, braai and
outside speakers is the most important part of the house.
“I wanted a sociable house,” she says, “and a dining area
that is exposed to sunlight.” The table is from Weylandts
“I WANTED and the chairs from Nikki Beach, Ibiza. OPPOSITE The
kitchen features American walnut and copper, and
A SPACE THAT a chandelier by Ashlee Lloyd. The dining table by Herman
Brink Wooden Furniture picks up on the copper theme.
COULD GIVE
OUR DAUGHTERS
A SENSE
OF THEIR
SOUTH AFRICAN
ROOTS.”
PAUL SPAMBO
Made by And So To Bed in London, the

equestrian-themed Handel luxury
bed features a cast-iron frame
fashioned to look like leather straps.
OPPOSITE Holly and Olivia’s Afro-
boho-themed bedroom has a raised
level to give the effect of a stage
– both girls are avid dancers.

The bathroom is
one of the edgier
rooms in the
house. Contrasting
with the sexy
photograph of
Kate Moss by
Mario Testino is
a collection of
artfully displayed
succulents. The
DADO Toronto bath
and Bleu basins
are from PIPS in
Plettenberg Bay.
“A CHALLENGE
FOR DESIGNERS
IS TO
UNDERSTAND
THE CLIENTS’
CULTURAL
ASPIRATIONS
FOR A PROJECT.”
ARCHITECT GUY AILION

The wooden screen and drystone retaining wall contribute

to how well the building nestles into the topography.
OPPOSITE Paul designed the springbok water spouts
at the front entrance to the house himself.
THE HOUSE WITH
THE PINK DOO OR
Interior designer Etienne Hanekom likes spending

weekends in the platteland, working on whichever
dilapidated house has captured his imagination.
This cottage was meant to be a flip: Buy, fix, sell.
Don’t get too attached…
VISI ROBERTSON COTTAGE
PHOTOS NEIL VOSLOO

PRODUCTION ETIENNE HANEKOM
WORDS SAM WOULIDGE
OR three years, pool that I call The Pond. The house
Etienne Hanekom doesn’t feel as small as it is, but with
drove past a der- more than four people it begins to
elict 150-year-old feel slightly crowded.”
cottage on his way Being a small space – and also
to his grand old because it was initially meant to be
Victorian in Robertson, without no- a flip – Etienne had to practise some
ticing the nondescript ochre building. self-restraint with colour. “It was
Then, one day, a friend told him that hard using so little colour, but this
a small cottage near his house was house wanted to be light. So I used
for sale. Upon finally noticing it and off-white for most of the indoor areas
entering it for the first time, Etienne and painted the newly cast concrete
instantly fell for both its dimensions floors and the wooden roof trusses
and the price. a muted chocolate brown. This is
“It was a forgettable, run-down, a house with attitude, so I brought
sad little house,” Etienne says. “A in dark greens for the kitchen and
long, narrow house built of clay with strong pinks for the vaulted wet room
four windows and a front door. Yet and hideous Vibracrete wall.”
I walked in and knew I wanted it. In terms of furnishings, the fabrics
The house had a certain atmosphere are velvet and the furniture an eclectic
that I liked, a feeling that resonated mix of antique and modern pieces.
with me.” There are, as always, animal
There is always a house that winds mounts on the walls. “These are my
its way into Etienne’s heart. These children. They are not my hunting
are his personal projects. And they trophies. I don’t hunt. Never have. I
are always very personal, even when found these in second-hand shops
they’re not meant to be. and I’ve given them a second life. An
As he began to transform the di- honourable second life.” And when
lapidated cottage, Etienne fell more asked why, Etienne simply replies.
for it. He mostly works with large “They chase away the evil spirits
spaces, but he has a particular fond- and keep the ghosts at bay. They are
ness for small ones. By the time he guardians.”
had completed the pink vaulted From the outside, the now
bathroom, he had sold his much whitewashed house is structurally
larger Victorian house down the road untouched. The window frames were
and was making plans to move into replaced, the front door was paint-
the narrow little cottage. ed pink, but the old corrugated-iron
“This house is tiny, but it doesn’t roof remains, as do the skew lines
feel like it. The ceilings are relatively and odd angles. Etienne likes imper-
high, giving the impression of vol- fections. “You can’t make everything
ume. I made an open-plan kitchen, straight and force alignment. If you
dining and living area in the centre, do that, an old house loses its charm.”
with a double bedroom and bath- Where it was once an easily
room on either side. I also created overlooked, unloved cottage, the
a large outdoor lounge area, a real House with the Pink Door is now a
green room, by building a semi- bright-white beacon of light, a whim-
enclosed stoep with French doors sical cottage in an otherwise ordinary
leading off the living area and into a street. Totally unforgettable.
lush garden with a small swimming etiennehanekom.com
OPENING SPREAD In the kitchen, Etienne assembled flat-pack cabinets, added

granite countertops, brought in an antique cupboard for a larder and hung
thought-provoking what-inmates-ate-as-a-last-meal photographs on the walls.
The guest bedroom’s pink en-suite wet room has a vaulted ceiling – because
Etienne loves an arch. ABOVE LEFT The street leading to the House with the Pink
Door, strewn with jacaranda flowers. LEFT The facade of the house at night.

In the lounge, a modular couch system from

Weylandts can be transformed into a bed for
two. The side tables, ottoman and rug are also
from Weylandts, and the planter is by Joe Paine.
In the green
master bathroom,
the floor tiles are
from Moroccan
Warehouse
and the Seletti
Hanging Monkey
lamp from
Generation.
OPPOSITE The
guest bedroom is
decorated with
antique furniture
and a Delft-print
bedcover from
Babylonstoren.

“YOU CAN’T MAKE

EVERYTHING
STRAIGHT AND
FORCE ALIGNMENT.
IF YOU DO THAT, AN
OLD HOUSE LOSES
ITS CHARM.”
ETIENNE HANEKOM
101
The arched roof of the wet room,
which opens out to the garden.
The door was custom-made
– the printed forest scene on
the glass ensures privacy.

The main bedroom with its

Babylonstoren bedcover
and velvet-upholstered
antique chair. Outside is
a shower amid banana
and papaya trees.

The stoep, bordered by a box hedge,

feels like another room of the house
thanks to the use of velvet upholstery
and outdoor rugs. The indoor dining
area is quite small, so the antique
table and Kartell Masters chairs
on the stoep allow for larger
dinner parties.

VISI KEW ARTIST’S HOME
A WOR K OF ART
In 1968, renowned sculptor Edoardo Villa asked his friend
architect Ian McLennan to design a house for him. The resulting play
of volumes is a sculpture in itself – and a delight to live in.
PHOTOS DOOK
PRODUCTION ANNEMARIE MEINTJES
WORDS LAURIAN BROWN

In the living room, Ligne Roset’s Togo lounge suite
adds a note of luxury. The cement-mixer sculpture
Infinite Progress is by Michael MacGarry.
PREVIOUS SPREAD Lunetta Bartz and Warren Siebrits

in the triangular double-volume gallery. On the right,
a Michael MacGarry sculpture stands at the far end
of the passage.
108
DOARDO VILLA’s journey had been a long
E
one: from Italy to South Africa as a prisoner of
war, and from classic realism to abstract mod-
ernism as an artist. After his release, he chose
to stay on in Johannesburg and for a time lived
and worked at the home of artist Douglas
Portway in Kew, a suburb on the eastern fringe of the city.
Villa soon became a prominent figure in the local art world and
in the great surge of creative innovation that lit up the middle of
the century. He was able to buy the Portway house in 1959, and in
1968 commissioned Ian McLennan to design a house for him on
the same property, giving him no brief and a very small budget.
It was a time when the symmetries and conventions of old sub-
urbia were being turned inside out. Streets were walled off, living
spaces opened up, on to courtyards, bricked patios and a new
seclusion. Flow and transparency became all-important, framed
in a new vernacular of simple materials and earthy textures.
Among the many wonderful houses designed in this period,
the Villa home stands as a timeless gem. The house remained un-
altered during all the years Villa and his Greek wife Claire lived
there, a testimony to the perfection of the design.
After the sculptor’s death in 2011, the ideal custodians came
along: Warren Siebrits, curator and art collector of note, and his
wife, designer Lunetta Bartz. “When we were approached to buy
the property, we jumped at the chance.”
They were also able to buy the neighbouring house, which had
belonged to artist Giuseppe Cattaneo, and this now preserves the
artistic heritage of all three houses. In 2016, Lunetta relocated
the offices of her design studio and bookbinders, MAKER, to the
Cattaneo house.
“In the beginning we used to come for weekends from Illovo,
which amused our friends. Our home there was a Sutton-Walker
duplex, beautiful and more luxurious than this house. But then
our dogs fell in love with the place, with the all the outside space
and the garden – and we’re very close to our dogs!
“This house is very simple and quite spartan, but we find it
quite magnificent living here. It’s really small, only 100 m2, but the
way it’s designed gives you a sense of much greater distance and
space. It has a wonderful transparency, with doors aligned and a
perfect placement of windows and apertures that introduce light
and unexpected glimpses of the garden and sky.
“Because of the cavity walls and the exposure to the sun, it’s
never cold in winter. The courtyards bake and heat the house and
the cross-ventilation and quarry tiles make it cool in summer. And
then there’s the garden, with all these old trees and mature plants
that give it wonderful atmosphere.”
For Warren and Lunetta, the house is the jewel of their collec-
tion. “It’s a sculpture in itself, which is what the architect intended.
And that’s why we keep the furnishings absolutely minimal. No
two-dimensional items on the walls, so that visitors can really see
the subtlety and complexity of what the architect has achieved
and how he has played with light, form and texture.”

Edoardo Villa’s
5 m-tall tubular
steel sculpture
Mother and Child
(1974) has returned
to the house;
Warren and Lunetta
unveiled it in 2015.
OPPOSITE Michael
MacGarry’s For
Most of the Many,
Much of the Time
(2015) stands on
the walkway at the
entrance. “We try to
imagine how avant-
garde Edoardo and
his contemporaries
were and to buy
metal sculptures
that are as
progressive now as
he was then,” says
Warren.

The bold profile of the house is enhanced by the

rugged unpainted plaster and offset by sculptural
plant forms.
OPPOSITE The walls of the kitchen, with their original

mosaic still immaculate, frame a view through the
dining room to the garden. The table was designed
for the space by the architect, Ian McLennan.
VISI KUILS RIVER HISTORICAL FARM
FEAST of LOVE
When you visit the spirited Le Rouxs of Langverwagt,
the dining table will be set with Willow, Waterford
and Elkington, and conversations will span
continents and rise and fall between layers of time.
PHOTOS AND WORDS LIEN BOTHA

family embarked on a long-term project

of restoring the historical heart of Lang-
verwagt: the homestead, wine cellar,
outbuildings and werfmuur. Further to
this, decent accommodation was built for
workers Katrien Mosa, Aisa Prins, Sophie
Ryneveld, Charmaine Bouwers, Josilin
Bouwers, Joseph Ryneveld, Piet van Wyk
and their families.
At 60 hectares, they knew they had to
focus on something in addition to agricul-
ture and so the original Cape Dutch wine
cellar was turned into a wedding reception
venue. Over the past two decades nearly
a thousand brides have spoken their vows
here – following a seasonal path along the
HIS is a story about old road to Stellenbosch in a sweet valley
a family who had to of whispering poplars.
leave their farm Eden- Today, Janette’s eyes (the colour of
dale in Zimbabwe to forget-me-nots) shine upon her rambling
start a new life in South paradise with all its beauty. Poets accom-
Africa. Behind them, pany you when you meander here, past
maize fields, cattle, a farmstead and mem- the old oaks, Cape mulberry, flowering and francolins, and at night you can hear
ories. Patriarch Fanie le Roux took the lead peach, and Granny de Beer’s hydrangeas, three species of owls.
in the truck loaded with some equipment which once graced the foyer of the Mount The Precision Merchant (as Fanie
and matriarch Janette followed with their Nelson Hotel. Janette has continued the le Roux was known in Zimbabwe) and
four children, Pierre, Juria, Robert and tradition of cut flowers at Langverwagt, his talented family have created a world
Fanie. Refusing to stay behind, farm fore- adding new species and expanding the insisting on charm and civility. The children
man Fungai Nyakuramba waited by the existing hydrangeas (including a white have become lawyers, an artist and a farmer,
side of the road with a small suitcase. Near variant from Colombia.) impelled by the tread of the aesthete.
the Lion and Elephant Motel in Fort Vic The dear dogs Tommy, Frida, Nonnie When you visit the spirited Le Rouxs of
(now Masvingo), Fungai had to take ref- and Trixie follow you past bougainvillea, Langverwagt, you may hear stories of the
uge behind the piano and so entered his fragrant wisteria and foxgloves; here plec- gentle ghosts Lotjie from Mozambique
new homeland with quiet applause. tranthus carpets the shade; there arches and Jacob from Malabar, the bridegroom
Langverwagt was in the Le Rouxs’ ivy; under the gin-and-tonic tree (a lemon in the cream suit or the guest who fell
future, two decades and a toiling dis- tree sprouted from a guest’s drink), one asleep under the dining table. Perhaps
tance away. Between the layers of history of the many peacocks demonstrates his a slender girl with all the grace in the world
and the first Jean le Roux of Normandy pluming glory. will play the “Moonlight Sonata” and the
who was granted the farm by the Dutch Against a western slope, Robert’s or- memory of Fungai Nyakuramba will cast
East India Company in 1721, they started ganic vines are producing deep reds; along a slight cloud over Fanie le Roux’s eyes.
anew. The farm was neglected when the werfmuur, rambling roses remember But most of all there will be laughter…
they acquired it, but with unlimited the slaves who built the walls. Dusk falls and your crystal glass will be full.
imagination and a pioneering spirit, the through the spoor of Cape grysbok, genets langverwagt.co.za
OPPOSITE In the secret garden, an arch leads to an eclectic mix of indigenous and exotic plants, and a profusion of blooms.
PREVIOUS SPREAD Tommy Thomson perches on his favourite seat in the farmhouse dining room. Above the sofa are paintings by
Juria le Roux depicting family members and workers of the farm.


Farmhouse chic: an
embroidered peacock
cushion, made by family
friend Maureen Sharp,
sitting pretty beneath
a painting after Turner
by Edward Roworth.
OPPOSITE A fabulous
show by The Prince in
the kitchen garden,
which is planted with
spekboom.
Skull, mirror and

exposed copper
pipe details in
Juria’s kitchen.
OPPOSITE Trailing
vines and ’Ada’s Joy’
bougainvillea frame
a peacock on the
venue lounge stoep.
THE FAMILY
EMBARKED ON
A LONG-TERM
PROJECT OF
RESTORING THE
HISTORICAL
HEART OF
LANGVERWAGT.

NEARLY
A THOUSAND
BRIDES HAVE
SPOKEN THEIR
VOWS HERE.

In Pierre’s converted
stable, his love of history
is evident from the
stuffed bookshelves, the
Bismarck bust and the
Rubens portrait print.
OPPOSITE Roses spill
over the whitewashed
werfmuur.
In the old wine cellar,

ancient Spanish vessels
once used for olive oil are
filled with branches and
twinkling lights, and the
table is set for a feast.
OPPOSITE Artworks by
Walter Meyer, Henk
Serfontein, Alet Swarts,
Ben Coutouvidis, Theo
Kleynhans, Hanno van Zyl
and more hang salon style
in Juria and her partner
Brahm van Zyl’s home.

STAY
WILD
“Even though I left Africa, Africa never
left me.” Ever since moving to the States
and a career on Wall Street in 1983,
Julian Koski has dreamt of returning to
the African bush some day.
PHOTOS MICKY HOYLE

WORDS JULIAN KOSKI

VISI LIMPOPO BUSH LODGE

OCATED in Thornybush northern and southern African design
L
Private Game Reserve in aesthetics.
the Greater Kruger Na- We christened the house Kubili – “two” in
tional Park, Kubili House Tsonga – in reference to our twins, Leo and
sits atop the largest water Tess. But the house is in many ways about
reservoir in the reserve. dualities. Conceived of two parts, it draws
You really don’t need to leave – game viewing its characteristics from ancient and mod-
from under the Mies van der Rohe-inspired ern influences: Earthy, organic material is
pergola is unmatched. It is here that I made expressed in abstracted modernist-inspired
my dream of a second home in Africa come forms. One part is a pergola with a floating
true for my family. roof, the other is its weighty, rocky, mono-
Living in the materialism of New York lithic counterpart resembling Moorish/
City, one can often feel disconnected from Moroccan/Zimbabwean-type ruins. They
humanity, and I didn’t want that for my mirror each other across a rim-flow pool
children. I wanted to offer them a counter- and koi ponds. For me, that’s the perfect
balance to the gilded cage, to give them marriage of a modernist architectural idea
something I had growing up: a point of with something ancient.
view that reminded them of what it is to be We sought out interior designer Jacques
human, a connection with something real, Erasmus to carry out our vision inside.
wild and natural. “It was really more about contextualising
As a family, we have been fortunate the interior vision of the owner than about
to visit some of the most beautiful places decorating,” says Jacques. “We kept the
in the world, including some of Africa’s interiors simple and understated. There’s
finest reserves and lodges. Although the so much going on texturally and so many
experiences were each amazing in their own layers that very little had to be done to
way, there was always something missing. enhance what was already there.”
We wanted to slow down the experience, Because of the scale of the rooms much
to have time to absorb and reflect without of the furniture was custom-made, but there
being hurried to the next meal or game drive. was no uniform approach. What Jacques
Kubili House is designed with an unhurried describes as the “almost disparate materials
pace in mind. Should you be inclined, you and pieces” have helped to create a sense of
can stay a while, too: It’s designed to enable the passage of time. The house feels lived-in
you to live and work comfortably for an rather than decorated.
extended period. In late June, when our In the bathrooms, gently mysterious art-
summer holidays begin, my family packs for works by Andrew Putter from his African
a three-month-long stay in the bush, and my Hospitality series adorn the walls. They’re
wife and I manage to work remotely. meticulously styled photographic portraits,
Building a house from scratch in pristine fictional representations of actual European
wilderness demanded a complex response, castaways of 17th- and 18th-century ship-
something more than the usual reinter- wrecks along the South African coast saved
pretation of colonial lodge architecture. by Xhosa communities. In a way, these
I wanted to capture the timelessness of the images are a key to Kubili House: a salvaged
landscape, the aura of legend and ancient piece of the past recreated in the present that
African civilisations, to ensure that the allows us to imagine the future differently.
property belonged. Architecture has long Ancient African ruins here find expression
been a passion of mine, and I relished the in modern form, an intervention in the land-
opportunity to exercise my architectural scape that is at once boldly ambitious and
ambitions. I’m South African and my wife almost invisible.
Aida is part Arabic and part Brazilian, and Jacques Erasmus: jacques@hemelhuĳs.co.za
our own heritage inspired me to merge kubilihouse.com
The view over the main rim-flow pool towards the wellness room, which features antique
elm screens at the entrance. Beyond hangs a bushveld-inspired hand-painted tapestry by
African Sketchbook. PREVIOUS SPREAD An African daybed sits on a Moroccan leather-and-
reed mat and a Moroccan silk throw in the guest casita; and resident chef Thulani Silinda.

The bed is by
Donna Karan
with a custom
mosquito net. Lee
Broom pendants
offer the perfect
reading light.
The artworks are
Xhosa Woman –
Intombi I and II
by Tony Gum.
In front of the
sliding door is
a meditation
area overlooking
the bush.


The guest villa bathrooms feature custom-made sanitary-

ware. The generous basins appear weightless on the floating
concrete base, and the Perrin & Rowe taps have a raw brass
finish. The 18th-century tolletjie chair is from Pier Rabe Antiques.
OPPOSITE Framed pressed botanicals in the guest villa dressing
area echo the landscape.
“IT WAS MORE ABOUT
CONTEXTUALISING
THE INTERIOR VISION
OF THE OWNER THAN
ABOUT DECORATING.”
INTERIOR DESIGNER JACQUES ERASMUS

The main living

room features
a rare Persian
carpet, an
antique Indian
kist, a sofa
custom-made
in antique linen,
artwork by Peter
Eastman, and
a pair of Smoke
armchairs from
Moooi. The metal-
clad fireplace is
adorned with an
oversized amber
necklace. The
ceiling is solid
French oak with
beams by Pierre
Cronje.


This light-filled bathroom overlooks
the private pool and waterhole.
Baths were made to the owners’
specifications. OPPOSITE A piece by
Andrew Putter in a gilded frame hangs in
front of the library of blended bath salts in brown
reagent bottles, above a metal-and-marble vanity.

Donna Karan solid teak furniture adds a Zen feeling to the outdoor living space – enjoying dinner at the low table
allows for the best views of the waterhole. The interior of the hand-beaten metal fire dome is clad with brass,
which transmits a soft glow when the fire is lit. The bar and braai areas features brushed metal and brass details,
which are picked up in the flooring: Asymmetrical lines in the custom-coloured concrete are inlaid with brass.

A true camping experience in

the bush: A night spent under
the stars dining on fine food
served on fine linen, sharing
stories around the campfire,
and falling asleep to the
sounds of wild animals.

A LIGHT TOUCH
Babylonstoren has opened six new Fynbos Cottages that are
the definition of restrained luxury and suggest how you might
refocus your leisure time.
PHOTOS DOOK
WORDS LES AUPIAIS

VISI GROOT DRAKENSTEIN COTTAGES

HROUGH the vineyards and boma with a roof garden spiked with aloes and
up a gradual incline, past a heat-loving indigenous plants. Above you is that
dam and on the crest of a ridge, distinctive Cape blue sky and a sun you’ve sought
the wheels of the electric carts all year to recharge.
thrum on the roadway. You A short distance away down through the vine-
breathe the route this way: fyn- yards, close but almost another country, is the
bos, grapevines, untainted air. Guests shed clutter bustling abundance of the farm: the charcuterie and
to be here at Babylonstoren: first their fossil-fuelled bakery; the roastery where almonds harvested in the
cars, then the clamour of business and the metro- orchards are roasted and where you’ll find blocks of
nome of a daily routine. artisanal chocolate and nougat; a Healing Garden
Perhaps the word “cottage” is misleading, be- of fragrant herbs for teas to soothe or invigorate; the
cause what you discover are living spaces drawn new Spice Garden hothouse with arches reminis-
in elegantly clean lines. Light streams in through cent of a classic French gare; and the Factory, where
glass walls; white space on which to draw your balsamic vinegar in barrels makes the cool air sweet
own experience. Think of these cottages rather as with its promise of a taste in years to come, and
earth-anchored apartments with views over water, where, in the Scented Room, you may play alche-
mountains and two-thirds sky, an artistic balance mist and mix your own essential oils and fragrant
that you register subliminally as calming, pleasing salts. There are those cottage baths, after all...
on the eye. Forage from the Farm Shop for your evening fare
Broad-beamed Oregon pine floors and thick and then quietly retreat to the hill, with Simons-
walls make historical reference to the sturdy Cape berg, Paarl Mountain, Du Toitskloof Mountains and
dwellings of the 18th century, but all else is contem- the distinctive conical Babylonstoren peak etching
porary symmetry: crisp white linen, panama-straw the skyline.
fabric tones, and the textures of linen and fine cot- And in that indeterminate time between dusk
ton. The bathrooms are lolling spaces, stripped and night, the owls hunt for booty for their chicks
of everything but the opulence of space and cool housed in elevated boxes a short flight from the
marble underfoot. You could keep an eye on the cottage verandas. You’ll not hear their wings, but
world via a flat-screen, yet more enticing is a floor- perhaps if the night is windless and still, you might
to-ceiling bookcase, a wall of travel, philosophy, catch their double hoot and hear the short cry of
botany and history to engage your thoughts. their prey. They must forage, too, for their fare. By
Through a low wooden gate, a path leads to a now your senses have been realigned. You will be
surprise for guests. Quite suddenly you are in an gentled into a new way of marking time and some-
agave desert, but the mirage is real. A pool and low how changed for the better.
loungers invite you to bake like lizards in a rocky babylonstoren.com
OPPOSITE The six new Fynbos Cottages on Babylonstoren command an elevated view of the farm over
a sea of vines, in summer an undulating green “lawn”and in autumn a rustle of dry leaves that will be the
white-noise soundtrack for your sleep.
OPENING SPREAD The cottages are cleverly designed to reveal and conceal: Thick white walls and deeply
set windows create a natural cool, and subtly make reference to 18th-century architecture at the Cape
designed to fend off a fierce sun. Glass walls offer guests a lens on the fynbos and mountains while
creating light, spirit-uplifting zones. Your senses are immediately engaged.

There is a subtle
conversation to the
living-room design:
Walk barefoot to feel
cool Oregon pine or the
delicious texture of jute
bouclé underfoot. But
then your eye is drawn
to books you simply must
read. You could connect
with the world via your
phone or television,
but why would you? The
room has other ideas.

There can be no
more extreme
luxury than a bed
that strips clutter
from your head
and comfortably
suspends you
for eight hours
in fine linen. On
a chilly night, light
a fire, retreat,
and listen to the
farm’s natural
soundtrack.


There is art and science at work in the
bathrooms, so often neglected after-
thoughts of design. Here, the bath calls
for immersion in something fragrant
to coax you into a spa-headspace. The
light is perfect for everyday rituals, yet,
dimmed by night, turns the bathroom
into a theatrical space, a stage with
minimal props and maximum indulgence.


Behind the cottages
and through a discreet
wooden gate is
a surprise for guests:
a desert oasis of rock
and a swimming pool
and a vitality pool to
vigorously jet away
fatigue. Commandeer
loungers and look
upwards at cloud
shapes and, armed with
chilled white wine or
spring water, soak up
just enough of the sun
to recharge.


Through the glass door

of the pool area is a small
conservatory refreshment
station. Even a gentle signal
by hand will summon staff
for drinks… or slip inside for
a light snack.

One of the Fynbos

Cottages consists
of two units
linked by a glass
passage – echoing
the juxtaposition
elsewhere of glass-box
kitchens added on to
the vernacular-style
Garden Cottages. It’s
ideal for two couples
sharing, as it gives the
option of closing the
doors to enjoy privacy.
It’s where we ran into
international model
Katryn Kruger.

A short distance from Fynbos

Cottages, down the hill by
electric cart, the farm offers
abundant fare for lunch and
dinner, but also the chance
to stock up on your own
fragrant mixes of oils and
bath salts in the Scented
Room. At the time of
our visit, a batch of
rosemary essential oil
was being distilled
and Katryn sampled
various scents.

CLOTHING FOR SALE ON THE FARM AND ONLINE AT SHOP.BABYLONSTOREN.COM
HAIR AND MAKE-UP MARZANNE GERICKE
159
visi.co.za
FEB/MAR 2019
VISI CAPE TOWN CITY BOWL LOFT
URBAN FAIRY TALE

Few people would consider trading an impressive house in a leafy
suburb for a warehouse in a gritty industrial area. One couple did.
PHOTOS MICKY HOYLE PRODUCTION SUMIEN BRINK WORDS SAM WOULIDGE

The kitchen was imagined by the homeowners and created by Carlos La
Woodworks. The French oak refectory table, originally from Le Brocanteur,
has been in the family for a long time, and the industrial factory lights are
from Croatia.
PREVIOUS SPREAD The top floor of the warehouse features an enormous

open-plan kitchen, three dining areas, a bar, and various lounges and
nooks. The beautiful old gold lamps are from Morgan Associates.

