KARE Johannesburg: A Personalised Online Experience

In this exclusive interview, our editor, Marcia Margolius, catches up with Karin Cawthorne, Franchise Owner of KARE Johannesburg, to discuss the exciting evolution of the brand. After seven successful years of inspiring South African homes and businesses with its bold designs, KARE Johannesburg is transitioning from a physical showroom to an online-first experience. Karin shares the vision behind this change, the future of KARE’s collections, and how the brand will continue to support both customers and interior design professionals in this new chapter.

Marcia Margolius Today, I’m speaking with Karin Cawthorne, Franchise Owner at KARE Johannesburg. After seven fantastic years of bringing unique design to South Africa, KARE Johannesburg is evolving into an online-first model. Karin, thank you for joining me today.

Karin Cawthorne (Franchise Owner, KARE Johannesburg):
Thank you, Marcia. I’m thrilled to share the changes happening at KARE Johannesburg. Our brand is evolving to stay in tune with the latest trends and demands, and I’m excited to continue offering our distinctive designs in this new online format.

Marcia Margolius:
Karin, this is such a bold move for KARE Johannesburg, transitioning from a physical storefront to an online experience. What inspired this decision?

Karin Cawthorne:
It’s certainly an exciting transition for us. After seven years of wonderful interactions with our customers in our Kramerville showroom, we felt it was the right time to embrace the digital shift. With the world becoming more connected online, we wanted to offer our customers the convenience of shopping from anywhere in South Africa. This shift will allow us to provide an even more personalised digital experience while maintaining the quality and expertise we’ve always offered.

Marcia Margolius:
It’s fantastic that you’re still prioritizing that personal touch online. For your loyal customers, how will they still be able to experience KARE’s incredible collections in this new model?

Karin Cawthorne:

We’re still very much here for our customers! While the physical showroom has closed, our website will become the central hub for discovering and pre-ordering KARE’s latest collections. We’re excited to offer pre-order opportunities, so our customers can secure the latest pieces ahead of time. Plus, we will continue to provide virtual consultations and personalised support, ensuring everyone still gets the tailored service they expect from us.

Marcia Margolius:
That sounds fantastic—especially the personalized consultations! Speaking of collections, what can customers expect from KARE Johannesburg’s latest offerings?

Karin Cawthorne:
We have some incredible collections lined up. One of the standout themes is The New Retro Revival, which blends vintage influences with modern aesthetics, focusing on rich textures and bold colour schemes. We’re also highlighting Nature-Inspired Living, a collection that brings earthy tones and organic forms into homes to create a calming and balanced atmosphere. Lastly, Glam Meets Comfort is designed to add a touch of luxury to any space, featuring velvets, metallics, and statement lighting that truly transform interiors.

Marcia Margolius:
Those collections sound incredible—such bold, yet timeless design! Now, KARE Johannesburg has always had strong relationships with interior designers and decorators. How will you continue to support them in this new online model?

Karin Cawthorne:

The design community has always been an important part of our journey, and that’s not changing. We’re excited to continue offering our Design Professionals Programme, where designers and pros get exclusive early access to our latest collections and special trade discounts. Registered trade buyers will also enjoy discounts on deliveries, making it more cost-effective to place bulk orders. Our team is always ready for appointments or virtual consultations to help choose the perfect pieces for any project. And let’s not forget about our free annual KARE Magazine, available both in print and online! This year’s edition is packed with fresh inspiration and product info on collections that reflect the latest trends in interior design.

Marcia Margolius:
It’s so great to hear that KARE is continuing to support interior designers. As we wrap up, Karin, where can people go to stay up to date on the latest collections and your exciting new direction?

Karin Cawthorne:
The best way to stay updated on all things KARE is to visit our website at www.kare-johannesburg.co.za. There, customers will find the latest collections, exciting updates, and exclusive pre-order opportunities. For personalised assistance, customers can also reach out via email at info@kare-johannesburg.co.za or on WhatsApp at 082 997 1130. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay inspired and connected.

Marcia Margolius:
Thank you so much for your time, Karin. It’s clear that KARE Johannesburg is embracing this new chapter with passion and commitment, and I’m sure the design community and customers alike will continue to benefit from your bold, inspiring collections.

Karin Cawthorne:
Thank you, Marcia. We’re incredibly excited about the future and look forward to continuing to offer bold, innovative designs to South Africa through our new online-first approach. The best is yet to come!

How to Stay Connected

For more information about the transition, the latest collections, and ordering options, visit www.kare-johannesburg.co.za. For personalized assistance, customers can reach out via email at info@kare-johannesburg.co.za or WhatsApp at 082 997 1130.