South African Home Owner Home and Decor Trends 2021

OUTDOOR SPACES

Out in STYLE ParcHaus

Kelebogile Nondzaba reveals what’s in with outdoor living, from patio furniture
fabrics and designs to garden lanterns and decking

M any South Africans enjoy spending time summer seasons. Investing in a high-quality, durable set of
outdoors relaxing with family and friends protective covers to help protect your cushions and outdoor
– braaiing or even just having a good furniture from the harsh effects of the summer sun and rain
conversation. Here are some great ideas on will keep them looking new years down the line.”
how to enhance the ambience in 2021, and
for this to last for years to come. FANTASTIC FURNITURE

FAB FABRICS The garden terrace and patio have become an extension of
the living room, says Tanja Geyer Schneider of ParcHaus. “In
Trending for the 2021 outdoor furniture summer season is 2021 outdoor living trends are all about enjoying your garden
the use of plain outdoor fabrics in muted tones alongside and patio alfresco style – but with the comfort and ease you
scatter pillows in rich contrasting colours, says Collin expect from your indoor spaces.
Moodley, managing director of Trumpex Furniture Imports.
“Today’s outdoor spaces are transforming into an extension
“The muted tones sit easily in any setting and evoke a of the home. The current outdoor design also takes into
warm, relaxing environment to one’s senses making one’s account the look and feel of your entire home and surrounds.
patio the epitome of tranquillity, especially after a long and
tiring day at work. Plain fabrics in muted tones such as “At first glance, the ParcHaus Timor Patio Dining Table
taupe or dark grey will always be timeless and in demand, would not look out of place in any stylish dining room (and
irrespective of season. many of our customers do use it as such). However, by
combining a robust aluminium cross frame with a teak wood
“These colour palettes are easy to work with, especially top, it gives our Timor Table the ability to withstand the
when interchanging scatter pillows during the winter and
>weather conditions on a patio or terrace.”

100 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

Patio Warehouse

HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021 Mobelli Furniture + Living
Trumpex

101

ParcHaus Mobelli Furniture + Living

It is said that an interior trend lasts a few years; however change in how we live our lives and view our homes, he

outdoor furniture is an investment which, if you choose says. “Home has never been more important, so investing

quality furniture from a reputable brand, will last you many in our homes is a shift in some of our spending habits.

years. So the trends/styles generally The rise of more modular or sectional

stick around for longer, says Alon Sachs, “Make sure the furniture is a response to how homes
co-founder of Mobelli Furniture + Living. furniture is outdoor have changed.

“The indoor-outdoor look has been “There is a shift away from large

with us for a few years and that shows weather-resistant.” homes to smaller spaces for urban
no signs of changing, so expect to see living particularly. But also, modular and
upholstered furniture for a long time yet. – Alon Sachs sectional furniture allow you to grow

The popularity of this trend allows for into your space, being able to invest

a more seamless transition from the indoor to the outdoor in a few pieces, then adding more pieces if your family

space creating a sense of unity and flow to your home.” grows, or even selling them if your family unit becomes

This year more than any has seen a huge sense of smaller and the children fly the nest.”

ParcHaus ParcHaus

Eva-Last FLYING SOLAR

Outdoor lighting with solar energy – it can’t get any
smarter, says Schneider. “Place a lamp wherever you
need it, or design a complete wireless lighting plan for
your garden and always have light where you need it.
“This is Coco – the ideal outdoor lamp. It preferably draws
its energy from the sun (although you can also charge the
lamp with a USB cable) and provides up to 18 hours of
light. Coco can be either placed on the ground or hung.”

Humans have always been fascinated by fire, she says.
“ParcHaus Pelmondo takes this fascination to a new level.
Discover the world’s most modern smokeless outdoor
fireplace – a compact burner with patented technology
using a gravity-fed wood pellet burner that results in a
beautiful high flame without any smoke.”

