Dido Designs
Flick a switch and watch as light spills through countless tiny holes, each painstakingly punched by hand using a hammer and a punch. This is a method of traditional punctured metal work that has been used in North Africa for thousands of years, and one that makes up the beautiful lighting products from Dido Designs.

Working from a 300 year-old factory in Tunisia, designer Caroline Mansouri creates a stunning range of contemporary handcrafted lighting, handcrafted by artisans highly skilled in the intricate metal work method. The lighting is crafted in aged brass or nickel and is available in pendant, standard or table lamp format.

Handcrafting adds to the uniqueness of each product, as no two will strictly be the same. The simple silhouettes come in the following forms: drum, lotus, stellar, sphere and fence; with some of the designs being based on traditional Tunisian light designs.

I personally like the way the holes create a soft pattern on the wall, bringing an intimate touch to the living space.

African Mosaïque
After a fairly dreary and bitterly cold weekend, today has given a glimpse of a potentially beautiful summer’s day complete with clear blue skies, so off course daydreaming just had to turn to perfect summer wardrobes and I can so picture myself in one of African Mosaïque’s timelessly chic ensembles.

Created by acclaimed former international Ethiopian model turned fashion designer, entrepreneur and humanitarian; Anna Getaneh, the African Mosaïque label was set up in 2004 and comprises a seasonal collection of contemporary African inspired clothing and accessories. Collaborations with other designers bring added fusion to the ranges and Anna is keen on using the diverse range of African fabrics available to bring to life the gorgeous creations. Based in Johannesburg, African Mosaïque is a celebration of collective African design talent and culture. The flagship store stocks the cream in established and emerging designers from around the continent, giving them a much-needed platform to showcase their creations.

The African Mosaïque story goes back much further to 1995 when the company was originally set up as - and continues to be - a platform introducing African fashion to the international arena and sees African Mosaïque often holding fundraising events and galas in New York. The proceeds raised from these events go towards supporting organisations like The Ethiopian Children’s Fund and Fashion Outreach, an organisation aimed at facilitating greater minority participation within the US fashion industry.

I just love the fabrics, colours and prints... roll on summer!

Nana’s Lodge
Calling all surfers… I have always heard about surfers in search of the perfect wave that draws enthusiasts from all over the world to places like Hawaii, California, Indonesia and Australia. Enter Robertsport, Liberia a place whose uninterrupted surf is literally sending waves throughout the surfing community and attracting tourists to the relatively unspoilt coastline.

However, it appears the word is spreading too quickly for some bringing with it concerns. I came across the increasing popularity of Liberia’s surfing tourism via CNN’s Inside Africa’s recent feature on this surfer’s paradise who ask the question ‘Africa’s unspoilt surf paradise – but for how long?’, raising the age-old debate about the harmful nature of mass-tourism versus the economic benefits to the local communities. Africa has some of the most amazing place to visit in the world, with tourism vital to many of the countries economies. So what to do? And is there such a thing as a happy medium?

Located 2 hours outside the capital city, Monrovia is Nana’s Lodge, welcomimg guests to the lush tropical coastline of Robertsport. Accommodation at Nana’s Lodge comprises 11 Luxury tents each with two double beds and their own private balcony, which allows for spectacular sunset and sunrise views over the Atlantic. In addition to surfing Nana’s Lodge also enjoys a lively year round event calendar of concerts, festivals, sports fests and beach parties.

Looking at the images I can see why people are drawn to Liberia’s coastline... it looks absolutely breathtaking!

ekofabrik
Now here is something I haven’t seen in like, forever and it certainly took me back in time! 
I’m taking about the mid-80’s; and the object in question is a vintage Zimbabwean $2 note, later withdrawn and replaced with a coin and now virtually nonexistent.

Browsing the net yesterday and following some random but interesting links I stumbled upon US-based ekofabrik showcasing the note design printed on a cushion. Using vintage paper money collected on her travels as a child, designer Kim Johnson replicates the designs onto organic cotton pillows that are backed with a soft eco-felt made from 100 percent post consumer recycled plastic bottles.

Growing up in the ‘80s ZWD$2 was a lot of money to us kids and seeing the note took me right back to my childhood days, hitting me with a wave of nostalgia. I was suddenly overcome with memories, a feeling of longing and started reminiscing about things like… buying ice-cream from the Dairibord and Lyons Maid bicycle vans, who’d come down the road during the school holidays ringing their tin bells; visiting the Harare Show, especially the fireworks on Saturday night when we were old enough to go by ourselves; hanging out at Dairy Den before it disappeared; if we were really lucky a whole note for pocket-money to get Freezits, CentaCools, Freddos, Chomps, Corn Curls and sweets from the tuck-shop at break time; catching a mini-bus into the city centre to see the latest movie at Kine 1 or 2; and the best fudge, toffee and shortbread ever from the Sister in Charge of Sick Bay at school - it got a lot of people through exams, discreetly hidden in blazer pockets; the fudge in particular I haven’t had anything like it since, I’m still on the hunt for something that comes close and just writing about it makes my mouth water…  Good times!

ekofabrik’s money designs include those of South Africa, Budapest, Norway, Portugal and Italy; all based on currency from the 1980’s – maybe they bring back memories for you too if you are from any of those nations.

