An Exhibition of Unusual Design When ceramic artist Jan Ernst approached us with his idea for a showcase of unique, collectible design, we were thrilled at the opportunity to create something completely different. In partnership with Piet Smedy, Condé Nast House & Garden Editor-in-Chief, CUSP brought together eleven local designers to create novel pieces of …
A new creative content studio and independent media company, Lookbook Studio aims “to showcase, spotlight and support the décor and design industry through visual storytelling.” We were so thrilled to have been involved in their very first online journal, in their “design is more than meets the eye” feature. This fun matchmaker campaign paired us …
Launched in 2019, the V&A Waterfront’s Christmas campaign, “Joy from Africa to the World” was back to ensure that Christmas spirit prevailed over Covid19. Once again turning the spotlight inward, toward Africa, the campaign highlighted makers from many disciplines, with the emphasis on sustainability, collaboration and compassion. The traditional Christmas tree was replaced with the …
In celebration of our 25th anniversary in 2020, we spoke to Lifestyling about the origins of Design Afrika and the journeys across Afrika that inspired its evolution. The conversation reminded us of the many leaps we have taken and the challenges we have overcome along the way. We were so honoured to be featured in …
In 1975, a friend suggested a trip to northern Botswana to search for the legendary Hambukushu and Bayei baskets, well-known and considered to be among the finest baskets in the world. A life-changing safari was the result. A safari that took me from Durban to Mutare in Zimbabwe and then to Maun in Botswana. We …
In summer 2019, we launched our latest project, Discoveries from Africa. This exhibition was the brainchild of Binky Newman and friend Suzie Ovenstone, the owner of The Old House Shop in Plettenberg Bay, popular for its beautiful homeware, accessories and clothing. The exhibition showcased a curated collection of intricately handcrafted basketware, jewellery, artefacts, ceramics, furniture …
In 2019, The V&A Waterfront in Cape Town embarked on a very special campaign – a new approach to Christmas with “Joy from Africa to the World”, which featured numerous magical Christmas installations all over the Waterfront complex. This project was very close to the hearts of all at Design Afrika, as the array of …