THE EVOLUTION OF DECKING CLEANING TIPS BY MOBELLI

Eva-Last’s design ethos is Inspired by Nature, Designed Maintaining Mobelli furniture is simple. Just hose it down with
for Life. Apex’s patented lightweight and low-maintenance water. No detergents, no oils – just plain water to wash off the
decking technology is the result of more than a decade of dust. For upholstered furniture or cushions simply wipe up spills.
cutting-edge engineering, says Nina Minne of Eva-Last. Should you have any stubborn dirt that won’t come off, use a
“Apex, as its name implies, is where composite decking mild soap with water (for example dish-washing liquid).
matches the look and feel of natural timber while its
purpose-driven design ensures its performance in all weather Make sure the furniture is outdoor weather-resistant. There
conditions is superior to timber.” Q is often confusion about what the terms “patio” or “outdoor”
furniture really mean. Some “patio” furniture can only be left
With thanks to Eva-Last, Mobelli Furniture + Living, ParcHaus, outside when it is under cover and not fully exposed to the
Patio Warehouse and Trumpex elements. All Mobelli outdoor furniture is suitable to stay outside
all year round in any weather.

102 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021



Choose Your Look

Thermo Fires is a privately owned, proudly South African
family business. With over 15 years of experience in braai and

fireplace manufacturing and design, our name has become
synonymous with one of the largest ranges of quality and

custom products.
At Thermo Fires we strive to bring our customers the largest range
of good-quality products at compe��ve prices, coupled with sound

knowledge and a wealth of experience. Our mo�o Leadership
through Quality embodies our vision to become the preferred

supplier to the descerning architect, builder and customer.
As proof of our commitment to our product, Thermo is the only
company to give a 20-year warranty against faulty workmanship.

Even with our vast range, we understand that some customers
prefer and/or need a bespoke unit. We therefore have a team

specialising in custom-designed units.

Above all, we promise to be honest in all our dealings and
provide reliable service at all �mes.

For advice you can trust, please call us or visit our new showroom.

THERMO FIRES 18 Viben Avenue Tel: 021 200 7660

Manufacturers & Designers of Custom and Brackenfell Industria www.thermofires.co.za
Brackenfell info@thermofires.co.za
Quality Braais & Fireplaces

Top Le� : Before
Top Right: Mildsteel De Luxe Spit braai
2nd Row : Mildsteel Spit with Stainless Facade
3rd Row: 304 Stainless Steel DeLuxe Spit braai
Le�: 304 Stainless steel Professional Spit braai

Photo and Braai Room by MOM.fix

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SA CREATIVES

Dynamic

DESIGNERS
Shereen Lurie meets two up-and-coming creatives
who are making their mark in the local design world

T he sky’s the limit for South African designers The unique and dynamic variations found in natural
who draw on the richness of Africa’s culture and materials allow them to bring more interest to a space.
heritage to create one-of-a-kind furniture pieces I use natural materials to enhance the authenticity
and objet d’art. These pieces are found both locally of a space as well as for their durability. I am also
and abroad as gallerists and international buyers mindful of the fact that natural materials are far more
recognise the boundary-pushing work of African talent. environmentally friendly.
We spoke to Kehumile Mate and Mmamotsatsi Masike about
what drives them to create. One of my favourite designs is the Abaphantsi

MMAMOTSATSI MASIKE low occasional chair, as it speaks of staying rooted

Creative director of and grounded in who you are. Its form and materials
Design Muse
celebrate and focus on
Interior and furniture designer
Mmamotsatsi Masike is the “Design Muse the authentic, raw and
founder of Design Muse, a modern creates spaces unfiltered beauty of
contemporary interior and bespoke that are dynamic women in a world where
furniture design company that superficiality has become
focuses on designing spaces that
elevate the human spirit, while and exciting to live the norm. These notions
being aesthetically pleasing, trendy in, play in, work in of staying grounded and
and functional. rooted are explored through
and relax in.” using raw materials (mud
Design Muse creates spaces that are dynamic and exciting
to live in, play in, work in and relax in. Along with providing cloth and natural wood) and
interior design services we also provide furniture design
services. Our interior and furniture design services specialise through using the circular form which is symbolic of a
in residential, recreational and hospitality design.
woman’s curvy frame. Most importantly, the curved back
I am honoured to be chosen as the first ever recipient
of Design Indaba’s Ravi Naidoo Residency for Emerging of the chair is symbolic of the phrase, “Women don’t
Creatives. I hope that the creative work I come up with during
the residency programme will inspire others to go after their break, they bend.” Q
dreams fearlessly and wholeheartedly, knowing
that anything is possible. Visit www.designmuse.africa

The Mino furniture range celebrates women
stepping into their feminine power and taking
up space. It is a range that embraces the
idea of matriarchy. The four-part series of
furniture pieces pays homage to and is
inspired by the all-women army of the
kingdom of Dahomey presently known
as Benin. The Dahomey group of female
warriors were referred to as “Mino”,
meaning “our mothers” in the
Fon language.

