Celebrating South African Design and Craftsmanship with JB Furniture

In the spirit of freedom, we recognise the freedom of expression found in our arts and crafts. Our creativity, from music and fashion to furniture design, is a heartfelt expression of who we are as a people. South Africa’s design heritage, rich with cultural symbolism and innovation, tells the story of our nation in its own quiet, beautiful way.

One of the joys of South African design is how it blends traditional motifs with modern style. We see age-old patterns, local materials, and heritage crafts reimagined in contemporary homes and products. A perfect example is Kim Williams’ RAKGADI African Toile interior range, an inspiring new collection that fuses heritage-infused design with a bold, contemporary flair. Discover more with JB Furniture.

JB Furniture’s 25-Year Legacy of Craftsmanship

For JB Furniture, preserving and celebrating local craft is a proud mission. Based in Knysna for over 25 years (established in 1995), this family-run business grew from a humble woodworking shop into a beloved local brand. Over the years they expanded the range to include both classic and contemporary styles, using a variety of responsibly sourced local and exotic woods, from sustainably sourced American hardwoods to beautiful indigenous pine.

Through all this growth, a commitment to durability, quality, and community has never wavered. The team handcrafts each piece with care and employs local artisans, helping to keep traditional woodworking skills alive in the local town. In many ways, the furniture carries the narrative of South African design: a blend of timeless elegance and modern innovation that reflects the country’s layered identity. Just as democracy unites diverse backgrounds, the designs marry heritage with new ideas. Every JB Furniture table or chair is built to last for generations, and each one quietly celebrates our culture, a testament to the freedom we have to express our South African identity in our homes.

Embracing Local Design in Your Home

You don’t have to be a designer to celebrate South Africa’s creative spirit. Here are a few ways to bring the beauty of local design into your own home:

Visit local markets and craft fairs: Explore your nearest craft market, art fair or community bazaar. You’ll find one-of-a-kind pieces, from woven baskets to carved wooden décor – and you can meet the makers in person. These outings are a fun way to discover the rich array of crafts our country offers.
Support South African brands and artisans: When shopping for furniture or décor, choose Proudly South African brands or local artisan studios. Whether it’s a couch made in Cape Town or a handprinted pillow from a township workshop, buying local means you’re investing in our economy and helping craftsmen and women continue their heritage work, local is lekker!
Learn the story behind your décor: Every craft piece has a story. Ask about the inspiration or cultural meaning behind an item, or do a bit of research on its origins. Knowing that your coffee table was made from reclaimed wood by a family business, orthat a pattern on your rug has Xhosa or Zulu symbolism, makes the item so much more special. Your home becomes not just a showcase of style, but a conversation piece rich with personal meaning.