OW did The Wife get The Husband to
H
move out of their home when he was
clearly reluctant to leave the life and
luxury of that leafy suburb?
She did it slowly, lovingly and with
incredible style. The Wife had fallen in
love with a three-storey 1 500 m2 inner-city warehouse, orig-
inally a wool shed built in 1886. She liked the enormity of
it, the original wooden floorboards – beautifully scored by
years of use – and cast-iron pillars. She loved that it felt like
a sanctuary; that the space was comforting, as if it had taken
on all the warming characteristics of the many bales of wool
that had once been stored inside it.
For The Wife this was a happy space, and she was de-
termined that The Husband would experience it so as well.
She knew he would move. Because their love was strong
and years ago they had promised that they would move to
the ends of the earth for each other. And this was, after all,
only a short distance from where they were living.
The Husband knew The Wife would create a home for
them, as she had always done. The children had left the
nest, and now it was just the two of them. He was risk-
averse, but he trusted her. He did, however, have four
conditions The Wife had to meet: 1) He would take charge
of security. 2) Their bath and bed had to move with them.
3) The Wife would design him an incredible “happy space“
kitchen. 4) And The Wife would not wedge the television
into a cupboard.
All conditions were met and resistance crumbled. The
Wife knew The Husband was being pushed out of his com-
fort zone, so she created a new comfort out of their old
treasures. This home would certainly be different, but also
reassuringly familiar. She explains, “We have an amazing
collection of things that hold great meaning for us both. In
this vast space they come into their own. Initially I thought
of doing something completely different, something mod-
ern and industrial. I battled with myself. Do I stay with the
monochromes, the rusted metals? But I realised that I need
colour. Colour is life. And our carefully curated belongings
are a reflection of us, of what we love. They hold our memo-
ries. I couldn’t discard them.”
Luxurious jewel-coloured velvets are juxtaposed with
hard industrial metals. Chinese antiques nestle against cast-
iron pillars. Steel-and-glass factory partitions reflect coral
walls and yellow kitchen cupboards. Ornate gilt antiques
and Grandma’s riempie chairs coexist in harmony.
This home is opulent but not pretentious. Everything
feels well lived-in. The space is vast, yet there are pockets
of intimacy throughout. There is a sophistication, an un-
affected velvet glamour that, while unexpected, is not
entirely surprising when you know the two people who
have made it their home.
And in the end it really didn’t matter where they lived
as long as they were together, pushing each other to be the
best versions of themselves. And finally agreeing that the
TV need not always be hidden away in a cupboard.

The view from the kitchen area, looking
past the bar counter from Onsite Gallery
to the turquoise nook where Champagne is
kept in an old Indian workshop cupboard.
OPPOSITE A collection of pieces from the East.

The French desk
with its slate top
is in the library,
which houses not
only books but
also an extensive
art collection.
Venetian Woman
on a Horse is
by Di Bell; and
the black bird
charcoal work,
The Messenger
by Gary Davies,
is a particular
favourite.

The bookshelves, built by Carlos La, are filled with well-thumbed books.
The wooden sculptures above the shelves on the right are by a street
artist, Michael, who carves his works under a tree by the side of the road.

An office features coral walls (Midas Setting Sun),
a deep-blue ceiling (Duram Satin Touch Deep Well)
and yellow accents. The glass-and-metal partitions are
recycled warehouse fittings, and the chairs and side table
are from Chair Crazy. The artwork in the background is by
the homeowners’ son, Henry “Chomper”.
The heavy-duty cast-iron pillars with their Manchester markings and

Oregon pine ceiling beams can be seen in this view of the vestibule. The
artwork against the wall, titled Chekhov’s Gun, is by Tessa Wessels, and
her final-year Fine Art portfolio is on the table in the foreground.
The guest bedroom features coral walls and

velvet drapes, an antique French bed from
Le Brocanteur, cushions and throws from The
Hall Collection and a painting by Walter Meyer.
OPPOSITE The original wooden floors in the
guest bathroom are complemented by subway
tiles and fittings from Victorian Bathrooms.

Next to the bath in the master bathroom is a handy ledge for cups of tea,
magazines and books. The painting is by Italian artist Alessandro Papetti.
His and hers

basins and
a Shany van
den Berg nude.

The Maharaja bed in the master bedroom, bought years
ago from Private Collections, has moved house a number
of times. There are no built-in closets; instead, clothes are
hung on open rails and waist-high retail display stands,
and accessories are kept in vintage haberdashery units.

The rugs throughout the house, collected over many
years, are from Gonsenhausers Fine Rugs and Gilles
Botbyl. The bedside lamps are from Newport Lighting.

VISI HIGGOVALE HOME
CHEF IN
RESIDENCE
Chef Liam Tomlin and
wife Jan know what they
want and, for that matter,
what they don’t. And
as all couples that have
embarked on a home
renovation project know,
that’s half the battle won.
PHOTOS MICKY HOYLE
PRODUCTION SUMIEN BRINK
WORDS ANNETTE KLINGER
VISI HIGGOVALE HOME
HETHER you’re a bibli- As far as the decor was concerned,

ophile, a design junkie “We knew what we wanted,” says Jan. FRIED FISH TACOS
or just plain voyeuris- “The doors, the metal windows, the con- Serves 4
tic, the bookcase in chef servatory, the stainless-steel kitchen, the FISH MARINADE
Liam Tomlin and wife black-and-white chequered bathroom 4⁄5 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
Jan’s new home has an floors… We showed references of all of it 2 tsp turmeric
undeniable magnetism. Ensconced in a to interior designer Douw de Kock, and 2 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder
wall in the lounge, the solid-timber frame he drew up a plan for us.” 2 tsp sea salt
stretches from floor to ceiling, with each With the day-to-day running of their 2 tsp castor sugar
square shelf crammed with colour-coded four restaurants, Jan and Liam rarely get 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
cookery tomes. As per Liam’s preference, to entertain at home, but the downstairs FISH TACOS
the dust jackets have been removed area is tailor-made for rip-roaring brunch 360 g firm white fish, skinned, boned
to reveal the fabric-covered spines, so and dinner parties. “Before the Eat Out and cut into 12 strips of equal size
Larousse Gastronomique and Lessons in Awards, we had a few of the guys here for a 4 poppadums
Excellence from Charlie Trotter nestle to- Champagne and bacon buttie breakfast,” 1,5 litre vegetable oil, for deep-frying
gether with their maroon counterparts, says Liam. “It’s great, because I could cook
SEASONED FLOUR FOR DUSTING
whereas hardbacks by Gordon Ramsay and interact with them at the same time.”
100 g flour mixture (4 tsp each rice flour,
and Neil Perry cosy up in their own dedi- Made to Liam’s specifications, the sleek tapioca flour, potato flour, chickpea
cated grey section. stainless-steel-finished kitchen is mel- flour and cornflour), seasoned with sea
Offering easy access to the top shelves lowed by a flood of natural light thanks to salt and
is a ladder enamelled a fire-engine red. a curved conservatory roof crafted by local freshly ground black pepper
“There was this battered metal ladder company Metal Windows. The undisput-
TO ASSEMBLE THE TACOS*
standing outside Chef’s Warehouse one ed heart of the kitchen is a free-standing
3⁄4 cup curry emulsion
morning and next thing I saw two guys jet-black Officine Gullo cooker, imported
salad of sliced red onion, red chilli and
running down the street with it,” says from Florence. “This is the Rolls Royce of
semi-dried cherry tomatoes
Liam. “I shouted after them to ask how ovens,” says Liam. “I wanted everything in 1⁄2 cup coconut & tamarind dressing
much they wanted for it, and they said this kitchen to be beautiful.” small bunch coriander sprigs
R20. So I gave them the 20 and sent off the The true extent of the renovation deep-fried curry leaves
ladder to have the rusted metal fixed up, reveals itself upstairs. A space that pre-
1. In a bowl, mix the marinade
spray-painted and those lovely wooden viously housed two bedrooms and a
ingredients, add the fish strips and
pieces added to the ends.” bathroom is now one sprawling interior,
coat them evenly. Cover with cling
The same lateral thinking behind the punctuated only by steel-framed glass
wrap and allow to marinate in the
books and ladder is evident in the ap- partitions. Far from being tucked away, fridge for at least 3 hours.
proach the couple took to renovating the the open bathroom is a focal point, with
104-year-old house they’d bought in the herringbone-patterned tiles and fixtures 2. In a heavy-based saucepan, heat
Cape Town City Bowl: They honoured by Victorian Bathrooms helping to set oil and deep-fry the poppadums for
what was already there, but weren’t afraid the aesthetic, instead of merely echoing 10 seconds or until golden. Carefully
remove them from the oil (reserve the
to take risks to unlock the hidden poten- it. Cabinetry was custom-made by Cape
oil for the fish) and shape them over
tial. To be sure, it wasn’t a minor makeover Customs, including a wood-and-glass
a roll of cling wrap into half-moons.
(renovations took more than a year), but armoire fashioned from floorboards sal-
ultimately the changes that were made vaged during the renovation. 3. Place the seasoned flour mixture
both simplified and maximised the space. The sleeping quarter’s true highlight, in a bowl. Remove the fish from the
“It was a three-bedroom, but we want- however, is its exterior. Where once there marinade and coat it with flour. Reheat
ed to design a place just for us,” says Liam. was only a window with a sloping corru- the oil to 180°C and fry the fish strips
until crisp and golden. Drain on kitchen
“We made it a one-bedroom so there gated roof below it, there is now a spacious
paper and season to taste.
wouldn’t be any areas that won’t get used. balcony offering views of Signal Hill and
You get spare rooms that are used for only the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway on 4. Spoon 3 tbsp curry emulsion into
two weeks a year. We didn’t want that.” one side and the CBD on the other. each poppadum and top with 3 fish
Downstairs, the walls of a previous- Asked whether the renovation caused strips and some salad. Drizzle with
ly poky kitchen were knocked out and any tiffs, Liam and Jan both say when you dressing and garnish with coriander
the staircase was moved from the centre have the same taste, half the battle is won. and deep-fried curry leaves.
of the lounge to the entrance to create a “I love to walk into a house that tells * Find the complete recipes – including the
flowing open-plan lounge, dining and a story,” says Liam. “This house tells our curry emulsion, salad and dressing – online
kitchen area that extends onto a deck and story. It shows our passion for food, wine, at VISI.co.za.
courtyard. travel, art, music... Everything we like.”

The wooden bookcase, a real conversation starter, and the fireplace cladding were specially made by Cape Customs.
VISI HIGGOVALE HOME

Liam’s recipe for
fried fish tacos is
on the previous
spread. OPPOSITE
The conservatory-
style windows in the
kitchen were made
in a collaboration
between Glass
Benders and Metal
Windows.
VISI HIGGOVALE HOME

Behind Jan
is a portrait
of Liam from
his BANC
restaurant
days in Sydney.
OPPOSITE
Metallic,
wooden and
stone elements
are used
throughout the
house, as are
the couple's
favourite
colours, red
and black.
VISI HIGGOVALE HOME
The couple’s bedroom, where they’ve hung some of

their favourite monochromatic artworks, opens onto
a balcony that affords stunning views of the city.
OPPOSITE The open-plan bathroom is fully
incorporated into the design aesthetic
of the bedroom.

VISI HIGGOVALE HOME
A copper brazier keeps things nice and
toasty in the courtyard on nippy evenings.
OPPOSITE Jan and Bailey in the sheltered
outdoor dining area in the courtyard.

VISI NAMIB DESERT LODGES
A LAND
UNTOUCHED

Namibia’s far reaches have long been the preserve of the
intrepid. Now, two exceptional lodges are giving guests
access to some of its most remote and breathtaking parts.
PHOTOS DOOK
WORDS AMELIA BROWN

HE drive will take us from the small plane that collected us in colder welcome drink, and a desert vista
“T
into the river bed, Windhoek and deposited us in the heat of that renders you mute with reverence.
where we’ll hopeful- Sesfontein (with a middle-of-nowhere stop Arranged in a gentle arc so each balco-
ly see desert-adapted for fuel to remind us of just how remote we ny has an uninterrupted panorama, the
elephant, giraffe, oryx were). We marvelled at its desolate plains six tented rooms and main tented lounge-
and perhaps some from the ground, too, as we bumped and cum-dining room seem to dissolve into
small antelope,” says our guide Mwezi rattled our way through the Kaokoveld the surroundings. As well as ensuring the
Bupilo as he briefs us for an early-morning Desert in an open-sided truck into the setting has the starring role, the solar-run
drive. He pauses before he continues, more verdant river bed that would lead us tents, which sit on a decking composite of
gesturing to the shale and granite moun- finally to Hoanib Valley Camp. bamboo and recycled plastic produced in
tains that surround us, glowing pink in the The day’s expedition aside, arriving here Swakopmund, deliver on Natural Selec-
morning light. “But here in Namibia the is quite something: Natural Selection’s tion’s environmental mindfulness.
landscape is also part of what we will see.” tented camp in Sesfontein Community Design consultant Cate Simpson
He’s right. Whichever part of Namibia Conservancy is flanked by a remarkable approached the interiors with the same
you visit, its arid terrain and endless hori- metamorphic amphitheatre with sweep- subtlety. “We wanted to develop a camp
zons are a constant. Another is travelling ing views towards the ephemeral Hoanib that was an extension of the magnificent
great distances, and on our journey to River. You’re greeted by the warm smiles surrounds,” Cate says. “The landscape, the
Namibia’s North West we had a bird’s-eye and joyous singing of the staff, a cool towel Himba culture and the association with the
view of its vast and varied topography to wipe the dust from your eyes, an even Giraffe Conservation Foundation were all
PREVIOUS SPREAD Oryx stand transfixed. ABOVE The Hoanib River bed is home to desert-adapted elephant. BELOW ”Silhouetted
against the sky, the cabins appear almost like ships floating on the horizon,“ says Nina Maritz of the Shipwreck Lodge structures.

defining influences in the colours, textures Coast National Park, is entirely different. a glimpse of the silvery dunes through
and graphic patterns.” True to the ethos of Built on a sea of sand, the 10 cabins and a porthole or watching the fog roll in from
Natural Selection, as many pieces as possi- main lounge/dining room have been de- your bed. Nina has purposely framed the
ble were sourced locally. signed by architect Nina Maritz to resemble views in different ways in each direction.
Cate continues, “One of the ambitions shipwrecks, with which the treacherous “I think human beings like to see dis-
of Natural Selection is to take the safa- coast is synonymous. The spruce timber tance. It’s very therapeutic, a tonic,” says
ri experience back to ‘basics’, with less design met the dual challenge of the re- Dave van Smeerdijk, co-founder of Natural
emphasis on the uniform glamour that has mote location (much of it was assembled Selection, one night at dinner as we sit
started to define the experience in Africa. off-site in Windhoek) and the requirement under a sky laden with stars. In a place
The camp provides a comfortable platform, that it can be disassembled and removed, where time is measured in evolutionary
one that’s appropriate to the setting, for an if necessary, at the end of the 25 year con- terms and nature is undeniably in charge,
outstanding experience with the people, cession, leaving the land untouched. these lodges offer two exceptional vantage
game and vistas that the landscape offers.” Interior designer Melanie van der points to look on in awe.
The result is that each of the owner-run Merwe wanted the experience to be immer- naturalselection.travel
camps is as distinctive as its environment, sive. “I wanted guests to feel lost in time. To cate@reflectingafrica.com, melanie@
and each has a conservation angle unique understand this incredibly special part of wudesign.info, ninamaritzarchitects.com
to that area – giraffe, in the case of Hoanib the world, it needed to speak to the soul.”
– so guests leave with a localised ecological For Nina, “The contrast between the harsh
With its Explorers Programme, Natural
understanding. exterior and snug interior creates a frisson Selection offers specials to African
It’s why the experience at Natural of excitement every time you enter or leave citizens, making its camps more
Selection's second Namibian property, a building.” It is a surreal experience to be accessible for local travellers. Visit
naturalselectionexplorers.co.za.
Shipwreck Lodge in the remote Skeleton sealed inside the wooden cabins, catching
“The Tentickle Tents

create a beautiful sense
of space that enhance
the openness of the
Hoanib itself,” says Cate
Simpson. In addition to
warm hues and natural
textures that echo the
landscape, Cate sourced
locally, like the delicate
combretum pod cushions,
pictured opposite, which
are sewn by local women.

193
The entire Hoanib Valley Camp

runs on solar power, with LEDs
used throughout. Water is
sourced from a borehole and
efforts to reduce plastic are in
place, such as reusable stainless
steel water bottles. The site can
be dismantled and moved at any
given time, leaving no trace on
the landscape.

195
Recycled plastic isotherm

insulation was used in the
construction of Shipwreck
Lodge. The siding was
installed using wooden
nails, a revolutionary BECK
LignoLoc nailing system
used for the first time
under such conditions.
As a solution for the sand
walkways, Melanie van der
Merwe approached a local
businessman who sells
recycled tyre products
on the side of the road to
create 300 tyre carpets.
OPPOSITE In the main
lounge, sloping angles
and tilted windows further
reinforce the maritime feel.

“I WANTED GUESTS TO FEEL LOST IN TIME.”

MELANIE VAN DER MERWE, INTERIOR DESIGNER
“The structures look quite simple and modest from the outside and are dwarfed by the landscape, so it’s almost like a giant has
scattered wooden blocks on a vast carpet of sand,” says architect Nina Maritz. The cabins consist of a bathroom in a pointed bow that
faces south, linked to the bedroom – which resembles a piece of a hull lying on its side – by a small lobby. The beds face a large horizontal
window that looks out to sea. To minimise disturbing the dune habitat, the site was chosen because it contained little plant life and
only very mobile fauna. As these are moving dunes, the relentless prevailing winds remove the sand around the footings, which means
constant maintenance to ensure the structures aren’t undermined.


Most of the timber was sourced from renewable sources near South Africa. "Namibia produces very little timber of its own and most is
from endangered hardwood which we didn’t want to exploit further," explains Nina Maritz. OPPOSITE Interior designer Melanie van der
Merwe sourced and commissioned many of the pieces locally, including the linen; the rugs, made by Karakulia Weavers in Swakopmund;
and the tables, which she had made with a map burnt into the surface. Each cabin’s interleading door tells a story of a local shipwreck.


An agate cove on
the rough Atlantic
coastline offers
a colourful bounty
and a reminder of how
mineral-rich Namibia
is. The Skeleton Coast
National Park spans
about 16 000 km2
along Namibia’s
north-western coast.
Excursions from
Shipwreck Lodge
include exploring the
flora and fauna of this
unforgiving habitat
and a ride on the
fabled roaring dunes.
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& D12 INTERIORS
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specialises in distinctive
design in the commercial,
residential and leisure fields.
www.amagroup.co.za
WE’RE KNOWN FOR…

AMA has completed many notable
architectural works, actively
incorporating its skilled Building
Information Modelling (BIM)
experience, and has won SAPOA
awards for Sustainable Design
of Office Buildings and Urban
Residential Projects.
YES, WE WERE THE ARCHITECTS!

The Lumière in Melrose Estate,
Johannesburg, is a soulful experience
embedded in an understanding
of the culture of the City of Gold,
formed of the urban materiality of
concrete, steel and brick – a modern
architectural signature building.
DARRYL CROOME
ARCHITECTS
Darryl Croome Architects, which is based in Cape Town,is an integrated practice with
a holistic approach that incorporates master planning, architecture and interior design.
WHO WE ARE
Darryl Croome Architects’
35 years’ experience
is complemented by
a specialised residential
and commercial design
team of skilled technicians
and interior designers,
led by talented project
architects.
dcarch.co.za
WHAT WE’RE GOOD AT

We create buildings characterised by timeless
simplicity, elegant design, a conscious approach
to context and attention to detail. A keen
understanding of the commercial aspects of
property development allows us to provide
a professional service to developers and private
clients alike, tailored to their individual needs.
We pride ourselves in creating living spaces that
serve to maximise experience, quality of living
and functionality, whilst always exceeding our
client’s expectations.

Water’s Edge, Big Bay, a beachfront home that
takes full advantage of the ocean views and
indoor/outdoor flow; and Central Drive, Camps
Bay, which sees its architectural stepped forms
embedded into the gradient of the slope.
ELPHICK PROOME
ARCHITECTS
EPA is an internationally acclaimed Durban-based practice that has, over three decades,
undertaken a range of projects covering the full spectrum of building types and budgets.
WHO WE ARE
Led by George Elphick
and Nick Proome, the
75-strong EPA team has
undertaken a wide range
of projects in South Africa
and beyond our borders,
with highly successful
outcomes. An integral
part of our architectural
offering is a collaboration
with interior architecture
company novospace.
eparch.co.za

Our repertoire covers the full spectrum of
architectural typologies, but we specialise in
premium offices, luxury residential, hospitality
and institutional projects. Our design philosophy
is driven by a highly contextual African response,
which inspires memorable forms and spaces. Our
strengths lie in an engaging personal and innovative
design process that yields creative and unique
works of architecture.

Rooi-Els Beach Retreat (left) in the Overberg,
a provocative single-space construct that redefines
coastal leisure; House Mansfield, a superb example
of sub-tropical family living with a relaxed
contemporary African feel; and the critically
acclaimed RCL Foods Head Office, which entirely
re-framed the corporate work space paradigm.
JVR ARCHITECTS
& INTERIORS
JVR Architects & Interiors,based in Parktown,Johannesburg,specialises in high-end residential
projects and focuses on timeless design with strong roots in South African architecture.
WHO WE ARE
Principal architect Joe van
Rooyen strongly believes
that each design must be
relevant to a specific client,
location and typology by
ensuring that attention is
paid to fluidity, comfort,
quality, craftsmanship and
innovative technologies.
jvrarchitects.co.za

We strive to achieve balanced design in all our
projects, and we’re known for our attention to
detail. We focus on combining a modern approach
with eco-friendly technology, and have extensive
experience in upmarket residential architecture.
It differs from other types of architecture in the sense
that it is more intimate and involved for a client,
particularly on a personal level where we engage and
work with their dreams, aspirations and lifestyle – it is
a great honour, but also a great responsibility.

Like this Pezula Private Estate house, most of our
residential projects lean towards a local vernacular
that draws on the idea that no clear distinction exists
between inside and outside. For us, the key element
in any truly South African home is a large covered
terrace to take full advantage of our great climate.
NICO VAN DER MEULEN

ARCHITECTS
Based in Randburg, Nico van der Meulen Architects focuses on designing innovative,
luxurious homes,both contemporary and traditional,tailored to each client’s taste and needs.
WHO WE ARE
Nico van der Meulen
Architects remains at
the forefront of design
by exploring new forms,
pushing the boundaries and
evolving with technology,
without compromising
on the authenticity of the
design, aesthetics, materials
and originality.
nicovdmeulen.com

We excel at high-end architectural designs such as:
• Contemporary residences
• Additions and alterations
• Commercial and boutique hotels
• Clusters and multi-residential developments
• Interior design

We were fortunate enough to have worked on
this extensive and quite creative renovation to
Kloof Road house in Johannesburg. The client’s
brief called for radical changes to an ageing house,
prompting a response that is reminiscent of parasitic
architecture, where forms merge and transform
around junctions, into rooms and through spaces,
emphasised and emboldened by the colour scheme.
It is a well curated and crafted family home, finely
attuned to the client’s expectations.
LYT
ARCHITECTURE
We are a highly experienced and diversified professional practice dedicated to excellence in
architecture and design.
WHO WE ARE
LYT is an 85-strong multi-
disciplinary practice of
architects and support
staff that pride ourselves
on exceptional design
and project delivery.
Each of our buildings
is a testament to our
commitment to the craft
of architecture.
lyt.co.za

The PWC Tower was designed with the intention
to create a beacon for the entire Waterfall area.
The tower has become a prominent addition
to the Johannesburg skyline. This sophisticated
structure proudly sits alongside similar successful
towers around the world. Innovative architectural
and structural solutions create a legible and
iconic structure.

LYT brings the diverse elements of the group
into a single creative engine encompassing
architecture, interior design, graphic design,
upfront consulting and project execution.
We seek to build on our track record of success
to lead the way in cutting-edge design in the
built environment, as well as wealth creation for
our clients.
SAOTA
World-renowned for our experience and dedication, SAOTA’s design philosophy marries
perpetual curiosity with international learning.
WHO WE ARE
Under the leadership
of Stefan Antoni, Philip
Olmesdahl, Greg Truen,
Phillippe Fouché and
Mark Bullivant, SAOTA has
established the studio
as one of South Africa’s
leading architectural firms
and a dynamic player on
the global stage.
saota.com

With more than 30 years’ experience to capitalise on,
SAOTA delivers boundary-pushing design, whether
it’s residential, corporate, institutional or commercial.
Backed by Tenebris Lab’s LUX Walker technology,
clients can expect a fully immersive VR experience
with the studio, from concept to completion.
SAOTA’s inspired vision and work has seen the studio
complete projects in more than 80 countries.

The design of the University of Cape Town’s New
Engineering Building and adjacent Teaching and
Learning Building delivered a modern facility in an
environment steeped in tradition. To emphasise
the building’s environmentally sensitive design,
high-performance glass to limit solar heat gain and
glare, energy-conservative electrics and rain-water
catchment facilities were installed.
HOOD NAPIER
ARCHITECTS
Hood Napier Architects,based in Fourways, Johannesburg,specialises in private homes,
upmarket housing developments, boutique lodges, offices and light commercial work.
WHO WE ARE
Hood Napier Architects
is owned and run by
husband-and-wife team
Nick Napier and Lara
Hood. This award-winning
practice has designed
homes for prominent
South African celebrities
and properties as far afield
as Mauritius and California.
hoodnapierarchitects.com

INTERIOR DESIGN SIAN PAIVA, HOOD NAPIER INTERIORS PHOTO ALEXIS DIACK
We specialise in high-end residential design. Each

project is site- and client-specific, as we strongly
believe that context and the client’s individual
dreams, needs and aspirations are fundamental to
the design process. Design is a journey: Uncovering
the existing and possible opportunities embedded
in a site, and working within the available resources
to push that design to its maximum potential, is an
exciting ride. Architecture is a three-dimensional art
form that must be experienced on a human scale,
from within and without.

We recently extended and renovated a family home
in Fourways Gardens, Johannesburg, transforming
it into a five-bedroom, four-and-a-half bathroom
double-volume contemporary home that makes the
most of the footprint and has beautiful light and flow.
100
REASONS TO
CELEBRATE
ICONIC
DESIGN
IMAGE ALEXIS CHRISTODOULOU
VISI REASONS
NO
01
FULL FRONTAL
In the year 1998, Google was founded, the first Apple iMac was released and
everyone had a Nokia 5110. It was also the year VISI was launched as South Africa’s
first annual decor and design magazine in Afrikaans. Two decades, multiple
awards and 99 issues later, VISI continues to inspire, influence and enthrall,
and boldly shine a spotlight on the best decor, design and architecture in Africa.
Ronelle Meyer was the first editor of VISI, before Sumien Brink took over as editor-in-chief in 2001
(issue 5) and began including summaries of selected articles in English. Starting in 2004, VISI was
published in both Afrikaans and English. Johan van Zyl became editor in 2008 (issue 39), followed
by Jacquie Myburgh Chemaly in 2011 (issue 51). Sumien was back at the helm in 2012 from issue 61,
which is also the edition that revealed the new – and now iconic – masthead, designed by
Garth Walker. From then VISI has been published only in English.

VISI REASONS
NO
02 “I really tried
to make a
space that
COVER STORY
Self-taught 3D artist Alexis Christodoulou shares how he
began creating his signature imagined architectural spaces
and how he approached VISI’s 100th cover.
He worked with online
shopping giant YOOX NET-
A-PORTER GROUP, Sunglass
felt both Hut, Belgotex, Stefania
imagined in Mode, JW Anderson and
my rendering MotherCityHardware, and
style and also he created some pieces
habitable at the same time,” for Architectural Digest
says Alexis Christodoulou of and a rendering for the
his approach to the image new Glossier flagship store
on VISI’s 100th cover. “It in New York with Gachot
needed to be a meeting Studios. This year is proving
point of VISI’s vision and to be just as promising.
my interpretation of that.” It must be quite unreal
His surreal digital when a hobby born from
renderings were first a lifelong fascination with
featured in VISI 96 in 2018, digital worlds and a love for
a year that proved to gaming as a kid becomes
be a busy one for Alexis: a body of work that is
sparking international I do reference real spaces,

recognition… “It’s slowly but I hide them behind
dawning on me,” quips something of my own.”
Alexis. “My first goal was His renders have an
just to be good enough at evocative mood with
it that I could upgrade my shadow and reflection
computer, because I like featuring strongly. Water is
to geek out with parts. Alexis’s favourite element
I managed that and then for its expressive potential.
IMAGES ALEXIS CHRISTODOULOU WORDS AMELIA BROWN

suddenly all this other stuff “I hope viewers feel a sense
happened.” of calm and escape. All I can
Alexis takes inspiration really hope for these days
from films, architecture, is that someone looks at
architecture in films, books, my image for one second
and the internet. “I think longer than another image
modernism is a go-to on Instagram.”
for me for its simplicity We’re very happy to stare
and the dialogue you can at our VISI 100 cover all day!
create with simply lines. alexiscstudio.com
ABOVE Drafts 001 to 004 of the VISI 100 cover.

