WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied

Casa LV, a Cape Town-based homeware brand known for its beautiful, bespoke, hand-blown glassware, was born from a friendship between two women with very different, yet deeply complementary, relationships to glass.

“Lynne and Vilma have been dear friends for 35 years. From the beginning, creativity was always part of their friendship. They have both always been passionate about fashion, interiors, collecting beautiful things and working on creative projects together,” says Julia Hirsch, Marketing Manager at Casa LV.

Glass was something they both had a deep connection to. Lynne grew up around the industry as her father was involved in a glass factory, while Vilma, with her Italian roots, had always collected hand-blown glass and had an instinctive appreciation for it.

What essentially began as a passion project has naturally evolved into a growing family business, with Vilma’s daughter Lara joining as Projects and Wholesale Manager and Lynne’s daughter Julia coming on board as Marketing Manager. For Julia, this is what makes Casa LV special – “the foundations have never really changed. It is still built around genuine friendship, passion and a shared love of the product.“

Interestingly, Casa LV was not always destined to be a glassware brand. Lynne and Vilma initially experimented with ceramics and porcelain, but neither material was able to achieve the transparency, depth or colour they were imagining. Eventually, they returned to glass, and that became a major turning point for the brand.

Material Matters

For Casa LV, the raw material – glass – always comes first. “We think about what glass can do naturally rather than trying to force it into something it does not want to be. From an initial idea, we brief our artisans and begin prototyping. That process can take time, and the first attempt is very rarely the final one. There is a lot of refining of proportion, weight, colour and functionality before we feel a piece is right,” explains Julia.

Every vessel in the Casa LV range is mouth-blown and shaped by hand, meaning no two pieces are ever the same. “Finding the right glassblower was another process of trial and error. Once we found the artisan we work with today, there was a huge amount of persistence on both sides and it took close to two years of development to really achieve what Lynne and Vilma had envisioned,” says Julia. “The candle cloche was one of the greatest technical challenges. Unlike a traditional hurricane, ours is open at both the top and the bottom, which sounds simple but was incredibly difficult to execute correctly by hand. It became a tireless exercise in refining the form until it worked.”

One of the foundations of a Casa LV piece is its weight. The team work with three layers of glass, which gives the objects a wonderful solidity and presence. Julia explains that a practical consideration is always there – “a vase needs to comfortably hold flowers, an ice bucket needs to function as an ice bucket, and a cloche needs to work around a candle. For us, the best object sits somewhere between sculpture and utility. A Casa LV vase should be beautiful filled with flowers, but when the flowers perish, the glass should remain as an object in its own right.”

Colour Play

A sense of play is essential to Casa LV, whose colour palette is intentional but not calculated. “We usually begin by looking at international colour trends and what is emerging across fashion, interiors and design more broadly. From there, we interpret those influences through the Casa LV lens rather than following them too literally,” says Julia. “After almost a decade of working with glass, we have learnt which colours our customers return to again and again, so there are certain shades that have become Casa LV staples.”

From Cape Town to London and Beyond

While everyone within the team brings a different heritage and influence to the business, Casa LV is proudly crafted in Cape Town. “Casa LV simply would not be Casa LV if the product were manufactured somewhere else. Championing South African craftsmanship also means showing that locally made design can sit confidently on an international stage,” says Julia.

The brand has recently gone international, expanding to the UK through Julia’s London-based business Hue Haus. “One of the most rewarding things for me has been watching someone in London encounter Casa LV glass for the first time and respond to it in exactly the same emotional way that people do in South Africa,” she says. “Seeing Casa LV begin to find a home outside South Africa feels like the next chapter of the same story rather than the beginning of a different one. The roots remain firmly in Cape Town; the audience is simply becoming larger.” @casa.lv | @hue.haus.london

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INTERVIEW BY Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied

For Ruaan Dreyer and Marco Moors, the duo behind Moors Ceramics, location is indeed everything. Set among the flowers of the Lowensvlei Flower Farm, their ceramics studio is known for its small-batch, handcrafted pieces inspired by the shapes and seasonal colours of their surroundings. We spoke to the pair about life on a flower farm and how it has informed their approach to ceramics.

How did Moors Ceramics come to be – what led you to establish a ceramics studio on a flower farm in the Swartland?

“Moors Ceramics really began long before we ever owned a flower farm.

“I’ve always loved ceramics and handmade objects. Before moving to the Swartland, I owned a gift shop in Bloemfontein, so I spent years surrounded by beautiful homeware, decor and ceramics. I’ve always been drawn to pieces that feel like they have a story rather than simply serving a purpose.

