5 Minutes With Creative Director Thabisa Mjo

A quick Q&A with Thabiso Mjo, Creative Director of interior and product design firm Mash.T Design Studio, ahead of Design Joburg.

Thabiso Mjo will be creating a stand for Tempur at Design Joburg 2017 as part of the Collaborative Roomsets programme, entitled Urban Sophistication.

How would you describe your product/style?

Contemporary African-influenced design. Re-imagining the African aesthetic as we know it and presenting it in a cool, fresh new way.

What can visitors expect from you at Design Joburg?

Fun design that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s been a welcome challenge combining my vision with that of Tempur. Together, we’ve pushed the boundaries to create quite a brave concept.

Can you tell us more about any new designs that you may be launching at the show?

I’m showcasing one of my products. Think scale, think geometric shapes and a bit of whimsy.

What do you love most about local design? 

I love that it’s unapologetically bold!

What does your own home look like?

Very toned down, to everyone’s surprise! Neutral tones, whites and creams with pops of colour in the decor accessories. I have enough jarring things happen to me on a daily basis, I don’t need that at home as well.

Who are your favourite local designers right now?

Donald Nxumalo, Tracy Lynch, Anatomy Design and Swank Jozi.

What are the top trends for 2017 that you’ll be embracing?

One word: iridescent. It’s coming back in a major way and I am loving it.

Can you tell us more about your design process?

Storytelling. I always come up with a little story in my head. “Who lives here?” “Who will buy this product and why?”

JVR Architects and Generation Store will also come together to create a Collaborative Roomset at Design Joburg – you can read more about it here. The show runs from 12 to 14 May 2017. Tickets are priced between R80 and R110 and are available here.