106 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

KEHUMILE MATE The Kopano Ottoman range was a manifestation of the

Founder/creative director of Mitsotso yearning I had for inter-generational knowledge transference

Kehumile Mate is the founder of local bespoke interior and among African people. So much significant knowledge about
furniture design company Mitsotso. The interior/furniture
designer, fine artist and self-taught photographer has ourselves and who we are/were/could be is fading away with
studied both locally and abroad and has recently launched
an ottoman range through Mitsotso, which is aimed at the older generation, and so Kopano was a personal vessel
sustaining local handcraft. Kehumile was a participant
SABC3’s Win A Home design show. for me to get to know where I come

As a creative I am always looking for opportunities to “As a creative from and to reignite the bond I had
diversify my craft. I don’t believe that human beings are I am always with my grandmother.
meant to be monoliths, and I am a firm believer that a jack
of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than looking for One of my favourite designs is
a master of one. Especially during these uncertain times.
opportunities the Bodulo Bench by Khosi Leteba.
I established Mitsotso in 2017 as an attempt to define to diversify His interpretation of the Basotho
and distinguish South African design within a global my craft.” culture fuses both heritage and
context through sustaining, highlighting and expanding the contemporary design in an organic
essence of the country’s creativity. I also wanted to create
a professional entity that could be a unified space for my manner. Africa is the cradle of
various skills and interests.
human creativity for me and we need to draw more from
As a Design Indaba 2020 Emerging Creative I feel
immensely privileged to have been given various design who we are in order to envision a better present. Q
opportunities from that experience. It was humbling to
showcase my work to people I’ve looked up to in the design Visit www.mitsotso.com
industry since I was a student, and to have them resonate
with the intent and aesthetic of the design is heartwarming.

I am inspired by human beings and their individual stories/
journeys. I haven’t met myself yet, but I think the more
people I interact with, the closer I get to knowing myself
because people are reactive and so everyone has different/
subjective perspectives of each other.

HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021 107

RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE

HOMES Louis Phillips Architects + AssociatesLerato Mphahlele speaks to
Louis Phillips Architects + Associatesarchitectural experts on what’s in store
for residential architecture in 2021
FOR tomorr
W hat innovations can we expect for
next year? Leading architects let us
in on what will be new in sustainable
buildings, multi-purpose home spaces
and eco-conscious designs.
LOUIS PHILLIPS

Director and professional architect, Louis Phillips
Architects + Associates

There have been a couple of strong trends coming through
over the past few years. Spaces are designed a lot more
flexibly from a usability perspective. Cavity doors are used
to open and close or combine spaces as the need arises,
especially when it comes to living areas.

Patios are enclosed to become part of living spaces in
winter and opened in summer. This emphasises the strong
link to outdoor living and the way these spaces connect and
flow into our designs.

There has always been a strong trend for open-plan
living and entertaining, but with the lockdown, the focus
increased to improve the design and finishes of living and
entertainment spaces. Lighting and sound automation,
audio-visual, low-maintenance finishes and well-landscaped
external spaces have become strong focus points.

