Mash T Design Studio

Makers and creators of highly covetable contemporary design pieces, Mash.T Design Studio tells the story of Africa through its novel approach to designing and creating unique furniture and homeware pieces with a local twist.

The latest tale spun by the studio is the Ilala Palm lighting collection.

Native to KwaZulu-Natal, the Ilala Palm is a versatile and sustainable material traditionally used by the Zulu people who harvest and then dye the fronds using local vegetation and tree bark, resulting in a variety of stunning natural colours. This process not only highlights the beauty of the natural fibres but also supports the preservation of traditional dyeing techniques.

“Our new lighting collection is inspired by biomimicry, particularly the intricate structure of bird nests,” says founder and designer Thabisa Mjo.

“By mimicking these natural designs, we create lighting solutions that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible. This approach exemplifies our commitment to harnessing the abundant natural resources of our country and continent while respecting and learning from nature’s ingenuity.”

“At MashT Design Studio, we believe in the power of collaboration and the importance of preserving traditional crafts. By working with master weavers from across South Africa, particularly in KZN, we tap into generational knowledge that has been passed down through the ages. This collaboration not only results in exceptional craftsmanship but also honours our ancestors’ deep understanding of the natural environment and their respect for its conservation.”

“Our Ilala Palm lighting collection is just one example of how we can create beautiful, functional products that respect and honour the natural world.”

Combining the best in contemporary design and sustainability practices, the Ilala Palm lighting collection is now available to shop online and in-store.