History and modernity combine in Cape Town’s new House of Chommies storefront. The elegant refurbished heritage building serves as both as a concept retail destination and an escapist city oasis, marking for an exciting broadening and evolution of the brand.
The original aim of this premium brand was to connect people with a passion for dogs and design via its stylish handcrafted walkwear, but customers who love Chommies’ colorful aesthetic have been “nudging us for new categories” says Chommies’ creative director and founder Nathalie Klijn. “As we naturally evolve into more of a lifestyle brand that celebrates color-happy contemporary design and artisanal luxuries made in South Africa, we wanted a feel-good, welcoming space that is a sensory experience for people and dogs alike, as well as one that gives us the opportunity to develop and showcase new products in home, fashion and accessories,” says Klijn.
Traditionally known as Ravenswood House, a stately national monument dating to the early 1800s built in the late classical Georgian style, the striking building has been made even more remarkable thanks to Klijn’s vivacious visual style. A queen of color, her touch is everywhere – in the unconventionally colored ceilings, the walls adorned with patterned murals and commissioned wallpaper featuring playful illustrations of Cape Town living. In the entrance, natty-painted stripes exude sophisticated gaiety, hand-painted in swathes of moody teal, salmon and terracotta that she artfully sourced from a combination of Farrow & Ball and Plascon swatches.
The House of Chommies boasts a secluded courtyard with dog-friendly benches and a water fountain that seconds as dipping pond, with the garden that was originally designed by Cape Town landscaper Franchesca Watson. You can take a seat at bespoke café tables with custom beaded surfaces and original metal outdoor chairs inspired by Malawian basketry, both of which were developed specifically for this space. “We want our customers and their dogs to feel inspired but also at ease as if in their own home, helping them to unwind from today’s busy world,” says Klijn.
The name Chommies, a South African term for “friends”, encapsulates the joie de vivre of this premium brand. All products are handmade locally in the Chommies workshop, which is situated across the road from the store in a beautiful Victorian townhouse, which Klijn sensitively renovated to bring it in line with the brand aesthetic. Thanks to local artisans who form part of the Chommies’ team, traditional African craftsmanship such as whipping, weaving and macramé live on and are cleverly reimagined, whilst adding soul and story to each product. Customers can make an appointment to visit the workshop.
Newly introduced product lines mean that friends of Chommies can now feast on fashion and innovative accessories. Klijn’s color aesthetic is vividly present in the astonishing colorways across cool keychains, phone pouches and ‘sunny side up’ cardholders crafted from leather and rope. Stylish basket shoppers are woven by hand, and beaded jewellery and mohair cushion covers are also on offer. House of Chommies’ ultra-soft knitwear in natural mohair includes handknitted jerseys, cardigans and puff blouses in playful stripes or unicolor designs. Mohair from Karoo kid goats creates supreme softness with a silk-like lustre. Custom-made designs and only natural dyes feature, in single or double-knit styles.
“We believe in a luxury that can be enjoyed 24/7; from a glorious walk with your dog in the morning to striking products and designs that bring joy and ease to everyday life” concludes Kjin.
Photography by Frances Marais.
Styling by Storm Ross.
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