Arkivio: South African Studio Redefining Bespoke Mirrors and Lighting

From its beginnings as a small garage start-up in 2014, Arkivio has grown into one of South Africa’s leading luxury brands for bespoke mirrors and lighting. Founded by Lance Surgeson and Paul Rabinowitz, the Durban-based studio has built its reputation on a thoughtful blend of modern African design and world-class craftsmanship – a balance shaped by the textures, materials and cultural heritage of the country’s East Coast.

Today, Arkivio’s design studio and workshop remain the heart of the brand. By producing its collections entirely in-house, the company prioritises both quality and community, creating meaningful employment while continually investing in the development of local artisans. This hands-on approach has allowed Arkivio to deliver refined, custom pieces for prestigious international hospitality projects, including Six Senses, Singita and &Beyond.

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The studio’s collections reflect a distinct design language that celebrates both craft and contemporary form. The sculptural Isibo series draws directly from African craft traditions, with mirror frames wrapped by hand in cord, leather and beads. Each piece carries a unique silhouette, transforming a functional object into a tactile work of art.

The Lukiwe Collection explores a quieter material palette, combining warm oak, woven cane and solid brass to create pieces defined by natural texture and understated elegance. Here, craftsmanship becomes the defining feature, allowing simple forms and honest materials to shape the final design.

Most recently, Arkivio unveiled its latest lighting designs during Cape Town Furniture Week 2026. Among them, The Woven Collection highlights the intersection of machine manufacturing and traditional African weaving. Clean, architectural lines provide structure, while layered woven elements introduce warmth and subtle imperfection.

Across each collection, Arkivio continues to refine a regional design identity – one that honours African craft while presenting it through a contemporary, globally relevant lens.