LEFT A wireframe render of the image.

GO WITH THE GLOW. Part of the Metallics collection, Le Creuset’s bestselling 350ml mugs and
10cm mini cocottes are re-imagined with a glamorous new finish. Available from February 2019
at Le Creuset boutiques and online at www.lecreuset.co.za.
VISI REASONS
NO
03 STRIKE A POSE
Over the years, VISI’s portraits have managed to capture both
the spirit of the subject and the brand’s identity – proving the
PORTRAITS 1, 6, 8, 10, 15 DOOK 2 KEVIN MACKINTOSH 3 ADRIAAN OOSTHUIZEN 4 NIEL BEKKER 5, 7, 12 MICKY HOYLE 9, 11, 16 SHAVAN RAHIM 13 NKUTHAZO DYALVANE 14 ELSA YOUNG 17 MARĲKE WILLEMS
adage that a picture is worth a thousand words.
3 6 Johan
4 Wentzel
and Grete
1 Swaady Martin-Leke van As
2
(VISI 67). 2 Klara van (VISI 85).
Wyngaarden (VISI 35). 3 Julia 7 Ilze and
Anastasopoulos (VISI 84). Samuel
4 Lucie de Moyencourt Wolff
(VISI 93). 5 Marianne Fassler (VISI 74).
(VISI 58).
1 8
7 5
6
10 11
9
12 13
14
17
15 12 Christiaan Barnard
and Boyd Ferguson
8 Gavin Rooke (VISI 8). 13 Andile
(VISI 62). 9 Samantha Dyalvane (VISI 79).
Foaden (VISI 83). 14 Johann Slee (VISI 78).
10 Beks Ndlovu 15 Jacquie Myburgh
and Thula (VISI 85). Chemaly (VISI 55).
11 Lindi Brownell 16 Thabisa Mjo (VISI 83).
Meiring, Niel Meiring 17 Thandi Sibisi (VISI 60).
and Matisse (VISI 82).
16

1 Johan van Zyl (VISI 50). 2 Hamer
Woman I by David Ballam (VISI 94).
3 Engela Smith and Chris Browne (VISI 6).
4 Frank van Reenen and Tracy Lee Lynch
(VISI 85). 5 Deryl Jan (VISI 9).
2
PORTRAITS 1 ALFRED LOR 2 DAVID BALLAM 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 12 DOOK 4 ELSA YOUNG 8 MERWELENE VAN DER MERWE 10 JOE | DAN PHOTOGRAPHY 13 JAN RAS 14 CLINTON LUBBE 15 SHAVAN RAHIM
1
6 Francesco 4
Abbate (VISI 37).
7 Clockwise from
left, Porky Hefer,
Greg Gamble,
Philippe van der
Merwe, Jeremy 3
Rose, Dieter 6
Brandt, Andrea
Kleinloog,
Mbongeni
5
Buthelezi, Lesley
Carstens and
Silvio Rech
(VISI 53). 8 Miriam
Ilorah (VISI 17).
9 10
9 Philippe
van der
Merwe
(VISI 40).
10 Jan
Hendrik
van der
Westhuizen
and Grant
Bacon
8 (VISI 90).
11
14
12
11 Gerhard Swart and Anthony Harris

(VISI 31). 12 Musa Shangase (VISI 84).
13 Mohau Modisakeng (VISI 82).
14 Nataniël (VISI 40). 15 Davide
Salvadore (VISI 90).
15
13

VISI REASONS
1 Dook (VISI 31). 2 Tony Pereira and John and

Maira Koutsoudakis (VISI 82). 3 Karen Roos 4
and Terry de Waal (VISI 82). 4 Adriaan Hugo,
Katy Taplin and Joe Paine (VISI 35).
5 Paul Kotze
(VISI 84).
6 Emma Chen
(VISI 76).
6
3
5
1
7
PORTRAITS 1 DOOK AND SAM 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 12 DOOK 8 JAC DE VILLIERS 10 SHAVAN RAHIM 11 CLINTON FRIEDMAN
9 10
11 10 Sibusiso
Mhlanga
(VISI 90).
11 Greg and
Roche Dry
(VISI 54).
12 Jean Gouws
(VISI 5).
12
7 Hugo and Max (VISI 76). 8 Etienne Hanekom (VISI 85).

9 Marcus Pieterse and Stephen Falcke (VISI 7).

1 Karabo Poppy Moletsane 2 6 Annemarie
(VISI 96). 2 Pieter Mathews Meintjes
(VISI 13). 3 Lucilla Booyzen (VISI 50).
(VISI 79). 4 Hoosein Unice 7 Chantel
(VISI 29). 5 Chu Suwannapha Dartnall
(VISI 77). (VISI 75). 8 Sean 4
and Justine
Mahoney
(VISI 83).
3
PORTRAITS 1 MARĲKE WILLEMS 2, 3, 4, 9, 11, 14, 15 DOOK 5 MALIBONGWE TYILO 6 TESSA SONIK 7, 16 MICKY HOYLE 8, 17 JAN RAS 10 SHAVAN RAHIM 12 DAVID ROSS 13 MARK SERRA
1
5
6 7
8 9
10
11
9 Braam de
Villiers (VISI 82).
10 Laduma
Ngxokolo
(VISI 67). 11 Greg
Gamble and
Philippe van der
Merwe (VISI 21).
12 Ndi Bester
(VISI 46).
12
14 16
13
13 The Stegmann family

(VISI 54). 14 Voytek Modrzewski
(VISI 59). 15 Angus Taylor and 15
Rina Stutzer (VISI 51). 16 Jackie
17
Burger (VISI 77). 17 Laurie Wiid
van Heerden (VISI 79).

VISI REASONS
NO
04
ANIMAL PLANET
You’d have a hard time convincing the animal-loving VISI team
that a space isn’t infinitely improved by having a four-legged
furry in it. Over the years we have featured some magnificent
pet portraits. Here are a few of our favourites.
TOP ROW, FROM LEFT Mac, shot by Micky Hoyle (VISI 80); Seun with Cobus van Niekerk, shot by Stephen Inggs (VISI 72); and Khinya, shot
by Jan Ras (VISI 84). ABOVE Kaptein and Rankie with David Krynauw and Jasmyn Pretorius, shot by Merwelene van der Merwe (VISI 95).
ABOVE RIGHT Nana, shot by Dirk Pieters (VISI 44).
OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Nillo and Nache with Heather Arnold, shot by Inge Prins (VISI 68); Salty, shot by Adriaan Louw/
Frank Features (VISI 74); Smokey, shot by Micky Hoyle (VISI 68); Maxi Clunies-Ross, shot by Dook (VISI 54); Eames, shot by Micky Hoyle
(VISI 65); Tonic, shot by Jan Ras (VISI 78); Sofia with Doreen de Waal, shot by Elsa Young (VISI 72); a township dog at the Red Location
Cultural Precinct in Port Elizabeth, shot by Jan Ras (VISI 65); and Bertus Basson’s pet pig Spek, shot by Jan Ras (VISI 83).

VISI REASONS
1 2
NO
05
A SENSE
OF PLACE
From farmhouses to far-flung lodges,
3
4
penthouses and city pieds-à-terre to

picturesque hideaways, VISI has been
able to transport you to remarkable
places around the country, continent
and globe through the evocative
images of talented photographers.
5
6 1 Jaco Janse van 7
Rensburg, Beach
house, Yzerfontein,
shot by Russell Smith
(VISI 95). 2 Tsegofatso
Taka and Inhle Tele,
Joburg, styled by Klara
van Wyngaarden,
shot by Dook (VISI 48).
3 Grotto Bay, styled by
Tina-Marié Malherbe,
shot by Robbert Koene
(VISI 7). 4 Farmhouse,
Prince Albert, shot by
Lien Botha (VISI 16).
5 Penthouse, Strand,
shot by Jan Ras (VISI 81).
6 Weekend home,
Dullstroom, shot by
Dook (VISI 88). 8

10
11 12
9
13 14 15 16 17
18 19
20
7 Maison Noir, Hout Bay, shot by Jan Ras (VISI 80). 8 Monastery, by Micky Hoyle (VISI 75). 15 Yvette Murtz, Kassiesbaai, styled by
Greece, shot by Tina-Marié Malherbe (VISI 69). 9 Kleinood, Tina-Marié Malherbe, shot by Dirk Pieters (VISI 47). 16 Windmills
Stellenbosch, shot by Elsa Young (VISI 77). 10 Sunnyside Up Hotel chapel, Nottingham Road, shot by Dook (VISI 55). 17 Lake
Karoo cottages, Merweville, shot by Eric Nathan (VISI 73). 11 & 12 house, Uruguay, shot by Dennis Gilbert (VISI 56). 18 Catherine
Winelands villa, Johannesdal, shot by Greg Cox/Bureaux (VISI 71). Raphaely, Makgadikgadi Pan, Botswana, shot by Dook (VISI 34).
13 Chalkley Tree House, Lion Sands Game Reserve, shot by Dook 19 One-bedroom house, Constantia, shot by Micky Hoyle (VISI 95).
(VISI 64). 14 Yemi Awoyemi, KLüK CGDT boutique, Cape Town, shot 20 Pool, Cape Town City Bowl, shot by Greg Cox (VISI 40).

VISI REASONS
3
1
FAST FACT
IN 100 ISSUES OF VISI, WE HAVE FEATURED MORE THAN 1 000 PLACES. ANNEMARIE
MEINTJES AND DOOK HAVE CRISS-CROSSED THE CONTINENT ON SHOOTS, WOKEN
AT DAWN, WORKED ALL NIGHT, AND BEEN IN TRAFFIC JAMS WITH ELEPHANTS, BUT
THE WEIRDEST THING ON THEIR SHOOTS, ACCORDING TO DOOK, IS ANNEMARIE!
4 6
7 8 9

10 11 12
13
14
15
16
1 Ekim Falconer, Mpumalanga farm, shot by Dook (VISI 33). 2 House 17

No Less, Deneysville, shot by David Ross (VISI 62). 3 Lauren Smith,
Cavalli Estate, Somerset West, shot by Micky Hoyle (VISI 71).
4 Angama Mara, Kenya, shot by Dook (VISI 81). 5 Mud house,
Waterberg, shot by Dook (VISI 58). 6 Weekend house, Parys, shot
by Dook (VISI 18). 7 Big Apple, Cape Town, styled by Tina-Marié
Malherbe, shot by Kristina Stojiljkovic (VISI 37). 8 Saint Verde,
Durban, shot by Dook (VISI 14). 9 Samara, Graaff-Reinet, shot by
Dook (VISI 40). 10 Farmhouse, Stilbaai, shot by Jan Ras (VISI 93).
11 Victorian garden, Kensington, shot by Leana Clunies-Ross
(VISI 46). 12 Sonja Swanepoel, Joburg, shot by Dook (VISI 59).
13 CIRCA on Jellicoe, Joburg, shot by Dook (VISI 47). 14 Zambezi
House Bar & Canteen, Zimbabwe, shot by Dook (VISI 92).
15 Kobus van der Merwe, Paternoster, shot by Jac de Villiers
(VISI 75). 16 POD-idladla unit, Joburg, shot by Greg Cox (VISI 79).
17 Studio, Pretoria, shot by Dook (VISI 78). 18 Dylan Lewis Sculpture
Garden, Stellenbosch, shot by Lambro Tsiliyiannis (VISI 91). 18

VISI REASONS
NO
06
1999
MADE IN SA
A snapshot of some significant design
Tree House by Van
der Merwe Miszewski
Architects
milestones that have defined and continue

to shape our “glocal” landscape.
1952
Chinese Girl
by Vladimir
Tretchikoff
1978
Kreepy Krauly by
Ferdinand Chauvier 1994
The South African flag by Fred Brownell
1994
1966
The dolos by Eric Merrifield 1998
1991
BMW art
car by
Esther
Mahlangu 1995
1999
ILLUSTRATIONS PAUL-LOUIS LOUW

2005 2007
Flowerball light 3D printing by Michaella
by Heath Nash Janse van Vuuren
2004 2006
Zulu Mama
Red Location Museum
chair by
by Jo Noero
Haldane Martin
2003
2004 2004
Felted Rock cushions Constitutional
by Ronel Jordaan Court by
Andrew
Makin, Janina
Masojada and
Paul Wygers
2005
Hawkers bench
by Tonic
2005
Cape table by
Gregor Jenkin

VISI REASONS
2008
Bucket stool
by Pedersen + Lennard
2011
Love Me, Love Me
Not side table by
2008 John Vogel and
Justin Plunkett
2011
2009 Mapungubwe
Kreep planter
Interpretation Centre
by Joe Paine
by Peter Rich
2009
FIFA World Cup stadiums
2010
Lab light by
Anatomy
Design
2010
Babylonstoren by Karen Roos
2009
Weaver’s Nest by
Porky Hefer

2018
WindChime chandelier
by willowlamp
2014
2015
Kassena Sleep cabinet and
light by Dokter and Misses,
made for Southern Guild
2014 2017
Boomslang
Zeitz MOCAA
tree canopy
by London-
walkway in
based Thomas
Kirstenbosch
Heatherwick
National
and local project
Botanical
architects Van
Garden
der Merwe
by Mark
Miszewski, Jacobs
Thomas and
Parkers and
Christopher
Rick Brown +
Bisset
Associates
2014 2017
Curved 2015 Isigezenga
Haywire Grace Amphibious hanging by Andile
chandelier seat by Porky Hefer, made Dyalvane from
by David for Southern Guild his Idlala
Krynauw solo show at
Southern Guild
2018
Tutu 2.0
pendant
light by
Thabisa Mjo
2016
Le Bone Lebone by
Atang Tshikare

VISI REASONS
NO
07 A HOUSEHOLDNAME
As Weylandts turns 20, Chris Weylandt looks back on two decades
at the helm of a beloved local brand.
HRIS Weylandt vividly He recalls the first VISI shoot in the a-morning destination, a place that
C remembers the year VISI

was launched – it was
one year before he opened
new shop, sitting on a sofa with his two
daughters. Today, his eldest, Anna, is
also involved in the business.
offers professional advice on home
furnishings, a café where friends gather,
and a curatorial feast that inspires
his first Weylandts store in Durbanville Since Chris’s father opened his first innovative ways of decorating. And let’s
and started making furniture shopping furniture store in Windhoek, Namibia, not forget its queue-provoking sales.
the hippest weekend outing. in 1964, the family has stood behind Weylandts continues to build
“It was an incredibly exciting time what Chris calls “authentic” design, its highly unique brand, this year
pulling it all together, because this was where materiality, details, and the launching Weylandts Kids, and its
my dream and vision,” he reminisces. provenance of the people, cultures and Fourways store will soon introduce
“I was hands-on with the design and environments producing each piece a multi-focus design hub. “It will
project management of the build, are celebrated. The ultimate focus be filled with like-minded creative
while at the same time sourcing and remains the customer, however, with people,” says Chris. Think exhibitions,
travelling in Asia, managing the local a visit to Weylandts forming part of artist studios, cooking courses, talks,
production in our factory, hiring staff, many a city guide’s to-do list. co-working areas and a bistro. As if
doing marketing, and managing the Weylandts has become more Weylandts could get any cooler.
cash flow.” than a store; it’s also a while-away- weylandts.co.za
PHOTOS ADRIAAN OOSTHUIZEN AND MICKY HOYLE WORDS TRACY LYNN CHEMALY
Chris Weylandt, photographed for two VISI features: In 2001 with his two daughters, Alex and Anna, and in 2015.

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VISI REASONS
NO
08 BOLDAND BEAUTIFUL
When VISI was launched in 1998, Tracy Lee Lynch was completing
her MA in Fine Arts at Stellenbosch University. Since then she has
made it her life’s work to promote local design.
What do you think
the future holds
for South African
You have worked in interior design,
visual communications, magazines…
How has your career evolved?
What’s next for you? So much is
happening right now, but, most
importantly, I want to stay focused
decor, design and By leaping at opportunities and on promoting young creatives,
architecture? As saying, “Yes, I can do that,” even if curating good design within the
young creatives I wasn’t completely sure I could; by context of my interior projects,
continue to collaborating with incredible designers, and opening a small gallery in
immerse them- makers, artists and writers; and by Woodstock.
selves in these not allowing myself to be defined by
industries, the potential for our unique a specific skill set but by applying an We say VISI, you say… A visionary
ZA design aesthetic is limitless. The approach of hard work, passionate publication, magnificent images,
fusion of cultures and rich layers of engagement and research. generous stories that share all
character woven into spaces and pieces the angles, the most magical and
are the positives South Africa needs. Who inspires you right now? I have been memorable styled creative moments,
I see this optimistic voice becoming inspired by so many brilliant creatives. and a loyal promoter of South African
louder on the global scene as more and These days, I am inspired by new talent architecture, art and design.
more creatives take up the challenges that surrounds me: Thabisa Mjo, Sifiso
of the business of design. Shange, Nkuli Mlangeni, to name a few. leelynch.co.za
PORTRAIT THEANA BREUGEM PHOTO ANDREA VAN DER SPUY INTERVIEW TRACY GREENWOOD
The interior of Nando’s Sea Point, designed by Tracy’s Studio Leelynch – featuring lighting by Nando’s Hot Young Designer finalists
Candice Lawrence, Tulsha Booysen and Thabisa Mjo.

herringbone
VISI REASONS
NO
09
IN an industry
that is notoriously
ENDURING
fast and fickle,
Marianne Fassler’s
longevity is
STYLE
With a career spanning almost four decades,
testament to
her unwavering
commitment to craftsmanship and
her bold haute-couture sensibilities.
Marianne Fassler is one of South Africa’s preeminent New collections and an exciting
project with Zeitz MOCAA prove
fashion influencers. there is no limit to her success.
Marianne Fassler’s Spring/
Summer 2019 collection explores
About your love of leopard print…
the ancient links between Africa
and Asia, and the symbols and
Leopard print featured a lot more
myths they have in common. She in my earlier work, but with time
PORTRAIT ULRICH KNOBLAUCH PHOTOS REZE BONNA ALL CLOTHING MARIANNE FASSLER SPING|SUMMER 2019 @MARIANNEFASSLEROFFICIAL INTERVIEW PALESA KGASANE
collaborated with photographer I realised it is also a universal
Reze Bonna to shoot the perennial fashion theme: It’s never
collection in Lagos, Nigeria.
actually out of fashion. The print
itself is very regal, timeless and
exotic, just like our continent.
You’re a frequent collaborator.

How has this shaped your
work? I believe creativity needs
collaboration, and fashion should
never exist in a vacuum. Fashion
without a provenance or relevance
is pretty one-dimensional and
doesn’t interest me.
Are there specific principles you

adopted during the course of your
career that have contributed to the
success of your brand? Be true to
yourself, and respect your creative
source and your clients. If you
don’t, you won’t have a business.
So we upcycle every scrap, provide
excellent service and run our
business ethically.
How have things evolved for you

as a designer? These days, I have
a more cohesive support team. I am
nothing without them. I can actually
delegate confidently.
What were you doing in 1998, when

VISI was launched? I was cheering
from the sidelines, showing at
SA Fashion Week, and rejoicing
in the potential of South Africa
under the visionary leadership of
President Nelson Mandela.
leopardfrock.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
10 FINE
THREADS
Fashion designer Laduma Ngxokolo bears
witness to culture.
ADUMA Ngxokolo With the addition of
L launched his
brand MaXhosa
by Laduma in 2011.
accessories and homeware,
including a range of rugs,
he has broadened the scope
In homage to his culture, he of his brand. He also hones
PHOTO ANDILE BUKA WORDS PALESA KGASANE
started out designing Xhosa- his inspiration through

beadwork-inspired knitwear collaboration, which in turn
and textiles, modifying and has encouraged growth and
modernising pattern and recognition of other industry
colour to create statement players.
pieces – which have gained “For the brand, evolution
wide acclaim. He is part of a is always a priority,” Laduma
new wave of non-conformist says. “We started as a cele-
creatives who design with bration of our own culture;
the African consumer in mind what’s next is celebrating
but also appeal to the inter- other people’s cultures.”
national market. maxhosa.africa
NO
11 TRUE
COLOURS
Hadeda’s Des Armstrong fled the corporate world
32 years ago and brought colour to South Africa.
N 1990, Des Armstrong synonymous with hand-painted
I headed to Mexico on
holiday, a trip that
would awaken in her
tiles, but Des only started
importing these tiles from Central
and South America four years
PHOTO MARĲKE WILLEMS WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
a passion for colour and pattern. ago. “I specialise in hand-crafted

“I found myself so inspired by items that aren’t made here,”
South American hand-made she says. “Mirrors, mainly from
products that I simply had to bring Peru and Mexico, are a big part of
them home,” she says. And, just my business. In the past, South
like that, Hadeda was born. Africans neglected to see the
Des initially ran the business beauty and value in hand-made
from her home in Hume Road, then goods. I am delighted that this has
she bought 151 Jan Smuts Avenue, changed so much.
and in June 2018 Hadeda settled at “And I am proud that Hadeda
40 Bompas Road, Dunkeld. has stood the test of time.”
The name Hadeda may be hadeda-tiles.com

VISI REASONS
NO
12
VIVA L’ITALIA!
Dolce&Gabbana’s spectacular debut collaboration
with high-end appliance brand Smeg is finally
available in South Africa – and boy, is it spectacular!
EATURING brightly “Fridge of Art”), comprising 100
F coloured hand-
painted Sicilian
motifs, the Sicily is
Smeg retro fridges individually
hand-painted by Sicilian artists
as an ode to Sicily, which
my Love boutique collection of Domenico Dolce and Stefano
small appliances was announced Gabbana both call home.
last year, but until now foodie This time, the concept has
fashionistas have been unable been relayed to Smeg’s award-
to get their hands on the jaw- winning small-appliance range
droppingly beautiful gadgets. in celebration of the rich Italian
The collection follows the heritage and inventive flair of
huge success of the design duo’s both brands, creating a match
buzzy one-of-a-kind Frigoriferi made in paradiso.
d‘Arte collaboration (meaning smeg.co.za
ABOVE The
Fridge of
Art, adorned
by artist
WORDS MICHAELA STEHR
Provenzano
Tommaso,
was recently
unveiled in
South Africa.

“Architecture is the thoughtful
making of space.”
Louis Kahn
American Architect
CENTURY - TERRA GRIGIO. 800mm x 800mm. Natural & Grip Surface.
STILES - Cape Town STILES - George STILES - Mossel Bay

37 Paarden Eiland Road 12 Commercial Close Bolton Street
Cape Town, 7405 George, 6529 Mossel Bay, 6506
T: 021 510 8310 T: +27 44 8713222 T: +27 44 6951800
F: 021 510 8317 F: +27 44 8710721 F: +27 44 6951877
info@stiles.co.za info@stiles.co.za info@stiles.co.za
www.stiles.co.za
VISI REASONS
CLOCKWISE FROM
TOP LEFT ON THIS
PAGE Checker
A-11 (1958–1982),
Porsche 550 Spyder
(1953–1956), BMW
Z8 (1999–2003) and
Aston-Martin DB5
(1963–1965).
Artist Penelope
Cooras created the
NO
13
MAKING
SCENTS
Wild Olive African Artisans Apothecary and Artistic Perfumery House in Cape Town
is a destination for shopping natural perfumery, bath, body and homeware products.
OR the past two decades health and beauty for as long as a difference in our local market,
F this local manufacturer

has forged its own style
of cosmetic, fragrance
possible. Everything is formulated
and made under one roof by skilful
artisans, with a second generation
but also internationally,” says
business manager Monica Onigas.
“We scrutinise our methodology,
and product design. already joining the business. formulating style and business
The products are made to order Wild Olive Artisans owns its R&D, processes continuously. We pay close
or as limited editions in collaboration manufacturing and retail platforms, attention to the feedback we receive
with artists, and are ever-evolving and has made it its mission to put from our customers. While keeping
lines of body washes, lotions, Africa on the map of natural beauty an eye on issues of environmental
butters, candles, perfumes and and perfumery, seeking to represent and social responsibility, we try to
many more. the cultural values of the continent juggle market trends, seeking to be
Wild Olive Artisans’ philosophy in an authentic way. as relevant and as efficient as we can
is to offer you cosmetic products “We spent the past decade be and in line with global demands.”
that would assist in preserving your learning how we could make wildolive.eu

THE STORY OF laboratory, I was instantly enchanted Being offered the opportunity to
TERRA FLORA PARFUM by the space and its scent. The chance create my own perfume was a dream
Kelly Ghali, the muse who inspired encounter with Marioara sparked the come true. Marioara worked on my brief,
perfumer Marioara de la Tara, beginning of a friendship, which, a using oils renowned for their grounding
shares with us her experience of year later, resulted in me inspiring the and calming qualities. Our goal was
making this perfume. creation of a new perfume, Terra Flora, to create a sophisticated, elegant yet
which was launched in October 2018. modern unisex perfume suitable for
“Stop the car!” I said to my husband. The idea for Terra Flora came from any occasion or season using only the
We had taken a short-cut across Bree my frustration at not being able to find highest-quality natural materials.
Street and found ourselves outside Wild a perfume that was unusual, easy to We commissioned artist Penelope
Olive Apothecary and Artistic Perfumery wear and synthetics-free. I had become Cooras to create artwork inspired by my
PHOTOS HAZEL MATHIAS AND COURTESY OF WILD OLIVE ARTISANS WORDS KELLY GHALI
House on Pepper Street in Cape Town. accustomed to using aromatherapy life story and used elements of it for the
Stepping inside the converted 19th- oils, and found mainstream perfumes packaging and bottle design.
century building that houses the overwhelming, often leaving me with Terra Flora really is unlike any other
shop and the cosmetic and perfume a headache and sour-smelling skin. perfume you will have experienced.
Terra Flora Parfum has a dominant base note of

sandalwood, enhanced by oakmoss and softened by
orange flower and iris root absolutes. The mid notes are
neroli and jasmine. In the top notes, mandarin dominates,
with accents of petitgrain, bergamot, lime and rosewood.
R95 (3 ml); R2 200 (30 ml)

VISI REASONS
NO
14
OH, BOYD!
How has the
business
evolved?
Boyd Ferguson has come a long way since Cécile & Boyd
turns 30 this
he and Cécile Tilley opened the doors to
year! We began
their first Cécile & Boyd shop on Durban’s designing in a
Argyle Road in the late ’80s. traditional classic
style informed by culture, and it
has evolved into a contemporary,
abstract style inspired by nature.
What are you most proud of?

