Chair Crazy: Proud to be South African

South Africa is the gateway between larger Africa and the western world, and is a nation that is as diverse as its people. South African interior design is therefore not defined by one particular style, but rather by our varied ways of living. Local designers draw their inspiration from this diversity so that homes, shops, restaurants and offices pose a reflection of our dynamic society.

Ultra Stimulation: Vital Vibration

Inspiration comes from everywhere, not least our physical surroundings. The vibrant texture and colour of the earth, the sky, the shape of the land, the illustrious African sun, are all noteworthy elements in design innovations throughout South Africa. South African design is about variety – but it certainly is not all cheesy curios, guinea fowls and Table Mountain – often it is a wonderful, eclectic fusion of design elements that artfully come together, placing South African interior designers firmly on the map in terms of style and conceptualisation.

Haldane Martin

For example, top SA designer, Haldane Martin, has taken inspiration from everything from the humble songololo to the rugged coastline that skirts the Western Cape. Many of his furniture designs are attempts to express our “unique multicultural identity” and to help us make sense of ourselves “by creating a sense of belonging to our time and place”. Indeed there is always a need for relevance in our fledgling democratic community.

Iintsomi

Storytelling in South African design is also important. Just as art, in general, can express a sentiment or convey a narrative, so furniture design is able to reflect a considered backstory. The Hawkers Rocking Chair created by Thebe Magugu and Emile Milward was nominated as one of the 10 Most Beautiful Objects in South Africa and is said to have been inspired by the sight of a woman selling mealies while sitting on a chair, wearing a wide-brimmed hat. The story screams (ululates) South Africa, but the product itself is a stunning example of how SA design is as modern and edgy as any in the world.

The Hawkers Rocking Chair

The Industrial Revolution

The Hawkers Rocking Chair piece is also a good example of the use of contrasting masculinity and femininity, of quirky textiles and the relationship between metallic textures and hues of green – a typically industrial design touch that is very much on trend in current times. This industrial style is popular in many homes, offices and local watering holes around South Africa as it both emanates and suits our lifestyle most effectively. Chair Crazy boasts an assortment of furniture that fits into this trending style and offers an affordable quality solution to your decorating desires. Zest For Life

Speaking of the African sun, current trends see yellow being the bold and cheerful colour of choice to give any area a splash of lemony zest. Other style trends lean toward more neutral tones using bold textural statements instead of colour. Either way, Chair Crazy has a wonderful selection of chairs to choose from should you be looking to add some local flavour to your space.

Local is Lekker

By supporting local businesses and manufacturers you’re helping to create extra job opportunities in your back yard. You certainly do not lose out on style by buying local – there is so much homegrown talent that provides us with a ton of exciting options, and these most undoubtedly deserve our patronage. AMANDLA! Skinny LaMinx offers clean pattern designs and an unusual colour palette, and is clearly inspired by everyday things. Their online store sells everything from wallpaper to kitchen towels. This month Chair Crazy is running an exciting competition which calls for poster designs using the CHANGE YOUR SPACE logo. Have a look at their Facebook or Instagram pages for more information.