“Form follows function - that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.”
Frank Lloyd Wright
Where I can help
BEFORE ENGAGING AN ARCHITECT
Planning a renovation? Not sure what you should be doing to create your dream space?
Many times, a client goes to an architect without consolidating their 'needs & wants plan' or very little idea of what is possible within a realistic budget. Or even whether it is the correct solution for a particular property. The backwards and forwards becomes very expensive and time consuming. I consult with clients to solidify their requirements to create a practical solution for their particular needs with which they can then approach an architectural professional to continue with the next steps of drawing up plans for submission to council.
AFTER CONSULTING WITH AN ARCHITECT
Spacial planning involves consideration to furniture, how traffic moves around spaces and how spaces, external and internal, ultimately get used. These disciplines are not always carefully considered, but are of the utmost importance to the success of a renovation, and ultimately to the value of your home, as well as your enjoyment of it.
You have consulted with an architect - plans have been drawn up, and you haven't yet submitted for approval. But you aren't entirely happy. Something is niggling you, and you want another pair of eyes over the layout before going ahead. You have an idea that the solution is going to be more expensive than you can realistically afford (or should spend). I consult with clients, look at plans, ask the hard questions and consider all the bits you may not have thought of, from location of cupboards, to which way a door swings open, to light, traffic and airflow.
HELP WITH FINISHES
Overwhelmed by the endless aisles of fixtures and fittings? If a trip to the tile or lighting showroom feels more like a headache than an inspiration, and "reno fatigue" is starting to set in, I’m here to lighten the load. I would be happy to join you on-site and at the shops to help narrow down the perfect finishes to bring your renovation to life.
WHAT TO PUT WHERE AND WHY
Is your existing furniture not quite clicking with your lifestyle? You would like a fresh look but feel a little stuck on where to begin? I’d love to help you bridge that gap. Together, we’ll reuse the pieces you truly love, rework your layouts to better fit your day-to-day needs, and reimagine your home into a space that feels uniquely yours.
MOOD BOARDS & INTERIOR DECOR PLANNING
As a textile and pattern designer, I work extensively with surface coverings.
If you can't find what you are looking for and would like a bespoke solution for your wall and/or interior soft furnishings, I can create it.
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR ARTWORK
Not sure how to display your artwork to update your interior? As a long-time collector, I am passionate about curating interiors to include all those special pieces you love so much.
BESPOKE WALL COVERINGS & TEXTILES
Decorating can be expensive and for many, an overwhelming task. Engaging a design professional can also be daunting.
I will visit your space, have a heart to heart chat and put together a plan for you to get you to your desired result.
Depending on your budget and wishes, I can either design, source and install for you, or create a plan and mood board so that you can move forward with your space in your own time as budget and time allows.
I create timeless interiors that are simple to update with small additions.
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR OUTDOOR SPACES
A lot of the time, flow from your interior entertainment areas in the home is integral to an outdoor space that works hard for your family. I advise on how to do this.
You have an existing space but it needs refreshing? Outdoor spaces should be given the same importance to decor as interior spaces, especially in South Africa.
Not sure where to place a new pool or your braai area or how to furnish it practically for all seasons? I can certainly help with this.
LIVING MORE SUSTAINABLY
Would you love a veggie patch or kitchen garden but don't know where to start? I have been gardening for our family for years. There's nothing better than having fresh produce to hand. When I visit friends, I take a basket of whatever is available, be it fresh herbs or veggies. It's always so appreciated. I have learnt over time what works and what doesn't. Let me help you plan and plant your kitchen garden. Let's do it together so you can learn and feel confident to take it further through the seasons. All we need is sun.
SELLING YOUR HOME?
I can help you present it in the best way to potential buyers.
Whether it's increasing curb appeal or decluttering, a well-staged and tidy home can make all the difference to your sale price.
I will suggest cost-effective and practical solutions to get the best result.
FAQ
WHAT AREAS DO YOU WORK IN?
I am based in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town. I don't mind travelling within the Cape Town area, but transport and travel time surcharges do apply after 10km from my base in Rondebosch. I can consult online/via WhatsApp for other areas further out or countrywide.
DO YOU CONSULT OVER THE WEEKENDS?
Yes absolutely. I have a family, so I do have to consider their needs, but we can certainly plan to do so if your work doesn't allow for weekday consults.
DO YOU PROVIDE LANDSCAPING SERVICES?
I love green spaces, but I am not a landscaper.
If you would like practical advice on creating a vegetable garden, or where to put your pool or pizza oven, or how to make the most of your patio, then yes, I can certainly help.
I work more with the layout of the space rather than physical planting and installation of major landscaping areas, with the exception of vegetable gardens.
We can always chat about whether or not planting is required as part of beautifying a space, but it is dependent on the scope of your particular project to whether or not I help, or suggest you get in a landscaper.
DO YOU PROVIDE RENOVATION PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICES?
No I do not. I am always happy to consult on detail/snagging etc, but I do not project manage renovations.
CAN YOU SUBMIT PLANS TO COUNCIL ON OUR/MY BEHALF?
No I cannot. I am not qualified to do so. You will need to engage the services of a registered architectural professional to handle plan submission.
Depending on your requirements, I can rework plans (floor plans) for you to look at and hand to your architect to incorporate.
DO YOU PROVIDE 3D WALKTHROUGHS?
Not at this time. I work in 2D presently, although I am currently studying in order to provide this service.
CAN YOU HELP WITH LIGHTING AND ELECTRICAL LAYOUTS?
Yes absolutely. You will need to provide me with a copy of your approved plans if you have submitted to council so that I can overlay the electrical onto these plans and provide to you.
If you have not needed to submit to council (for example a kitchen renovation), I can help with this too.
DO YOU CONSULT ON CORPORATE OR COMMERCIAL SPACES?
It depends on the project - I don't get involved in the overall design process of designing commercial spaces (layouts/furniture/lighting etc), but if you would like bespoke wallpapers or fabrics or even signage, then yes, I am happy to help.