aLoveSupreme’s Lionise Collection

WORDS Tracy Greenwood

Following a successful launch at Design Indaba 2014, the homeware, stationery and apparel brand aLoveSupreme is still going strong. Its latest range, Lionise, is inspired by African animals and patterns.

Leanne and Ryan Botha ran a design consultancy for 15 years before deciding to take the leap and launch their own brand. “Skirting the edge of a mid-life crisis and frustrated by the restrictions of client briefs, Ryan wanted creative carte blanche to design a range he was truly proud of. It was cheaper than buying a Porsche, so I was happy to join him for the ride!” says Leanne, who runs the business and manages their 10 staff members, leaving Ryan to get on with his whimsical designs.

“Whimsical” is an apt word to describe the motifs in all aLoveSupreme collections, including Lionise. Vibrant colours and African inspired prints adorn lifestyle and homeware products, including scatter-cushion covers, place mats, coasters, trays, pencil cases and – our favourite – notebooks.

“I illustrate – by hand – an array of elements within a broad theme, and then select what I feel will work the best. I play around with the various parts until a design falls together,” Ryan says of his creative process. “A range usually includes about four designs and two colour ways, and is often a series of happy accidents.” There is a lot more to look forward to from aLoveSupreme, most notably a range of T-shirts and trucker caps, which, say Ryan and Leanne, will make affordable gifts for those who appreciate local design.

There is also a heritage collection in the making, which will include new bags and picnic blankets.

For more information, visit alovesupreme.co.za.