Where Luxury Lives: A Conversation with Vinette Diab-Nicholls of Giava Interiors

In conversation with Vinette Diab-Nicholls, founder of Giava Interiors, we explore the essence of true luxury—where craftsmanship, beauty, and function come together in quiet harmony.

What inspired you to start Giava Interiors, and how did you transition from small DIY projects to full-scale design projects?

My daughters, Gia and Ava, are the inspiration behind the business and the name. I wanted my daughters to know it’s possible to build a life and a business that feels personal, beautiful, and magical. That’s what Giava Interiors is to me.

We began our journey in 2019 under the name DIYgirls, focusing on furniture repairs, DIY projects, and small-scale interior makeovers. What started as a small business quickly evolved, however. Our clients loved our quality, attention to detail, and intuitive sense of design. As demand grew, so did our vision. Soon we became a fully-fledged interior design studio.

With this new scope, we needed a new name – one that reflected the luxury brand we had become. And so, Giava Interiors was born. Our tagline says it best: Where Luxury Lives.

Today, we manufacture bespoke furniture, handcraft décor, and create award-winning interiors that are as luxurious as they are liveable.

How do you define “quiet luxury,” and how is that philosophy reflected in your work?

To us, quiet luxury is the art of refinement without excess. It’s rooted in restraint, intentionality, and a deep appreciation for quality over quantity. Rather than chasing trends, we focus on creating interiors that feel calm, curated, and enduring – spaces that are as emotionally grounding as they are visually elegant.

In order to achieve this, we layer neutrals with rich textures and artisanal craftsmanship. I love the saying ‘true luxury whispers, it never shouts’.

Giava Interiors has grown quickly. What do you think sets your studio apart in the South African design industry?

The fact that we custom make everything. We don’t do mass-produced, we don’t do cookie-cutter. In a world of quick, cheap, and generic fixes, we therefore stand out. We take the time to understand our clients’ lifestyle, vision, and practical needs. Every design is tailored, every detail considered – because no two clients are ever the same.

What further sets us apart is the way we blend the heart of an artisan studio with the finesse of a luxury design house. With our in-house workshop and sewing studio, we oversee every aspect of production – from the first sketch to the final stitch, ensuring impeccable quality throughout. This really sets us apart.

What does a typical design process look like from concept to completion?

Our process always begins with listening: Taking the time to truly understand how our clients live, what inspires them, and how they want their space to feel. We translate that into a carefully curated concept, which includes furniture layout plans, mood boards, 3D renders, and hand-selected materials that align with their lifestyle and aesthetic.

Once the concept is approved, we handle everything – from custom manufacturing and sourcing to full installation and styling. We fluff every cushion, hang every artwork, and style every surface. We literally manage the entire process under one roof, giving us full control over every aspect, and ensuring flawless execution at every stage. Our clients walk into a space that’s been completed to perfection – functional, beautiful, and distinctly their own.

You speak a lot about craftsmanship and quality. What role do your in-house workshop and sewing studio play in that commitment?

They are the beating heart of Giava Interiors. Having an in-house team of talented seamstresses, upholsterers, and artisans allows us to uphold our commitment to quality craftsmanship. It also gives us the freedom to experiment, push creative boundaries, and produce truly bespoke pieces that can’t be found in any store. Our clients value the exclusivity and longevity that this offers

Sustainability is a growing concern globally. How does Giava approach ethical sourcing and green design practices?

We are deeply aware of the environmental impact of design and are committed to making thoughtful, conscious choices at every stage of our process. We prioritise the use of recycled plastic waste in our furniture production, low-VOC finishes, and sustainable fabrics.

By partnering with suppliers who share our values around ethical labour and responsible manufacturing, we ensure our entire supply chain reflects the same integrity we bring to our designs.

Central to our ethos is a zero-waste policy in both our workshop and sewing room. Every off-cut from the production of our soft furnishings is creatively repurposed into beautiful, quilted blankets that we donate to those in need.

Which project are you most proud of and why?

A luxury Bushveld lodge called Jamala Madikwe. I just love how our warm, neutral colour palette complemented the natural, untouched beauty of the landscape. We incorporated layer upon layer of pattern, texture, and design to create this five-star sanctuary. The result is an understated, beautifully balanced interior that oozes luxury.

When our client walked into this space after our transformation, they said it was more than what they ever imagined.

That kind of emotional response makes me realise we have created something meaningful. When a client walks in and says, “This feels like me”.

What trends are you currently excited about in the interior design world?

We love the shift towards personalised spaces – interiors that truly reflect the homeowner’s taste, lifestyle and personality. This allows us to create more custom pieces, bespoke furniture, and tailor-made wallpaper, turning a beautiful house into a curated home.

We never tie ourselves to trends, however. Timeless design is at the heart of everything we do. When you create layered, luxurious, elegant interiors, they will outlive trends and stand the test of time.

What advice would you give to aspiring designers who want to build a meaningful and purpose-driven brand?

Stay true to your voice and your values. Don’t chase trends or measure success by scale alone. Build a brand rooted in integrity, craftsmanship, and intention. When you do this, you’re not just building a business, you’re creating something meaningful and lasting. That will move people and will lead to success.