WORDS Canzi Ziqu
The new jewel-toned furniture collection by Joburg-based designer Bilala Mabuza is a celebration of conscious design.
Bilala Mabuza, founder and creative director of interior design company Cocoon Lifestyle, recently debuted a plush new seating collection aptly titled Bubble Collection. The collection showcases Bilala’s expressive use of cocooning forms, high-comfort materials and organic, nurturing curves. We chat to the designer about her work and what inspired her new range.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
Our clients are collectors in their own right, and we collaborate with them to enhance their way of life through design. Each project is unique and demands a bespoke approach and a refined sensibility in execution. We translate our clients’ vision of their space and how they choose to live, then we thoughtfully ensure that their homes and spaces reflect their individual essence.
How did the Bubble Collection materialise/manifest?
We created this collection with a deep appreciation for detail and honest materials. The Bubble Collection is a decadent evolution of our existing Curve Collection, and this contour and comfort-embracing ensemble is indulgent in every way imaginable. Taking a cue from the concept of ‘Hygge’ – a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality – the pieces in this new collection are fittingly named:
- The Bubble armchair – a snug sculptured seat with an exceptional foam core to enhance comfort.
- The BonBon sofa – delicious in texture, cloud-like, and appears weightless with soft contours.
- The Soufle Ottoman – a curvaceous feminine silhouette moulded to feel organic and naturally finished.
In this season of mindfulness, our homes and living spaces are more central to life than ever before. Our home is where we find reverie and immerse ourselves in self-care. This desire for sanctuary demands soft forms that cocoon and bring us comfort.
What material did you use to create the collection?
The key materials used in this collection are travertine, oak, plush soft foams and decadent fabrics.
Is everything manufactured locally?
Every piece in this collection is manufactured locally with globally sourced fabrics.
Tell us why South African design is so important to you?
South African heritage inspires a wide genre of creatives around the world. We also live in a naturally beautiful part of the world abound with inspiration and evident in the level of creativity and incredible locally made products from South Africa.
What has been your most impactful interior design lesson? And how did you come to learn it?
The most impactful design lesson has been always stay conscious of who we are designing for and the deep understanding that clients have to live with the decisions that we have helped make long after the project wraps. Place people and their needs at the heart of the design story.
What is your single go-to piece of decorating advice?
Materials and details truly matter, you cannot hide sub-standard work by adding beautiful accessories in the space then photoshop images and hope to get away with it. Pay attention and deliver what you promised, every single time.
The Bubble Collection is exclusively available through cocoonlifestyle.co.za by order; each piece is customisable with plush fabrics.
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