108 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

JOHN MCKENZIE John McKenzie Architecture
Meik Architects
Principal architect, John McKenzie Architecture
NADINE NAIDOO
The ease of access to technology and communication
tools today is constantly influencing architecture and Principal architect, Meik Architects
how we interact with buildings and our requirements
in the built environment. There are many benefits Due to COVID-19 our homes have moved from being our
to remote working, and dependence on the typical sanctuaries to accommodating a number of functions: office,
centralised office space may lessen. school, gym, church, restaurant, entertainment, outdoor
area, and any other space that was part of our everyday life.
As building costs increase and economies remain This has influenced the way we think about how homes
constrained, there’s a push towards less wasteful, need to function, as we still desire a separation of functions.
more functional residential architecture. There’s a need
for multifunctional work spaces, home offices and the The home office or dedicated workstation space was
need to escape the daily chaos with quiet spaces. The on the rise before COVID-19, and as more people are
relationship between these spaces and the tranquillity comfortable with remote work, this trend will continue. We
of the garden is important to integrate into the design. will also see a move towards multifunctional spaces, and
smart furniture solutions.
The rising costs of basic services are making
people explore new ways of saving energy, and this I also foresee a rise in office buildings being converted to
is promoting a shift in design where the efficiency residential spaces with mixed-use facilities, as we continue to
of electrical, water supply and drainage systems be more urban and want to be close to amenities but possibly
are becoming an important design consideration in have fewer requirements for fixed daily office spaces in the
planning stages. work week.

Parc. PHILLIP WARREN
Parc.
Principal architect, Parc.
HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021
More and more companies, including
us at Parc., are realising that we can
not only reduce our impact on the
natural environment, but also play a
positive role in protecting our limited
resources and alleviating the current
levels of pollution in the atmosphere.

Continuing with the notion of
environmentally sensitive architecture,
we have noticed a rise in creative ways
that we, in partnership with various
service providers, can solve industry-
old issues such as the wastefulness of

>resources, time and money.

109

SAOTA
SAOTA
STEFAN ANTONI

Director, SAOTA

The COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread
lockdowns, resulting in people spending most of
their time in their homes. From this perspective the
importance of designing a home with a variety of
spaces with different atmospheres, views, light and
amenities becomes incredibly vital. If one has the
luxury of space, emphasis will also be placed on the
exterior spaces such as gardens and terraces.

JON CASE

Director, ARRCC

I think that architecture and design can no longer be
emotionless glamour palaces. People are looking to engage
with their homes on a deeper and more emotional level, as
places of solitude and safety.

Personal health spaces such as spas, salons and
wellness areas are on the rise, and I think that homes on
the luxury spectrum will further push towards a resort-style
living arrangement with personal private amenities.

For 2021, I’m hoping to see more firms looking to reduce
the carbon footprint of the buildings that they create,
making sustainable decisions while not compromising on
beauty. Aesthetically, luxury will become less weighted on
expensive, exotic materials and rather be focused on space
and a connection to nature.

110 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

JK Designs MUTOMBO KITENGE

JOHANN KOCH Director, Top Centre
Properties Group
Director, JK Designs
The biggest change we’re seeing
In my opinion there’s going to be one main mind shift, and that’s the are the smart features being built
priority level of an office. Most clients we design for request a home office, into home structures. Other changes
but in most cases it’s more a study for a just-in-case scenario. I believe it include the response homes have to
will now be shifting to a high priority and for a regular-use office that has the natural habitat – energy-saving
more space and maybe a more preferential placing in the planning. and environmentally friendly.

For home interiors, clever use of space and being able to use rooms I think in 2021 we will see a huge
for many different things. We have learnt that we can correspond very shift in spatial orientation in relation
effectively from home so now we need to allow for multiple members to the smart home. Of course with
of the same family using their home as a base. So the home needs to be the lockdown, kitchens, a home
flexible to accommodate an office environment during the day and become office and entertainment spaces
a home again when it comes to suppertime. are becoming part of everyone’s
shopping list when considering
renovating or building a home. The
classic-modern look is trending, and
home owners are looking for a bit of
detail internally that will make their
home feel special and classy and
different from everyone else’s. Q

With thanks to ARRCC, JK Designs,

John McKenzie Architecture,

Louis Phillips Architects + Associates,

Meik Architects, Parc., SAOTA and

Top Centre Properties Group

JK Designs

HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021 111

HOME TECH AND SECURITY

Home Sony

ENTERTAINMENT
GADGETS KelebogileNondzaba looks at the

latest home entertainment gadgets
T he season for
sensational home CINEMATIC SURROUND SOUND
entertainment is
here – and it’s all the The sound or audio mode best suited to what you’re listening
more fun if you have to can be selected directly via a button on the remote control. It
the right bits and bobs for that allows you to get deeper into movies with Cinema mode and hear
fully immersive experience. With every detail of your favourite tracks in Music mode. Plus there are
so many products on the market additional Voice mode and Night mode settings. Voice mode tailors
though, it’s sometimes hard to sound settings to accentuate speech, so you won’t miss a word,
know where to start. Let us help. and Night mode optimises the sound balance, so you can hear
everything clearly, even at low volume levels. The HT-G700 comes
with a powerful, wireless subwoofer and a larger cabinet size that
delivers a deeper, richer bass sound. Finally, set-up with a TV is
quick and easy via Bluetooth® or HDMI eARC/ARC.
www.sony.com