“The name Moors Ceramics comes from my surname, which makes the studio incredibly personal. It’s not just a business; it’s something that carries my own identity.

“Four years ago, Ruaan and I took a leap of faith and bought Lowensvlei Flower Farm. It was a complete lifestyle change. Ruaan came from a corporate property background and naturally brought structure, planning and operational thinking to the farm, while I brought the creative side. Somehow those two worlds just clicked.

“Living on a flower farm has a way of slowing you down and making you appreciate the beauty in everyday things. Flowers, seasons, soil, colour and craftsmanship all became part of our daily lives, and starting Moors Ceramics felt like the most natural next step. It never felt like a separate business – it simply grew alongside the farm.”

Organic form, repetition and texture are central to your practice. How much of the landscape finds its way into the pieces?

“Probably far more than we realise.

“When you spend every day on a working flower farm, you begin to notice patterns everywhere. Long rows of flowers, trays of seedlings, fields planted in perfect repetition, and the way the landscape changes with the seasons all quietly influence the way you think about design.

“Our wall domes are a good example of that. Individually, they’re simple, but when they’re installed together, they create rhythm and movement, much like walking through rows of flowers stretching across the farm.

“The Swartland itself also leaves its mark on everything we make. It’s not a loud landscape; it’s subtle. The dry earth, soft neutral tones, changing skies and beautiful natural light all inspire the colours and finishes we work with.

“One of the things we love most about ceramics is that, just like farming, you can never control everything. You prepare as carefully as you can, but once the kiln is fired, the glaze develops its own personality. That unpredictability reminds us a lot of growing flowers. Nature always has the final say.”

The sculptural domes are quite striking. Can you tell us more about this collection and its making process?

“The domes actually started with a very simple question: how could we create something that brings warmth, texture and colour to a wall without overwhelming a space?

“We wanted something sculptural, but also timeless. Each dome is cast, finished and glazed by hand, so although they share the same form, no two are ever identical. The kiln gives every piece its own character. Sometimes the glaze develops incredible depth, sometimes it breaks softly over the curves, and sometimes it surprises us completely. Those little differences are exactly what we love.

“The collection has grown to include three sizes that can be displayed individually or combined into larger installations. We especially enjoy mixing them with our ceramic swallows, because together they create a feeling of movement across a wall. The domes bring calmness and balance, while the birds introduce a sense of life and playfulness.

“For us, it’s less about decorating a wall and more about creating something that feels collected over time rather than bought.”

How do you position Moors Ceramics within the broader South African design landscape, and how important is the sense of place to the identity of the studio?

“We’re incredibly proud to make everything here on our flower farm in the Swartland.

“There’s something special about creating pieces in the same place where we’re growing flowers every day. The farm isn’t just where the studio happens to be – it’s part of its identity.

“We’re not chasing perfect uniformity or mass production. We actually embrace the little differences that happen when something is made by hand. Slight variations in glaze, texture or colour are what make each piece unique.

“I think our different backgrounds also shape the business in an important way. I naturally lean towards creativity, while Ruaan brings structure, planning and a practical way of thinking. That balance has become the foundation of both the farm and Moors Ceramics.

“South African design has such a strong appreciation for authenticity and local craftsmanship, and we’re honoured to be part of that conversation. We want to create beautiful objects that people can live with for years, while knowing exactly where they came from and who made them.”

What does a typical day at Lowensvlei look like, and how do the rhythms of the farm influence the pace and direction of Moors Ceramics?

“No two days are ever the same, and that’s probably what we enjoy most.

“The mornings usually begin in the flower fields or tunnels. There are flowers to harvest, crops to check, staff to coordinate and orders to get out the door. Farming has its own rhythm, and it doesn’t wait for anyone.

“Somewhere between all of that, the ceramics studio comes to life. Some days we’re pouring moulds, trimming pieces or glazing new collections. Other days we’re unloading a kiln with the excitement – and sometimes the nervousness – of seeing what happened overnight.

“The biggest lesson we’ve learnt from both farming and ceramics is patience. Flowers bloom when they’re ready, and clay dries when it’s ready. Neither can be rushed without compromising the end result.

“Looking back, it’s difficult to separate Moors Ceramics from Lowensvlei because they’ve grown together. The farm gives us constant inspiration, keeps us grounded, and reminds us every day that the most rewarding things are often the ones that take the longest to create.” moors.co.za | @m_o_o_r_s

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COMPILED BY Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied, Justin Patrick (Keiskamma Art Project), Loricia Short (David Krynauw Design)

While our feature on Pierre Frey’s latest textile collection looks to formal French gardens, here we explore local textile and wallpaper collections that celebrate South African flora and fauna.