Collaborating with my “design
family” to evolve the perception
of an African aesthetic.
Who has had the greatest

influence on you? Our founder,
Cécile Tilley – about whom we
are doing a book – taught us
about hard work, the courage
to be original, passion for what
we do, and the healing power of
beautiful spaces.
What were you doing in 1998,

when VISI was launched? We
were gearing up to design
the paradigm-shifting Singita
Lebombo Lodge in the Greater
Kruger National Park as a
contemporary “hotel”/lodge,
abstracting the green, light,
open space and flow to reflect
the freedom we felt in the new
Mandela era.
We say VISI, you say…

Uncompromisingly original in
a world of uniformity.
What’s the future for South

African decor and design? We
will further define ourselves
globally by our local uniqueness,
PHOTOS MICKY HOYLE WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
channelling energetic free form,

bright colour and bold pattern.
What’s next for you? Completing

a personal transition from design
to creative direction, doing
projects as diverse as a lodge in
Rwanda and a luxe eco-wellness
hotel in the Scottish Highlands.
Cécile and Boyd did the interior revamp of Singita Sweni Lodge in 2017. Bright jewel tones, acid
green and mustard yellow imitate the markings of butterflies, scarab beetles and sunbirds. cecileandboyds.com

VISI REASONS
VISI published
NO
15
this photo
of Sean in
2012, with
LEADING an interview
about his
online shop
LIGHT
5rooms.com,
REASON 16: PORTRAIT JAN RAS WORDS TRACY LYNN CHEMALY

which sold
furniture,
lighting and
Lighting maestro Paul Pamboukian has homeware.
championed illumination in all its forms
for well over three decades.
IGHTING isn’t special spark he still misses.
“L just about
making
a space
To foster a lighting-
design culture in South
Africa, he and VISI ran the
look good,” says Paul Haute Lumière compe-
Pamboukian. ”It’s about tition for 10 years, inviting
being good. A healthy creatives from all disci-
NO
16
environment means plines to design decorative
having the right light at fittings with an emphasis
the right time of day.” on the light produced.
Over the years, Paul,
who founded Pamboukian
Paul continues to light
up the world through INTERIOR
MOTIVES
Lightdesign in 1990, projects such as the
has had to adapt with Johannesburg Holocaust
a changing industry, which & Genocide Centre, Norval
has seen the switch from Foundation in Cape Town, Natural-born connector Sean Weldon of
incandescent to HID to Suncoast Casino in Durban
LED. ”It was a different and Shangri-La Hotel in
Brandkonnect infuses the international
era back then,” he says of Abu Dhabi. hospitality industry with local design.
LED’s predecessors, whose ppald.com
HE entrance of Town Stadium. “People
T the Jumeirah
Al Naseem
Hotel in Dubai
are looking for curated
interiors with a local
influence,” says Sean
is flanked by large-scale of his drive to furnish
Indigenus planters, and projects with pieces by
Sealand beach bags can design companies such as
be spotted beside sun Wiid Design, willowlamp,
loungers at the One&Only Ashanti, Mungo and
Le Saint Géran in Mauritius. Douglas & Company.
This is the work of Sean Brandkonnect is
Weldon, who connects planning to launch its
REASON 15: PORTRAIT DOOK WORDS TRACY LYNN CHEMALY

top local and global own hotel furniture and
interior designers with bed-and-bathroom-
Paul’s with South African makers amenities collection for
lighting and manufacturers. an international clientele,
design Sean’s sourcing, procure- designed and made in
consul-
ment and export company South Africa.
tancy in
Joburg Brandkonnect has kitted Ever the one to spot
specialises out hotels, cafés and an opportunity, Sean
in archi- offices around Africa muses, “Now, even things
tectural, and the Middle East with like water restrictions
interior
local gems. He’s helped are driving how we
and land-
scape create many a local icon, innovate design spaces.”
lighting. from Vida e Caffè to Cape brandkonnect.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
17 TAKE
STOCK
With its covetable collection of exotic
artefacts, Amatuli Artefacts awakened
VISI’s inner magpie from the start.
WENTY years “Being around Annemarie is
“T ago, I was trying

desperately to
always fun and entertaining.
She once managed to fit a 10-
Brise Soleil fabric rolls and cushion covers from three ranges.
NO
STAR
18
sell artefacts foot carved Swazi crocodile
I’d collected in the Zambezi into her Smart car!”
OF THE
Valley at the markets of Amatuli’s inventory is
Johannesburg and sitting ever-evolving (they now
on the side of William Nicol also stock products made
Drive,” reminisces Mark
Valentine. “It’s been a long
journey, from casually
exploring the coolness and
in-house), but the golden
thread that runs through it
all is that every hand-crafted
object tells a story. At the
SCREEN
Heather Moore has turned a screen-
originality of Africa to our moment, Mark is obsessed printing hobby into a household name
REASON 18: PORTRAIT KRISTEN FORTIER WORDS CELESTE JACOBS
own African style and iden- with the nomadic Tuaregs’

tity.” Along the way, Mark sculptural utilitarian objects.
with her much-loved brand Skinny laMinx.
has had more adventures But at the top of his list of
than he can count – including artefacts to track down is
with VISI, specifically, deputy the lost Ark of the Covenant.
editor Annemarie Meintjes. amatuli.co.za
A 1957 Buick Roadmaster

used to be parked in front
of Amatuli Artefacts in
Kramerville, until WHEN VISI was Heather continues to
the car was launched in innovate and expand the
sold three 1998, Heather range with new designs and
years ago.
Moore was collabs. “Our entire lives
working as are collaborations!” she
an illustrator. It would says. “The more we realise
be several years before this, the more generous
an experiment in screen- we can be, because there
printing her patterns on is no other way to live and
fabric led to the birth of thrive. I’m so proud of the
Skinny LaMinx (the nick- Skinny laMinx team, who
REASON 17: PHOTO DOOK WORDS ANNETTE KLINGER
name of her skinny little work together with such

Siamese cat Monkey) in a generous, collaborative
2007. Her simple pattern spirit. They inspire me.”
designs and retro-inspired Heather has her eye
colour palette are inspired firmly on the future, with
by everyday things, her love plans to expand further
of mid-century style and into Europe and the USA
the African context. while remaining very
Much like the creative much a brand rooted in
experimentation that South Africa.
sparked the business, skinnylaminx.com

VISI REASONS
19
NO
DESIGNSORCERY
Contrary to sanitised “un-design” and black-and-white hipster logos, graphic designer
Peet Pienaar conjures up a visual language that captures the imagination.
ou know that of Southern African art in
Y blossom-filled
die-cut issue
of VISI that
Oaxaca, you’ll recognise
some of his work closer
to home. He’s the creative
you keep in your collector’s director behind African
pile? You can thank Peet surf brand Mami Wata, and
Pienaar for that one. It he designed the über-cool
was 2006, and as guest art Striped Horse beer label
director of issue 27, Peet and BOS ice tea packaging.
developed something we “I move against the
had never seen before in European trend of
magazines. “Sumien was undesigned design,” says
open to me challenging all Peet. “I still believe design
aspects, including cutting has a place and function,
sections of the magazine into which is to give a product
different shapes,” he recalls an identity and make it
with fondness. attractive.”
Since designing that His work has stretched
award-winning issue, Peet to social design, where
has gone on to publish his he’s part of a think-tank in
own magazines (Afro and Colombia that participates
Paris), design products in projects to address
(like sneakers and rugs), poverty through design.
run creative agencies, own If you happen to
a concept store (Church in find yourself in Mexico
Cape Town) and co-create some time this year, look
the pop-culture Toffie out for a collaboration
festivals. he’s working on with
Although he now spends 25 traditional textile
most of his time in Mexico, makers. And check out the
where he recently produced country’s new transport
the visual language for logo – it’s got Peet Pienaar
Hacer Noche, an exhibition written all over it!
FAST FACT
WORDS TRACY LYNN CHEMALY
IN PRE-HISPANIC TIMES IN MEXICO, THE MOST COMMON TEXTILE FIBRES

WERE FROM YUCCA AND PALM TREES, AND COTTON WAS GROWN IN THE
HUMID LOWLANDS IN THE SOUTH.

VISI REASONS
NO
20
NOTJUST
APUMA
Cape Town-based
designer and creative
d
director Hamzeh Alfarahneh
has collaborated with PUMA
South Africa on an exclusive
capsule collection.
“TO me, design is Each of the four designs on six des Arts bridge in Paris and Tokyo
a tool that should shoe styles, all hand-embellished during cherry blossom season. Love
simplify, enhance by South African women artisans, = Mama Africa celebrates a mother’s
p
and improve the embody a different concept unconditional lov
love nd Borders,
e;; an Borders
quality of our associated with love. which makes u of app ué panels
li ” says Hamzeh “With each design, I wanted to and beads, h hlights the ne d for
fa neh, represent a theme that talks about society to sen both its figura ve
the design behin UST the various types of love and how we and lite l borders.
ROWNELL MEIRING
A COM a series of one-of -kind can use the concept of love to build Pa s in t T JUST A PUM
pla c combs that he launch d in bridges and find our commonalities,” co ection, which will be launched
17. “It has to be function an says Hamzeh. i February 2019, retail from R3 600.
aesthetically pleasing Love Rainbow features colourful A portion of the proceeds will go
He has now expanded this idea patterns that represent love in its wards the Anna Foundation’s
a collaboration he calls T JU varying forms; and Pont des Arts e women empowerment programme.
PUMA, using PUMA sneakers to Tokyo is an ode to two of the w d’s @farah
create a series of one-off designs. ost romantic locations, the ont notjustacomb.com
WO
Pont des Arts

ISABEL P
et Tokyo (left),
Love Rainbow (right)
and Borders (below).

VISI REASONS
NO
21
INGRAINED
CREATIVITY
Masterfully conceived, skilfully made and infinitely collectable… Furniture designer
David Krynauw has carved out a singular place for himself on the design scene.
“I was in Grade 9 when was one of the judges. I ended up

VISI was launched, winning the competition.
spending free time in “I never could have imagined
my father’s workshop. being featured in VISI in a
He taught me how to Merwelene van der Merwe photo
make my first shape on shoot alongside my girlfriend and
a lathe. That’s where it all started our two dogs [VISI 95 – photo on
for me. It’s hard to believe that what page 222]. A pretty surreal idea and
began as a clueless one-man show somewhat funny.
has turned into a small enterprise “I have always been inward-
that employs 64 people and takes focused – I tend to put my head
on large-scale commercial projects. down and work – but the driving PHOTOS JASMYN PRETORIUS INTERVIEW MICHAELA STEHR
The progression of my work, force behind my business has
design and production capability been centred on relationships and
and business understanding are the amazing local businesses that
immeasurable. support local designers. We have a
“I met VISI deputy editor unique opportunity to express our
Annemarie Meintjes in 2008, when heritage through decor, design and
I was just starting out on my design architecture. If we can remain true
journey: I was a finalist in the Eskom to our craft and express ourselves
Energy Efficient Lighting Design honestly, the world will notice.”
Competition, and Annemarie davidkrynauw.com
David’s cabinetry, or kaste, as he calls them, includes the Vryhand Kas and a bookcase named Ou Kas.

VISI REASONS
NO
22
What were you doing in 1998,
when VISI was launched? I was
TRAILBLAZERS
Julian and Trevyn McGowan have been at the forefront of promoting
African design. We asked Trevyn to look back – and ahead.
working as an actress in London, and

I was astounded that anybody
had noticed what we were doing
with our export company Source.
had started a company specialising VISI went on to produce stories
in architectural interior projects. on our former Wilderness house
That year, I performed in my last and farm in the Karoo, and was the
role in Anthony and Cleopatra first to give major coverage to our
at the National Theatre with Alan original Southern Guild gallery in
Rickman and Helen Mirren. Julian Woodstock and then our new space
was an acclaimed theatre designer, in the Silo District. The project that
premiering shows at the Royal makes us feel most like family is our
Court, West End and in New York. guest editorship of Issue 51 in 2010.
Tell us about some of your stand- As Southern Guild moves into its
out VISI moments. I used to visit 11th year, what are your predictions
South Africa most December for the future? We see our designers
holidays and remember the getting bolder and more original.
summer issue of 2001 vividly. It The rest of the world is becoming
featured photographer Jean Marc aware of a proper movement.
Lederman’s Cape Town villa – lots of We have never had more media,
concrete and an endless swimming museum, fair and collector
pool next to a dry sculptural tree attention. Our first 10 years were
overlooking the Atlantic. I recall spent exploring, discovering,
being blown away by the magazine playing and cajoling. The next
and how different it felt to anything decade will be about making
else I had seen. a significant mark in the global
Soon after we returned to South marketplace and leaving a legacy.
Africa, VISI honoured us with an
award for “Services to the Industry”. theguildgroup.co.za
PORTRAIT ADRIAAN LOUW PHOTOS RYNO INTERVIEW TRACY LYNN CHEMALY
The Llandudno house of French photographer Jean Marc Lederman, featured in the Summer 2001 issue of VISI.

VISI REASONS
NO
23 CREATIVE
BLOCKS
Artist Faatimah Mohamed-Luke is proving
PORTRAIT AL LUKE PHOTO FAATIMAH MOHAMED-LUKE WORDS KELLY BERMAN

that making art can be grown-up child’s play.
Joburg bus shelter
(left) and Tessellat:
Rectangular (right).
WAS just playing with in a modern way. It says a lot about
“I my kid,” says Faatimah

Mohamed-Luke about
how she discovered
Faatimah’s passion for making art
accessible that one of her career
highlights is transforming bus shelters
plastic building blocks as her artistic around Johannesburg into public art
medium. Her pixelated “Afro-pop” installations, an activation she did
artworks are fuelled by a love of with her husband, Al Luke, for Halls SA.
pattern, symbols and bold colour, “What I enjoy most about this medium
which she says draws on her African is that it’s non-traditional,” she
and Arabian roots. She has built says. “It allows for a playfulness and
a 2 m-tall map of Africa and silhouette accessibility within the artwork and
portraits of African heroines out also within the art world. I really love
of the tiny blocks. Her goal is to seeing the nostalgia and joy it sparks.”
recreate the art form of tessellation mrsandmrluke.com
NO
24 WORK
ANDCLAY
Founded by Andile Dyalvane and Zizipho Poswa
in 2006, Imiso Ceramics continues to soar both
locally and internationally.
E see design as carefully crafted in their studio at
“W an ever-evolving,
resourceful,
influential and
The Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock,
Cape Town.
Receiving orders from inter-
inspirational industry,” says national boutiques and galleries
Andile Dyalvane. “Through it was a major turning point for
we have gained confidence in Imiso Ceramics, and now 90% of
being true to ourselves, in our what they make is sold overseas.
medium, and in telling our own The future looks bright for this
stories.” He and partner Zizipho dynamic team. They are looking
Poswa’s contemporary works are forward to launching an online

a study in African artefacts and shop in 2019, residencies in the UK
practices distilled, interpreted and the US, and the production of
and converted into clay and a brand-new body of work. Pieces by Andile from his Idladla show at Southern
Guild Silo.
textiles. Each one-off piece is imisoceramics.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
25 FUTURE-PROOF
Atang Tshikare’s Afrofuturistic designs have a dynamic
texture that plays on the senses and sets the tone for
a new pulse in African design.
A
TANG Tshikare has an inherent
willingness to explore and
an unending commitment to
their own solutions for today’s world,” says
Atang. “Decor, design and architecture for
them are not limited to traditional forms,
refine his art, which has led but the abstract nature that weaves the
him to experiment and produce work with common and unknown, the great and the
leather, fabric, wood, concrete, ceramic ugly. It’s all about highlighting personal
and more. “My influences are a myriad of viewpoints, and I believe those who are
abstract cultures, from traditional ones persistent in their mindsets are going to
PHOTOS KATE MCLUCKIE WORDS CELESTE JACOBS
to post-imaginative utopias. I run through reap the rewards.”

them all. When I think of my work, it all Atang’s career is morphing into
comes together in sound, sight, touch and a new form of expression. “The existing
smell,” says the multidisciplinary artist, creativity within me is becoming more
who hails from Bloemfontein. radical. I would like to be remembered for
His fresh take on an African aesthetic creating a design language that articulates
and his passion to create work that evokes a confident narrative of self, that uplifts
both a sense of curiosity and an underlying generations and boosts their sense of self-
familiarity are firmly embedded in making worth and self-love, and that encourages
BMW invited Atang to create an an abstract future tangible. “There are forward thinking.”
artwork on the latest BMW X4. young women and men who are creating atangtshikare.com

VISI REASONS
Some of the garments of selected South African fashion designers exhibited at Zeitz MOCAA to mark 21 years of SA Fashion Week.
NO
26
FASHION FORCE
PORTRAIT ROBERT HAMBLIN PHOTO WIANELLE BRIERS, COURTESY OF ZEITZ MOCAA INTERVIEW PALESA KGASANE
Lucilla Booyzen’s contribution to South African fashion has not only
helped to highlight local talent but has also been a catalyst in bringing
local design brands to the world.
UCILLA Booyzen Building a career in fashion What would you consider as
L founded South
African Fashion
Week (SAFW) in
needs in-depth knowledge and
understanding of the industry,
which can only be achieved
the key to longevity in fast
fashion? Innovation, sustain-
ability, responsibility, and
1996, and the brand has since through immersing yourself in knowledge of fashion and the
gone from strength to strength. every aspect. business thereof.
One of many milestones in her
career was her recent collabo- What experience did you have What do you see in the future
ration with the Zeitz Museum before establishing SAFW? for South African design?
of Contemporary Art Africa on I had no formal fashion training: We have a bright future – our
an exhibition titled 21 Years: I was a high-school teacher designers are innovative,
Making Histories with South for three years before being brave and ready to take on the
African Fashion Week, based on scouted. While modelling, world. I would like the buyers
her book Twenty One Years of I experienced the full value of boutiques and department
SA Fashion Week. chain of fashion from design to stores to see the power of
retail. I started producing my South African design and how
When did you realise fashion own shows in Paris, Las Vegas, their businesses can benefit
Twenty One Years
was in your future? I always New York, Venice… Locally, by selling our designers to
of SA Fashion
Week is available say if someone has a passion I produced all the big shows in their clients.
online at safashion for fashion, they need a credit Cape Town and Joburg for BMW,
week.co.za. card to go out and buy it! Versace, Chloé and the like. @lucilla.booyzen

VISI REASONS
NO
27 MATCH
MAKER
For fashion designer Chu Suwannapha,
founder of the label CHULAAP, the word
“plain” exists only in the dictionary.
ITHIN the ever-changing South African
W fashion landscape, Chu Suwannapha’s gift of

being able to distinguish timeless style from
PHOTO JACOBUS SNYMAN WORDS PALESA KGASANE
transient trends has cemented his place in the

industry in the few short years since his debut show at the
first South African Menswear Week in February 2015. Born in
Thailand, he studied and worked in Paris, and then worked
for various South African magazines as stylist, fashion
editor and fashion director before he decided to pursue
his unisex label CHULAAP full time.
Chu’s own perfectly tailored printed two-pieces and
signature large-framed glasses echo his bold designs. “There
will always be a slice of me or a reflection of my personal
style in every look,” he says of his label. CHULAAP is wear-
able art, “like a collage of textures and prints in one outfit.”
@chusuwannapha
NO
28 LEAVING
A LEGACY
Textile and fashion designer Sindiso Khumalo is
committed to sustainability and empowerment.
WAS always curious often striking watercolours she
“I about how a piece of

material comes to be
what it is. That and my
paints herself.
Sindiso has a passion for
empowering women. She works
first degree in architecture are what closely with a number of South
sparked my love for textile making,” African NGOs in developing hand-
says Sindiso Khumalo, who studied made textiles for her collections.
architecture at the University She’s also committed to following
of Cape Town before moving to sustainable practices and using only
London and going on to do a natural fabrics like cotton and silk.
master’s in Design for Textile Futures On envisioning the future, Sindiso
WORDS PALESA KGASANE
at Central St Martins College of Art says, “I would like to create a legacy

and Design. for my kids, one where we can
Based in London, she continues hopefully leave the planet better
to draw on her Zulu and Ndebele than the way we found it.”
heritage for her textile designs, sindisokhumalo.com

VISI REASONS
NO
29 LET’SGET DIGITAL
What does it mean to live – and make art – in a digital world?
SOLO, a section of solo exhibitions at the Investec Cape Town
Art Fair, on from 15 to 17 February 2019, explores this question.
FAST FACT
AT THE 2017 CAPE
TOWN ART FAIR,
GHANAIAN SERGE
ATTUKWEI CLOTTEY’S
WORK SOLD OUT
TO AN AMERICAN
COLLECTOR BEFORE
THE FAIR EVEN
OFFICIALLY OPENED.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ARTISTS AND GALLERIES WORDS ANNETTE KLINGER

OW in its seventh year, the to begin artistic conversations between in Toronto; Korean photographer Kyu
N Investec Cape Town Art Fair

is showing its commitment
to supporting emerging
mediums that express views about the
digital world,” says galleries and special
projects manager Khanya Mashabela.
Sang Lee with Eclectica Contemporary
in Cape Town; and Guyanese-Danish
new media artist Tabita Rezaire with
artists by incorporating new media in its “By exploring the impact that new Goodman Gallery in Johannesburg.
major platform. The second instalment media has had on the traditional “By progressing to new traditions,
of SOLO – a section of the fair that gives mediums and vice versa, we hope a full it’s hoped that emerging practitioners
visitors insight into artistic practice picture will emerge of the state and and collectors will begin to think more
through a series of solo exhibitions – is future of art practice in Africa.” analytically about how the digital world
dedicated to exploring the relationship Participating artists include impacts on art,” says Khanya.
between the digital and physical realms Ghanaian sculptor Ibrahim Mahama, Sounds like excellent material for an
as interpreted by a group of boundary- who is represented by Apalazzo Gallery Instagram Stories feed...
pushing artists who work in both in Brescia, Italy; multidisciplinary artist @investeccapetownartfair
traditional and new media. “We want Jake Michael Singer with Matter Gallery investeccapetownartfair.co.za
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Non Orientable Nkansa II, 2017, an installation of shoemaker boxes, construction boards, old train parts
and mixed media by Ibrahim Mahama; two views of In Low Murmurs It Began, 2018, a sculpture of stainless and mild steel and Pratley
Tru-Bond by Jake Michael Singer; Dancing Along Alone, 2017 and A Motif for Thirty Two Irregular Orbits, 2018, both by Kyu Sang Lee.

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VISI REASONS
NO
30 DOWN TOA FINE ART

Architect-turned-artist Lucie de Moyencourt has never been afraid to
take on a new challenge. We can’t wait to see what she’s up to next.
PHOTO MICHAEL CHANDLER WORDS JABULILE DLAMINI-QWESHA

UCIE DE MOYENCOURT making in 2018. An avid seashell of Cape Town for projection in a show
L is as multiskilled as she
is multitalented. She
worked as a waitress,
collector, she made shells in the
studio of ceramicist Wendy Coleman
and showed them at an exhibition in
called Happy New Year, which opens at
the Fugard Theatre on 19 February. It is
a romantic comedy adapted by David
art department runner and film set December. She has another exhibition Kramer from the hit play Midsummer
designer, among others, and left her job coming up, called SHELLEBRATE, of (A Play With Songs). “I’m truly excited
as an architect to become a full-time more than 100 new ceramic seashells. about it,” she says. “My mother was
painter and illustrator. She has since “Making ceramics is now part of my a ballet dancer, and as kids my brother
captured the Cape Peninsula in ink and everyday routine,” she says; “I’ll be and I spent all our time backstage.”
started a love affair with ceramics. making shells forever!” @lucie.in.wonderlands
Lucie embarked on a year of ceramic- Lucie is also working on drawings luciedemoyencourt.com

cbsreality.tv
CHANNEL 132
VISI REASONS
NO
31 BODY OF
WORK
Artist Athi-Patra Ruga’s commitment to narrative,
which has manifested into spaces of activism, is
what long careers are made of.
LOT has happened over the past
A 20 years in the life and career of

a young artist who, at the time
VISI was launched in 1998, “was
shoplifting British Vogue magazines in East
PORTRAIT JARRED FIGGINS PHOTOS MATTHEW BRADLEY AND HAYDEN PHIPPS, COURTESY OF ATHI-PATRA RUGA AND WHATIFTHEWORLD WORDS PALESA KGASANE
London”. And the world is a better place for it.
With shows at the Louis Vuitton Foundation
in Paris and Performa 17 in New York, and a major
exhibition at WHATIFTHEWORLD, titled Queens
in Exile, to name a few, Athi-Patra Ruga is one
of the most respected enigmas in the South
African art world. His work explores reinvention,
creating communion through retrospective
storytelling, and deconstructing the ways we
find and create meaning.
Through striking performances and visual
art, Athi shape-shifts between different
identities, adopting a myriad of make-believe
realities that stitch the past together with
an imagined future, simultaneously making
poignant statements about the present. “The
artist’s responsibility is to give dignity to the
communities from which our stories come from
or exist in. This can be done using design and art
elements to charm, to read truth to empower,
to console,” he explains. “The meaning of my
work comes full circle when a young person
stands in front it and gets the opportunity to
freely layer the narrative… It expands the story.”
If he could name this stage in his life, it would
be called “also known as self-mastery”, he says
of his evolution as an artist. In terms of the
future, expect more phenomenal solo shows
around the continent, a film, written works and
even a children’s book.
@athipatra
Athi is represented by the contemporary art gallery
WHATIFTHEWORLD: whatiftheworld.com
TOP LEFT A close-up of The Proposed Model for

Francois Feral Benga Monument (1906–1957), 2018.
LEFT Athi in front of his work Lizalis’Idinga Lakho /
Autistik Imperium, 2014-2017, a 5 m x 5 m tapestry
in petit point.

VISI REASONS
NO
32 THE ART OF PLATING

Mervyn Gers is well known for his hand-made functional ceramics,
favoured by top restaurants, game lodges, guest houses, retailers
and homes around South Africa.
A Japanese-
inspired glaze
hand-painted
with platinum.
IN the relatively great design and innovation. We

short time since should just believe it and do it.”
the launch of His one-off dinnerware ranges
Mervyn Gers are inspired by nature. “I grew up in
Ceramics in 2011, a tiny town in the Northern Cape and
the brand has left as soon as I could. I only realised
gained popularity among top local much later that those amazing
chefs who prefer to plate up on textures and colours in the desert
bespoke hand-made crockery. and semi-desert of the Kalahari and
“It’s essential that we create Karoo of my childhood have been
jobs in South Africa,” Mervyn says. an enormous influence. To this day
PORTRAIT ANDRE DU PLESSIS WORDS MICHAELA STEHR
“We have to persuade people to I am drawn to and inspired by the

purchase locally.” arid scenery of Namibia, Turkey, the
Contributing to our economy, Atacama Desert in Chile, Patagonia
Mervyn Gers Ceramics has employed and Rajasthan in India.”
and trained about 37 people in the Mervyn plans to expand his
past three years. prodigious output to include
“Local creative practitioners tiles, lighting and furniture in
are fortunate to live in a country a commitment to continue
with such diversity of culture and contributing to the local design
language,” Mervyn says. “It makes community and economy.
South Africa a breeding ground for mervyngers.com

VISI REASONS
Rosette sideboard with walnut veneer, copper-plated flowers and antique copper plates.
NO
33
The Big Crocco
Cocktail drinks
cabinet is a
Greg and Roché Dry having been successfully collaboration
between
running the design studio Egg Designs for Ardmore and
more than 20 years. Egg Designs.
GREG and Roché Over the years, Greg and Roché’s Infinitely positive about the future of
Dry’s Egg Designs work has matured, and they continue to design in South Africa and the African
studio produces explore, question and experiment. “We continent, Greg and Roché believe it is
work that is inspired are proud of the body of work we have “our collective restless spirit that makes
by pattern, the created, and of the fact that the pieces us African, and our African heritage that
natural world and, are as relevant today as they were informs our design dialect,” says Greg.
of course, love. “We a decade ago.” “I think there will be continuation of
started Egg Designs Their striking functional objects the search for that local African design
in 1996, so when always offer an element of surprise. One vernacular that will command a bigger
VISI was launched our studio was just of our all-time favourites is the Rosette stage internationally.”
two years old and we were desperately sideboard with its antique copper Fans of the brand can look forward
trying to make our mark on the local plates, copper-plated flowers and to the launch of an e-commerce site.
design scene,” says Greg. walnut veneer. eggdesigns.com
PORTRAIT CLINTON FRIEDMAN WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
Blessing sid
de table, made of alien timber and bronzed steel; and Shaker sofa, made of solid walnut
and veneerr, leather and nylon rope.

VISI REASONS
NO
34
LIGHT
SHOW
An astute technical mind and an
artist’s instinct has proved to be
an award-winning combination for
lighting designer Adam Hoets.
VISI featured Adam Hoets, owner and
creative director of award-winning
lighting company willowlamp, in
2005. “Off the back of that story
willowlamp got its first serious order,
so the article effectively helped to
launch the brand,” says Adam.
His design background – his father is respected
potter Digby Hoets – and appreciation for travel,
nature, sacred geometry and architecture have
no doubt contributed to his creative point of view
and attentiveness to authenticity and beauty.
“When VISI was launched in 1998, I was doing my
architect’s practical experience in London, after
travelling around the world, and I ended that
year working for Silvio Rech in the Okavango with A Halo 2018 chandelier, inspired by Antoni Gaudí,
Wilderness Safaris,” he says. who used inverted chain models in the structural
design for La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
The numerous lighting design awards, both
locally and internationally, are testament to the
impact of what he describes as “a single simple
idea”: the willowlamp notch system allows delicate
PORTRAIT JUSTIN PATRICK PHOTO ADAM HOETS WORDS AMELIA BROWN
ball-chain curtains to hang elegantly from laser-

cut steel frames. But it is the shapes themselves,
often inspired by Adam’s appreciation for
nature’s sculptural forms, and the customisation
capabilities that make the chandeliers quite
breathtaking.
His largest project to date was a commission by
Australian-based architectural firm Bates Smart:
a monumental series of four chandeliers weighing
in at 12 tonnes for Crown Towers Perth hotel.
A technical triumph, the project has given rise to
more large-scale installations around the world.
In-between making lighting art and scooping
accolades, Adam is considering turning his eye to
new furniture products. We can’t wait.
willowlamp.com

VISI REASONS
NO
35 TOPFORM
Greg Gamble and Philippe van der Merwe’s interior-architectural
design studio Tonic Design has been in the business for two decades
and remains synonymous with progressive, sophisticated design.
T’S been 20 years since Greg Gamble and exciting place at the moment design-wise. There is a new wave
I Philippe van der Merwe combined their skills and

experience – somewhat naively, they add! – to
go out on their own and open design studio and
of young designers emerging with a strong local identity.
How has your work evolved? We were asked to put together

furniture showroom Tonic Design. Despite some challenges, an alumni show at the University of Johannesburg‘s Faculty of
they have not looked back. Art, Design and Architecture last year, and it was amazing to
see two decades of furniture design being presented in one
What do you see in the future for South African design and space, and how the work we were doing 10, 15, 20 years ago
architecture? Africa, and South Africa in particular, is in a very still looks as current as the work we are producing now.
What in your professional career are you most proud of?