112 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

Planetworld

Samsung CRYSTAL CLEAR SOUND

You can have the best home music and movie experience with cinematic Dolby Atmos sound, tuned to perfection
with Trueplay technology. Enjoy crystal-clear dialogue with Arc carefully tuned with the help of Oscar-winning sound
engineers. Arc’s slim design can be discreetly mounted or placed on furniture without blocking the screen.
www.planetworld.co.za

WIND-FREE COOLING TECHNOLOGY

Save energy without compromising on style and
performance with Samsung’s new Wind-Free Air
Conditioner and keep your home comfortable, cool
and healthy. Samsung’s Wind-Free Air Conditioners
come with an AI Auto Cooling feature that makes
it easier to stay cool. With artificial intelligence, the
devices analyse room conditions, user-preferred
temperatures and cooling modes, and even the
climate outdoors, to automatically switch to an
optimal room setting. news.samsung.com

CELEBRATING 110 YEARS OF AUDIO EXCELLENCE

Homemation is proud to be the sole distributor of Denon in South Africa
and to bring you their limited edition anniversary models that represent the
very best of 110 years of Denon. Since its inception on 1 October 1910,
Denon has consistently pushed the audio industry forward, achieving
several industry firsts, decade after decade. Denon moves people’s hearts
through music and images, and delivers the passion of musicians and
creators. www.homemation.co.za

Homemation

HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021 113

BLINDS AND SHUTTERS Blind Designs Louvolite from PPI Solutions

d

SHUT

Eco-friendly,
innovative and stylish
window coverings
and shutters are very
much on-trend, writes
Guinevere Davies

Luxaflex® M ore than just a means to create privacy,
blinds and shutters have evolved to
become integral elements in home
design, offering everything from décor to
temperature control and security. In 2021,
they’re only going to become more indispensible, not to
mention convenient.

PERSONAL CLIMATE CONTROL

If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that our homes should
always be comfortable and secure.

Looking ahead, these qualities are going to become
more vital as we continue to spend quality time living and
working at home, says Blind Designs’ Paul O’Brien. “For
2021, we predict a rising demand for window coverings
that allow the correct balance of natural light. This helps
minimise the use of artificial lighting during the day, cutting
down energy costs.”

O’Brien adds, “With everyone spending extended
periods in their homes, they have come to terms with
the need for sun and weather protection in areas they
are using more often. Outdoor blinds offer the benefit of
energy efficiency, allowing you to control heat and solar
gain before it enters the home.”

Says Yvonne Tobien from Luxaflex®, “Energy efficiency

>should be one of your top priorities, especially with

114 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

Luxaflex® Taylor Blinds and Shutters
AMERICAN shutters
HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

115

AMERICAN shutters escalating electricity bills – insulating your home is one
Plantation Shutters Blind Designs of the best ways to slash these expenses. The unique
honeycomb design of our Duette® Shades makes them
the perfect energy-saving solution for windows of all
shapes and sizes.”

The team at Plantation Shutters agree: “Light and air
control are crucial elements for creating a peaceful and
relaxing ambience. It’s possible to change the entire
feeling of any room by installing shutters on openings
that get a lot of sun and light and, with a simple twist of
the louvres, effortlessly control the sunlight and airflow
in a room.”

The team at AMERICAN shutters predict 2021 will call
for more stylish security options. “Our Security Shutters
are most often installed on the interior face of windows
and doors, meaning aesthetics are almost as important as
functionality. These shutters should be prioritised during a
home’s architectural or interior design process rather than
become a necessary compromise after the fact.”

