Furnishing a home is the fun part, until you’re 40 tabs deep and nothing feels quite right. So we’ve done some of the digging for you. These are our favourite South African homeware brands, from statement pieces to everyday finds. Have a browse, bookmark a few, and find the ones that feel like home.
1. Ceratile
Whether you’re looking for a chic tap fitting or imported tiles, Ceratile is where it is at. They stock everything from exquisite and unique mosaic tiles (seriously, have a look – you’ll have to hold yourself back) and simply stunning décor tiles to match any room, to bathroom accessories, wooden flooring, and natural stone tiles; they sell everything but the kitchen sink (jokes, they actually sell kitchen sinks too). Our favourites are the mosaics (obviously), but a close second are the pool tiles (ugh, just beautiful).
Standout product: Taylor Bath
2. Block & Chisel
Now, this is where vintage vibes meet new-age charm. Picking your perfect piece will make you feel like an interior designer. You’ve got your homeware, with trendy mirrors, faux plants, rugs, and lamps; you’ve got your outdoor bits and bobs for lazy sun-stroked days; and you’ve got your furniture in every shade and material, ideal for any room, with even chaise lounges to tickle your fancy. Looking for a gift? Their candles and wall art have your back, alongside throws, garden pots, quirky vases, and luxurious cushions. It’ll be hard to choose.
Not sure where to start? Take a peek at our collab with interior designer Tammy from Ivy Décor & Design and Block & Chisel: How to Style Your Entrance Hall Like an Interior Designer.
Standout product: Caspian Mirror
3. Decorland
Decorland is a must if you’re looking window décor. Not only do they have plenty of shutters and ready-made blinds, but they also stock curtain rails, tracks, and tie backs. You can choose the classic accessories for your curtain rails or even get custom-made blinds and custom-made shutters for your every need. They offer services too: From technical advice and installation to free measurement and free quotes and consults, I mean, who can say no to a gorgeous Venetian blind?
Standout product: Shutters
4. Poetry
We all know Poetry for their flowy, fashionable, and fabulous clothes, but Poetry of Living will surprise you. Launched in October 2023 has the odd knick knacks and trinket you never thought you needed to furnish your home. Think fish-shaped carafes, tomato-studded tumblers, ribbon-adorned towel rails, and the rug you’ve always hoped of having. Folks, they even sell furniture (including headboards). Not only are the items they stock dreamy, but the concept stores themselves are an immersive experience. I mean, come on, their Sea Point store is painted pink. Shop online or in-store and you are in for a treat.
Standout product: Club House Outdoor Striped Chair
5. Zorora
Have you seen our best couches list? Well, Zorara have featured year-on-year (and that’s saying something). We won’t lie, we’re fans, so much so that our Float staff have been converted into regular customers. Our team recommends (and raves about) their recently launched slipcovers for all their couches – life happens, so you definitely need it. You may be looking for a loveseat (ooh la la), a sleeper sofa, occasional chair, ottoman, or even kids sofas, and you’ll find it. And that L-shape? Yes, they’ve got it too.
Standout product: Slipcovers
6. Tafelberg Furnishers
First opened in the 60s in Bellville, Cape Town, this local stalwart sells absolutely everything you can need. You want to make your cappuccino at home with a fancy coffee machine? Got it. A UPS for those dark (loadshedding) nights? Got it. A braai with the bros? Got it. That frost-free fridge? Got it. That luxurious and well-deserved reclining chair? Got it. You catch our drift. They seriously have it all at a price you can actually afford. Plus, their staff are delightful, friendly, and knowledgeable. They also offer some worry-free extended warrantees too!
You may have seen them showing off the latest cool gadget at Decorex but take a trip to their stores – or online – and you will walk out with way more than expected (definitely not a bad thing).
Standout product: Philips 2000 Series Airfryer
7. Arrange Studio
Founded by Roxanne Ferreira, this show-stopping store will have your jaw on the floor. Think pop art. Think colour. Think dopamine décor. Think Arrange Studio. Have you seen their curvy rugs? Well, you’re going to want one. Their exceptionally chic lighting with minimalist shades (but remember … colour!) will have your heart; with wall lights, pendants, sconces, standing lamps, and table lamps. You might not have thought it, but Arrange Studio also sells benches in bright tones: Powder blue, terracotta, champagne, and lilac. Simply, if you want a happy home, you need some colour, and this spot is your best bet.
Standout product: Sunset Paradise Floor Lamp
8. By John Designs
The fun and fashionable Kaylee Higgins is behind By John Designs (no, not John). She’s so cool and talented that she has recently collabed with Rain as an artist. By John Designs is all about warm colour with pinks, oranges, reds, and yellows being a major feature (yes, they do indeed match). Those little touches that need some extra pizazz? By John Designs is your guy (or lady, rather). You’ve got the stationery, scatter cushions, napkins, cooler bags, blankets, placemats – the lot! They even sell beach bags, caps, and cosmetic bags to match your colourful home aesthetic. Their cult classic are their lobster wall hooks (Seriously. Add it to your cart immediately).
Standout product: Lobster Wall Hook
Curating Your Home Just Got Easier
Creating a home you love doesn’t have to happen overnight. We know it’s a big investment, and the best homes are usually built piece by piece, with things you really love.
With Float, you can split your homeware purchases into interest-free monthly instalments using your existing credit. So you can bring home the pieces you love without putting the full purchase amount on your credit card all at once.
Shop with Float and make creating a home you love a little easier.