Philippe and I have built our design studio and furniture show-
room up slowly and have not compromised on our vision of
producing original work to the highest standards possible.
There have been many standout projects over the years, but
mostly I am proud of the fact that we are still doing what we
love and are respected by our peers.
What’s next for Tonic Design? We are very excited to be

drastically expanding our Johannesburg showroom. We will
now be able to launch far more new product.
tonicdesign.co.za
PHOTOS SARAH DE PINA INTERVIEW TRACY GREENWOOD
The Tonic exhibition stand at Design Joburg 2018 at the Sandton Convention Centre.

As seen in Elle Decoration
Arabesque, Vintage Collection
021 461 2024 • www.maerugs.com • mae@maerugs.com • 59 Roeland Street, Cape Town

VISI REASONS
The sloth
in Porky’s
Endangered
seating
collection is
knitted with
used T-shirt
fabric.
NO
SLEIGHT
OF HAND
Artist Porky Hefer believes that vernacular design holds
the answers to the world’s most pressing problems.
The Endangered ORKY Hefer takes That’s why he turned to local
collection his sketchbook with craft collectives Heartworks and
includes a great
him everywhere Mielie and textile artist Ronel
white shark.
he goes. “I sketch Jordaan, who work with recycled
by hand, so by the time I make or hand-worked textiles, to
a piece I have worked out make his cuddly seating pods
all the problems. I don’t use based on endangered creatures,
prototypes – I rely on muscle which Southern Guild and Schiff
memory to make the later Fine Art Advisory exhibited at
versions, remembering how the Design Miami/ Basel in June 2018
first one was made,” he says in benefit of the Leonardo
about how he makes his sought- DiCaprio Foundation’s wildlife
after human-sized nests. conservation programmes.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOUTHERN GUILD AND SFA ADVISORY WORDS KELLY BERMAN
It might seem surprising As Porky’s latest project
that this superstar designer illustrates, his vision knows
– whose playful seating pods no bounds. Long fascinated
hang in Google’s San Francisco by vernacular architecture, he
office – “doesn’t know how to designed The Nest @ Sossus,
g
The orangutan bean use a computer”. But swimming a masterpiece of undulating
bag is stuffed with
against the tide is Porky’s thatch in Namib Tsaris Con-
polyester derived
from recycled masterstroke. He believes, for servancy (which won the
plastic bottles. example, that Africa is already prestigious Wallpaper* Design
geared up for the future of the Award 2019 for Best New Private
world, and handicraft is only House). It is the beginning of
one reason why. a whole new phase: a return
“Making things by hand to an ancient yet surprisingly
with what’s local is the most modern way of making buildings
eco-friendly system, because that could be what cities all over
we have been doing it for the world need.
thousands and thousands of animal-farm.co.za
years with very little impact Porky is also represented by
on the environment,” he says. Southern Guild: southernguild.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
Houtlander’s
reinterpretation
of the traditional
love seat.
PHOTOS HAYDEN PHIPPS WORDS MICHAELA STEHR

The clarity of ffurniture
it manufacturer
f t H
Houtlander’s
tl d ’ pared-down
dd modern
d aesthetic is
testament to its creators’ commitment to honing their craft.
LOVE of craft is evident started making furniture out of his dad’s Stephen moved from Durban to Joburg
A in every piece that

Houtlander founders
Stephen Wilson and
garage for friends and family while he
was a student at Pretoria University.
Stephen, meanwhile, was falling in love
and they joined forces.
Houtlander is known for giving
a contemporary twist to classic designs.
Phillip Hollander make. “Both Stephen with wood while working under an “We see ourselves as makers first and
and I have been driven by the love of Austrian cabinetmaker fitting out yacht designers second,” Phillip says. “We have
working with our hands, developing interiors. They met when they were both a passion for bringing good design, tech-
a deeper understanding of materials chosen for a furniture design exchange nology and manufacturing together.“
and processes,” says Phillip, who in Sweden. Looking for a new challenge, houtlander.co.za
NO
38
“WE were featured in the
first issue of VISI as part
of a fabulous article on
contemporary design,” says
Julia Day of Generation,
a business that has stood
the test of time in a constantly evolving
design and decor landscape.
FIRST “We started out 28 years ago, when

our country had very limited access to
international design. We were innovators
RATE
Interior design
in the industry, bringing new ideas and
creativity into the country.”
The original design and lifestyle
ethos is still a key factor in what makes
consultancy Generation a success. “We have a large PHOTOS ELSA YOUNG WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
Generation has store in Hyde Park Corner where the

been on our radar best international design can be found,
as well as a team of passionate and
from the very talented interior designers,” says Julia.
first issue of the “I believe South African designers
magazine. That and architects will continue to grow and
has not changed. make their mark internationally. What
stands in their favour is the passion and
exuberance with which they approach
An outdoor living space in
Saxonwold – interior design their craft.”
by Julia Day of Generation. generationdesign.co.za

VISI REASONS
Clockwise from left, black Natural Curiosities wallpaper, #1 Zero hand-tufted wool rug, and Grafik Botanical
PORTRAIT BRONWYN FRIEDMAN PHOTOS CLINTON FRIEDMAN INTERVIEW MICHAELA STEHR

09 framed canvas print – all available from shop.clintonfriedman.com.
NO
39 BOTANICALBOUNTY
Clinton Friedman has used photography, textiles, painting and
a combination of all of these to create a blooming body of work
and lifestyle range.
“WHEN VISI was
launched in 1998 I was
working as a landscaper,
so friendly and warm, enthusiastic
and encouraging, and they were both
dressed in black from head to toe!
authenticity. Be true to yourself,
be original, take risks, and don’t be
a copycat.
my first full-time job. “I am definitely not an ‘all my eggs “As for the future, I intend to keep
“In 2003, when in one basket’ kind of guy. I like to mix doing what I’m doing – photography,
I started out on my it up, which has allowed me to evolve publishing, design, product develop-
own as a professional naturally in an ‘ordered chaos’ manner. ment and new business engagement
photographer, I presented my port- “Nature and my wife Bronwyn – and to continue building the
folio to editor-in-chief Sumien Brink inspire me. Clinton Friedman label both locally
and deputy editor Annemarie Meintjes. “I believe one of the most important and globally.”
I will always remember they were both aspects for the future of design is clintonfriedman.com

VISI REASONS
Mud Studio’s chandeliers and pendant lights, made out of ceramic beads and leaves, are much sought-after.
40
BELOW Mud chandeliers hang in The Shooting Gallery at Haymarket Hotel in London, decorated by Kit Kemp.
NO
HANDS-ON APPROACH
The ceramics from Werner and Philippa du Toit’s Mud Studio shape the
lives of those who make them and those who go on to own them.
How did Mud Studio start? Philippa: I love it when people
Werner: Mud began in rural appreciate and want to own
Ladybrand in 1999 after Philippa beautiful ceramics, but hate it when
returned here from Cape Town. someone buys something of ours
Unemployment was and is and says it’s too beautiful to use!
extremely high, and Philippa got Ceramics need to be used every
a group of women together and set day, appreciated and cherished. Eat
out to teach them basic ceramic your breakfast out of your favourite
skills. Pinch pots, coil pots and beautifully hand-crafted bowl.
crude pieces of ceramics began No more plastic, Tupperware or tin!
to emerge from a tin shack in
Manyatseng. In the following year, What is the process behind
we built a studio in town and creating a new piece?
attended our first trade show. The Philippa: Sit, draw, doodle, google,
pieces we exhibited were very well draw some more. I try to get it
received and after that exciting perfect on paper before I even
PHOTO COURTESY OF KIT KEMP INTERVIEW MICHAELA STEHR

things began to happen. venture into clay.
Werner: Sit, plop a piece of clay in
What do you love about ceramics? front of you, smell it, feel it, pinch
Werner: The smell of the clay, all it, slap it. Beat the clay around a bit.
day long! Although working with Slap it a bit more. Taste it. Make it
clay is not easy – rejects and cracks flat. Roll it up. Make a ball. Beat it
sometimes take their toll on the with a fist a few more times. Make it
FAST FACT
mind, but throwing that plate or
cup or salad bowl against the wall
flat. Pinch it here and there. Roll it
here, twist it there… Et voilà! We
WHITE CERAMICS ARE
or on the floor is utterly satisfying, have a plate... or something slightly MADE FROM RARER (MORE
shards shooting in every direction. abstract, but you get the drift. EXPENSIVE) WHITE CLAY,
Smashing a few pieces is required PRIMARILY KAOLIN.
to clear the mind. mudstudio.net

STEEN SOMA
Greg Truen & Stefan Antoni of SAOTA by Laurie Wiid van Heerden
BHACA TERRA
by Andile Dyalvane by Laurie Wiid van Heerden
Indigenus design and manufacture beautiful, durable architectural planters

developed to uplift and enhance residential, hospitality and corporate environments.
www.indigenus.co.za
VISI REASONS
41
NO
HAPPILYEVER AFTER
Johannesburg-based interior designer Astrid Van Der Heim has
masterminded an untold number of creative projects.
STRID Van Der
A Heim has been

in interiors “for
what seems like
forever”, she says. “Over the
years I have been inspired
by so many: architect James
Brümmer; my daughter,
Wanita Seekins; interior
decorators David Hicks,
Andrée Putman and Jean-
Michel Frank; fashion icons
Vivienne Westwood and
Diana Vreeland...”
Another inspiring woman in
fashion is Vesselina Pentcheva,
who entrusted Astrid with
the renovation of her studio
in Johannesburg to mark her
label’s 10-year anniversary. VISI
featured the results in 2010.
“I am most proud of my
reputation,” Astrid says.
“I like to believe our success
has been in creating lifestyle
solutions, changing the way
clients live happily ever after.”
astrid@vanderheim.co.za
FAST FACT
FASHION
PHOTOS MERWELENE VAN DER MERWE WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD

EDITOR DIANA
VREELAND
IS CREDITED
WITH COINING
THE WORD
“PIZZAZZ”
WHILE
WORKING
AT VOGUE
MAGAZINE.
Astrid Van Der Heim, pictured top right, created the theatrical interior of Joburg-based fashion designer Vesselina Pentcheva’s studio.
The portrait of Vesselina on the wall is a print of a photograph by Merwelene van der Merwe.

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VISI REASONS
42
NO
REASON 43: PORTRAIT CLAUDIA GSCHWEND WORDS PALESA KGASANE

THE walls of Nelson
Makamo’s studio in
LIFE &
Joburg are lined with
large-scale drawings
and mixed-media works
SOUL
Artist Nelson Makamo
depicting the faces
of children. Some of
them look up as if in
reverie, but many of
is taking on the world, them fix you with their
43
one portrait of hope gaze in a moment of
at a time.
stillness that packs an NO
emotional punch.
The prolific portraitist
has a faculty for mark-
making and line that he
exploits to soulful effect
in scenes of ordinary
people doing every-
day things. He’s been
quoted as saying that
CULTURE
“every piece is my soul”.
“I always say as an artist
your soul has been cut
COLLECTOR
Maria McCloy is taking stock of the past
into millions of pieces,
and you get to share to create a bright future with work that
each piece with others.” puts the spotlight on the richness of
Last year was a
African culture.
big one for Nelson:
two solos at CIRCA in ARIA McCloy roots are in England and
Joburg and Cape Town;
a showcase at 1-54
Contemporary African
M knows what
drives culture.
Something of
my mother’s are in Lesotho.
It influenced my love of
African aesthetics, culture
Art Fair in London; the a Jill of all trades, she’s been and people,” she says.
global Rise Art Prize based in Joburg for 20 years, As a publicist, shoe
for drawing; a rug but lived over the course designer and owner of her
collaboration with of her childhood in several eponymous brand, Maria
Laduma Ngxokolo; and, African countries, including has collaborated with local
REASON 42: PORTRAIT ANDILE BUKA WORDS KELLY BERMAN

oh, did we mention that Nigeria and Sudan. beaders and makers of
Oprah and Ava DuVernay These rich influences, as traditional African attire to
popped in at his studio? well as her own background preserve what she ascribes
Don’t expect the and an appreciation of art to be the immense skill of
pace in Nelson’s studio (she holds her artworks indigenous people. With
to slow down anytime by Kudzanai Chiurai and her eye on the future, she
soon: He has an exciting Sudanese paintings given is firmly rooted in what has
project coming up soon to her by her parents as come before. “We have so
and is preparing for treasured possessions) much from the past to draw
a show at Loo & Lou have culminated in her inspiration from,” she says.
Gallery in Paris from having a solid grasp of the @mariamccloy
Hold On, charcoal, acrylic and 29 May to 27 July 2019. fashion, design and music facebook.com/Maria
pastel on paper, 2018. nelsonmakamo.com industries. “My father’s McCloyAccessories

VISI REASONS
44
NO
MIX AND
MASH.T
Thabisa Mjo, founder of the interior and
product design firm Mash.T Design Studio,
is reimagining the African aesthetic.
“We love a cover girl, honey!” jokes
REASON 45: PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARTIST WORDS JABULILE DLAMINI-QWESHA
Thabisa Mjo, referring to the cover

of VISI’s August/September 2018
issue, on which we featured her
Potjie server.
Building a scalable, sustainable
business while remaining inspired
and creative is not easy. “I’m still at it.
At least once a week I want to throw
in the towel, so I am proud that I’m
persisting. It’s no walk in the park, I’ll tell you that,” Thabisa
Mira, Mira
admits. But working for yourself has its perks, too. “Owning (Look, Look),
my time is one of the pleasures of being an entrepreneur. 2017.
Time is a luxury.”
45
In terms of the future of South African design, decor
and architecture, Thabisa hopes to see more collaboration. NO
“We don’t all see things the same way. Combining points of
view inevitably leads to interesting design. Collaboration
is the future, in my opinion. We’re not competitors; we
BOLD
are partners.”
@mashtdesignstudio FUSION
Artist. Neoteric. Explorer. Siwa Mgoboza’s
REASON 44: PORTRAIT CARINA CLAASSENS PHOTO MPUMELELO MACU WORDS CELESTE JACOBS
textile collages blend history, fashion,

identity politics and photography.
AVING lived ways of making modern
H as both
a local and
an immigrant,
local goods to ensure
a higher consumption by
Africans first. “Essentially,
as a South African who forward and upward
grew up in Europe and movement for creatives
South America, artist of colour, and building
Siwa Mgoboza has been a stronger black economy.”
exposed to a broad range Siwa’s series Les Êtres
of influences. He uses d’Africadia was the feature
a variety of mediums and work at the 2018 MIA Photo
explores global themes Fair in Milan, and he returns
from an African perspective for the 2019 edition of
to create works that reflect the fair in March. Before
his reality. that, he’ll be at the 1-54
As regards the future Contemporary African Art
Mojo chair by
Mash.T Design
of local design, Siwa Fair in Marrakech from 21 to
Studio. places importance on 24 February.
reconsidering traditional @siwamgoboza

VISI REASONS
46
What were you doing in 1998, when VISI
NO was launched? I was 11 years old and

most likely painting in my room while
GROWTH eating ice lollies and listening to the

Spice Girls.
SPURT
With his second solo under his belt, Jody Paulsen
You sample text and visuals from the
media in your artwork. What’s your
relationship with it, especially print
media? Ever since I can remember
talks escapism, growing up, and how he got out of I have loved magazines. When I was
a creative rut. a kid, I would cut out all of my mom’s
tabloids and fashion mags, and make
collages in my visual diary. I still love
Vogue, Vanity Fair and more recently
Apartamento. Then I’ve been going to
the cinema almost every week since
I was a teenager. I tend to replay songs
and reread books quite obsessively.
I also watch American daytime TV shows
like The Wendy Williams Show and The
View in my studio every day. I adore the
escapism of this type of media and, as a
result, it has become an important tool
for me to express myself.
Tell us about your new body of

work, Water Me. In some ways it’s
a continuation of Pushing Thirty.
I struggled to start: I was out of
ideas for a new show, so as time
went on I just decided to go with my
gut. I began making flower still lifes
and a big text work about my lack
of inspiration. The title, Water Me,
became a metaphor for my desire to
grow and evolve, in life as well as in my
art. My studio practice became more
effortless after confronting my lack of
inspiration. Realising that creativity is
not always easy or comfortable was an
important lesson.
Have you made peace with being in PHOTOS NEIL ROBERTS INTERVIEW KELLY BERMAN
your 30s? I love being 31. I value the
small amount of confidence I have
gained in the past 30 years.
Best thing about being a millennial?

Graduating into a recession. It made
me so ambitious.
And the worst thing? The toxic side of

social media. I have such a complicated
and neurotic relationship with it. One
Jody in front of his work Soul Cycler, made using felt cut-outs, at SMAC Gallery in Joburg. day I love it; the next I hate it.

What does fashion allow you to do that However, I was so innocent and had and pieces by Dokter and Misses.
making art doesn’t? Fashion is pure no expectation of having an art career. However, I do own tonnes of art from
fantasy. It’s like creating an illusion of UCT’s Michaelis School of Fine Art friends and contemporaries, and I do
who you would like to become. Living provided a safe space for me to become have a room full of shoes, bags and
parts of your life in garments that you myself and start making work that felt clothing that I have collected from my
designed never gets old. quite vulnerable. I feel such joy when I favourite designers while travelling
think about my messy life on campus. in Europe. Clothes and art are more
Career highlights so far? My highlight It is probably the exhibition that I am relevant to my life right now.
would have to be submitting my most proud of.
portfolio for my master’s degree in 2013 What’s next for you? I have another solo
with an exhibition titled What You Want Describe your home. It is serene, with project in New York at The Armory Show
Whenever You Want It. It was the most a small garden and a big TV. I share it in March, and possibly a rug collection
challenging thing I’ve ever done. I was with Keith Henning, who loves furniture with a design gallery later in 2019.
plagued with insecurities, uncertain and interiors a lot more than I do. My
about my work and going through style is quite minimal. I have the odd @jody_paulsen
a bad break-up. And I had no money. collectable 1970s Scandinavian chair akjpstudio.com
ABOVE Artwork by Jody for VISI’s Feb/Mar 2014 issue, which was printed with four cover versions.
TOP Two still lifes from Jody’s latest body of work, Water Me, which is on exhibit at SMAC Gallery in Johannesburg until 9 February 2019.

VISI REASONS
47
NO
TRUE CALLING
Architect Mariam Kamara, founder of the Niger-based architecture
and research firm atelier masōmī, puts people at the forefront of
her practice. She’ll be a speaker at Design Indaba 2019.
WE chatted to the feeling that architecture was really this project was important because it
software-developer- my path. I finally took the leap when I allows us to take part in the discourse,
turned-architect came to view architecture as a conduit designing a place of peace and harmony
Mariam Kamara for positive contributions in the social, that taps into a fundamental precept of
ahead of her talk economic, cultural and often even Islam: the pursuit of knowledge. It is a
at Design Indaba political dimensions of a place. learning space that also has a place for
2019 about how she worship where everyone in the village
believes design can You designed the award-winning is represented and has a way of taking
make a difference. Hikma religious and secular complex ownership. For the youth of the village,
in Dandaji, Niger, in collaboration having the very first library where they
Why the move from computer science with Yasaman Esmaili. What impact can have access to literature (and not
to architecture? Architecture was did you want to make? It seemed to just textbooks) will be very impactful
actually my original career choice, us that all around the world, religion in helping widen their horizons and
but I didn’t think it was reasonable is coming up against scientific, secular improving their language skills and
to pursue a creative field. Computer knowledge, with extreme strands of all school performance.
science was simply a more sensible religions rising everywhere. This is also
option. Even after many years as true in Niger, where more than 90% Is there a project that stands out for
a software developer, I couldn’t shake of the population is Muslim. So for us you? They all do! The way we work is so
PHOTOS JAMES WANG INTERVIEW LINDI BROWNELL MEIRING
Before, the mosque was male-centric, whereas now men and women use the complex together to attend literacy courses or workshops.

Mariam is proud of her
firm’s work in renovating
a derelict mosque in
Dandaji, Niger, turning it
into a community centre
that includes not only a new
mosque but also a library.
The centre is named Hikma,
meaning“wisdom” in Arabic.
immersive, from the research issues that as designers we have

stage to design and construction, to face and take responsibility
that every project is an intense for. While I am very past-
experience. We have a process conscious, I am really very
that involves working closely future-obsessed in the work
with the users of our projects that I do. Many issues in the near
to understand what matters future are quite alarming and
to them. But we also develop many of them actually have a
strong ties with the builders lot to do with urban planning
and craftsmen that make them and architecture. How do we
a reality in order to best use make architecture that respects
(and stretch ) their skills in our and manifests the narrative of a
designs. Every project where we place in order to repair or avoid
are able to do this successfully creating fractures? We have
becomes very special for us. to worry about devising new
solutions for a decidedly urban
What do you believe are the tomorrow.
most important issues that
architecture should be tackling ateliermasomi.com
in 2019? There are so many designindaba.com
THIS YEAR’S DESIGN INDABA CONFERENCE, WHICH RUNS FROM 27 FEBRUARY TO 1 MARCH,
WILL SEE CREATIVES FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE SHARE THEIR STORIES, INCLUDING ARCHITECTS
ANNABELLE SELLDORF, DONG-PING WONG AND JOHN PAWSON.

VISI REASONS
URBAN
48
Lupita floor
NO
lamp and
Oromo
planters by
TheUrbanative.
ENGINEERING
TheUrbanative’s Mpho Vackier builds on her
aesthetic, a marriage of Bauhaus, mid-century
modern and cultural motifs, with her new range.
WENTY years ago, Mpho Vackier
was busy wrapping up matric,
with a glimmering future ahead as
a process engineer in the mining
industry. Today, her future still shines brightly,
but now it’s as one of South Africa’s most
promising furniture and product designers. “As
TheUrbanative has grown, it gets easier to believe
I’m doing exactly what I ought to be doing with
my life! I still say that I try to ‘engineer’ my designs,
which creates a link between my past and present.”

When she went back to studying Interior Design
at Inscape Design College, Mpho says she routinely She launched the second TheUrbanative
poured over issues of VISI, and when TheUrbanative collection, African Crowns, in late 2018. “I wanted
launched its first collection in 2017, VISI was one of it to be true to both the concept of the magic
the first publications to cover it. “I love the way VISI of African hairstyles and my design language.”
celebrates South African design,” says Mpho. theurbanative.com
49
Clockwise
from right,
NO Bosjes
Chapel,
Apartment
Hout and
Upper
Bloem
Restaurant.
ARTFUL
EVOLUTION
VISI was one of the first publications to
profile Liam Mooney’s designs. It was,
he says, a bit like winning an Oscar.
WHEN the first issue hosting a tour of his work at Bosjes Over the years Liam’s body of work
of VISI was published, Chapel near Worcester. “It was both has evolved from pure furniture design
Liam Mooney was nerve-racking and exhilarating,” says to interior design, and he loves the
still in high school. Liam, who populated the magnificent transition. “In my career I am most proud
WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
Almost two decades space with custom-made oak and brass of the fact that I work for myself and I am
later, there he stood pews, offsetting the matte texture of able to employ a small team of inspiring,
before the VISI team the building with organic materials and talented and sassy people. I pat myself
and a group of the allowing the glossiness of brass to reflect on the back for it daily.”
magazine’s readers, the natural surroundings. liammooney.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
50 CAPITAL INVESTMENT
Architect Pieter Mathews took the formerly fuddy-duddy
administrative capital of South Africa and made it cool with
an uppercase “C”.
The new Javett Art Centre at the University of

Pretoria, designed by Mathews and Associates
Architects, is a massive project that will house
nine galleries and the Mapungubwe collection.
It is scheduled to open towards the end of 2019.
PORTRAIT CARLA CRAFFORD PHOTO PIETER MATHEWS WORDS ANNETTE KLINGER
“MY first shoot with VISI were doing a special feature on ugly catalogue, he ensured its recognition
feels like yesterday,” says homes for an obscure magazine with went global.
Pieter Mathews, founder of a small print run! Summit House is still Pieter’s firm is currently changing
Mathews and Associates one of my favourites.” Pretoria’s skyline with the construction
Architects in Pretoria and, Times have changed since VISI’s early of the new Javett Art Centre at the
as it turns out, raconteur days, when photos were shot on film University of Pretoria. He has just
of note. “It was of Summit House in and Pretoria’s architectural landscape submitted a practice-based master’s
Centurion. Pretoria was still enchanted was not nearly as captivating as it is degree thesis to the University of the
by the Tuscan aesthetic, and concrete today. It was with the goal of drawing Free State’s School of Architecture and,
and raw materials were taboo. At the South Africans’ attention to the revival as an external examiner for the UFS’s
shoot, one of the estate tannies saw of the city and the Tshwane Metropole architecture final-year students, he
me and the photographer, not knowing that Pieter spearheaded the wildly is more than optimistic about where
I had designed the house, and enquired successful Cool Capital Biennale in 2014 South African architecture is headed.
why we were photographing this ‘ugly’ and 2016. And when he curated the “The class of 2018 just blew my mind,”
house when we could photograph her first ever South African pavilion at the he says. “There are names we’re going
new and bigger Tuscan-style house just 2016 Venice Architecture Biennale that to be hearing a lot of in the future.”
a few blocks away. I replied that we was published in the official Biennale maaa.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO A Pretoria family home designed
51
by Thomas and Sureen. Dino the
family dog stands on the teak
walkway that runs the length of
PRIME the house, connecting all the

living spaces.
POSITION
Thomas and Sureen Gouws brought Pretoria’s
regional modernism into the 21st century.
WITH an use of materials and textures
unmistakable and, oftentimes, a surprising
sensitivity to pop of vibrant colour. Thomas
setting, architect is something of a sculptor of
Thomas Gouws, together with volumes, designing with a light
his wife and business partner, touch and supreme attention
PHOTOS DOOK WORDS GRAHAM WOOD

interior architect Sureen, have to detail.
advanced Pretoria’s distinctive Thomas and Sureen recently
design heritage. They have moved to Australia. “We’re
created homes that not only taking a break from architecture
suit the local climate and and working on our new design
lifestyle but that have also brand TOO, a collection of
grown conceptually from their artistic interior items, which we’ll
environment. Their minimal be launching at Milan Design
aesthetic is given warmth and Week in April 2019,” he says.
richness through a considered facebook.com/tgarchitects
NO
52 I
IN THE FRONT ROW
The quintessential kid of cool, fashion designer Rich Mnisi is
equal parts groundbreaker and collaborator.
N the little over four years since Rich Mnisi established

his label, he’s amassed local and international fans,
and can count Beyoncé and Naomi Campbell as clients.
Rich collaborated with
Southern Guild on his
Nwa-Mulamula chaise.
Among many other highlights, his Coca-Cola

and Woolworths collaborations are arguably what solidified his
status as a culture-shifter. But it isn’t all about fashion. Taking
inspiration from music,nature, films and art has informed the PHOTO HAYDEN PHIPPS WORDS PALESA KGASANE
overall direction of his brand, and there’s a consistent

considered narrative and vision from runway to
lookbook to social and digital.
This approach has meant that the young
brand has been able to bridge the gap
between fast fashion and accessible local
designs. We can only look forward to
a bigger and more inclusive local fashion
industry lead by the likes of Rich.
richmnisi.com

VISI REASONS
NO
53 MATTERSOF CLAY
Gerhard Swart and Anthony Harris of Ceramic Matters have
been pioneers in proving the potential for design in clay.
CERAMIC Matters’
relationship with VISI
began in 2001 with
a visit by deputy editor
Annemarie Meintjies and
photographer Dook to
the studio on a farm near
Lanseria Airport shortly after Gerhard Swart
and Anthony Harris opened it. We caught up
with them 18 years on in Wellington…
How has Ceramic Matters evolved? Our

initial product design was for advertising
agencies, corporate trophies and gifts,
and has evolved into installations working
with local and international designers
such as Stephen Falcke, Vicente Wolf
in New York and, more recently, Studio
Ashby in London. We continue to work
on great design projects, both corporate
and domestic.
What have been some of the biggest

influences on your work? Having had
the opportunity to make work for
Liberty in London, The Conran Shop
and so on has been an inspiration and
encouragement. Working on projects
with designer Laurie Wiid van Heerden
of Wiid Designs has also been mutually
constructive. The material we work
with, clay, offers a huge range of design
possibilities, often with unexpected results.
Any interesting VISI memories? Winning the

VISI Designer of the Year award in 2007 was
a highlight.
PORTRAIT TAYLA HOEPFL WORDS MICHAELA STEHR
What’s next for you? We have been invited

to do work for the Woordfees in Stellenbosh
in March 2018 and we are working on a range
for a new gallery in Paris, France, called
Galerie Bonne Esperance.
@ceramicmatters
ceramicm@mweb.co.za
See work by Ceramic Matters at Trent Read ABOVE The Ceramic Butchery, 2017 (Limited Edition).
- Everard Read Gallery, Franshhoek – and TOP Rite of Passage, the “before” of a before-and-after installation at Knysna Fine Art
Southern Guild, Cape Town in 2016, where gallery visitors were encouraged to walk across the fragile ceramics.

