Explore Traditional African Furniture in South Africa

Traditional African furniture in South Africa encompasses a rich history and cultural heritage that dates back centuries. The African Touch is a prominent furniture brand that showcases the finest craftsmanship and design in the country. Their furniture pieces blend practicality, durability, and elegance, making them a perfect addition to any space.

Key Takeaways:

Traditional African furniture in South Africa is known for its blend of functionality and artistry
The African Touch is a renowned furniture brand that handcrafts safari campaign furniture using the finest African hardwoods, natural leather, and solid brass
The Safari Campaign collection is perfect for everyday use and draws inspiration from the 18th-century British Army officers’ furniture
The Victoria Falls Collection is inspired by the magnificent Victoria Falls and includes hardwood dining furniture, chairs, and the famous Rhodesian teak Morris chairs
Local designers have started taking the world by storm with their unique and diverse designs

The African Touch: Masterful Craftsmanship and Design

One prominent source of traditional African furniture in South Africa is The African Touch. This furniture design company specializes in creating handcrafted furniture from the finest African hardwoods, natural leather, and solid brass. The African Touch draws inspiration from traditional British Military Campaign furniture, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. Their safari campaign furniture showcases the beauty of African hardwoods, combined with elegant designs incorporating brass, leather, and other natural materials.

The company’s safari campaign furniture is a perfect mix of practicality and elegance, designed to withstand the rigours of the African wilderness while adding style and sophistication to any space. The African Touch uses African hardwoods such as Kiaat, Rhodesian Teak, and Zambezi Teak to create furniture of exceptional quality. The company also offers a range of safari leather accessories that are both functional and stylish, including leather safari chairs, ottomans, and tables that embody the same elegance and sophistication as their hardwood furniture collections.

The Victoria Falls Collection is another standout collection from The African Touch, which showcases African hardwood dining furniture inspired by the beautiful Victoria Falls. The collection features pieces crafted from Rhodesian Teak, a dense and durable hardwood that can withstand the harsh African environment. The furniture pieces are designed to capture the natural beauty of the surroundings, bringing a touch of the African wilderness into any dining room.

The Safari Bedroom Collection is a popular collection of the company, which showcases the durability and comfort of African hardwood bedroom furniture. Made from Rhodesian Teak, the furniture is designed with safari camps in mind, offering luxurious and spacious storage options while ensuring the durability required in the African wilderness.

At The African Touch, the use of natural materials and traditional craftsmanship are the hallmark of their furniture collections. The company is dedicated to using traditional woodworking skills and techniques to create furniture with the strongest possible wood furniture joints, ensuring the furniture can withstand the test of time. The company’s skilled craftsmen use traditional carving techniques to create intricate designs and motifs that showcase the beauty of African culture.

In recent years, South Africa has seen a growth in unique furniture design, with local designers creating pieces that showcase a fusion of traditional African motifs with modern designs. However, The African Touch is committed to preserving the traditional craftsmanship and design, which is evident in their collections.

The African Touch Classic Collection, for example, showcases the timeless beauty of African hardwoods, combined with elegant and sophisticated designs. The company’s dedication to traditional craftsmanship and design has earned them a reputation as one of the leading furniture design companies in South Africa, and their pieces are highly sought after both locally and internationally.

Safari Campaign Furniture: Practicality and Elegance in the African Wilderness

Safari campaign furniture has a long history, originating in the 18th century to meet the needs of British Army officers on military campaigns. The furniture was designed to be practical, durable, and portable. It was made from lightweight materials and featured collapsible or detachable parts for easy transportation. Today, safari campaign furniture is synonymous with luxury travel and is a popular choice for safari lodges and home offices.

The African Touch offers a wide range of safari campaign furniture, handcrafted from the finest African hardwoods, natural leather, and solid brass. The designs are inspired by traditional British Military Campaign furniture and are both practical and stylish, adding elegance to any space. The furniture is not only beautiful but also versatile, perfect for both luxury safari lodges and home offices.

