BRANDS
At SAAM, we believe good design starts with the maker. Behind every product is a story, a person and a place. We bring the work of makers from Southern Africa to the Netherlands, where it finds a place in your home.
Sonnenglas makes lamps that draw their energy directly from the sun. The idea is simple, the design instantly recognisable and the lamps surprisingly versatile. They charge during the day and provide warm, atmospheric light after dark.
But Sonnenglas is more than a clever lamp. It has its roots in South Africa, where innovation and social impact have been closely connected from the very beginning.
In Plettenberg Bay, on South Africa’s coast, weaving is still done by hand on traditional looms at Mungo. Cotton and linen are carefully woven into fabrics that appeal not only to the eye, but also to the touch.
Mungo keeps this traditional craft alive while giving it a contemporary feel. The result is a collection of timeless designs made to last, from towels and blankets to other textiles for everyday use.
Elsje Designs draws inspiration from nature, colour and everyday life in South Africa. This comes through in illustrations with a character of their own, often featuring flowers, plants and other familiar elements.
From notebooks and prints to home accessories, Elsje brings her illustrations to life in many different ways. Her designs bring a touch of joy while capturing something of the South African spirit.
In Eswatini, Swazi Candles are shaped, painted and finished by hand, making each candle unique. The colourful patterns and distinctive shapes give every piece its own character.
Swazi Candles are made to be seen. With their bold shapes, patterns and colours, they add a playful touch to any interior, whether lit or not.
Mia Mélange grew out of textile designer Mia Danieli’s love of natural materials and the shapes of African baskets. Today, baskets, bowls and other home accessories are made in the studio in Stellenbosch using locally produced cotton cord.
The cords are carefully stitched together, with each shape and pattern taking form step by step. Simple lines, natural colours and the texture of the cotton give the designs their calm, distinctive character.
The Ninevites is the design studio of South African designer Nkuli Mlangeni. Inspired by textiles, culture and storytelling, she works with makers in South Africa to create distinctive woven designs.
The patterns of The Ninevites draw on the rich visual language of Southern Africa, from beadwork and pottery to the geometric shapes found in basket weaving and murals. In this way, old stories and traditions find their place in textiles made for everyday use.
Takeover Studio gives discarded offcuts from the clothing industry a new lease of life as colourful bags and accessories.
Behind the collection is South African entrepreneur Nonhlanhla Zondi. Through Takeover Studio, she aims not only to reuse materials, but also to give young makers the opportunity to develop their skills and find work.
Ark of O Designs was founded in 2013 by husband and wife Godisang and Gbolahan Ogunbambi. Drawing on their different backgrounds in textile and interior design, they create products that bring together their love of African fabrics, patterns and craftsmanship.
Their work is about telling African stories and celebrating African beauty and identity.
The Cotton Company began with founder Madeleine Hugo’s love of the traditional Turkish towel. During her time in Istanbul, she discovered the craftsmanship behind this versatile textile and the many ways it can be used.
Inspired by this, she created a collection of cotton towels and other textiles with designs suited to life in South Africa. The Cotton Company now also produces a locally made collection in Stellenbosch.
Spring is the young label founded by Inke, born out of a lifelong love of Liberty fabrics, which she has been collecting since childhood.
After years of importing champagne, running two B&Bs and baking countless cakes, she finally took the step of turning her collection into a range of her own.
