Spotlight: Up Close & Personal With Incanda

Incanda offers homemakers quality, locally produced and authentic furniture. From humble beginnings, the company has developed through the years into a much-loved brand. We chatted to the team about their latest ranges and how the brand continues to evolve.

What is Incanda’s origin story?

Incanda had humble beginnings. The owner, Gerhard van Deventer grew up on a farm near Swellendam, in the Southern Cape and started the business directly after finishing his studies, selling “products” from the farm. This included porcupine quill and guinea fowl feather lampshades and some tanned Nguni cow skins. Many people ask, so here is the quick story of the name: Incanda means porcupine in Xhosa, as porcupine quill lampshades were Gerhard’s flagship product in the first year of business. After this, the business grew, shaped and developed over the years into a much-loved furniture brand, loved by many.

Do you follow trends in sourcing for the South African market?

We design and produce our own line of furniture in a factory in the heart of Paarl. At present, we have over 150 employees, handcrafting each product to perfection. We are therefore continually doing the research needed to design new products that are not only on-trend but also truly and proudly reflect the South African lifestyle.

What is Incanda doing to address the need for sustainability in the industry?

Incanda values sustainability and limiting waste, and our Re-Create brand offers an innovative variety of smaller products (bags, baskets, aprons, and more) all manufactured by using off-cuts from our furniture production. We are excited about developing this special initiative – transforming what would have been waste, into useful and inspiring products.

What’s the secret behind your collections?

We design and produce modern, organic furniture. Our products from start to finish are made to last a lifetime.

Any personal favourites in your collection?

Our newly launched Ceres couch. It is a very sleek, timeless design which makes it a suitable choice for the majority of homes.

How did the pandemic change the interior/furniture industry?

We find that people spend more time at home than usual, and this opened the door for people to re-decorate, invest and create a home they love and enjoy.

What advice can you offer to those trying to create a more inviting interior?

Good lighting is a must. Keep the pallet of the room neutral and colour it in with bold patterns and textures. Don’t be afraid to mix things up, and always remember you are creating a space to fit your own personal lifestyle.

Any collaborations or projects you are working on?

We are currently working on some exciting new products to add to our woodwork collection. Keep an eye out for new bookshelves and office pieces launching soon. We also have a new showroom opening shortly.

Do you have a best-loved product in your own home?

We have the Karoo Classic with daybed in our home, and this is by far the best purchase I have ever made. It’s 5 years old now and still looking brand new. Even though we have a baby and a dog, leather was definitely the best option.

What are your 3 top tips for purchasing furniture?

Quality quality quality. Rather save some money and buy furniture to last. It’s an investment.