Luxury Craftmanship: The Best of South African Design

Whether it be fitting our fans into award-winning interiors or meeting high-end business owners with a taste for sophistication and opulence, we can attest to the talent and passion here on our nation’s very own doorstep. South Africa is clearly a front-runner in world design – offering some of the most premium luxury jewellery, clothing, homeware, and fine art in the world. So we’d like to introduce you to some of our favourites.

This fifth-generation jewellery design house, which also offers a range of fine timepieces, was established in 1899. With four branches across South Africa – in Cape Town, Johannesburg (Sandton and Hyde Park), and Pretoria, they offer a varied showcase of prestigious brands from Cartier to Omega, Mont Blanc and Tag Heuer, amongst others. Discerning buyers often visit Charles Greig stores for custom-made jewellery as well as professional advice on diamond and precious gemstone pieces and their care.

We’ve chosen to officially partner with the Light Shed to showcase some of our colonial fans because this lifestyle outlet has such a good reputation for high-quality design. With two stores in Jan Smuts Avenue and Craighall Park, it’s easy to get your hands on the perfect lighting and fittings for designer homes. The Light Shed is particularly perfect for those who enjoy a modern spin on vintage pieces, as well as fittings for Victorian-themed spaces. View some of their most beautiful pieces on offer, here.

While South African fashion design is well respected on a global scale – few local designers have pieces that are showcased in the world’s most high-end fashion hubs. Michelle Ludek is one of the privileged few, thanks to her talent and the appealing nature of her wearable but premium-quality clothing. Not only do her slouchy shift dresses and feminine summer wear set her apart as a designer, but she also adds a distinct signature twist to every piece of clothing with her ‘high street’ luxurious sense of style.

Many of South Africa’s artists have made a name for themselves abroad – showcasing the diverse talent and rich cultural tapestry of the nation to enthusiastic buyers overseas. However, few have made as great an impact as South African sculptor Donald Greig and with good reason. Coming from a family of diamond jewellers, Donald has a keen eye for the truly exquisite beauty of nature, which is easily seen in his bronze and malachite sculptures of wildlife. He regularly hosts exhibitions around the world, finding acclaim with critics and art-lovers alike for his distinctly African work, that always incorporates a touch of true opulence.

Stay tuned to our blog as we explore more truly exquisite homegrown talent, amongst some of the world’s most stunning architecture, design, and fashion houses – for those who enjoy the finer things in life.