The Safari Leather Collection offers functional and sophisticated accessories, including magazine racks, wine carriers, and luggage racks. Made from high-quality leather, these accessories are designed to withstand the rigours of outdoor activities while adding sophistication to any room.

The Victoria Falls Collection is inspired by the natural beauty of Victoria Falls, featuring hardwood dining furniture and the famous Rhodesian teak Morris chairs. The collection captures the essence of the natural surroundings and brings it into your home or lodge.

Hardwood bedroom furniture is a popular choice for safari camps and lodges due to its strength and resistance to wear and tear. The African Touch Classic Collection features hardwood tables, desks, and sun loungers, adding elegance to any room or outdoor space. The furniture is made by master-craftsmen who are trained in traditional woodworking skills and use strong wood-to-wood joints to ensure the furniture’s longevity.

Transform your space with safari campaign furniture from The African Touch. The furniture is practical, durable, and elegant, adding a touch of luxury to any setting. Whether you are looking to furnish your home or safari lodge, The African Touch has the perfect piece for you.

The Safari Leather Collection: Durability and Style on Safari

The Safari Leather Collection is another essential part of the safari industry, offering durable and stylish accessories for outdoor activities. Handcrafted from the finest African hardwoods and natural leather, these pieces are designed to last for generations. Drawing inspiration from traditional British Military Campaign furniture, this collection adds sophistication and elegance to any space.

Safari campaign furniture has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. It was initially designed for British Army officers who required practical and durable furniture during their expeditions in the African wilderness. Today, safari campaign furniture has become increasingly popular in safari camps and lodges, providing practical and stylish solutions for visitors.

The Safari Leather Collection includes accessories such as leather drinks carriers, which are not only functional but also add sophistication to any safari outfit. The collection also features hardwood bedroom furniture, known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. The combination of natural leather and African hardwoods creates a sophisticated and elegant look that sets the Safari Leather Collection apart.

The collection is perfect for safari-goers who enjoy outdoor activities and want to add a touch of sophistication to their travels. The durability of the materials used in The Safari Leather Collection ensures that the pieces can withstand the wear and tear of outdoor adventures while still maintaining their style and elegance.

Overall, The Safari Leather Collection combines durability and style, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking to add a touch of Africa to their home decor. Whether you are a seasoned safari enthusiast or just starting to explore the beauty of Africa, The Safari Leather Collection is sure to impress with its timeless elegance and durability.

The Victoria Falls Collection: Capturing the Natural Beauty

Inspired by the magnificent Victoria Falls, The Victoria Falls Collection features hardwood dining furniture, dining chairs, and the famous Rhodesian teak Morris chairs. The collection captures the essence of African artistry, showcasing the natural beauty of the surroundings and the skill of master craftsmen.

Material	Design	Features
Rhodesian Teak	Hardwood Dining Furniture	Handcrafted, durable, elegant
African Hardwoods	Hardwood Bedroom Furniture	Spacious, comfortable, functional

The Victoria Falls Collection is handcrafted from the finest African hardwoods, ensuring that each piece is not only durable but also timeless in its beauty. The dining furniture, in particular, is perfect for those who love to entertain, with the long wooden tables providing ample space for family and friends to gather around. For those looking for comfortable seating, the Rhodesian teak Morris chairs are a must-have. They are incredibly comfortable and provide a perfect spot to relax after a long day.

The collection also includes a range of safari campaign furniture, which is both practical and elegant. The pieces are designed to withstand the rugged African wilderness, with solid brass fittings and natural leather providing durability and a touch of sophistication. For those who love to incorporate nature into their homes, The Victoria Falls Collection offers a range of accessories such as vases, bowls and sculptures, showcasing the beauty of African artistry and the natural surroundings.

Whether you’re decorating a luxury safari lodge or your home office, The Victoria Falls Collection offers a range of handcrafted hardwood furniture and accessories that capture the essence of African artistry. The collection is a perfect choice to add a touch of African elegance and sophistication to any space.

