In Conversation with Mike McKay of KusudiCo

We get really excited about the possibilities and potential of local furniture design. Today, we’re talking with Mike McKay, the visionary founder behind furniture design and manufacturing studio KusudiCo.

KusudiCo is a range of modern furniture and functional workspace accessories designed, developed, and produced in South Africa. Here local is truly lekker as the company was developed with deep local roots and a mission to create sustainability and opportunity in South Africa. Founder, Mike McKay has 34 years of experience in retail-buying, product sourcing and supplying retailers in the South African market. He has a passion for product and for people and believes that the only way forward for South Africa is to create more value in our beautiful country; import less and export more!

Let’s hear from the visionary himself…

When you are creating a new product like the Solid Wood American Ash Wood Table, what phase do you love the most?

Research and Development or taking it to Market. I love it most, when the product gets to market and customers start interacting with it and giving feedback. There is no better feeling in this business, than when there is a positive reaction to something that you have designed, developed and made.

 What was the inspiration when you started developing the Solid Ash Bench?

We wanted a “pick up and go” stool that would pack easily and efficiently into a box. The idea is based on a Japanese meditation stool design, but because of flat pack, we created it in 3 parts. Top and then two solid legs that slot in and are held in place with little dial sticks – simple design. It’s great as seating, as a side table, or as a feature display unit. Multi-functional pieces that work, get me really excited.

What are the key elements that characterise the Studio Maddison Tub chair?

It’s a compact, organic, modern design with lots of character! It’s an extremely comfortable chair and it makes up well in different fabrics, particularly surface interest materials.

What do you personally do for ​​relaxation?

Hmmmmm, not much time to relax nowadays as I try to build this business. But, I do meditate daily and enjoy time watching Netflix movies, interesting series documentaries and the occasional Podcast.

Tell us more about your showroom?

We have a 135m2 physical space at 44 Stanley and it’s developing all the time. The showroom is known as CO @44 Stanley. I never set out to change anything with the space itself, simply using the architectural design of the building, the wall tiles that were there, the floor etc. I am slowly making it all work to reflect the proposition, values and essence of KusudiCo and the other collections we carry. We are busy with some exciting new developments and products with a focus on a modern urban lifestyle and the work-from-home trend (or maybe it’s not a trend, but the reality of life going forward).

I believe that retail is all about creating a wonderful experience and making each visit for customers interesting and fulfilling. We are striving to create a physical space and range offering, that is genuinely inspirational and unique in its execution. Wish us luck!

Discover what KusudiCo has to offer. We promise you won’t be disappointed! Together we can make an exciting local economy grow and thrive.