Meet The Female-Led Joburg Team At The Wine Room

Leaving a mark on the industry, this female-led team from The Wine Room continues to innovate in their field, offering a full turn-key solution for wine cellars and custom bar needs. Today we find out more about what makes them tick and more about their exciting roles at The Wine Room.

Meet Janel Lubbe

Describe your role at The Wine Room

I am the Lead Interior Designer at The Wine Room and my role is to conceptualise and create exquisite spaces tailored specifically for wine. I work closely with clients to understand their unique preferences, lifestyle, and requirements. With this information I develop conceptual designs that integrate seamlessly with the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space. These designs are based on optimal wine storage conditions, including temperature, humidity, and lighting. I present design concepts and proposals by means of 3D renderings, mood boards, and samples.

Why do you love working for The Wine Room?

My love for this occupation stems from a passion for both wine and design. Designing wine displays, rooms and cellars requires a delicate balance of aesthetics and functionality. From ensuring optimal storage conditions to incorporating beautiful materials, each element must serve a purpose while contributing to the overall aesthetic of the space. I find great pleasure in collaborating with our clients, and it is fulfilling to transform their often-underutilized spaces in their homes into stunning showcase areas. I enjoy working with my team and we each contribute our own skills together – from sales to design, to project management – to bring these projects to life.

What are your interests outside of work?

During my free time, I enjoy immersing myself in the pages of a good book, sketching, and crafting projects. However, mostly my spare time is dedicated to my beloved Border Collie pup, Riley. We often venture outdoors together, on walks or practicing new tricks during our training sessions.

Meet Paola Warrender

Describe your role at The Wine Room

I am The Wine Room’s Project Manager for Gauteng, Natal and Africa. This broad role includes engaging with clients in the Sales phase; understanding the initial needs for their cellar; and then overseeing all projects during manufacture and installation phases. In addition, I am responsible for the manufacture and supply of all The Wine Room’s steel wine displays.

Why do you love working for The Wine Room?

My role requires a set of skills that I am fortunate to be good at and enjoy. From the initial sales meeting to the installation of a cellar is a creative process. I meet wonderful people from all walks of life and share part of my life’s journey with them while completing a project. Construction is largely still a male dominated environment; and as a woman, it has challenged me and allowed me to find my strength. The Wine Room team gives the necessary support and freedom to get the job done.