Ardmore Design x Cole & Son

In 2025, Ardmore collaborated with Cole & Son, the renowned British wallpaper brand celebrated for its luxurious and artistic designs, to create the Baobab Collection. Consisting of nine designs illustrated with remarkable detail, the collection celebrates the diversity of life found among the branches of the Tree of Life. ardmore-design.com | cole-and-son.com

CoralBloom Studio x Robin Sprong Wallpaper

CoralBloom Studio is led by Dr. Michelle von Stein, a scientist-turned-designer with a PhD in botany and microbiology, who collaborates closely with her mother Ann, a botanical artist, and sister Megan, a conservation ecologist and scientific illustrator. Together, they create unique designs, such as Succulent Serenity, inspired by detailed scientific watercolours of South African plants. robinsprong.com | coralbloomstudio.com

Keiskamma Art Project × Clout/SA for Cara Saven

The magnificent tapestry-inspired wallpaper and fabric, Stitched, A Story of Our Home, is the result of a creative collaboration facilitated by Clout/SA for Cara Saven. Artists from the Keiskamma Art Project were challenged to create an embroidered piece that referenced what a scenic and quintessentially South African wallpaper might look like. keiskamma.org | clout-sadesign.co.za | carasaven.com

David Krynauw Design

David Krynauw Design’s latest collection of wallpaper and fabric designs, printed by Fabric Bank, comprises adapted historic prints from the Kleine Rijke collection dating back to the 1800s. David’s wife and fellow designer Jasmyn Krynauw, who heads up DKI – a division of David Krynauw Design – uses scale in creative ways and repurposes texture and colour to form new, locally inspired landscapes that carry a sense of whimsy and delight. | davidkrynauw.com

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In a market increasingly focused on quality, sustainability, and transparency, Ducko Down stands out by offering locally manufactured and ethically sourced duck down and feather products. Proudly based in the North West, they combine traditional craftsmanship with a commitment to responsible sourcing practices to create premium bedding designed for comfort and lasting durability.

Ducko Down offers a carefully curated range of premium bedding products, including down duvets and pillows with various fill options, designed to suit a variety of sleeping preferences. For centuries, down duvets have been trusted for their exceptional warmth, breathability, and lightweight comfort. Their natural insulating properties create a cozy sleep environment without the heaviness of many synthetic alternatives, making them a time-tested favourite for winter bedding.

With a focus on comfort, quality, and ethical responsibility, Ducko Down continues to provide South Africans with premium duck down products that offer warmth, support, and peace of mind. duckodown.co.za | orders@duckodown.co.za | 014 537 2124

Don’t forget to enter our competition. One lucky VISI reader stands a chance of winning a luxurious King Autumn Duvet and two Feather/Down Pillows from Ducko Down, worth R5 205.

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The countdown is on for the industry’s most exciting exhibition – a dynamic showcase of gift, fashion, decor and design trends. This is your chance to uncover the latest products, upcoming trends and connect directly with leading suppliers all under one roof.

From products launches to inspiring displays, the exhibition floor will be packed with exciting discoveries around every corner. Whether you are sourcing new products, searching for the latest trends, or looking to grow your supplier network, this is where business happens.

Trade buyers attending the exhibition gain access to hundreds of exhibitors showcasing their products. It’s the ideal exhibition to compare products, build relationships and stay ahead of what’s next in the industry.

Register as a trade buyer and join us this August for an exciting opportunity to connect, source, gain industry insights and grow your business.

SARCDA 2026 takes place between 12 -14 August 2026 at Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand. For more information, visit sarcda.co.za or contact SARCDA at information@sarcda.co.za and 011 728 6668.

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Get ready for an exciting showcase of gift, fashion, decor and design trends this August as one of the year’s most anticipated trade exhibitions opens its doors. Coming just in time to stock shelves for the festive season, SARCDA 2026 brings together leading brands, entrepreneurs and serious buyers all under one roof.

For exhibitors, this is your opportunity to showcase your products directly Infront of verified trade buyers searching for new products, fresh suppliers and business partnerships.  Whether you are launching new products, growing your brand, or are looking to connect with high-quality leads, the exhibition floor will be buzzing with decision-makers ready to connect.

For buyers, expect an inspiring experience packed with brand new products, networking opportunities, and exclusive industry insights. Discover what’s next, meet the faces behind the brands, and gain access to thousands of products.

This is where business happens, relationships are built and future opportunities are discovered.

Now is the time to apply to exhibit or register as a trade buyer. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of SARCDA 2026!

SARCDA 2026 takes place between 12 -14 August 2026 at Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand. For more information, visit sarcda.co.za or contact SARCDA at information@sarcda.co.za and 011 728 6668.