VISI REASONS
NO
54 INTOTHEBLUE
Artist, curator, illustrator and ceramic enthusiast Michael Chandler,
founder of the gallery and shop Chandler House, talks past, present
and future design.
Michael Chandler is known for

his blue-and-white ceramics.
What were you doing What (or who) has been your publication; and the
in 1998, when VISI was
launched? I was 13 and in
the biggest influence on
your career? History and
headline of the article
happened to be the title
FAST FACT
my final year of primary nature have always been of my favourite book, The
ISLAMIC GLAZED
school. I was starting to my biggest influences. House of the Sprits. I saw CERAMICS
realise I was a little different But, at the end of the day, that as a beautiful omen. FEATURED
from my peers… narration is probably the I think I even cut it out BLUE PATTERNS
thing that binds all my work and stuck it in my 2007 ON A WHITE
What do you see in the
future for South African
together. So I’d have to say
narrative is the one element
scrapbook.
BACKGROUND
decor, design and that is always in the back- What’s next for you? I think
LONG BEFORE
architecture? I am excited ground, whispering to me I’m pretty lucky in that I’ve THE COLOUR
about people claiming and while I am creating. found what makes me super SCHEME BECAME
celebrating their identity happy and at the same time THE TRADEMARK
as South African and not Do you have any poignant helps to pay the bills. That OF CHINESE
looking to the US and VISI memories? My said, if I had to name one
PORCELAIN
INTERVIEW MICHAELA STEHR
Europe for trends to follow. relationship with VISI thing I would like to do next,
There is so much material began when I met the great it would be to find a little
AND THEN OF
waiting to be explored. It love of my life in the same house and do it up my way. EUROPEAN
makes me tingle all over month that his beautiful CERAMICS.
with excitement! home was featured in chandlerhouse.co.za

bianca@dolceb.com
T | (+27)82 308 1653
Postnet Suite 438
Private Bsg X1
Melrose Arch, 2076
VISI REASONS
“Wish you weren’t here”

Postcard Hat series.
NO
55 A STEP
AHEAD
PHOTOS MICHAEL OLIVER LOVE @HEROMANAGEMENT WORDS PALESA KGSANE
Design provocateur Crystal Birch is pioneering
an à la mode hat business that is changing the
head space of South African fashion.
STYLIST, milliner, Collaborations with the likes of
designer and fashion designer Rich Mnisi have
businesswoman proven that a voice like Crystal’s,
Crystal Birch one that doesn’t conform, is an
has successfully essential aspect of a thriving
merged what industry. “I love collaborating and
could be considered theatre will carry on working with more
garb into the mainstream fashion and more inspiring people and
landscape. brands worldwide. I get to be
“Imagine it every day until it a chameleon and push myself in
becomes your truth, and then just a certain direction that I may have
do whatever feels right,” she says not explored yet,” she says.
about her business ideology. therealcrystalbirch.com

www.blockandchisel.co.za
VISI REASONS
NO
56
BUILTTO
LAST
Architect Johann Slee’s
language of stone and
corrugated iron has produced
many architectural icons.
“WHEN I started studying, cross-section of slee+co.’s portfolio, “Over the years, I have had the privilege
newspaper headlines read from thoughtfully renovated heritage to work with unbelievable clients
that architects were selling buildings like De Volkskombuis and on very special projects.” To the
ice cream on the streets the firm’s own headquarters, to uninitiated, these very special projects
because there was no contemporary landmarks like the co- have included residences suspended
work,” recalls Johann Slee working space Platform 43 and an array among treetops, perched on dunes and
of Stellenbosch-based architecture firm of residences, including Johann’s own seemingly floated on water. In short, the
slee+co. “Fortunately, that has changed award-winning house, Sinkhuis. stuff VISI dreams are made of.
and South African architecture is up “I have been very fortunate that “Twenty years ago, four creative
there with the rest of the world.” I have been involved in residential young women, Ronelle Meyer, Keinie
A tour through Stellenbosch is architecture from the start and could van der Merwe, Lynette Monsson and
punctuated by a rather impressive hone my craft in that field,” he says. Lindi Wehrle-Steyn, knocked on my door
one day and said they were going to
publish this new magazine and wanted
PORTRAIT HETTY ZANTMAN PHOTOS WIL PUNT, PEARTREE PHOTOGRAPHY WORDS ANNETTE KLINGER
to feature my work,” says Johann. “From
day one, VISI’s been a very special
publication, specifically the fact that the
architecture of the spaces played as big
a role as the interiors.”
With a pulse on the future of South
African architecture, he cautions against
local architects getting too caught up
by international trends. “We have to
develop our own unique South African
vernacular,” he says. “There is already
great work out there showcasing this.”
This year‘s schedule is already jam-
packed with projects, including a host
of holiday residences in spectacular
settings (of course!) and a “green-
screen” office building in Pretoria.
slee.co.za
Johann and René Slee’s house in

Stellenbosch comprises four “farm
sheds” linked by stone “kraal” walls.
René created a meadow of indigenous
grasses planted with fynbos.

VISI REASONS
NO
57 MAKE
IT FELT
Finding endless inspiration from nature,
felt artist Ronel Jordaan believes
environment holds the key to creativity.
From top left are an Ndebele
chair; Sashiko seating (first
exhibited at Maison&Objet
in September 2018 and
January 2019); and
Crystals, made for
a Southern Guild
group exhibition.
You’ve been we’ve also been copied by

involved with hundreds of felt crafters,
textiles for but we’re still going strong
four decades. in spite of all that!
How has your
work evolved? What do you see as the
Firstly, I love what I do, future of South African
and I think that has been design? For many years
critical when attempting to South Africa has sprouted
constantly be more creative, some of the most amazing
produce new work, sell design and architecture
in new countries, and so talents. We live in a fast- Africa as the new destination How did your relationship
on. I started training three developing world and of original design. with VISI begin? Throughout
PHOTOS RONEL JORDAAN INTERVIEW AMELIA BROWN
women in the art of felting innovation is crucial to our 16-year journey, from
in 2003 and I showcased our ensure we can compete We say VISI, you say… our garage to our factory,
first designs at Decorex in in a global market. To be Inspirational South African VISI has been a steady
2004. Since then we have leaders and not followers, design and architecture. companion, partner and
grown and moved into I believe our environ- I was working in a graphic supporter. In 2007, I had
bigger factories and our ment is the key creative and interior design studio the privilege of being
products are available in ingredient that makes us in Johannesburg when VISI nominated by VISI as one
most countries around the stand out. I have a complete, was launched, and I was of South Africa’s top textile
world. Unfortunately, the passionate belief that local incredibly inspired by it. designers.
downside to that growth creatives can inspire the I always hoped to one day
and recognition is that world with a vision of South be featured on its pages. roneljordaan.com

VISI REASONS
NO
58 THE GROWTH OF
AN IDEA
Lien Botha, photographer, artist and writer, has contributed to VISI for the past
15 years, perhaps most poetically and memorably in her photography for a series
on plants, which was in every sense an eye-opener.
IEN Botha’s
L approach
to the plant
portraits she LEFT Lien Botha
made for VISI presented with her camera
a striking departure from in the veld.
conventional garden BELOW A close-up
of chives (Allium
features. “With her unique
schoenoprasum),
sense of style, Sumien had
the distinct vision of giving
our flora iconic status in
the magazine,” Lien recalls.
Instead of the wide views
and manicured landscapes
standard at the time, vivid
natural images of plants
would spill across the
pages, often set against
a sheet of colour.
So Lien and her assistant
Ellora Ghosh set out for
Kirstenbosch with a make-
shift studio on a trolley,
complete with large, bright
Formica backdrops… “in the
days before digital! That is
how the first feature, about
aloes, came into being.
“Working on the series
enforced my belief that
Nature is the Only Guru,
and made way for the
language of tenella,
uniflora and aristata.
WORDS LAURIAN BROWN
“One winter I was on my

knees, documenting the life
and times of our ancient TOP Blue passionflower
grasses of the high winds. (Passiflora caerulea).
A peculiar joy came to me, ABOVE Clivia miniata ‘Lulea’.
even though it was very RIGHT Protea neriifolia ‘Pink Ice’.
cold that year.”

LEFT ‘Lago Maggiore’ rose.
BELOW The exotic flower of
the banana.
ABOVE Silver lady tree fern

(Blechnum gibbum).
ABOVE A pink arum

lily, Zantedeschia
‘Pink Persuasion’.
RIGHT Anthurium
andraeanum ‘Amigo’.

VISI REASONS
Mungo Mill in Plettenberg

Bay, with its wooden slatted
“skin” that wraps around an
elevated walkway.
NO
59
THREADS THAT
COUNT
Beloved textile manufacturer Mungo has been designing,
weaving and making in South Africa for more than 20 years.
S the saying goes, it’s the Plettenberg Bay, completed just more a thriving online store.
“A fabric of your life,” says

Stuart Holding, master
weaver and founder of
than a year ago and featured in VISI 94,
is a physical embodiment of Mungo’s
commitment to a transparent supply
With conscious consumption on the
rise and a need for credible sustainability
stories, Mungo is well positioned to
Mungo. “You wake up in the morning chain. Here, you can go on a tour, watch continue to showcase South African
surrounded by textiles. You go and the looms in action, and see the Cut, design, support local industry and
have a shower and reach for your towel. Make and Trim department finishing reconnect people with how their
PHOTOS JAN RAS AND COURTESY OF MUNGO WORDS AMELIA BROWN

The first major decision you make in Itawuli towels, vibrant Boma kitchen products are made and by whom.
your day is, what should I wear?” he cloths, linen bedding in dreamy muted “I’m excited to see the shift that is
continues. “It is one of those things that hues, and super-soft cotton throws already happening of people first being
encompass your life completely, yet we and blankets. worried what they’re putting into their
have lost contact with it.” Managing director Dax Holding was bodies and next what they’re wearing,”
Not so for Stuart, who turned his integral in taking Stuart’s vision for says marketing and creative director
connection to cloth and passion for a simple mill at the back of the Old Nick Tessa Holding, who joined the family
weaving into a successful local brand Village and conceptualising and building business with Dax in 2010. Both have
that, despite economic challenges a modern working mill that balances played an integral part in growing the
and cheap imports, has remained true the milling function with the museum brand and preparing it for the next
to the values that set it apart when it element and that tells the Mungo story. decade. “I think that whole philosophy of
began in 1998. It is the commitment to If you cannot get to the milling HQ, taking care and being more thoughtful
local materials and local labour and Mungo also has shops in Cape Town is moving into people’s homes and into
the celebration of an age-old craft that and Joburg, and the Cape Town CBD their lifestyles, and they’re making more
have come to define Mungo as much as shop even has a working loom. Mungo considered choices.” she adds.
its heirloom-quality textiles have. is also on social media (share your @mungodesign
The impressively architected mill in #mungotowelstory to win) and has mungo.co.za

VISI and Mungo were both launched
in 1998. Here are some important
milestones on Mungo’s journey.
1998 Master weaver Stuart

Holding is gifted two
Lancashire looms,
the same looms he
had completed his
apprenticeship on in North
Yorkshire in the ’60s, and
starts the working weaving
museum at Old Nick
Village, Plettenberg Bay
2004 Mungo expands its

production to a converted
dairy in The Crags
ABOVE AND BOTTOM RIGHT Mungo’s beautifully styled Cape Town store is located in
Hout Street. BELOW The mill’s water feature references the original water mills.
2010 Stuart’s children Dax
and Tessa join the family
business
2011 Mungo opens a dedicated

retail shop in Old Nick
Village
2016 Mungo opens two shops,

one in the Cape Town CBD,
complete with a working
loom, and one in Jozi at
the bustling 44 Stanley
precinct
BELOW Weaver Mabel Plaatjies works on a loom at the mill in Plett. Mungo now employs
80 local people.
2017 The new working mill
on the Old Nick Village
property, designed by
architect and land artist
Andrea Christoforetti, is
completed and opened
to visitors
2018 Mungo turns 20 and

opens a dedicated US
distribution hub headed
by Dax and Kristyn Holding
(@mungo.us)
2019 Mungo continues to

expand its beautiful range
of homeware and apparel
and to grow its footprint
internationally

VISI REASONS
60
NO
TAKE A SEAT
Furniture designer Bonga Jwambi
creates pieces that celebrate colour
and craftsmanship.
FORMER Design Indaba
A Emerging Creative,
Bonga Jwambi is
always on the lookout
for something to challenge him
creatively. To him, embarking on
a journey into furniture design was
the next logical step. “I think it has
a lot to do with my background
as a visual artist during my school
days,” he explains. “I felt like there
was a gap that needed to be filled:
a product doesn’t have to be badly
designed to be affordable to the
person on the street.”
Bonga enjoys working
with natural materials, primarily
kiaat, and makes use of colour as
a means of expression.
ABOVE This kiaat chair is finished with linseed oil, and features a seat and backrest made
of black, white and red nylon rope. BELOW Also crafted from kiaat, this contemporary
Art may serve as his primary
armchair features a nylon rope seat in bright green. inspiration, but he is also moved
by a desire to create items that
can provide solutions to societal
PORTRAIT ENHANCE RETAIL PHOTOS CHRIS VAN EEDEN WORDS LINDI BROWNELL MEIRING
challenges, including a lack of
space. “Households are becoming
smaller,” he says, “and I try to design
products that are functional but
that take up less space.”
For Bonga, it’s important
that his designs – which include
contemporary armchairs, stools,
benches and coffee tables – are seen
both as works of art and as practical
items. “They must still claim their
place wherever they are, in a home
or a public space.”
What’s next? Bonga has been
invited to exhibit and sell his
creations at Milan Design Market in
April 2019, where he will be revealing
a new collection.
@bonga_jwambi
bongajwambi@gmail.com

VISI REASONS
61
Water Lily
NO lamps in
Bronze
and Blue.
PETAL TO
THEMETAL
This year, Mema Designs’ Sian Eliot and
Ari Geva will launch their third range of
delicately dramatic lighting pendants.
HEN Sian Eliot with the launch of Mema’s
W and Ari Geva

established
Mema
Ukhamba range, it was
their deft manipulation
of the fabric into intricate
Designs five years ago, geometric pleats that
using aluminium mesh made the local design
as a design material was industry take notice. “As
virtually unheard of. Yet, a lighting design medium,
it’s so perfect, because inspired, Sian says, by the

it reflects light while nasturtium plant growing
being utterly dynamic in outside her kitchen. “The
a visual sense,” says Sian. veined, semi-transparent
“It looks different from leaves seem to float
every angle, reflects the when the air moves past,”
colours in its environment explains Sian. “I referenced
and then suddenly looks water lilies for the actual
transparent. It’s just design, but the quality of
magical!” movement in space was
In addition to being inspired by that lovely
visually beguiling, Sian edible garden plant.”
says aluminium mesh is Asked how Mema’s
also relatively rust-proof, design process has evolved
doesn’t attract dust (it’s since they first appeared
a conductive material), on VISI’s radar, Sian says
and is lightweight enough they’ve streamlined and
that it doesn’t require simplified their designs.
additional structural “It has allowed our material
engineering when used in more space to be itself.
large-scale installations, It takes maturity to learn
such as the one they’re how to edit and to be more
currently designing for natural in your process.”
a corporate head office The pair are currently
in Braamfontein. working on products for

The duo recently a new range titled Rain
launched their Water Queen.
Water Lily lamps in Bronze.
Lily pendant range, memadesigns.co.uk

VISI REASONS
The Bergenthuins’
THE MOD(ERNIST) home in Gordon’s
62
Bay, which they
NO designed in 2002.
SQUAD
Bergenthuin Architects’ beautiful
spaces work for their discerning
PORTRAIT FC COETZEE PHOTO JOHAN BERGENTHUIN WORDS ANNETTE KLINGER

clients and in their settings.
“GOOD their palaeontological surrounds
architecture while simultaneously blending into
happens them. “We are deeply rooted in the
where the site modernist era,” says Johan. “The
and brief are discipline of modernism allows us
in unison, resulting in a positive freedom in design without the risk of
response, so that architecture submitting to fashionable jargon.”
becomes art,” say Gardiol and Johan Asked how the industry has
Bergenthuin of the award-winning evolved since they started out in
firm Bergenthuin Architects. This the ’80s, Gardiol says the age of the
isn’t merely a good soundbite. internet has revolutionised South
Looking, for example, at the African architecture. “We’ve become
two modernist residences that part of the constantly evolving
Johan designed in the Cradle of international scene! And hopefully,
Humankind – all slate, glass and in future, there will be even more
corrugated iron – you’d notice how exposure to worldwide trends.”
the structures subtly acknowledge bergenthuin.co.za
63
Ouroboros,
2017, NO
cowhide,
resin and
polyester
mesh.
TAKE SHAPE
Multidisciplinary artist Nandipha Mntambo
is building not only a celebrated body of
PHOTOS NANDIPHA MNTAMBO, COURTESY OF STEVENSON CAPE TOWN AND JOHANNESBURG

work but also, literally, a studio.
PERHAPS best known is busy building a studio – designed
for her striking cowhide with architect Kate Otten – in the back
sculptures, Nandipha garden of her Joburg home. “Moving
Mntambo credits South from conceptualising on my own to
African sculptor Jane working with architects has helped me
Mother and Child, Alexander and French- to understand my practical needs as an
2017, cowhide,
American artist Louise Bourgeois as artist. My work has become a lot more
resin and
polyester mesh. two of her artistic influencers. Much reliant on an increasingly technical
like Louise, Nandipha explores the approach,” she says. “Becoming clear
contradictions in ideas around sexuality, about fabrication and design of my
gender binaries, and humanness working space is something new to me.”
contrasted with animality in her work. With this clarity, what does the future
WORDS JABULILE DLAMINI-QWESHA
Whatever the medium, she combines hold? “I don’t think the journey or the
seemingly incongruous concepts to questions I ask through my work will
mirror her shifting gaze. ever really be over. There is always a new
For Nandipha, 2018 was a year of dimension or prism to look through.”
letting go of relationships that didn’t @nandiphamntambo
work and habits that weren’t helpful Nandipa is represented by Stevenson:
to shift into a more positive space. She stevenson.info

2mm emi-t m re
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VISI REASONS
64
NO
RETHINKINGWORK
Raw Studios has a reputation for beautiful yet functional design
and imaginative modern work spaces.
RODUCT innovative jointing that
P design and
supply
company
requires no gluing.
To meet corporate
and institutional clients’
Raw Studios has been needs, it’s all about
specialising in design, understanding how
prototyping, testing and the open-plan work
production of high- space is changing
quality office furniture and how a number of
since 2005. different environments
The expertly are needed to make
crafted functional meaningful work
pieces are made of possible: Agile work
sustainably sourced stations, standing desks,
and environmentally stackable chairs, work
responsible engineered pods, storage units
materials. Raw likes to and privacy screens all
work with non-toxic need to work together
birch plywood, and seamlessly to create
uses the best of modern an environment for A transformed office environment: Wallspace acoustic panels
technology to produce generating brilliant ideas. ensure noise reduction in private nooks, and a meeting hub in
a large open-plan work space allows for brainstorming sessions.
modular systems and rawstudios.co.za
PHOTOS BELRIE BOTHA AND LOURENS MARITZ WORDS BIDDI RORKE

VISI REASONS
65
NO
GRAIN POWER
The designer-maker behind Vogel Design, John Vogel, is one busy
man. In addition to continuing to please fans with his wooden
furniture and wall mounts, he’s looking to break into e-commerce.
IF design is a language,
Nguni coffee table in American walnut, and Slip chair in
John Vogel is fluent in
ash timber with a Cross Hatch weave in Cuckoo cord.
the carpentry dialect.
Alternately spoken through
the sometimes minimalist,
sometimes organic lines of his
furniture, and the polished dimensions
of his sculptural wall mounts, it’s
a dialect that can be both expressive
and quietly considered.
“My design aesthetic is sort of split
in two,” says John. “On one hand, it’s
moving toward products that are
very simple in their resolution. On the
other, the work that I do for the likes of
Southern Guild is more of a personal
exploration and an attempt to find
expression in things unseen or that
have not yet come into being.”
John explores this ever-evolving
aesthetic through American walnut.
“It’s sourced from generally well-

managed and sustainable American
forests,” he says. “It is very workable
and has a classic grain that exudes
a quite unique richness and warmth.”
John first appeared in VISI’s sightline
during 1994, when he and former
business partner and fellow furniture
designer Haldane Martin had just
returned from exhibiting work of their
erstwhile company Brave New World in
New York. “Sumien approached me for
an interview, as we were the first South
PHOTOS MICHAEL RAY ERASMUS WORDS ANNETTE KLINGER

Africans to exhibit in the contemporary
furniture space in New York after the
1994 election.”
In addition to expanding his range
of wall-mounted hooks and looking
at exploring smaller homeware and
gifting, John is also working on a flat-
pack range. Sold online, it would offer
easier access to his international
clients. “I’m looking forward to
stretching myself with whatever
Odi dining chair in iroko with a Solid Triangle weave in Grey & Copper acrylic; Country comes next,” he says.
Road planter; and Nguni bench in ash with a Solid Diamond weave in White & Grey acrylic. vogeldesign.co.za

Bespoke Mirrors, Lighting & Furniture.
Made to order.
Delivered to your door.
Shop Online
www.arkivio.co.za
Every Arkivio product is handcrafted by our skilled craftsmen in Durban, South Africa.
$OOSULFHVLQFOXGHIUHHQDWLRQDOGHOLYHU\WRKRPHRURIÀFH
info@arkivio.co.za / 082 840 7143
VISI REASONS
66
NO
SCULPTURAL
INTEGRITY
Since Gregor Jenkin’s 2004 debut of army-surplus items reimagined into eerily
beautiful objects, VISI has been one of his biggest fans. Turns out the feeling is mutual.
WHETHER you call Gregor Jenkin an artist or a contemporary designer is of little consequence to the man whose
furniture traverses the boundary between form and function with a wholly unique, often humorous point of view:
Quaker chairs translated into stainless steel, enamel cups and bowls arranged on top of one another into lamp
stands, and standing clocks that are almost anthropomorphic in their uncanny angular stances. “I’ve always
considered myself a maker,” he says pragmatically. “The bottom line is, I make things from ideas that interest me.”
As VISI was putting its first issue to bed 20 years ago, Gregor was at UCT studying architecture. This was followed by a stint
in London doing shopfitting for Ralph Lauren, before Gregor established a small engineering company where he started
making objects and furniture as a side project. His path first crossed with that of VISI in 2004 when he opened a small retail
space and coffee shop at 44 Stanley Avenue and held an exhibition, called Skilpad, of functional albeit slightly ominous
objects made out of army-surplus items. “I’ve had a long relationship with VISI,” says Gregor. “Over the years, it’s really crossed
over into a friendship.”
PHOTOS PETER MALTBIE / SOUTHERN GUILD WORDS ANNETTE KLINGER
Running parallel to the production side of his business, Gregor keeps his creative batteries charged with one-off side
projects and commissions, the most recent of which included a solo exhibition through Southern Guild and work done for
a new boutique hotel in Cape Town’s St George’s Mall called Gorgeous George.
What’s next? “I’ve always made things monochromatically because I don’t like colour to be a distraction from form, but
I’ll probably start challenging that in 2019,” he says. “I’m thinking chrome colours like yellows and mustards.”
gregorjenkin.com Gregor is represented by Southern Guild: southernguild.co.za
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Long Sofa table, Regent Tablet table, Rhino, Enduct, Cantilever desk, A Round Table with Three Hancock
Legs, A Piece of Furniture Made of Brick, and Entertained.

DARK° by Streamlight info@streamlight.co.za
Showroom: 17 Kramer road, Kramerville Facebook: Streamlight
(011) 440 4142 Instagram: @streamlight_sa, @dark_southafrica

VISI REASONS
67
NO
NO
AVERAGE
JOE
Joburg-based designer
Joe Paine is known for his
tongue-in-cheek approach
to design, a levity that Joe’s CoCo coffee tables, constructed using rolled steel, have a storage
continues to set him apart. compartment for items such as coffee-table books.
“IN order to design

successfully I would
suggest not taking
oneself too seriously,
but being serious
about understanding
the constraints that
are contained in the
processes of birthing
a product from concept to creation.” A fairly
serious statement from the notoriously mirthful
Joe Paine.
With an evolutionary design theory in mind
– “Darwinian theory applies to product design
the same way it does to life” – Joe uses innovation
and invention to create his homeware, indoor
and outdoor furniture, planters and bird feeders.
The names of his pieces reflect his quirky humour,
from the Self Help side table to the Kreep planter
(which is receiving a full relaunch in 2019).
Joe draws influence from Japanese design
philosophy and the modernist movement of
the ’30s. “Recently, however, I’ve been more
influenced by contemporary human behavioural
patterns and how my products address them,”
he says. “I have become less concerned with
absolutes in design and am more fluid in the way
I look at solving problems. Both beauty and design
are important in proportion, but they’re not binary

and can still be important separate from one
other. Context is what matters and needs to be
included to design three-dimensionally.”
The Kreep modular wall planter, made of ceramic and steel, is still going strong. joepaine.com

VISI REASONS
68
NO
TWICE
AS NICE
Industrial designer Adriaan Hugo and graphic
designer Katy Taplin of Dokter and Misses
have combined their complementary skills
to produce coveted collectibles.
FROM FAR LEFT Pipe planters, Concrete lamp

and Moonjelly pendant lights.
IT was the early noughties “We opened our tiny shop at Dokter and Misses has been
when Adriaan Hugo 44 Stanley in 2007, and VISI was the first celebrated both locally and inter-
and Katy Taplin’s paths magazine to feature us,” says Katy of nationally for the design duo’s unique
crossed as students and their feature with fellow designer Joe point-of-view and strong construction
eventually intertwined Paine in VISI 35. lines, which combine beautifully to form
as husband and wife and They’ve certainly come a long way graphic shapes and spaces.
partners in their multi- since 1998 – the year VISI was launched And there’s much more to come as
disciplinary product design business. and the year Adriaan admits to they explore original and juxtaposed
Their forward-thinking furniture, lighting discovering his love for making things, ideas in product design. Keep an eye
and interior solutions have put them on wearing chokers and playing djembe out for their solo exhibition Practically
PORTRAIT PAUL SAMUELS PHOTOS DOKTER AND MISSES WORDS CELESTE JACOBS
the map, and their passion to create and drums, and Katy was customising Everywhere at Southern Guild from
collaborate continues to propel their printed T-shirts for friends while 14 February to 8 May 2019.
imprint on the design world. listening to the cheesiest of ‘90s hits. dokterandmisses.com
Stills from the DAM Summer Holiday series featuring Kassena Sleep cabinet, Barb light, Loop chair, Pipe planter and Soldier stool.