EFFORTLESS INNOVATION

The year ahead will become even more convenient
thanks to accessible innovations in window coverings,
says Picture Perfect Interior Solutions’ Anita Geber du
Toit. “Perfect Fit is a new product from Louvolite that has
been adapted to fit modern uPVC windows. These blinds
require no drilling; they simply fit onto the frames of the
doors or windows and remain on the door or window as
it opens and closes. This design is truly revolutionary for
the industry.”

116 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

Blind Designs

There is nothing more convenient than being able to to install as manually operated blinds. Operated via
open and close your curtains and blinds at the push of a app, these window coverings seamlessly integrate into
button, adds Geber du Toit. “The TaHoma and Connexoon existing smart homes, or they can be a first step towards
ranges from Somfy are great standalone solutions for a smarter home.” Q
operating window coverings, gate motors and lights.
TaHoma integrates with platforms such as Google Home With thanks to Absolute Doors, AMERICAN shutters,
and Amazon Alexa to enable voice commands. The Apple Blind Designs, Luxaflex®, Picture Perfect Interior Solutions,
Home integration will be launched in South Africa in the Plantation Shutters and Taylor Blinds and Shutters
coming months.”

Smart home automated blinds are at the top of Taylor
Blinds and Shutters’ must-haves for 2021 too, according
to the team. “Motorised window coverings are still
mistakenly seen as complicated and luxurious, particularly
due to the expected need for electrical infrastructure and
high installation costs. Our MOTION window coverings
are completely cable-free, making them just as easy

Taylor Blinds and Shutters Absolute Doors

PUT UP A GOOD FRONT

Garage doors are staying eco-friendly and on-trend in 2021,
according to Absolute Doors’ Rob van den Berg. “High-density
foam-filled garage doors are the latest trend, as these doors
have insulation qualities. They keep the heat out in summer
and the cold out in winter. There is also a trend towards
upmarket high-quality garage doors as they are one of the
biggest showpieces of the home from the driveway.”

HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021 117



EFFICIENT & STYLISH HEATING SOLUTIONS
WITH MINIMAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Visit www.infinitifires.co.za to view our extensive range

HEATING AND COOLING

Infiniti Fires Home Fires Blowing

AND
COLD
Kelebogile Nondzaba explores the latest
offerings when it comes to heating and
cooling your home

K eeping your home cool during summer is as
important as keeping it toasty during the chilly
winter months. But getting both right in a country
of extreme temperatures can sometimes be a bit
tricky. Here’s how to find the balance in 2021.

FLAMIN’ FABULOUS

Closed wood-burning fireplaces are currently on-trend, says
Rudie Scheepers, director at Home Fires. “These include
the Thorma Falun and Horby. There is also the Thorma
Torino which is a newer option from Thorma where you fit
ceramic tiles of your choice into panels in the fireplace.

120 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

Livecopper
Infiniti Fires
Home Fires
“You are limited only to the tiles you can find
in the correct size and type which allows you to KEEP COOL
determine the end look for this fireplace. These
closed-combustion fireplaces use far less wood than According to the Samsung Newsroom South Africa,
conventional fireplaces and produce a great deal more “Our Wind-Free Air Conditioner lets you maintain a
heat, making their running cost for heating among the stable home temperature via remote control optimised
lowest to be found. to your daily schedule.

“They also provide an entertainment factor as the “The Wind-Free cooling technology keeps you
dancing flames are both soothing and relaxing to sit and pleasantly cool while cleaning the air and saving energy.
watch in the evening with some good company.” It is able to provide you with an effective cooling
experience without the unpleasant sensation of harsh
ENVIRONMENTALLY SPEAKING cold air blowing directly onto your skin.”

Infiniti Fires fireplaces are environmentally friendly, CEILING FANS
says the company’s Malcolm Sims. “We are a country
that is trying to eradicate/limit alien tree species, so Ceiling fans can help you save on your electricity
firewood is generally easily available. Wood burnt in bill, says Ross Griffin, e-commerce coordinator at
a high-efficiency wood stove emits fewer emissions Livecopper. Studies conducted overseas have shown
into the atmosphere than if the wood had been left to that the use of a ceiling fan can actually help you save on
naturally rot. your electricity bill.