The Safari Bedroom Collection: Durability and Comfort in Safari Camps

Hardwood bedroom furniture is also a popular choice for the safari industry due to its durability and resistance to wear and tear. The Safari Bedroom Collection is a prime example of this, featuring handcrafted furniture made from African hardwoods, natural leather, and solid brass. Designed to be affordable, these pieces offer a touch of elegance and sophistication while remaining functional and practical for safari camps and lodges.

Inspired by traditional British Military Campaign furniture, the Safari Bedroom Collection is built to withstand the harsh conditions of the African wilderness. The use of high-quality Rhodesian teak or mahogany ensures that each piece is sturdy and strong, able to provide excellent comfort for a restful night’s sleep.

Feature	Description
Hardwoods	The Safari Bedroom Collection is crafted from African hardwoods, including Rhodesian teak and mahogany, renowned for their durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Natural Leather	The use of natural leather adds a touch of sophistication to the Safari Bedroom Collection while ensuring durability.
Solid Brass	Solid brass fittings and fixtures provide the finishing touches to the Safari Bedroom Collection, adding to the durability and overall aesthetic.

With a variety of styles and designs available, from traditional to contemporary, the Safari Bedroom Collection is a timeless and practical choice for any safari camp or lodge. Able to withstand the harsh conditions of the African wilderness, this furniture is built to last and provide comfort for years to come.

Emerging Local Designers: Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

In addition to The African Touch, South Africa has seen a rise in local designers who are taking the world by storm. These designers are drawing inspiration from traditional African motifs and blending them with modern designs, creating pieces that are both functional and visually stunning.

Thabisa Mjo is one such designer. Her pieces combine storytelling with functionality, creating furniture that is not only beautiful but also meaningful. Her collaboration with local master-weaver Beauty Ngxongo and the Houtlander furniture brand has garnered her international recognition.

Siyanda Mbele is another designer making waves. He fuses traditional Zulu shapes with contemporary design, creating pieces that pay homage to his cultural heritage. His Mvelo Desk, which won the Most Beautiful Object in South Africa award, showcases intricate geometric patterns engraved into the surface.

Mpho Vackier, the founder of The Urbanative, is known for juxtaposing ethnic motifs with mid-century and Bauhaus silhouettes in her furniture collections. Her African Crowns range draws inspiration from the Oromo people of 19th century Ethiopia, showcasing the diversity of African design traditions.

These emerging local designers are contributing to the preservation and promotion of traditional craftsmanship by infusing traditional elements into their designs. They are giving new life to age-old techniques and materials, ensuring that they continue to be valued and celebrated in the modern world.

With their innovative designs and commitment to blending tradition and modernity, these emerging local designers are shaping the future of furniture design and showcasing the unique cultural heritage of their communities.

Natural Materials and Traditional Craftsmanship: Hallmarks of African Furniture

Traditional African furniture is often characterized by its use of natural materials and traditional carving techniques. The African Touch specializes in handcrafted safari campaign furniture made from the finest African hardwoods, natural leather, and solid brass. These pieces draw inspiration from traditional British Military Campaign furniture but with their own unique design elements. Safari campaign furniture is both practical and stylish, adding elegance and sophistication to any space.

In addition to safari campaign furniture, The African Touch offers other collections such as the Safari Leather Collection, Victoria Falls Collection, Safari Bedroom Collection, and African Touch Classic Collection. Each collection showcases the use of high-quality natural materials and traditional craftsmanship.

Safari leather accessories, such as drinks carriers, are made from high-quality full-thickness veg-tanned leather and provide both functionality and sophistication. The Victoria Falls Collection is inspired by the beautiful environment of the Victoria Falls and features hardwood dining furniture and chairs. The Safari Bedroom Collection offers durable and stylish hardwood bedroom furniture made from Rhodesian teak or mahogany.

The African Touch is passionate about designing distinct and unique pieces that stand out. Their Classic Collection features beautifully crafted hardwood furniture, including tables, desks, and sun loungers, perfect for safari lodges and camps.

