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Inspiring Décor Ideas From Cape Town

Echru pendant lights from Cape Town designer, Ashlee Ainsley Lloyd
Echru pendant lights from Cape Town designer, Ashlee Ainsley Lloyd | © Courtesy of Ashlee Ainsley Lloyd

As a former World Design Capital, Cape Town is renowned for its innovative craft and design industry. Here are a few nifty ideas from the Mother City to help decorate your space.

Add fun South African elements to your living space

Printed cushions and lampshades are an easy and low-cost way to add style and color to your living room or bedroom. If you’re inspired by South Africa, pick up these quirky printed covers from Sera Holland of Handmade by Me, a Cape Town-based design and textile company. Their covers are made of 100% cotton and feature distinct South African designs, such as the Big Five, the Protea flower, and Cape Town landscapes.

Big 5 Lion cushion cover from Handmade by Me
Protea, Aloe and Prickly Pear cushion covers from Handmade by Me

Invest in a handwoven rug

Rugs are a great way to anchor a room while adding warmth and character. As one of the largest wool producers in the world, you might want to consider sourcing a high-quality handwoven rug from South Africa. Local interior brand Coral and Hive’s bespoke rugs are traditionally hand spun by local craftswomen from pure Karacul wool, cotton and mohair. Their rugs are extremely durable and are available in a variety of pattern and color combinations to suit your individual needs.

Weaving a rug by hand on a traditional loom
A finished handwoven wool carpet

Store your things in quirky cabinets

Cupboards or cabinets have always been seen as a mundane necessity in the home, but with the latest trends in cabinet design, they’re no longer boring and one-dimensional. For example, take these locker cabinets from Mother City Hardware. Their signature retro style and pop of color will happily spruce up any space.

Cool retro lockers from Mother City Hardware

Choose creative light fixtures

Good lighting is an important aspect of any décor or renovation plan. It not only helps to create a warm and inviting ambiance, it also adds to the visual appeal of a room. These beautiful lights from young industrial designer Ashlee Ainsley Lloyd expertly marries style with function. They are personally handcrafted by Lloyd herself, using pure materials such as cork, hand-spun metal, and crocheted yarn.

Luna and Echru pendants

Create interest with ceramic pieces

Ceramic pieces in vibrant prints and colors can add life to an otherwise dull living room or kitchen. You can choose to create a full display or use a solitary piece to highlight a specific area. This striking range of vases, bowls and plates, which are designed and handmade by local ceramicist Catherine Ash, will easily brighten up any room or dinner table.

Colorful vases
Geometric plate

Add individuality with designer fabrics

If you desire a unique look for your interior space, steer clear of department stores and consider upholstering your furniture in eclectic fabrics from designers in your city. These beautiful hand-printed fabrics from Love Milo are adorned with minimalist designs inspired by nature. Their textiles are made from 100% cotton and only eco-friendly inks are used.

Stripe fabric
Bird fabric chair
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