“If one compares the environmental issues of “Ceiling fans improve the circulation of
producing electricity in coal-fired power stations to heat air-conditioned rooms in summer and winter; this
your home, every wood stove installed in SA reduces means the air conditioner doesn’t have to work as
Eskom’s coal consumption by four tons per year and hard. This is also true in winter. Your fan can be put
reduces water used in power production by about an into a reverse mode that allows it to gently ‘pull’ air
average-size swimming pool per year. up and move hot air from the ceiling towards the floor
where there is human occupancy.
“For a country with high air pollution and usually
water restrictions, this is great news for the future.” “Most ceiling fan motors do not use more than 40W
to 100W – this is a similar wattage to the old carbon
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE TIPS filament light bulbs.” Q

Cleaning is quite simple, with minimal amounts of ash being With thanks to Home Fires, Infiniti Fires, Livecopper
removed periodically and the glass being cleaned as needed. and SAMSUNG
This entire process can be done within minutes, and can be
sped up further by the addition of a vacuum cleaner designed
specifically for cleaning up ash.

After the winter season you can do a more thorough clean,
and once every couple of years you can have a professional
come in to do a service, where they will do a full clean and
replace seals and also repaint and redo any waterproofing as
needed. - By Home Fires

HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021 121

FLOORING TRENDS

FFanLtOastOicRS Oggie Hardwood Flooring
Shereen Lurie examines the latest flooring trends to
instantly update the look and feel of your home

122 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

Lifestyle Ceramics
Continua

W hether you’re after the inherent ENGINEERED VINYL PLANKS
charm of hardwood floors or the
durability of large-format tiles, there If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative
is a tremendous range of flooring to hardwood floors, engineered vinyl planks (EVP)
options, each offering a variety of are an option to consider. Shannon Tchetchik,
features to cater to home owners’ needs and aesthetic marketing manager at FINfloor SA, says that EVP
requirements. We asked a selection of top flooring mimics the look and feel of hardwood as well
experts to share their favourite flooring trends for 2021. as being waterproof – great to use in kitchens,
bathrooms or basements.
NATURAL STONE TILES
“For an even more authentic look and feel,
Natural stone is a popular choice as it plays on form many styles have embossed grainy or distressed
and texture and is a durable flooring option. Plamena textures.” Tchetchik advises you clean EVP floors
Danieli, creative curator at Continua, says natural stone with a damp micro-fibre mop as needed, using clean
flooring is a timeless and classic look, with each stone water and a diluted floor cleaner. “Don’t use harsh
expressing itself in unique veins and colourations. cleaners, chemicals or abrasive scrubbing tools on
the floor.”
“With its sturdy and durable surface, it can be
manipulated into many finishes, from polished and ENGINEERED SLABS
honed to brushed and leathered, which gives a new
take on natural stone surfaces. Sealing and regularly South African home owners can now get their hands
cleaning natural stone is recommended to keep on Infinity Surfaces from Italy. Distributed in South
the natural surface in excellent condition. For daily Africa by International Slab Sales, Infinity Surfaces is
maintenance use a mild detergent, and thoroughly rinse perfect for indoor and outdoor flooring, and available
and dry the surface.” in large-size slabs.

HARDWOOD Megan Noel, PR manager at Infinity Surfaces,
says Infinity Surfaces are made to be resistant to
Hardwood flooring is a failsafe option for all home wear and tear and are easy to clean with nearly zero
aesthetics. According to Hanel Appleby, sales and porosity. Apart from these technical specifications,
marketing manager at Lalegno, herringbone and Infinity Surfaces are available in a variety of trendy
chevron floor patterns seem to be current hot marble, stone and concrete-inspired designs.
favourites.
MIX AND MATCH
“Each board is unique, and that is exactly what you
are after when you purchase a real wooden floor. With The benefit of selecting a variety of flooring options
over 15 different board and veneer options, Lalegno in your home is that you can use products that are
has a style to suit every budget and taste. Lalegno’s tailored to the functions of different rooms, without
300mm-wide board, in either Prime or Classic, looks sacrificing on quality and style.
great in a large space.”
According to Asif Lavangia, sales consultant at

>Lifestyle Ceramics, stone, concrete, marble and

HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021 123

Gonsenhausers Fine Rugs

Infinity Surfaces

wood-look tiles are popular flooring options. They go CREATIVE COLOUR APPLICATIONS
well with many interior styles and can be used together
to create a unique and eclectic look. “If you love the Home owners are becoming more daring with the use of colour
wood look, we highly recommend the wood-look tiles on wooden flooring. Frikkie Greeff, managing director of Woodoc,
for both bathrooms and kitchens.” says: “The use of Woodoc’s Colour Concentrate tints together
with Woodoc Water-Borne Floor to create a look that is bold, yet
RECLAIMED WOOD still clearly shows the wood grain, is growing in leaps and bounds.