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It started with a wooden sun lounger and a tin of oil. Mobelli founder Alon Sachs had bought what seemed like a reasonable piece of outdoor furniture, only to spend more time maintaining it than enjoying it. “There was nothing relaxing about it,” he recalls. “It felt like I was working for the furniture, instead of the furniture working for me.”

That frustration became a business idea. Together with his brother Aviv, Alon set out to build furniture that was beautiful, durable, and genuinely hassle-free. Outdoor furniture that could handle the elements without demanding anything back.

From Outdoor to the Whole Home

As Mobelli’s outdoor reputation grew, so did the conversation with clients. The same desire for quality without compromise, for furniture that genuinely fits into daily life, extended naturally indoors.

Today, Mobelli’s indoor collections are built around the same philosophy: pieces that are considered, comfortable, and designed to adapt. Modular sofas that reconfigure as a household’s needs change. Deep, generous seating that makes comfort the priority. Flexible arrangements that work for how a home is actually lived in, not just how it photographs.

Beyond the Home

That reputation hasn’t stayed residential. Mobelli works with hotels, boutique lodges, and hospitality spaces across South Africa and beyond – from carefully considered outdoor terraces to fully furnished interiors. It’s a natural extension of the same brief: spaces that need to look exceptional and perform reliably, day after day.

Twenty Years On

Mobelli now has showrooms in Cape Town (Sea Point and Paarden Eiland) and Johannesburg (Illovo Square and Fourways Mall), and a client base that spans residential homes, interior designers, architects, and hospitality operators across Africa.

The collections keep evolving. But the founding idea has stayed exactly the same: furniture should work for the life you want to live.

Explore the full range at mobelli.co.za.

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PHOTOS Supplied

The latest collection of considered design pieces from H&M HOME pays homage to mid-century modern interiors and the vibrant ’70s design era. The theme of the collection is a harmonious blend of warm brown and honey tones with soft pinks and graphic black-and-white elements.

Think soft, tactile textiles such as velvet and corduroy mixed with glossy surfaces and graphic modernist patterns, creating a curated, decluttered autumnal look with objects that tell a story.

From furniture and cushion covers to vases and tableware, here are a few pieces from the new collection that caught our eye:

Cushion cover

R239

Candle holder

R399

Lounge chair

R5 999

Side table

R2 999

Storage box

R239

The collection is now available at H&M HOME Sandton City and selected H&M stores. Furniture is exclusively available at H&M HOME Sandton City.

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The Eclipse Sofa range offers a considered introduction to Weylandts living. Compact in scale yet generous in comfort, the Eclipse range is designed as a refined capsule of intentional craft and modern versatility.

Upholstered in a curated Urban Dark Grey fabric, the range is available with the choice of Metal or Natural legs. Distinct blanket-stitch detailing and a sleek frame give each piece a signature finish, combining contemporary style with enduring comfort.

From R14 995, the Eclipse range includes a 2-seater, 3-seater, daybed, and armchair, offering flexibility for every home and space. Its versatile design makes it easy to create a coordinated living area while retaining a sense of effortless style.

For a limited time, the Eclipse Sofa range is available exclusively in Urban Dark Grey. This offer is available while stocks last and is a chance to introduce a thoughtfully designed, functional, and versatile piece into your home.

Visit your nearest Weylandts showroom or view the range online today.

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WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied

For over a century, Le Creuset has been the cooking companion in kitchens across the globe. Its latest collection makes a nature-inspired statement in shades that capture the delicate tones of anemone petals.

This curated selection of bloom-inspired cookware brings a touch of soft elegance to the home, transforming everyday kitchens and tablescapes into effortless works of art.

The collection

The new collection includes Le Creuset’s iconic cast-iron casseroles, mugs, bowls, egg cups and accessories.

Cast Iron Petal Casseroles

The range includes a Signature Petal Soup Pot, Signature Petal Shallow Casserole and Signature Petal Casserole, all complete with petal-shaped lids in a range of pastel colours.

Stoneware Petal Mug

With their embossed floral design, durable stoneware body and vibrant glaze, the Stoneware Petal Mugs bring a sense of calm, comfort and quiet elegance to everyday rituals.

Stoneware Petal Set of 4 Mini Bowls

Echoing the gentle form of a blooming flower petal, the Stoneware Petal Set of 4 Mini Bowls is perfect for entertaining or storing snacks and treats.

Stoneware Petal Set of 4 Footed Egg Cups

Perfectly petite and petal-inspired, the pastel egg cups are designed to brighten every morning.

Stoneware Pie Vents

Bring a playful touch to every bake.

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