Availab le a t t he fol lowi ng retai l e rs:
For sales enquiries contact us on 011 402 0062 or email info@eco-concepts.co.za

VISI REASONS
69
NO
FIREDUP
Over time, ceramicist Lisa Firer’s style has developed to be instantly
recognisable: hand-rolled porcelain vessels acclaimed for their delicacy.
“IT’s been a long and references textiles as a strong influence for more than 18 years, will now become
winding road,” says in her creative process. “I love textiles a standalone brand. “Light your Journey
Lisa Firer of the two and have always drawn inspiration from will be a brand imbued with values of
decades she has them. Not simply the surface designs love and wisdom, and will share these in
worked with clay. “It is but also the process of sewing itself. the world through the translucency of
only relatively recently “Our work [at Lisa Firer Design] is made porcelain and candlelight,” Lisa says.
that I feel my style has of thin hand-rolled slabs of clay with “I also want to explore fabric design
really cohered into a recognisable body patches, textures, seams and layering. inspired by the surfaces of our vessels,
of work.” You could say we sew our vessels.” which will add another dimension to
She likens the process of creating Her porcelain tea-light holders, the textile references in my work.”
her functional artworks to sewing, and a much-loved part of Lisa’s repertoire lisafirer.co.za
PORTRAIT DAVID ROSS PHOTOS LISA FIRER WORDS MICHAELA STEHR
Black-and-white porcelain Mali Mud Cloth vessels and, bottom right, black-and-white Patchwork vessels.

Bowling Avenue, Kramerville Sandton
Entrance 35 Commerce Crescent
VISI REASONS
HE quest to define
T ourselves is what
differentiates human
beings from other
creatures. And it’s this question that
drives Haldane Martin.
Many of his most pivotal creations,
like the Zulu Mama chair, were ways
in which he sought to express a multi-
cultural national identity in physical
form for South Africans post-1994.
“In the beginning, I was still
designing without a computer. We
would make full-size drawings of
organically formed furniture pieces and
hand-make mock-ups and prototypes
with a jigsaw and an angle grinder.”
By 1998, Haldane, who says
he derives inspiration from his
Scandinavian and South African
NO
70
heritage, found himself working with
another iconic South African designer,
John Vogel, on a variety of projects,
including Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge.
“My work explores the Scandinavian
idea of democratic, humanist design
in a South African context. It’s never
about projecting a false sense of
MIDAS status. It’s about concepts with depth,

iconic forms, comfort and quality.”
The beautiful Swan Café on Buitenkant
TOUCH
Everything interior
Street in Cape Town is, he says, a case
in point.
Over the years South Africa has
developed such a strong design
and furniture designer identity that the ripples are being felt
Haldane Martin touches across the continent and further afield,
turns to gold, and we’re says Haldane. “And VISI has always
looking forward to what been a strong supporter of South
African design.”
this alchemist has in Haldane’s journey came full circle
store for us next. when he found himself eager to create
new furniture designs again, which
means that devotees can look forward
to the launch of the Hula chair and
PHOTOS MICKY HOYLE WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
Neo-spoke collections, as well as the
Plat / O table collection this year.
haldanemartin.co.za
LEFT A sneak peek at the indoor-outdoor

Hula chair. RIGHT, FROM THE TOP Swan
Café, Cape Town’s first crêperie; the
versatile Sim-ply collection; and a retail
interior for Wolf & Maiden Creative Studio
in the V&A Waterfront.

VISI REASONS
NO
71
Richard designed the Visitor Centre at Hopewell
Conservation Estate near Port Elizabeth. It won
a SAIA Architectural Award of Merit in 2014.
FASHION
CALLING
REASON 72: PORTRAIT SIAN ELIOT PHOTOS ROSS CHARNOCK WORDS GRAHAM WOOD
Fashion designer Thebe Magugu’s

innovative look books and cosmopolitan
African design are garnering him well-
earned international recognition.
LEGANT feminine silhouettes, playful
“E sophistication
and gender
textures and immaculate
details: In addition to
NO
72
study-inspired the collaboration with
threads, Thebe Magugu’s Woolworths, Thebe has been
designs explore arresting featured by Vogue Italia
contrasts.” That’s how we and continues to gain com-
described the Joburg-based mercial success. His designs
designer’s STYLEBYSA are part of the Zeitz MOCAA
collection at SAFW 2018, only exhibition 21 Years: Making
his second time presenting Histories with South African
a collection at the local
fashion week. We aren’t
the only ones to notice his
Fashion Week (2018-2019).
How did your love for GROWING

fashion design come about?
I am blessed to have known
from a young age that
GREEN
Architect and furniture designer Richard
I would work in fashion,
reinforced by my mother’s Stretton puts sustainability first.
incredible sense of style SINCE starting He believes it offers better
and ideas around beauty. Koop Design working conditions for
in his mother’s artisans and builders, and
Describe your journey so far garage in the more dignified labour than
and how you have come to ’90s, Richard other kinds of construction.
be where you are today? My Stretton Richard sees local archi-
journey has been just that has gifted KwaZulu-Natal tecture helping to shape
– a journey – and one that with some of its most a future characterised by
I am still on. I’m grateful that exciting architecture. In the “accessible cities, vibrant
I get to wake up every day process he’s advanced the marketplaces and less cor-
REASON 71: PORTRAIT TIM HULME INTERVIEW PALESA KGASANE
and do what I do. I think it is possibilities for sustainable porate dependency”. And
a combination of hard work design, something that’s he’s hoping to share that
and passion that has gotten also found expression in his message through teaching.
me to where I am today. furniture designs. “Any design schools out
Richard champions real there who might want some
Who is the woman that sustainability as opposed wayward input – I’m game!”
Thebe Magugu designs for? to “greening”. For him, this As for Koop, “I’m working
She understands and is goes way beyond energy with lots of prefabrication,
very sure of herself. With efficiency and includes modern mass timber
my clothes I seek to both social, environmental and construction, lightweight
enhance and comply with economic considerations. concrete and, as always,
her busy life. It’s one of the reasons banging on about real sus-
he’s embraced timber as tainability whenever I can.”
thebemagugu.com
a construction method: koopdesign.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
THEOFFICE
73
T’S official: The
I boundaries
separating
OF THE FUTURE
The modern workplace calls for agile spaces,
work and play
have blurred more than ever
before. Technology enables
more employees to connect
and that’s where Cecil Nurse comes in. remotely and businesses
are coming to realise that an
attractive, comfortable office
environment can improve
staff morale and wellbeing.
(Which in turn means
increased productivity and
more profit.) The traditional
fixed office desk has become
almost redundant.
The office furniture of
tomorrow needs to address
the diversity of today’s work-
place, and should include
co-working spaces for
nomadic workers and areas
that promote collaborative
thinking. In other words,
couches, double-seater
booths, occasional chairs,
height-adjustable desks, and
moveable privacy screens.
As one of the leading
distributors, manufacturers
and suppliers of con-
temporary office furniture
and accessories, Cecil
Nurse is adapting to – and
informing – the office of the
future. A diverse furniture
portfolio is on offer, which
includes the COVE design
(left); the CAMPUS series
with its freestanding mesh
screens; and the TAKE
FIVE collection, a modular
range fitted together with
adjustable clips. A Cecil
Nurse consultant can help
you design an inviting,
productive work space.
cecilnurse.co.za
The Cecil Nurse COVE

WORDS BIDDI RORKE
office furniture collection

features either solid oak
or metal frames and loose
back cushions.

VISI REASONS
NO
74
AM a dreamer.
“I I enjoy coming up
THAT with ideas and

starting them, but
I haven’t always been good
RUG LIFE at finishing them. So, for me

PORTRAIT TRENERY PHOTOS DAVID ROSS FOR TRENERY INTERVIEW CELESTE JACOBS
having a collective of people

to collaborate and work with
Textile design studio The Ninevites, founded is really important.
by Nkuli Mlangeni, weaves a modern story “All of the women in my life
that pays homage to heritage and tradition. have been highly influential in
my development. As a child,
I was always surrounded by
smart, brave, inspiring women.
“I’ve been fortunate enough
to travel around the world.
Through my travels, I’ve seen
beautiful places and things,
met amazing people, and learnt
a lot about myself and the
world. Travel has had a major
influence on how I choose to
live and what I do.
“To me, luxury is having the
time and the ability to do what
I love for a living.”
Nomkhitha rug Odumile rug
theninevites.net
NO
WIID
75
Laurie produced the Tattooed-
sleeve bench in collaboration
with Ceramic Matters and the
AT Soma planter with Indigenus.
HEART
Laurie Wiid van Heerden masterfully
straddles the line between art and design.
HE first time VISI Laurie has a knack for
“T featured my work
was in 2011,” says
creative collaboration and has
a few standout collabs under
PHOTO CHRISTOF VAN DER WALT WORDS MICHAELA STEHR
Cape Town-based his belt. His current focus is

Laurie Wiid van Heerden. Since on strengthening existing
then, his studio, Wiid Design, relationships so Wiid Design
has grown alongside Laurie‘s can expand its product range
reputation from a young and collaborate with creatives
designer on his own to a nine- all over the world.
strong team. “I see the future of design as
“I love what I do,” he says. positive, but we must continue
“We now specialise in certain to embrace our various
materials, such as cork, that cultures and skills to remain
push the boundaries of pro- unique in an ever-changing
duct design and development world of design.”
on an international level.” wiiddesign.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
76
WONDER
WALLS
Having flourished in the wallcovering
market since its launch in 2006, Robin
Sprong Wallpapers is primed to expand
its world-class surface design offering.
ROBIN designers are my staple,
Sprong has though, and we work with
a knack for many of them. Design
spotting Team, Room13, Tretchikoff,
talent and Walter Battiss and Atang
enabling Tshikare all feature in our
creative collaboration. It wallpaper collections.
is the focus, along with
nurturing artists, that he’s What, in your professional
always maintained has career, are you most
ABOVE The Threatened Swan in the Old Masters collection. set the work of his surface proud of? I am most
THIS PHOTO Native 12.1, a wallpaper design by Blandat Studios.
design studio apart. proud of my team. They’ve
given me the capability
Why is collaboration to do all these incredible
important to you? projects with talented
We are a platform people all over the world.
where artists test and
expand their creations What’s next for you? Who
into new markets and knows? I am a serious
opportunities. Our travel junkie and I’ve done
business is literally built very little around Africa,
on our multitude of so maybe that. In terms
relationships with many of work, we are taking our
designers, illustrators, business to the next level
photographers and other by introducing fabrics,
creatives. blinds, floor prints and
all sorts of new surface
Who has been your design solutions. We’ve
biggest influences? VISI spent a great deal of time
introduced me to Marcel developing our artists
Wanders, who has been and collections, growing
a big influence. The Dutch, our printing facility and
INTERVIEW CELESTE JACOBS
in general, have been expanding our offering

a massive inspiration to cater to a more
– Piet Hein Eek, Kiki & Joost, sophisticated market.
Studio Job, to mention
a few. South African robinsprong.com

VISI REASONS
NO
77 ADVENTURE
ARCHITECTURE
Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens have rewritten the script on bush camp architecture
and, in the process, injected new energy into contemporary architecture and design
in general. We caught up with Silvio to reminisce.
ARCHITECTURE and interior design duo Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens have pioneered modern bush camp
architecture over the past 30 years. Their “hand-crafted haute couture” approach has seen them live on site and
work exclusively with local artisans and materials at bush camps and resorts, such as Makalali Conservancy in
Hoedspruit and North Island in the Seychelles, developing a kind of sensory experiential architecture that has
come to be defined as “Adventure Architecture”. Along the way they have also designed some show-stopping
homes, urban-rejuvenation precincts and retail spaces. VISI has played witness to their wide-ranging projects.
What do you see as the next evolution in

Naturalist John Peenko, strolling
bush camp design? We’ve had lots of cool
past the pavilion at Angama
Mara safari lodge in Kenya. ideas along the way, but no one would let
us execute them. For instance, we wanted
to put in a gym at one of the camps, and
nobody wanted it. Eventually it became a
must-have. Then there was the spa – now
standard. More recently, we’ve taken the
idea of a museum/library/information
centre and introduced an intellectual
dimension. At Miavana on Nosy Ankao in
Madagascar we created a comprehensive
cabinet de curiosités.
What do you see in the future for South

African design and architecture? We’ve
tried to evolve a unique South African
style. The way forward will involve a kind
of awakening, pushing the evolution
Silvio Rech, Lesley Carstens and Annemarie Meintjes (who did the interior design) of a South African style as a opposed
understood the theatre demanded by a location like Angama Mara. It won the to copying stuff from other parts of
Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award 2018 for the #1 Resort in Africa.
the world.
What’s next for you? Our new residential

project in Wescliff is the third in a trio of
houses that includes Keurbooms Cottage
in Plett and House Pengilly in Cape Town.
Each has a spectacular view and is more
PHOTOS DOOK INTERVIEW GRAHAM WOOD
than just a place to live. Also, I think Jao

Camp in Botswana is very exciting. It’s
taken steel prefabrication to a sculptural
level, creating a complete rambling
sculpture among the trees. I’m really
happy with it.
@silviorechlesleycarstens
adventarch@mweb.co.za
silviorechlesleycarstens.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
78 CREATIVE LICENCE
The two founders of the creative agency Platform and the
trade show 100% Design South Africa share their insights on
the future of design.
CATHY O’Clery and
Laurence Brick, the
creative and managing
director, respectively,
of Platform Creative
Agency, first met in the
’90s a few years after Laurence had
co-founded Loads of Living and Cathy
was editing Elle Decoration. Bringing
together a unique combination of retail,
design, publishing and marketing skills,
theirs is a partnership that has given
birth to a successful creative agency, an
award-winning trade show and many
dynamic projects, installations, curated
spaces and brands across platforms.
Recent projects have included the
curation of the Zeitz MOCAA Museum
PORTRAIT KARL ROGERS MAIN PHOTOS BRETT RUBIN/VATIC STUDIO PHOTOS OF POSTCARDS DAVID ROSS WORDS AMELIA BROWN
Shop; a visitor centre, museum and Constantly questioning, innovating through 100% Design South Africa.
shop at the South African Mint; and and evolving, Cathy and Laurence are They believe the planet is a priority
the interior design of co-sharing work firmly established as design thought- in the future of design. “If we produce
spaces for Workshop 17 at Rosebank leaders, not least for their role in something now, it has to have relevance
Firestation with Alice Hutton. forecasting and influencing trends and meaning and be sustainable,”
says Laurence. “Many of the brands
we work with are already applying this
philosophy, and much of the design
community is focused on making
an impact through invention and
repurposing.”
Cathy continues, “Fundamental
earthy low-tech materials are acting as
an antidote to our screen-dominated
lives, which is why there is a resurgence
of terracotta, clay, stone, wood and
forest colours.”
We’re bound to see these influences
at this year’s 100% Design South Africa
expo at Gallagher Convention Centre,
Joburg, from 7 to 11 August 2019.
platformcreative.co.za
100percentdesign.co.za
ABOVE Postcards designed and developed for Zeitz MOCAA. TOP AND MIDDLE Interiors for Workshop 17 at Rosebank Firestation.

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VISI REASONS
NO
79 PATTERN& PRACTICE
Tanya Sturgeon, fabric connoisseur and owner of T&Co Fabrics,
has been a name to know in the design and decor industry for
nearly 30 years.
ART, says Tanya
Sturgeon, has
been one of
and made up in a big way
by the people who’re
important at the time”,
PORTRAIT DANIEL SNYDERS PHOTO DAVID ROSS FOR ELLE DECORATION

her biggest she ran the Silk & Cotton
influences. It’s obvious Co for 16 years before
when you see Tanya’s launching T&Co Fabrics.
eye and the types of Her approach to
fabric she works with. interior design is to marry
Visit her in her show- the architecture with how
room in Kramerville, give a space will be occupied,
her a hint at what you’re and to use signature
looking for, and she will fabrics to express
be enthusiastically pulling individuality.
WORDS LAUREN GOLDMAN

out sample books and We share Tanya’s
swatches to tempt you. optimism: “There is a lot
In a career spanning of cutting-edge original
almost three decades, design happening across
which Tanya describes the disciplines in South
as having evolved Africa,” she says.
“organically, creatively, tandco.co.za
NO
PASSION
PROJECT
The designer and founder of the eponymous
Tessa So
onik Fabrics is one of those lucky few
who turn
ned a passion into a profession.
ONE of the things Tessa residential, corporate and
Sonnik loves about hospitality projects.
VISI is that she has “Current global issues have
ways been able to
alw always determined what I design
take risks witth what’s shown as our yearly fabric collection,”
on the pagess in order to create she says. “We have just launched
amazing storries around her fabric an upcycle range, which is part of
collections. The
T thing is, Tessa our ‘waste no more’ programme.”
makes taking g risks look easy. Over Tessa hopes to continue
the past 25 years,
y she has not working with local producers
only introduced international and to stay true to our unique

trends to thee local market but landscape. “I want to keep having
also set trends herself. And she fun and dancing to my own beat!”
The chair seat is upholstered in
Bez fabric in the colour Ink and has diversifieed into specialising she says.
the back panel in Sidewalk Blue. in high-end furnishings for tessasonik.com

VISI REASONS
NO
81
THEQUICK
BROWNEFOX
Specialising in luxury hospitality design
in remote locations, Fox Browne Creative
is going from strength to strength.
OR more future of decor and design
F than 25 years,
Chris Browne
and Debra
in South Africa is extremely
bright,” says Chris. “We are in
awe of how the VISI team has
Fox have applied their managed to fill 100 issues
skills and expertise to the with material from sub-
development of luxury Saharan Africa… That’s a lot
lodges, boutique hotels of home-grown content!”
and private homes in the Chris and Debra are in
bush, from concept stage the process of rebranding
to operation. Fox Browne Creative. “In
Hospitality design, says addition,” says Chris, “we
Chris, is a formula centred are busy with projects in
on guest experience. “That Namibia, Mozambique,
said, guests have become Zambia, the Serengeti,
much more educated Bhutan… Then there’s our
and sophisticated, so newly opened London
authenticity and integrity office, from which we will
are at the heart of all design focus on growing our UK
decisions we make. What has and European business.
evolved is technology, which “The work we do has
has enabled us to do so allowed us to fulfil our
much more in much shorter passion for hospitality
PHOTOS DAVID ROSS (TOP) AND DOOK WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
periods of time.” design, making the world

As regards the local a better, prettier place.”
design landscape, “The foxbrowne.com
FAST FACT
A SENTENCE THAT CONTAINS ALL THE
LETTERS OF THE ALPHABET, LIKE “THE
QUICK BROWN FOX JUMPS OVER THE
LAZY DOG,” IS CALLED A PANGRAM.
FROM THE TOP The Desert Grace, Namibia; Sirai Beach guest
suite, Kenya; and a firepit and sitting room at &Beyond Phinda
Vlei Lodge.

VISI REASONS
NO
WORK OFCRAFT
Earthworld Architects is forming new relationships between
architecture and craftsmen.
RIGHT Dining hall, Future Africa campus, University of
Pretoria. BELOW Braam de Villiers and André Eksteen,
founders and directors of Earthworld Architects, at a
82
house in Waterfall Estate, Midrand, that they designed.
HEN asked what his biggest influences are, aspect of their practice. And it’s something they’ve always
W architect André Eksteen answers simply: “Any appreciated about VISI: “VISI defined a whole new approach,”
PORTRAIT DOOK PHOTO ARNE GUNTHER WORDS GRAHAM WOOD

and all of the craftsmen I’ve had the privilege to says André. “For the first time someone was making it ‘cool’ to
work with.” He and colleague Braam de Villiers of be South African. The entire angle was different, focusing on
Earthworld Architects in Pretoria have found ways to reconcile design, atmosphere and craft rather than the glitzy product-
craft and technology to resist generic or standardised design. centred approach of other design publications.”
Their progressive ethos sees sophistication grounded in It’s what they passionately believe is at the heart of the
honesty – rooted in regionalism, craftsmanship and the honest future of South African architecture and design. As well as
expression of materials. the energy and creativity of local craftspeople being met
“I travel a lot, and what has become apparent to me is that, with the necessary skill sets to succeed, local craft should be
in terms of creative endeavours and energy, South Africa has “marketed on the global stage”.
no rival,” André says. “From the simplest beadwork to David For their part, André says Earthworld will continue to
Krynauw’s pieces, there seems to be a compulsive creativity.” integrate small businesses with niche capabilities. “Mobilising
Harnessing this energy and reinventing the relationship this network of craftsmen has the potential of creating
between architects and craftsmen, or, as André puts it, a ‘super-group’ that could be internationally competitive.”
“putting back the energy where it needs to be”, is a key ewarch.co.za

Discover Steenberg
Discover more at www.steenbergfarm.com
SteenbergFarm @SteenbergFarm info@steenberghotel.com 021 713 2222
Not for Persons Under the Age of 18. Drink Responsibly.

VISI REASONS
NO
83 UNDER CONTROL
Daikin air conditioning is clean, quiet, energy-efficient
and smart. Daikin Air Conditioning
IR conditioners have come a long room to save energy, and three-dimensional air
way in terms of both technology flow ensures an even temperature throughout
and design – from noisy, bulky, a room. And the Daikin Flash Streamer uses
unattractive units to streamlined, electrons to break down moulds and viruses for
virtually silent,
s energy-efficient models. And allergen-free air. Plus, energy efficiency extends
Daikin has remained at the forefront of air- to smart programming that enables you to
condition ning innovation. control your climate remotely.
The Da aikin Bluevolution range is rated up to What’s next? Daikin believes there’s
A++ for maximum
m energy efficiency in heating always room for improvement, and it’s this
and cooling, and has features that make belief that drives small improvements, major
a big diffeerence to the experience of climate breakthroughs and, in the end, inspires
WORDS BIDDI RORKE
control. Intelligent eye sensors, for example, technological change. Expect even more
automatically adjust air flow to minimise efficiency and even less environmental impact.
draughts and reduce output in an unoccupied www.daikin.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
KITCHEN
84A
CREDENTIALS
Known for precision, style and longevity, a Schmidt kitchen
is an investment that continues to reward.
KITCHEN remodel should
not be taken lightly.
Aesthetics, functionality and
While on paper a made-to-measure
Schmidt kitchen might cost fractionally
more than your average mid-range
BEFORE
durability are key factors in installation, you are assured of more

a successful revamp – and a visit to the than 80 years of international experience
Schmidt Kitchen and Interior Solutions behind every hinge and handle.
showroom in Cape Town should feature In addition, modular units minimise
in your decision-making process. the possibility of human error when it
This global company never scrimps comes to assembly, and every kitchen
on personalised attention when it comes is painstakingly designed to suit your
to designing and installing your kitchen. needs and preferences. Add cutting-
One happy Cape Town customer, Guy edge technology, 10-year guarantees
Pudney, says his expectations were on cabinetry and 25-year guarantees on
far exceeded. “I was impressed by the moving parts, and it’s clear a Schmidt
ingenuity and professionalism the kitchen is a smart choice – for life.
Schmidt team displayed,” he says. See for yourself at the Cape Town
“Nothing was too much trouble and showroom at Northgate Estate in
my wife, Di, who had very fixed ideas, Paarden Eiland.
is delighted with the end result.” schmidt-sa.co.za
PHOTOS SHAVAN RAHIM WORDS BIDDI RORKE
When custom-designing a kitchen, the Schmidt experts always keep in mind the family interactions that will take place in that space.

VISI REASONS
NO
85 HIGH
CLASS
Interior designer Krysia Back’s
sophisticated work always
PHOTO NHLANHLA PRINCE SIKHOSANA WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD

resonates with the architecture.
SHE grew up art and classic design
in England has given rise to some
and studied at wonderfully eclectic
Central Saint collaborations, like when
Martins in London, but she worked with architect
Krysia Back is passionately Johann Slee on the award-
South African. She merges winning Red House on the
African aesthetics with Vaal River.
a European sensibility, “I look forward to the
resulting in interior huge influence African art
spaces that are heavily and design will continue
textured and filled with to have on the local Commissioned to design the interior of this house, Krysia worked
colour, warmth and landscape,” Krysia says. with the architect and came up with the idea for the copper wall
character. Her love of krysia@mweb.co.za in the entrance and a willowlamp chandelier to match.
NO
86 IN SUPERB
STYLE
For more than 30 years, a keen instinct for
what works and a sense of fun have made
Anne York lifelong clients and friends.
UPERB” is Anne takes her inspiration
“S a word Anne
York, director
and designer
from nature and skilled
artisans who are committed
to their craft. “I am inspired
at Anne York Interiors, by the magical quality and
uses frequently. She is a fan perfection of a flower, of
PHOTO DOOK WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
of superb design, superb hand-blown glass and

merchandise and, of course, porcelain, of hand-crafted
“superbly inspirational fabrics, but most of all by
decor magazines like VISI the bounties that the natural
that lead us forward with world has to offer.”
integrity”. anneyorkinteriors.co.za
Dook shot this photo of Anne, sitting on an Antoinette sofa by

Petite Designs, for a feature on sofas in VISI 17.

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VISI REASONS
NO
87 KATE Otten
was bold,
TRANSFORMER
Kate Otten’s wild originality has fuelled the creation of some
of the country’s most exciting architecture and a way of working
where women architects can thrive.
the people who inhabit

and experience the spaces
original, and she creates, but also for
ambitious the industry itself.
enough to set “The bottom line for
up her own me is that you can change
practice just a year out of people’s circumstances
university in 1989. Part of through a building’s
the legacy of that youthful design,” she says. “Be it
confidence is that, both their emotional or physical
in the buildings she’s condition, you influence
designed – more than 160 how people experience
of them – and in the way the world or themselves.”
she runs her practice she The role in industry
has somehow contrived transformation that Kate
to set her own terms and almost unconsciously
open up the potential for assumed as she forged
new ways of operating as her way ahead with her
an architect. own majority-women
Kate’s aesthetic practice and a tradition
sensibility has evolved of nurturing young talent
over the years, from her has been somewhat
pioneering early inclusion formalised by her recent
of local skills, crafts and appointment as SAIA
materials – including vice-president, which will
recycling before it culminate in her serving
became de rigueur – to as president in 2020. One
her recent, much more of her central agendas is
refined work, such as to forge connections with
the award-winning legal the rest of the African
PORTRAIT GRAHAM DE LACY PHOTOS DAVID ROSS WORDS GRAHAM WOOD

office Law on Keyes. Yet continent.
she has also consistently “There are the most
waged war against the amazing things going on
bland greige blight of and the most incredible
“good taste”. Rather, she creatives on this conti-
aims for strong emotional nent,” she says. “That for
responses – not least of me is where we will find
all a sense of joy – in her our inspiration. And if
work. But underpinning we’re true to that (and not
it all has been the con- obsessed with a Euro-
viction that the practice centric overhang), we will
of architecture can be make extraordinary work.”
empowering, not only for kateottenarchitects.com
RIGHT Kate‘s design of Law on Keyes in Rosebank was highly

commended at the World Architecture Festival Awards 2018.
TOP Rammed-earth wall, entrance gallery, House Schutte.

