It’s 3 a.m. I’m wide awake, jetlagged beyond reason, yet my heart is full and my mind is brimming with memories of the most incredible trip to South Africa. We arrived yesterday, and I can’t wait to share the highlights, some stunning photos, and a hefty dose of design inspiration with you. If South Africa has ever been on your radar, this might push you to make it a reality.

Since moving to Canada over 20 years ago, we’ve made many trips back to South Africa to visit family and reconnect with our roots. But this trip felt different. Perhaps it was because our kids are now adults, or maybe it was seeing the country through the fresh eyes of our Canadian friends who joined us. It reminded me of the magic and uniqueness that make South Africa unforgettable.

South Africa is a symphony of contrasts: the rugged Bushveld, the magnificent coastline, and the mountainous wine country. Each landscape is so captivating that it’s impossible to choose a favourite. And maybe that’s the secret to the country’s soul—the diversity of its landscapes, cultures, and ways to experience its beauty.
The creativity of the people amazed me. From luxurious wine estates to roadside stalls, there’s nothing ordinary about what you’ll encounter. Every space, every piece of décor, and every interaction feels artfully crafted. My camera roll is overflowing with ideas for future projects. A few highlights stand out.


The house we rented in Mabalingwe was carefully planned and designed. Every room offered unobstructed views of the beautiful bushveld. The minimalistic but warm decor made it the perfect escape. Of course, seeing the animals in their natural habitat never gets old, and neither does ending the day at the Kalahari Oasis (picture below). (There is also a story about a snake under a sofa, but that is for another day!)


From the Bushveld we headed to the coast and stayed in Onrus, close to Hermanus. The ocean in South Africa is nothing short of majestic—a wild, untamed force of nature that captivates and humbles you all at once. It’s a place where beauty and danger coexist, creating an edge-of-the-world feeling as exhilarating as it is humbling. For all its intensity, the South African ocean is utterly mesmerizing—a place where the horizon seems infinite and your worries feel small. The interesting shops, many unique coffee shops and friendly people were a treat and an inspiration.



Next on our itinerary was wine country. The selection of beautiful wineries is vast and we visited quite a few. La Motte Wine Estate, in the Franschhoek Valley, with its charming bakery, exquisite restaurant, and beautiful shop, was an absolute sensory feast and my favourite overall.






Le Lude Winery came in as a close second, with its impeccable style and understated elegance. Black checkered floors, curved velvet sofas and a refreshing palette of green, brown, white and black made the space inviting and elegant.




Babylonstoren captured my heart completely, with gardens that felt like stepping into a storybook and a meal at Babel restaurant that was both unpretentious and world-class. You can easily spend a whole day walking the grounds and taking it all in!




The food in South Africa is worth the trip alone. Ranked among the top ten food destinations in the world, it offers bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and unparalleled creativity. Every meal feels like a celebration of the senses. The wine is divine and surprisingly affordable, and the coffee culture is a daily joy. Pair that with the warmth and friendliness of the people, and you have an atmosphere that’s hard to match. Sunshine and smiles seem to be a way of life there.

As we landed back in Canada, I couldn’t shake the feeling that South Africa would always be a part of me. I’ve already started dreaming of spending at least six months a year there in retirement. It’s a place that rejuvenates me with its artfully designed spaces, boundless creativity, incredible food, and breathtaking landscapes.


If you’re planning a visit, I’d be delighted to share my insights and help you make it an unforgettable trip. And as much as I’d love to pack my bags and head back to South Africa tomorrow, for now, I’ll savour the memories and channel this incredible creative boost into my work and projects for the year ahead. The inspiration I’ve gathered—from the artful designs and vibrant spaces to the textures, colours, and stories of South Africa—will undoubtedly find its way into my designs. It’s a wonderful reminder that travel doesn’t just enrich the soul; it fuels the imagination in endlessly rewarding ways. I can’t wait to see how this inspiration unfolds in the months to come.


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