SOFACOMPANY: Head of Interior Design Simonne Christie

In this exclusive interview, we chat to Simonne Christie, Head of Interior Design and Commercial Projects at Sofacompany, ahead of Cape Town Furniture Week. As we delve into the essence of Danish design, Simonne shares her expert insights into its timeless elegance, functionality, and the enduring global influence it has. A truly enlightening conversation that brings the beauty and depth of Danish design to the forefront!

Can you start by telling us a bit about your journey in interior design and what led you to work with Sofacompany?

I have always been passionate about design, from my days in the design studio at school to changing my room around every so often to try to find the perfect arrangement for the space. I have a deep passion for beautiful spaces that add value and practicality to a room, so when it came to studying further, I did not doubt that interior design was what I wanted to learn more about and qualify in.

After years in the industry working for a company in JHB, I had an urge to travel abroad, so I completed my yachting course and traveled extensively around Europe, appreciating the architecture and design outside while admiring the interiors of the incredible yachts I worked on. I missed practicing my creativity, though, and also, my cabin was impossible to move around, so I went back to my roots, and Sofacompany became my new home on land. This is when my passion for design and admiration for Danish design blended.

2. Danish design is known for its simplicity and functionality. What aspects of Danish design resonate most with you, and how do they influence your work?

I love that Danish design is honest. There’s always a story behind a piece of Danish design, whether it’s the inspiration or the quality and source of the materials used. Danes especially love to create designs that are close to the body; it’s a very personal and genuine way of crafting design masterpieces. Each piece is designed with functionality in mind, providing a solution in the process. This approach is similar to how most interior designers work today; they identify a problem or a poorly laid-out room and address it first.

But mainly, it’s the accessibility of Danish design that excites me. While there are limited edition Danish designs that are still hand-crafted, the majority of Danish design is accessible to a broader audience. At Sofacompany, our goal is to democratize Danish design. We strive to make well-crafted design available to the public.

3. What role does sustainability play in Danish design? Can you share how Sofacompany embraces these values in its collections?

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Danish design, emphasizing high-quality craftsmanship, timeless aesthetics, and responsible material use. Since Danish design values already focus on longevity, minimalism, and functionality, it naturally aligns with sustainable principles. The focus is on creating products that last for years, reducing waste and environmental impact. Sofacompany integrates recycled and responsibly sourced materials in our furniture, such as FSC-certified wood, OEKO-TEX-certified fabrics, and recycled PET bottles for upholstery. Our brand also emphasizes long-lasting, high-quality craftsmanship with a classic, minimalist aesthetic to reduce the need for frequent replacements.

4. How do you balance aesthetics and functionality when designing interior spaces or selecting furniture pieces?

When designing, I always aim for a harmonious balance between beauty and practicality. Aesthetic appeal is important, but it must never compromise functionality. For me, furniture should serve a purpose, whether that’s providing comfort, offering storage solutions, or adapting to various needs over time. I ensure that every piece not only enhances the room visually but also enhances its usability. For example, choosing pieces that are modular or can serve multiple functions, like a sofa that converts into a bed, is a great way to meet both design and practical needs.

5. What trends do you see emerging in Danish design, and how do you incorporate them into your projects at Sofacompany?

Rounded, organic shapes and forms.
Neutral palettes remain a staple, but warmer, nature-inspired tones are gaining popularity. Expect to see more muted terracotta, deep greens, mocha browns, and soft pastels, creating a calming and harmonious living space.
Danish design focuses on multifunctional and adaptable furniture. Think of sofas that transform into beds and modular systems that adapt to different needs over time.

6. The Paula 3-seater will be transformed into a living masterpiece during this event. Can you share your thoughts on the intersection of interior design and art?

Interior design and art are intrinsically linked—both are forms of self-expression and tell a story through design. When we approach furniture as a canvas, we have the chance to transform everyday items into statement pieces that evoke emotion and inspire creativity. The Paula 3-seater’s transformation is an exciting opportunity to elevate a functional piece of furniture into a true work of art, combining form, function, and artistic flair to create something extraordinary.

7. What challenges do you face when working with designers and artists like Renée Rossouw to bring a piece of furniture to life in a creative way?

Collaborating with artists presents a unique challenge: blending creativity with functionality while staying true to the brand’s essence. In the case of working with Renée Rossouw, it’s about ensuring that her artistic vision complements the inherent functionality of the piece. There are always practical considerations—materials, durability, and comfort—that need to be factored in, but it’s through open communication and a shared vision that we can bring these ideas to life without compromising on either side.

8. How important is the collaboration between designers, artists, and brands like Sofacompany in pushing the boundaries of interior design?

Collaboration is key to innovation in interior design. When designers, artists, and brands come together, they bring different perspectives and expertise, pushing each other to explore new ideas and techniques. At Sofacompany, this collaboration is vital in creating pieces that challenge traditional design norms while staying true to our core values of functionality and aesthetic simplicity. These partnerships allow us to experiment, break new ground, and introduce designs that are both beautiful and practical.

9. What do you hope attendees will take away from this event, both in terms of design inspiration and their understanding of Danish design principles?

I hope attendees leave feeling inspired by the versatility and accessibility of Danish design. It’s not just about aesthetics but also about functionality, sustainability, and creating designs that stand the test of time. By showcasing the Paula 3-seater transformation, I want to highlight how a piece of furniture can be both a functional element of a room and an artistic statement. The event is an opportunity for people to see firsthand how Danish design principles can enhance their living spaces in meaningful ways.

10 Looking ahead, how do you envision the future of interior design, particularly when it comes to blending art, function, and sustainability?

The future of interior design will continue to blend art, functionality, and sustainability in ways that are innovative yet respectful of our environment. We’ll see more furniture that serves multiple purposes—designs that adapt to the needs of modern living while being mindful of material sourcing and longevity. Art will play an increasingly important role in interior design, as people look for ways to personalise their spaces and reflect their individuality. Sustainable materials, ethical production, and longevity will be at the heart of every design, ensuring that the pieces we create today will still be cherished in years to come.