African furniture design has a rich history dating back to the early Dutch settlers in the Cape Colony. Local craftsmen adopted Dutch styles and techniques, creating unique variations of furniture, such as the Swellengrebei Cabinet, known for its elaborate design and fine workmanship.

In more recent years, South Africa has seen a wave of exciting local designers who draw inspiration from African cultures and traditions. Thabisa Mjo, Siyanda Mbele, Mpho Vackier, and Sifiso Shange are just a few examples of talented designers making a mark in the industry.

Wood is the preferred material for furniture making, and various types of African hardwoods are used for their strength and durability. These materials, combined with traditional woodworking skills, result in strong wood-to-wood joints that form the strongest possible furniture joints.

In summary, African furniture is characterized by its use of natural materials, traditional craftsmanship, and unique designs that draw inspiration from African cultures and traditions. The African Touch is a leading brand that exemplifies these hallmarks with their handcrafted safari campaign furniture and other collections.

Evolution of South African Furniture Design

South Africa’s furniture design history has evolved over time, guided by the country’s rich cultural heritage. Furniture styles and techniques brought over by Dutch settlers in the 18th century influenced locally made variations of classic pieces with influences from Dutch, Flemish, and English designs. As the Cape Colony became more diverse, locally made furniture became increasingly popular, with pieces like the Swellengrebei Cabinet commissioned by Governor-General Hendrik Swellengrebei. Chair design also saw a local adaptation with the use of riempies, thin strips of cured leather, for seating. These practical and durable designs led to the development of Pioneer Furniture with similarities to the principles of the Shaker movement in America.

During the apartheid era, South African furniture design was limited. However, since the breakdown of apartheid in the 70s and 80s, local designers have been making their mark. Today, there is a constantly evolving wave of exciting local designers who draw inspiration from African cultures and traditions, incorporating ethnic motifs with mid-century and Bauhaus silhouettes.

Notable designers include Thabisa Mjo, Siyanda Mbele, Mpho Vackier, and Sifiso Shange, who have gained recognition both locally and internationally for their unique furniture designs. Wood is often the preferred material for South African furniture, with various types of wood such as oak, maple, and willow being used. South African furniture makers pay exceptional attention to detail, with strong wood-to-wood joints being a specialty. Furniture pieces range from dining tables, coffee tables, and bar sets to custom-designed pieces that incorporate African symbols and motifs.

Overall, South African furniture design reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage and artistic craftsmanship. From early Dutch and Indonesian influences to contemporary designs inspired by African cultures, South African furniture design has become a unique and distinct expression of the country’s history and creativity.

Transform Your Space with African Home Decor

Transforming your home into an African-inspired haven is an exciting process that embraces the beauty and diversity of African cultures. African home decor has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its ability to add a touch of cultural authenticity and vibrant colors to any space.

Safari campaign furniture is a popular choice for those seeking African home decor. Handcrafted from the finest African hardwoods, natural leather and solid brass, safari campaign furniture combines functionality and elegance. It draws inspiration from traditional British Military Campaign furniture, adding sophistication to any space.

For a touch of sophistication, Safari Leather accessories are a great option, combining functionality and style. From leather drinks carriers to luggage tags, these accessories are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities while adding a touch of elegance to any wardrobe.

The Victoria Falls Collection, inspired by the natural beauty of the mighty Victoria Falls, features hardwood dining furniture, dining chairs, and Rhodesian teak Morris chairs. These pieces showcase the natural beauty of African landscapes, bringing life and vibrancy into any room.

Hardwood bedroom furniture is a popular choice for safari camps, lodges, and homes due to its durability and ability to withstand harsh conditions. From bed frames to spacious camp wardrobes, hardwood bedroom furniture is a timeless and practical choice for any space.

In addition, African home decor includes a variety of unique accessories. From African-inspired coffee tables to traditional cowhide chairs, these pieces add personality and character to any room. Embracing African design elements allows one to showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic craftsmanship of Africa.

