CHRIS WEYLANDT
The man behind the much-loved South African homeware brand lets us in on his style leanings
If the Weylandts brand stands for a union of contemporary aesthetics and hand craftsmanship, its CEO Chris Weylandt manifests these values with his personal style. His preferences imbue the brand’s passion for simplicity and quality.
Weylandts was started in Namibia in 1964 by my father. He wanted to create something special; a company that stood for great design, quality and an incredible customer experience.
The design principles that resonate most with me are longevity, innovation and a balance between craft and material.
Authentic design, to me, means being true to our brand and identity, and designing with consistent principles and values.
Weylandts is about having soul, being authentic and staying true to our four pillars, no matter what we do.
Terence Conran and the Ikea brand shaped my opinion of design.
My fashion style is about keeping things simple. I only own a few items, but they are beautiful and reflect my style. My go-to shop is Loading Bay in Cape Town. My last purchase for my home was the Weylandts limited BBE stool for the shower.
I’ve been reading Mark Manson’s The Subtle Art of not giving a F*ck. My go-to fragrance is anything by Issey Miyake.
When I get home from work, I have a glass of Maison Chenin Blanc. My latest trip was to Morocco, and I loved it. I enjoy experiencing new cultures and love travelling with my family.
My favourite hotel in the world is the RAAS hotel in Jodhpur, India. I’d never travel without a black T-shirt and Camper shoes.
I collect skulls.
My new Weylandts love is the inclusion of hand-carved detailing. My favourite design studio is Conran and Partners for its impact on the appreciation of design on a broad scale.
We’re adding art to our home, including a painting by Phillemon Hlungwani entitled We will arrive by Daybreak ,and a baboon sculpture by Wilma Cruise.
My home style in words is: relaxed living, authentic, paired down and simplistic, celebrating the materials used.
The homeware I use is mostly from Weylandts, unless I stumble across something beautiful from a gallery.
Local designers to keep an eye on are Studio A for interiors and Wiid Design for product.