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The new Frystark range kicks off with a server. -
Close up detail of the new Frystark server. -
Close up detail of the new Frystark server. -
Architect and designer Andy Goedhals. -
A set of nesting tables in Frystark's new range. -
Frystark's new nesting tables. -
The original Frystark logo. -
An original Frystark server courtesy of Huisraad Modern, Cape Town-based specialists in restored vintage furniture. -
The original Frystark logo. -
An original Frystark server courtesy of Huisraad Modern, Cape Town-based specialists in restored vintage furniture. -
An original Frystark catalogue. -
An original Frystark catalogue.
WORDS Steve Smith PHOTOS Supplied
Iconic SA Mid Century Modern furniture brand Frystark has been relaunched, with a new server and set of nesting tables that make their debut at Decorex Cape Town.
There aren’t too many furniture aficionados who don’t know Frystark, but the brand’s back story has had less airtime…
Frystark began in 1959 when brothers Owen and Derek Frye merged their furniture business with G H Starck Ltd, opening a factory in Ndabeni, Cape Town. And if you’re interested in Mid Century furniture and have spent time hunting online for pieces to buy, you’ll have almost certainly come across the servers, tables, dining room suites, armchairs and sofas made by this legendary South African furniture brand. (Have a look at our feature on local online vintage stores, if you’re into mid-century vintage).
Frystark continued into the late 60s when it was sold to the AFCOL (Associated Furniture Companies Limited), who moved it into mass production, effectively ending the classic era of Frystark Mid Century furniture, before the brand gradually faded in the 70s.
Fast forward to June 2023 and Frystark will once again be available in South Africa thanks to architect and designer Andy Goedhals, who has a special connection to the brand. Andy’s dad worked for Frystark back in the day – originally as a rep, before taking more of an interest in furniture making and working in the company’s workshop. Mr Henry Goedhals would later go one to open his own carpentry business.
Andy owned a vintage Frystark server and in 2018 decided that he wanted to bring the brand back. Over the next couple of years, he secured the trademark – its then owners delighted with Andy’s plan – and in 2022 began prototyping various pieces.
“I had a lot learn when it comes to the process of making furniture correctly,” says Andy. “And I was very grateful for the generous input and advice I got from people like Luke Pederson from Pedersen + Lennard, and Houtlander’s Steve Wilson.”
READ MORE: Local Vintage Shops Online
He’s also been very careful to not only retain the minimalist Modernist aesthetic of the original Frystark pieces, but its core brand values too. “Frystark was about well-made contemporary furniture that didn’t cost the world. It was about being accessible, both in terms of cost and design aesthetic. The original Frystark design signifiers were evident throughout their ranges, and we’ll do the same.”
The pieces are made from solid eucalyptus saligna wood that will be painted in a range of colours – brown and light purple (as seen in these images), as well as a silver, translucent cream and cobalt blue.
The new Frystark range kicks off with a server and a set of nesting table that get their first viewing at Decorex Cape Town which opens on Thursday 22 June. And he’ll be there ready to take your order…
For more information, visit frystark.com
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