Spotlight: Meet Shannon Prestia from Versus Paint

Versus Paint is a proudly South African master coating and luxury paint supplier.  What started out as a small family business has since grown into a reputable brand leader in the industry. Today we meet Shannon Prestia from Versus Paint, who shares a passion for colour, quality coatings and eco-friendly products.

How did you get involved in Versus Paint?

I started working at Versus Paint in 2002. I started out in the factory as the factory manager – making samples and developing new products. I worked with an Italian chemist who taught me all that I know today. I later progressed into Marketing.

Can you tell us about the history of the company?

Versus Paint started as a family business. Initially, the core focus was purely on paint application, but we quickly realised the need for high-quality coatings in the industry. We brought a chemist out from Italy, who helped us to formulate our exclusive coatings. We then sourced local raw materials and started manufacturing the products that we are so well known for today. We love being innovative in our products and are constantly formulating cutting edge and environmentally friendly luxury paints and coatings.

What inspires you?

Colour inspires me. I love experimenting with new and exciting colours in all forms of life, from clothes to art to wall coatings.

Versus Paint believes in empowering the design and décor industry with inspirational finishes. Can you tell us more?

Versus Paints are well known for excellent quality and endurance which is why we are a favourite with interior designers, who love our specialist coatings to instantly transform a space.

Is there a hidden meaning behind the name ‘Versus Paint’?

You are going to laugh – but when we started, we were a really small company in a space that was dominated by big players – so it was us versus the world.

Any exciting projects or collaborations you are involved in?

We are proud sponsors of Decorex Africa and through them, we have collaborated with The Fourth Gallery in Cape Town. Various artists transformed the gallery rooms using Versus Paint, as a showcase of the contemporary home space through a deconstructed lens, inviting viewers to arrive to various unfolding scenes.  The exhibition is quite incredible and is open to the public.

empty light mint wall in classical style interior with green sofa. 3d rendering

Trending colours we can look forward to in Spring?

This Spring we are turning to colours that fill us with a feeling of hope. We are moving towards refreshing greens, optimistic yellows as well as calm-inducing grounded tones

You have a vast portfolio. What are you most proud of?

There are so many projects that we are really proud of being a part of. We have been involved in the renovation of Sun City, Times Square, the Gautrain… Personally, the project that I had the most fun with, was a Casino that we did in Chile.

Do you have any new and exciting pieces that you have recently launched or anything in the pipeline?

Versus recently became the sole distributor for Microdx Hand Sanitisers and disinfectants. This new product range is in line with our ethos of environmentally friendly products. Furthermore, it has bioactive ingredients that are healthier for the environment.

The perfect place in your home to indulge?

I love my garden – one of my favourite hobbies is reading. There is nothing better than relaxing on my favourite chair on my patio and getting stuck into a good book. I also love to entertain – so you often find us on our balcony on a Sunday afternoon with loved ones enjoying a good braai.

I know very few of us are travelling right now but if you could where would you go?

The Maldives is definitely on my bucket list. The one thing I miss most during Covid is the beach – and what could be better than being at a beautiful resort on an exotic island. Pure bliss!

What are your current favourite restaurants/shops?

I haven’t been to a restaurant in months, unfortunately. My favourite clothing shop, however, is Nikki Boutique as I love their unique style. But since Covid, most of my shopping is thus done online now. I often use “One Day Only” and “Takealot”.

What’s your personal motto?

If you think you can, then you can. If you think you can’t – you won’t.

A place you visited to unwind in Africa?

My favourite holiday spot in South Africa is Ramsgate in KwaZulu Natal. I love the South Coast – the beaches are beautiful, the water is warm, and the people are lovely.

Find out more about Versus Paint online. Visit their website at www.versuspaint.co.za.