VISI REASONS
NO
88
TOTALLY FLOORED
Rebtex, which has been in the flooring business for more than
40 years, is constantly innovating.
OOKING for high-quality options bring a timeless textural appeal
L carpets made of a natural

material? Rebtex has been
weaving sisal since the 1970s.
to a room, but they also have sustainable
credentials, and none more so than sisal.
Rebtex has a new sisal range, released in
How about woven vinyl rugs, for either January 2019, that offers other benefits in
indoor or outdoor use? Rebtex recently addition to its good looks. It is durable, soft
introduced a woven vinyl floorcovering on underfoot, ideal for allergy and asthma
a cushion backing. Then there’s soft and sufferers because it’s hypoallergenic, and
chunky jute; beautifully woven seagrass, it is biodegradable.
which is grown in seawater; coir, a hand- The 100% Sisal range is available in
spun fibre from coconut husks; abaca, a loose-lay rugs and wall-to-wall carpeting,
durable fibre from the abaca plant; and, and in two colourways, Vitoria Noir and
of course, sisal, a tough fibre made from Vitoria Bleach.
the sisal plant. Not only do these flooring rebtexsa.com
PHOTO SHAVAN RAHIM WORDS MICHAELA STEHR
WIN! To stand a chance to win one of three sisal rugs in your choice of two colourways, worth R11 000, enter at VISI.co.za/win.
329
VISI REASONS
NO
89 DECORATIVE SMARTS
Utter the name Andrea Graff, and those in the know will
immediately mention the interior designer’s fearless use
of colour and love of layering.
“NOTHING ever matches,

but in the end, with
magazines at the age of 10, so its little
wonder that she has made a name
as she can so she’ll be able to retire
one day, but knowing her passion
careful consideration, it for herself, locally and abroad, as an for interiors and the fact that her
always works beautifully.” interior designer. inner circle consists of art collectors
This is the mantra of “I am so fortunate to have clients and dealers, fellow decorators and
Andrea Graff. who believe in my philosophy,” she architects, we find it to hard to
She grew up surrounded by her says. “This allows me to take their believe she will ever put down her
parents’ enviable collection of art and interiors to another level.” mood boards and swatches.
furniture, and started reading decor Andrea says she is working as hard andreagraff.com
PHOTOS KARL ROGERS WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
A bathroom and bedroom decorated by Andrea illustrate her bold use of colour and contrasting materials and patterns.

VISI REASONS
A dining and living room that showcase La Grange Interiors’

classic-contemporary style and elegant layering of textures.
NO
90 GOING PLACES
In the often-fickle furniture and decor industry, La Grange Interiors
has stood the test of time.
“AFTER 23 years,
the doors to my
who became her business partner for
15 years. Initially, their focus was to use
Duysen and Marcel Wolterinck.
“I think 2019 will continue to show
PHOTOS ELSA YOUNG WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
showrooms remain La Grange as a showcase for locally multifunctional and modular trends
open,” says Sumari manufactured interior products, but driving design across interiors. Some-
Krige, founder of it shifted to bringing exciting furniture thing I am very excited about is the
La Grange Interiors. and decor from all over the world to celebration of colour – bold burnt
“I have clients who’ve South Africa. orange and International Klein Blue
been loyal to the brand for many, “My buying trips are always sources continue to steal my heart.
many years.” of inspiration,” says Sumari . “Travelling “I am also looking forward to seeing
Sumari studied economics and, with my teenage children has opened VISI continue to inspire us all with the
while working for the Department of my eyes to new styles, and I continue fresh, edgy content lovers of design
Trade and Industry as an export trade to draw inspiration from European have come to expect from it.”
advisor, she met Charlotte Daneel, interior designers like Vincent van lagrangeinteriors.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
91 A NIGHT TOREMEMBER
In celebration of VISI’s 100th issue, we’re treating one couple to
a Dom Pérignon dinner under the stars and a one-night stay at
Ellerman House in Bantry Bay.
ILLED as Cape Town’s most exclusive address, stocked exclusively with rare vintages of Dom Pérignon.
B Ellerman House boutique hotel in Bantry Bay is

a showcase of the finest South African hospitality,
food, wine and art in a majestic setting.
And what better way to celebrate creativity than with
a three-course dinner on the terrace at Ellerman House,
complemented by a chilled Dom Pérignon P2 2000. Talented
Integrating outstanding contemporary architecture with executive chef Grant Daniels and sommelier Manuel Cabello’s
stunning sculptural elements and cutting-edge design, the team will guide you through a memorable culinary journey,
Ellerman House Wine Gallery is a must-see. An extensive wine with each note of Champagne perfectly accentuated by
collection is stored in state-of-the-art wine racks and separate flavours from carefully selected ingredients.
COMPILED BY KAY-ANN VAN ROOYEN
temperature-controlled maturation cellars for Champagne, Best of all, you get to stay over.
whites and reds. Then there is the Champagne cellar with domperignon.com
a 2 tonne block of chalk from the Champagne region in France, ellerman.co.za
Submit your details at VISI.co.za by 7 April 2019 to be considered for the Dom Pérignon and Ellerman House experience, which has to be enjoyed
before 15 December 2019, subject to availability. The offer of a night’s stay excludes the two private villas. Terms and conditions on page 349.
GIFT! You and a partner could enjoy this experience, courtesy of Ellerman House and Dom Pérignon. Visit VISI.co.za/win for details.
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Our From the first introductory meeting and the site inspection through to the design process
and the manufacturing and construction phases, we pay meticulous attention to detail,
award-winning and we are always only a call away. By offering a full turnkey solution, we provide a single
point of contact and guarantee the quality of our manufactured products, thus avoiding
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team will work closely with you to
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materials. It’s why we’ve built long-standing relationships with all our contractors.
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contact us.
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VISI REASONS
NO
One of Francois
du Plessis’s
latest projects
92
TRIED
& TRUE
is the interior of
Tjing Tjing Momĳi
restaurant in the
Cape Town CBD.
An inquisitive mind
and a love of travel
inspire interior
designer Francois
du Plessis.
“I have such fond
memories of a story
VISI published on
Villa Henrietta [in
issue 61], a glorious
Victorian home
I owned in the
Bo-Kaap,” reminisces interior
designer Francois du Plessis, an
industry icon who has been plying
his trade around the world for
more than 30 years. Based in Cape
Town, his projects have led him to
PORTRAIT KLEINJAN GROENEWALD PHOTOS ANDREA VAN DER SPUY WORDS TRACY GREENWOOD
Berlin, San Diego, London, Sydney
and New York.
“Over the years I have developed
a philosophy to not have a specific
design style, as I feel the most
important aspect of a decorator’s
job is to create an environment that
is indicative of the client,” he says.
“As design becomes more global,
the South African design footprint
will become wider. Right now there
is so much great local decor, design
and architecture out there.”
Francois, who started out
running a curtain factory when he
was just 21, says he has been blessed
by a number of remarkable projects
over the years. “I am most proud of
the fact that I have clients who have
remained faithful, and we still work
together three decades later.”
fdpinteriors.co.za

VISI REASONS
NO
93
SEASOF
CHANGE
The latest collection by textile and homeware brand Evolution Product offers a glimpse
of underwater mysteries in honour of conservation heroes.
AMANDA du Plessis combined a passion for WILDOCEANS, the South African National Biodiversity Institute
fabrics, instilled in her by her mother, and (SANBI) and other groups that worked with government
a background in fashion to launch Evolution to have 20 new South African Marine Protected Areas
Product in 2010. The range has evolved to include promulgated in 2018 – spanning an area two-and-a-half times
cushion covers, guest towels, throws and panels the size of the Kruger National Park. Marine biologist Dr Kerry
that celebrate history and the natural world. Sink and her team at SANBI deserve special mention for their
Her latest collection is inspired by images of pressed algae hard work to make this happen. This collection is as much
from a book published in 1909, South African Marina Algae about being part of the change as encouraging it: Evolution
by William Tyson. The ethereal designs pay homage to people Product is 100% committed to reducing its carbon footprint.
and organisations who strive to protect our planet, such as evolutionproduct.co.za
PORTRAIT DOOK WORDS BIDDI RORKE
Cushion covers in the Protectors of our Planet collection are ma e o inen n re e roi ere , rin e n /or ye y n .
Prices (excluding inners) range from R850 to R1 695 (for the embroidered and dip-dyed Nitiphyllum cushion above right).

VISI REASONS
NO
94 FRAME OF MIND
The duo behind W Design Architecture Studio maintain they design
buildings not to be looked at but to be looked out from. We think the
view is spectacular from either perspective.
IT was pretty much
love at first sight
when, in 2007, VISI
finding that specific unique aspect
about each site or context, and
making that the complete focus.”
visited Rooiberg to As it turns out, they are equally
see Johan Wentzel smitten with VISI – they still have
and Grete van As of a copy of VISI’s first issue, published
W Design Architecture Studio’s the year they were both finishing
newly completed project: a trio of up their architecture degrees at
A-frame thatched roofs, seemingly the University of Pretoria.
propped up by nothing but wooden Since starting out, Johan says,
pillars and glass, standing stoically there’s been a shift in the industry
in the expanse of the Waterberg with regards to clients becoming
bushveld. Twelve years and many more willing to question the
award-winning designs later, the conventional wisdom. That, and
love affair is still going strong. a move towards the honest use
Because, underpinned by Johan of materials and skills to produce
and Grete’s deft draughtsmanship, projects with more integrity and
there is a unique point of view that appropriate design. “Hopefully,
continues to surprise and intrigue. we’re taking the profession back
“We have always dreamt of to a level where buildings can
projects ‘that do not exist’,” says still be effective and relevant in
Johan. “A site with a spectacular 20 or 50 years from now. Our
view or context will never be country has many challenges, but
improved upon by a building, we believe this is also the reason
but we can dream of making it there is so much innovation and
ABOVE Indigenous grass planted on the living-room
a refinement or revelation of the inspiration in all aspects and fields
roof frames the view from the master bedroom.
land. The ideas used as inspiration of South African design.” BELOW A shallow pond dominates the entrance
for most of our projects aim at wdas.co.za and lends this home a mysterious quality.
PORTRAIT DOOK PHOTOS DOOK (TOP) AND JAMIE THOM WORDS ANNETTE KLINGER

FOURWAYS SILVER LAKES CAPE TOWN UMHLANGA
The Gantry on Cnr Silverlakes and 12 Beach Road, Shop 120, The Crescent Shopping
Witkoppen Rd, Graham Roads, Woodstock, Centre, Sunset Crescent,
Entrance The Straight Silverlakes, Pretoria Cape Town Umhlanga Ridge, KZN
Tel: (011) 691-7700 Tel: (012) 809-3519 Tel: (021) 003-8477 Tel: (031) 566-6777
www.sevens.co.za
VISI REASONS
NO
CHANGE YOUR
95 WORLDVIEW
Responding to international design trends,
AMERICAN shutters has expanded its colour range.
Eco-friendly
and reasonably
priced,
Decowood
shutters are
AMERICAN
shutters’ most
popular range.
OR more than 30 years, extended colour palette. Now, calming Decowood shutters can be used in all
F AMERICAN shutters
has been designing,
manufacturing and
hues of cool and warm grey that suit
both contemporary and traditional
interiors are available in one of its most
areas of the home, including the nursery
and playroom.
To add to the choice, Decowood
installing custom-made adjustable popular ranges, Decowood shutters. shutters are available in two louvre
louvre shutters. A lot has changed in Made of engineered wood harvested sizes and come with either a central
that time, but shutters have retained from sustainable plantations, the tilt rod or secret tilt – which gives you
their timeless appeal. shutters have a polypropylene coating uninterrupted views between the
WORDS BIDDI RORKE
The company is also as commited and special UV inhibitor that protects louvres. A variety of frames allows you
to staying on-trend as it is to quality, them from the sun. The finish releases to further customise the look.
which is why it has introduced a new no volatile organic compounds, so americanshutters.co.za
visi.co.za FEB?MAR 2019 340

VISI REASONS
NO
96
Art in Nature is a
collection of floral
fabrics suitable
for upholstery and
curtaining.
BELOW Porto
crockery in the
HAUS collection.
MATERIAL
WORLD
In three decades, family-
owned Hertex has grown into
the largest fabric company
in the country and has
expanded into homeware.
TARTED in 1987 by textile
S engineer Peter Herrmann

and his wife Coba, Hertex has
become synonymous with
fine fabrics for upholstery and curtaining.
As the business has grown, so has the
brand’s portfolio, which now includes
wallcoverings, rugs and homeware.
The Herrmanns’ three daughters
are involved in the business. Katrin
Herrmann-van Dyk has led the more
recent introduction of homeware, under
the name HAUS. She is responsible for
sourcing and curating the homeware
collection, which itself has grown since its
launch in 2017 from scatter cushions and
tableware to include occasional furniture.
Katrin identifies collaborations as the
future of local decor and is confident that
FAST FACT South Africa is well positioned. “Through
technology the world is becoming
DEVELOPED IN smaller, South Africans are travelling
THE LATE 1800S more frequently, cultures are mixing, and
AS A SUBSTITUTE we are embracing different traditions
FOR SILK, RAYON more than ever before. We have some
WAS THE FIRST amazing interior designers, architects and
MANUFACTURED craftsmen in this country and I see great
potential in collaborations.”
FIBRE. THE NAME As for the Hertex and HAUS brands,
WAS COINED IN the focus is on continuing the search for
1924 FOR A TEXTILE beautiful fabrics, rugs and homeware.
MADE FROM
“I believe e-commerce is the future,”

PLANT-DERIVED says Katrin. “I plan to build on our newly
CELLULOSE. launched HAUS online store, which is
already proving successful.”
hertexhaus.co.za

VISI REASONS
V
GROOT PHESANTEKRAAL
BLANC DE BLANC 2016
Made from 100% Chardonnay, this
bubbly from a farm near Durbanville
has gorgeous aromas of green apple
and citrus combined with biscuit notes.
R140 • grootphesantekraal.co.za
NO
97 V
V STEENBERG LADY R MCC 2013 QUOIN ROCK MÉTHODE CAP
This is an elegant Méthode Cap CLASSIC M.C.C. BRUT 2013
Classique with hints of apple This brut-style MCC has prominent
blossom, raspberry, almond puff notes of green apple, biscuit,
pastry, citrus and savoury dried lime and an interesting mineral
herbs. R499 • steenbergfarm.co.za character. R350 • quoinrock.co.za
LET’SCELEBRATE!
No other drink signals good times quite like bubbly. Join us in
raising a glass to our 100th issue with these Cap Classique wines.
V KRONE VINTAGE ROSÉ CUVÉE BRUT 2017 The salmon-pink hue, floral
bouquet with pomegranate and red apple notes, and lingering berry
on the palate combine to make this a winner for a romantic occasion.
R150 • tweejongegezellen.co.za
COMPILED BY KAY-ANN VAN ROOYEN
V LABORIE MÉTHODE CAP CLASSIQUE BLANC

V BABYLONSTOREN SPRANKEL MÉTHODE CAP CLASSIC 2014 DE BLANCS 2011 This complex MCC, made from
The Sprankel is a brut-style Chardonnay with granadilla, lime, grapefruit 100% Chardonnay, shows aromas of green apple, lime,
and a beautiful minerality on the palate. It goes really well with cheese, toasted bread and hazelnut. It is creamy on the palate,
fruit, caviar and seafood dishes. R630 • shop.babylonstoren.com with a zesty acidity. R175 • kwv.co.za
WIN! We have Cap Classiques featured on this page, worth R3 900, for one lucky reader. Go to VISI.co.za/win to enter.
VISI REASONS
NO
98 COVER TO COVER
With subjects ranging from contemporary architecture to 19th-century
representations of past design excellence, these books are keepers.
10+ Years 100+ Buildings: Architecture in a Democratic South Africa (R450) and 10+ Years 100+ Projects: Architecture in
a Democratic South Africa (R880), edited by Prof ’Ora Joubert, Bell-Roberts. To order, email 10years100projects@gmail.com
PHOTOS SHAVAN RAHIM COMPILED BY KAY ANN VAN ROOYEN

or call 073 163 0898.
IGHT architecture schools, new architecture since South Africa’s market (UP), a biofuel plant in Soweto
E the best student projects

over the past decade…
10+ Years 100+ Projects
transition to democracy, Prof ’Ora
Joubert this time convened a panel
to review master’s degree design
(UJ), a refugee centre in Hillbrow (Wits),
a Herero genocide memorial in Namibia
(UFS), a library in Port Elizabeth (NMU),
introduces us to the young architects dissertations. Work by the Corobrik police headquarters in Pretoria (TUT),
who will help to shape our built Architectural Student of the Year a rehabilitation centre in Durban (UKZN)
environment in the decades to come. Award winners are all included, as are and a Khayelitsha playground (UCT).
Following on the 2009 publication designs by regional contenders and Like the first title, this 450-page book
10+ Years 100+ Buildings, which other students whose work stood out. is sure to be an indispensable reference
documented the most influential The projects include a Sunnyside super- work for students and professionals.
WIN! One reader will win both these books, worth R1 330. Go to VISI.co.za/win to enter before 7 April 2019.
ARCHITIZER: THE WORLD’S BEST ARCHITECTURE Phaidon, R1 100
The Architizer A+Awards represent a celebration of the year’s most
inspiring architecture from around the globe. Entries are judged by
luminaries from fields as diverse as fashion, publishing and product
design, and voted on by the public. In lieu of an awards gala, the work
is honoured via a podcast, an online community and this book – the
definitive guide to the year’s best new buildings.
AFRICAN TWILIGHT
by Carol Beckwith and
Angela Fisher, Rizzoli
New York, about R2 000
American-born Carol
Beckwith and Australian
Angela Fisher met more than
40 years ago and began
a photographic partnership
that has seen them travel
through 48 African countries
and capture images of
initiation ceremonies,
seasonal rites, shamanic
dancing and other rituals.
It is ground-breaking work
and cannot be repeated, as
many of the rituals captured
here have already vanished.
THE HISTORY OF GRAPHIC THE WORLD OF

DESIGN, VOL 2, 1960– ORNAMENT by David
TODAY by Jens Müller and Batterham, Taschen,
edited by Julius Wiedemann, about R900
Taschen, about R900 This book brings together
From packaging to publi- the two greatest 19th-
cations, graphic design is century catalogues of
as much about conveying ornament: the complete
information as it is about chromolithographic plates
reflecting society’s cultural of Auguste Racinet’s
values and social sensibili- L’Ornement Polychrome
JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT XXL Taschen, about R2675 ties. This title (combined with from 1875–1888, and
During his short lifetime, Jean-Michel Basquiat made Vol 1, which spans from the M Dupont-Auberville’s
a big impression on the art world. As a teenager in the beginnings until 1959) offers L’Ornement des Tissus
late 1970s, he began spray-painting graffiti on walls a thorough exploration of from 1877. The ornamental
in Lower Manhattan, and within a few years he was the field. About 3 500 designs patterns range from
lauded as one of the most successful artists of his time. form a visual timeline through primitive art to 19th-century
He was only 27 when he died. This 500-page large- contemporary history, with designs on tapestries, tiles,
scale book reproduces all his most seminal paintings, detailed analyses of 80 iconic textiles and more. It’s an
drawings and notebook sketches, and includes designs, plus biographies of invaluable resource for
quotations and an illustrated biography. prominent designers. artists and pattern-makers.

VISI REASONS
NO
99 RIDINGHIGH
We asked our passionate motoring man Dieter Losskarn,
given the necessary funds and space, which 10 rides he
would put in his dream garage.
ORTUNATELY, I own my across the States from Manhattan they were commercial classics and were
F favourite car already, so

10 (very yellow) percent of
my dream garage is already
to Hollywood. And it had to be this
particular one, an ex-undercover DEA
vehicle with a Chevy V8 engine and a
simply driven to pieces.
So which other chrome jewels would
join the taxi in my fictional dream
in place: I saw the New York Checker 400 Hydramatic gearbox to successfully garage? Well, being a fresh-air-loving
A-11 taxicab in a movie in Germany, hunt down drug dealers in NYC. Bavarian, seven of the rides are topless
when I was a kid, and I wanted one. After the epic trip in 2001, I shipped and made in Germany. Accompanied by
In 1999, while already living in South it to Cape Town, where it has since one more Yank and a Brit.
Africa, I discovered mine on the good become known as the Cab of Good Let’s begin with a vehicle that proves
old interwebs, waiting patiently for Hope. According to the Checker Car German engineers have a brilliant sense
me in New York. It had to be in the Big Club of America (yes, there is one), there of humour: the mighty Mercedes G 500
Apple, as I had planned to take it out are only about 650 running Checkers 4x4². The ultimate off-roader. On the
of cab-tivity and cruise in it all the way left in the world, due to the fact that one side the inventor of the automobile
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT ON THIS PAGE Checker A-11 (1958–1982), Porsche 550 Spyder (1953–1956), BMW Z8 (1999–2003) and Aston-Martin
DB5 (1963–1965).

THE IMPOSSIBLE COLLECTION OF CARS
Assouline, publisher of luxurious coffee-table books, recently launched this covetable new book,
showcasing the 100 most exceptional cars of the 20th century. As it says in the marketing material,
“It is the dream of many to own the world’s most beautifully designed automobiles, but most
often only a handful of collectors ever come close.” And it seems the same is true of this book –
despite its nearly R12000 price tag (it’s printed on cotton paper and bound by hand), it sold out
quickly. Keep an eye out for a second-hand copy on Amazon.
is creating electric rides and is trying to silver Aston Martin DB5 in Goldfinger of them. The cute and capable grand-
save fuel, wherever possible. And then in 1964, and the exact same car with daddy of all 4x4s, the war-time Willys
they did this. Simply magnificent. the original number plate (BMT216A) MB Army Jeep, another.
There are a further two Mercs, both reappeared in the spy thrillers Skyfall Last but not least, one more very
convertibles, in the line-up: the achingly and Spectre, featuring Daniel Craig. At unusual German from the 1960s.
beautiful SL 280 Pagoda and the ballistic the end of Spectre he receives the fully Combining both the advantages of
SLS 63 AMG. The only Bavarian in the restored, stunningly gorgeous DB5 as a car and a boat, the Amphicar 770
collection would be the sleek BMW Z8, a present and drives off. could not only drive but swim as well.
known for being Pierce Brosnan’s Bond My very first car was a Volkswagen Imagine cruising to Robben Island in
car that was sawn in half by villains in Beetle, so its convertible version has to your own car.
The World is Not Enough. find a place in my dream garage as well. Here you have them, my 10 favourite
But the quintessential Bond car is And then three more icons. Porsche’s automoblies. What would your dream
even rarer. Sean Connery first drove the 550 Spyder of James Dean fame is one garage look like?
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT ON THIS PAGE Mercedes SLS 63 AMG convertible (2010–2014), Volkswagen Beetle convertible (1938–2003),
Willys MB (1941–1945), Mercedes G 500 4x4² (2015–2017), Amphicar 770 (1961–1968) and Mercedes SL 280 Pagoda (1967–1971).

VISI RE ASONS
10 x PEDERSEN + LENNARD
HAMPERS
10 x BABYLONSTOREN HAMPERS Cape Town-based design studio
Valued at R2170, each luxurious hamper Pedersen + Lennard’s new
NO
100
comprises a bottle of the award-winning Stockholm Bathroom Range includes
Nebukadnesar Bordeaux-style blend, a hand towel hook, a towel rail and
Sprankel Méthode Cap Classique, a toilet-roll holder, all of which we’re
Onderplaas Bloedlemoen Mampoer, extra- giving away,plus two Stockholm single
virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar and organic hooks. The hamper is worth R1 525.
rooibos tea. shop.bablyonstoren.com pedersenlennard.co.za
BIGGESTGIVEAWAYEVER
In celebration of VISI’s 100th issue, we have 100 prizes
up for grabs : 10 brands x 10 items = 100 winners!
10 x WHISTLING TEAKETTLES
FROM LE CREUSET
Made out of carbon steel with
a colourful enamel finish, the 1,6-litre
whistling teakettle,
worth R1 650, comes
with a fixed single-tone
whistle that alerts
you when water
comes to the boil.
lecreuset.co.za
10 x PLATTERS FROM MERVYN GERS CERAMICS

These textural 40 cm-in-diameter platters, worth R1 750 each,
are created by hand in Mervyn’s studio. mervyngers.com

10 MINIMA PENDANT LIGHTS
Made from a combination of birch
plywood and bamboo, the eco-
friendly Ambient pendant lamps,
each worth R1 500, are all hand-
finished in Cape Town.
minima.co.za
10 x VICTORIA GIN HAMPERS 10 x

Located in the small town of Prince HINTERVELD
D
Albert in the Karoo, Victoria Gin is an HAMPERS
independent distillery that proudly Hinterveld Mill,, a weaver and
produces three varietals – Pink, Blue knitter of moha air and other natural
and Amber – making use of 12 signature fibres, produce es both homeware and
botanicals. You can win one of each, fashion accessories. Each lucky winner
plus an extra bottle of your choice and will receive a blanket and either a scarf or
two glasses, worth R1 480. shrug, worth between
etween R1 500 and R2 100
instagram.com/victoriahandcraftedgin per hamper. hinterveld.com
10 x WIID CONTAINERS
Designed by Laurie Wiid van Heerden
of Wiid Design, each of these
20 cm x 25 cm terracotta containers,
valued at R3 600, features a hand-
turned cork stopper.
wiiddesign.co.za
10 x KITCHENAID 3-PIECE
10 x ROGUE NESTING CERAMIC MIXING
CANVAS COOLERS BOWL SETS
Made of heavy-duty waterproof The KitchenAid Nesting ceramic mixing
canvas with genuine leather toggles, bowl set, worth R2 195, is the ultimate
this 22-litre lightweight cooler, valued baking accessory. Fired at a high
at R2 100, can hold six wine bottles or temperature, the ceramic resists stains,
20 beer cans. rogueicecoolers.com chips and cracks. kitchenaidafrica.com
VISI COMPETITION RULES • Prizes may not be transferred to another damage or injury that may be suffered
• This competition closes on 7 April 2019. person or converted into cash. or incurred by prize winners.
• The winners will be the first correct entries • Employees of New Media and the prize- • Entrants will be deemed to have accepted
drawn after the closing date. sponsoring companies, their family members, these rules and agree to be bound by them
• If a selected winner cannot be reached at advertising and promotion agencies and when entering VISI competitions.
the contact details supplied, an alternative any other parties associated with the • Data collected may be shared with the prize-
winner will be selected. competition may not enter. sponsoring companies, but will not be sold or
• Prizes will be delivered to the winners. • You must be 18 years or older to enter this passed on to third parties.
• The winners are required to accept the competition. • New Media reserves the right to cancel,
prizes as described in the magazine. No • Neither New Media nor any of its partners modify or amend competitions at any time if
correspondence will be entered into relating can be held responsible for disputes in deemed necessary.
to the terms on which the prizes are offered. connection with prizes or for any loss, • Visit VISI.co.za/terms-and-conditions.

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A Directors Chair is a Directors Chair.

Ours is made from Walnut, 500gm Cotton Canvas
Seats – plus a handy side table
125 Springfield Rd, Carlswald, Midrand Large Ceramic Vessels

Open: 10am - 4pm (Tuesday to Saturday) Carlswald, Midrand (Appointment Only)
Showroom: 4 Desmond Road, Kramerville, JHB,Tel: +27 11 262 5031
Factory & Sales: +27 41 484 6631 • www.melvillandmoon.com 011 468-2591 083 284-1818 011 468-2591 hoets@digbyhoets.com
cindahunter.com cinda@cindahunter.com 082 927 6606 www.digbyhoets.com
Superior Quality
Timeless Appeal
Individually Handcrafted
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VISI SHOPPING DIRECTORY
Single Coat Oil-Based Wood Stain

Protects, nourishes and colours wood in one easy application
Can be used on all types of
uncoated wood for both interior
and exterior application
Easy to apply in one single coat
1 litre covers up to 50m²
Proudly made in South Africa
Low VOC’s
Wide colour range with over
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Good stock levels and quick
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Competitively priced
Great quality product
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Connect with us
Jax Oleum is incredibly effective, highly durable, it enhances +27 11 444 7221
the grain and transforms the look of any natural wood. www.jaxoleum.co.za info@jaxoleum.co.za
VISI SMART IDEA
SHINEON
If you’re planning a celebration
but you’re too old for balloon
numbers, a slick tube light will
say it in style.
PHOTO MARĲKE WILLEMS

CONCEPT ANNEMARIE MEINTJES
VER wondered
E what to do
with an empty
cardboard poster
tube once you’ve framed
your print? To make a hanging
tube light fit for a celebration,
you need a cardboard tube
SHOOT LOCATION MOONSHINE STUDIO

with lids on both ends, and
an LED on an electric cable
that’s long enough to plug
into a socket.
Use a Stanley knife to
cut out a number, shape or
message. Spray-paint the
tube, insert a sheet of paper
in the colour of your choice
behind the cutout, and make
a hole in the top lid to lace the
cable through.

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AXMINSTER TILE

a new generation of crafted carpets

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EXACTLY WHERE YOU

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CONTRIBUTORS ......................................................................................................................................... PAGE 26

100 reasons to celebrate iconic design

EDITORIAL TEAM PUBLISHING TEAM PUBLISHER & PRINTER

Jeanine Boshoﬀ Chief Executive Oﬃcer Bridget McCarney

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VISI 100 CONTRIBUTORS

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