Marlanteak Winner: David Strauss

Over the last six months, leading local decorators and designers have been enthusiastically entering designer outdoor furniture retailer Marlanteak’s trade competition to win a trip to Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan this year.

The premise was to submit pictures of their outdoor projects featuring product from Marlanteak, with “likes” and “shares” accumulating into points. The designer with the most points would be declared the winner.

The talented David Strauss from Oudtshoorn was announced as the winner thanks to the patio and pool area he created for a client’s beach house in Voëlklip, Hermanus.

Here’s what David had to say about his project.

What was the brief from the client?

This is the client’s holiday home so they were keen for me to create a space that provided comfort and an easy living aesthetic. They didn’t want an overly decorated home. The husband likes to collect art, so the space had to be flexible enough that pieces could always be added.

What was your inspiration?

My inspiration came directly from the architecture of the home. The talented architectural team at COA (Craft of Architecture) created quite a stimulating space, from which I took my decorating cue. The colour palette is neutral and inspired by nature and the surrounding mountains and sea.

Tell us about the Marlanteak pieces you’ve used?

Other than the need for a relaxed atmosphere, the client also wanted the best quality outdoor furniture, so using Marlanteak was a given, from the slatted pergola and pool decking to the Mood dining table and Tribu chairs. The tones of these pieces and the relaxed elegance of the setting are also reflected in the Solana Loungers from Gloster. 

What was the feedback from the client?

They mentioned that the design felt unique to them, as if they’ve been living in the house for many years. They felt comfortable. The clients are based in London, but spend much of their free time in Hermanus. They love entertaining and frequently host friends from overseas who love the climate and the easy living style of the home.

What does winning this competition mean to you?

It means so much to me because it’s a wonderful opportunity to broaden my outlook on what is going on in the world of design at a celebrated furniture and design fair. One is never too old to learn new things!

Due to the success of this competition, Marlanteak will be launching a second competition to win a trip in 2016. For more information about Marlanteak, visit marlanteak.com.