With its timeless design, vibrant colors, and use of high-quality materials, African home decor can transform any space into an elegant and culturally rich haven. So why not embrace the beauty of Africa and introduce African home decor into your space?

Conclusion

In conclusion, exploring traditional African furniture in South Africa reveals a rich history and cultural significance. The African Touch offers handcrafted, all-hardwood safari campaign furniture that combines practicality and style. Drawing inspiration from traditional British Military Campaign furniture and made from the finest African hardwoods, natural leather, and solid brass, their pieces are popular in safari camps, lodges, and homes worldwide.

The Safari Leather Collection offers functional and sophisticated leather accessories, while the Victoria Falls Collection captures the beauty of its namesake. Hardwood bedroom furniture is a popular choice in safari camps due to its durability and natural beauty. The African Touch Classic Collection showcases beautifully crafted hardwood furniture pieces perfect for safari lodges and camps.

In addition, the emergence of local designers who fuse traditional African motifs with modern designs has taken the world by storm. Furthermore, the natural materials and traditional carving techniques used in African furniture highlight the skills of skilled craftsmen.

The evolution of South African furniture design has been shaped by cultural heritage and the newfound ability to embrace unique design history. By incorporating African home decor, readers can transform their space with cultural authenticity and vibrant colors influenced by the South African design industry.

In summary, African Touch offers unique and high-quality furniture that combines functionality, durability, and African aesthetics. Its popularity worldwide is a testament to the beauty of African culture and the skill of its craftsmen.

FAQ

Q: What is traditional African furniture?

A: Traditional African furniture refers to furniture pieces that showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic craftsmanship of the African people. They often feature unique designs, intricate carvings, and the use of natural materials.

Q: Where can I find traditional African furniture in South Africa?

A: One prominent source of traditional African furniture in South Africa is The African Touch. They specialize in handcrafted furniture made from the finest African hardwoods, natural leather, and solid brass.

Q: What is safari campaign furniture?

A: Safari campaign furniture originated in the 18th century to meet the needs of British Army officers on military campaigns. It is known for its practicality and durability, making it popular in modern-day safari camps and lodges.

Q: What is the Safari Leather Collection?

A: The Safari Leather Collection is a range of leather accessories designed for outdoor activities while adding a touch of sophistication. It includes items such as drinks carriers and is a popular choice among safari-goers.

Q: What is The Victoria Falls Collection?

A: The Victoria Falls Collection features hardwood dining furniture, dining chairs, and the famous Rhodesian teak Morris chairs. It is inspired by the natural beauty of Victoria Falls and captures the essence of the surroundings.

Q: What is the Safari Bedroom Collection?

A: The Safari Bedroom Collection offers a range of hardwood bedroom furniture that is popular in safari camps. Made from high-quality Rhodesian teak or mahogany, these pieces provide comfort and storage for guests.

Q: Who are some emerging local designers in South Africa?

A: Some emerging local designers in South Africa include Siyanda Mbele, Thabisa Mjo, Mpho Vackier, and Sifiso Shange. They are known for their unique and innovative furniture designs that blend traditional African motifs with modern styles.

Q: What materials are used in African furniture?

A: African furniture often utilizes natural materials such as hardwoods like teak and mahogany. Skilled craftsmen employ traditional woodworking techniques to create strong and accurate wood-to-wood joints, ensuring the longevity of the furniture.

Q: How has South African furniture design evolved?

A: South African furniture design has evolved over time. Previously, it borrowed heavily from styles and techniques from other parts of the world. However, since the breakdown of apartheid, local designers have embraced their own cultural heritage and created furniture that reflects the diversity of South African culture.

Q: How can I incorporate African elements into my home decor?

A: To incorporate African elements into your home decor, you can consider adding traditional African furniture pieces, vibrant colors, and cultural accessories. This will add a touch of cultural authenticity and a unique aesthetic to your space.

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Hendrix Morellaz

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