Único by Cristina Díaz-Dickson

Founded by Cristina Díaz-Dickson in Cape Town in 2020, Unico’s mission is to reduce furniture waste by helping clients reinvigorate their existing furniture items.

“It is estimated that furniture waste amounts to roughly 5% of landfills,” explains Cristina. “By reupholstering our furniture, we can reduce the amount of global furniture waste. In addition, when we choose to give new life to old furniture instead of buying new furniture, we also reduce the consumption of natural resources such as wood and steel required to manufacture new furniture.”

As such, Unico offers a wide range of premium upholstery fabrics, from 100 percent linen to locally produced fabrics, material for outdoor use and easy-to-clean fabric options.

Some of their most popular offerings include the locally made and easy-to-clean Fantasia fabric with its subtle texture and two-tone colourways, the range of classically striped Arena Outdoor fabrics and the gorgeous range of luxurious Deseo Velvet fabrics available in 14 sophisticated hues.

Their beautiful neutral-hued linens, such as Melancholia, Amor and Esperanza, are another hit and can be used for upholstery, slipcovers and curtains.

While the company originally started as an end-to-end reupholstery service only, today their fabrics are also available to purchase online via their newly launched website.

“Our customers can now order free samples and buy upholstery fabrics online,” says Cristina. “By selling upholstery fabrics online, we are confident that we can reach the most customers and have the greatest impact.”

“Our wish is that every customer that buys fabric from Unico can not only give new life to their furniture but also create a piece and an experience that is truly unique.”