Nick Gluckman, owner of Oggie Hardwood Flooring, has “White floors are becoming more and more popular.
found increased popularity in reclaimed wood that has been Again, it is important to use a product that yields a ‘washed’
sourced from historical buildings before being repurposed appearance and does not hide the wood grain. Woodoc Water-
and transformed into engineered wood flooring and cladding. Borne Floor, matt or gloss, makes this easy to achieve.

“These one-off pieces are packed with history and “Grey floors lend an unmistakable ambience to a home,
elegant imperfections, and feature original patinas that especially if the wood grain and character are enhanced by the
give undeniable character to the floors and walls of grey appearance. Woodoc Colours Concentrate in Beaufort
your projects.” Grey or Clifton Grey, added to Woodoc Water-Borne Floor
Sealer, clear or white, can yield a ‘fumed’ or grey appearance
Lalegno while accentuating the character of the wood beneath.”

STATEMENT-MAKING RUGS

Charles Gonsenhauser, owner of Gonsenhausers Fine
Rugs, says one of the biggest rug trends now is tribal rugs,
particularly simple Moroccan-style designs. Natural-fibre plain
textured rugs with simple finishes are also in demand.

When selecting a rug, Gonsenhauser recommends you
make sure that you choose something timeless, that the size
is big enough for the area and that you do not compromise
on quality.

“Poor-quality rugs will fade in the sun and will need high
maintenance, which is expensive. In the long term it is
cheaper to buy one good rug than three poor-quality cheap
rugs. Start with the rug you love and build your scheme
around it.” Q

With thanks to Continua, FINfloor SA, Gonsenhausers Fine Rugs,
Infinity Surfaces, Lalegno, Lifestyle Ceramics, Oggie Hardwood
Flooring and Woodoc

124 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021



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END NOTE

Multi-purpose

SPACES
Leanne Van Niekerk of LVN Interiors looks into
the importance of trends in design and interior “Spending money on your home is an
design and what we can expect for 2021 investment, and I would recommend

E ach new year brings new design trends that focusing on your kitchen, home
influence consumers’ buying decisions. These office and outdoor living area.”
trends are long-standing and they develop and
change over time. Trends come from consumers’
attitudes, lifestyles, needs, wants and spending
patterns. The consumer has the purchasing power after all.

Materials, colours, patterns, shapes and styles of a
particular season that have a long-term influence on the
market are things that are looked at when trend forecasting.

Being a trend forecaster is a skill and if you want the
inside scoop you will need to spend some time identifying
styles, materials and colours that will be most appealing to
consumers going forward.

Earth-inspired colours and natural materials have the
potential to remain prominent in 2021. We may also see
décor trends such as warm neutral colours like olive, yellow
ochre and shades of brown as well as mixing metal with for
example wood and stone being used in most spaces.

In terms of fabrics, performance fabrics may still make
a comeback. COVID-19 has spurred on innovation in
fabrics that withstand the wear and tear of everyday life and
are easy to clean.

Because we are now spending more
time at home, creating multifunctional
spaces in the home that are suitable for
work, school, play, exercise, and more will
become more of a need.

More homes will be designed with
purpose and functionality in mind. 2020 has
seen home owners spending a considerable
amount of time at home adapting to a new
world of social and professional distancing.

Many people have realised that they
need to update or reconfigure spaces.
Spending money on your home is an
investment, and I would recommend
focusing on your kitchen, home office and
outdoor living area.

There is a need for multifunctional spaces
in the home where we combine work with
pleasure and relaxation. COVID-19 has and
will influence innovation in home design
going forward. Q

128 HOME & DÉCOR TRENDS 2021

We Define

Organized Simplicity.

Acute Innovation SA

CONTACT: 015 291 2500 | [email protected] | www.acuteinnovationsa.co.za

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