Sidney Molepo
It all starts with a sketch… that effectively communicates the simplicity and visual aesthetic of furniture designer Sidney Molepo’s stunning creations. Displaying a sense of beauty through form and function Sidney’s furniture is also sculptural in nature. Sleek, clean lines are executed in hardwoods such as Maple and Walnut, and at times accentuated with splashes of bright colour.

Born in Botswana to South African parents, raised in Ottawa, Canada and now working in New York, Sidney describes his creative influences as mid-century modern with South African design influences. Sidney honed his design skills through interning at large New York Based furniture designer and manufacturer, a place that had an impact on his approach to design.

Now making a name for himself, Sidney Molepo designs and builds his one of a kind furniture creations for private clients and has had his designs exhibited in galleries, exhibitions and publications throughout Canada. 

Modern design with an air of elegance and grace about it.

Additional information sourced from: http://contemporaryafricanhome.blogspot.com

Whilst also focusing on producing a high-quality product, it is these values that saw the company become the first wine brand in the world to receive Fairtrade accreditation in 2003. 250 farm-worker families hold 55% shares in the company in addition to land-ownership of three farms ranging from 50%-100% shareholding, making it the biggest black-owned exporting wine company in South Africa.

With increasing international stockists, profits are ploughed back into the company’s initiatives such as providing adult education, tertiary education bursaries and a crèche for the farmer workers children. Thandi Wines encourages visitors to the farm to see firsthand the brand at work and to sample some their fine offerings in the beautiful tranquil surroundings of the farm.

...and; if you do decide to enjoy a glass of Thandi Wines please remember to drink responsibly
   

Singita Pamushana Lodge
After some breathtaking views… then Singita Pamushana Lodge in the 140 000 acre Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, Masvingo in Zimbabwe firmly ticks that box. Kiwi Collection who pride themselves on selecting exceptional hotels have selected it as one of their ‘Wow Picks’ and just looking at the opening image you can see why, it blew me away – absolutely stunning! (...and I know I'm biased!)

Nestled amongst a spectacular forest that includes: Mopane forests, majestic Baobabs and sandstone outcrops in an area noted as one of Africa’s best-kept secrets; Pamushana Lodge is secluded luxury. Located in the south-eastern part of Zimbabwe, Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is a geologically diverse area with a wide variety of plant, bird and wildlife. Malilangwe also contains 100 rock art sites dating back over 2,000 years and is home to one of the highest concentrations of the endangered Black Rhino.

The Lodge complex comprises six luxury suites and one luxury villa, all with views of the dam that attracts a large variety of wildlife, making sundowners a highlight. The main lodge area offers indoor and outdoor dining, a library, open-air lounge, two heated swimming pools and a wine cellar. The usual safari pursuits of game viewing and guided walks are on offer.

Blissful daydreaming!

Jackal and Hide
On the outskirts of Lusaka, Zambia a small workshop produces a range of beautifully crafted designer bags and accessories made from quality Zambian cowhides. Set up by Gillie Lightfoot, known for creating Tribal Textiles, Jackal and Hide bags are crafted from start to finish by a small group of specially trained tailors, enabling attention to detail and quality in the finish.

Continually evolving with the adding of new designs, Jackal and Hide bags are all customised to incorporate the customers requirements and therefore unique, as no two should be exactly the same. Each bag comes with hand-painted linings from sister company Tribal Textiles and are adorned with vegetable ivory beads, carved Angoni cow horn, tassels and handpicked beads sourced across Africa and the globe.

The customised collection includes totes, shoulder, luggage and laptop bags presented in a range of classic, modern, bold, elegant, fun and traditional styles. The variety and pattern of the hides add interesting dimensions to the bags and come in hues of classic black, brown and tan through to electric blue and vibrant reds. In addition to using leather, sturdy canvas and drill is also used; especially within the travel bags and gentlemen’s accessories ranges.

This sling bag would be great for the weekend wardrobe and looks so soft.

Ethniciti
The days are starting to get a bit longer, with spring just a couple of months away and for me; a time when the urge to have a good clear-out and reorganisation strikes - I have already started to feel the itch! And looking back on the few months since I started African Daydreams I have come across some truly beautiful and inspiring products that I wouldn’t hesitate to use to refresh my home. Our homes and what we put into them say so much about who we are, but it is so easy to get stuck in a rut and sometimes need a nudge (or two!) to get going in the desired direction. If you are looking to add some African inspiration to your interior but need a bit of help in sourcing products or bringing your ideas to life, then the creative team at Ethniciti could be just the people to help you.

Ethniciti - under the direction of CEO and Creative Director, Bill Sands - is dedicated to bringing its brand of contemporary African-inspired interior design to a wider audience through a service that allows you to tailor your design package based on the number of rooms selected. With a particular passion for African fabrics, an eclectic array of furniture, textiles and accessories sourced from new generation African and international designers are brought together by Ethniciti’s team of designers who work with you to fulfil your interior daydreams. Ethniciti’s service takes the client through a personalised process of space planning, colour and texture, furniture, accessorising, and fine art selections. Bill kindly sent over some before and after shots of a recent project and what a gorgeous, chic transformation. 

The bedroom is light and airy largely thanks to a fresh contemporary colour palette that for me conjures up mango/papaya, lime and cooling sea breezes; and works well with the cultural accents. I find that all too often when it comes to incorporating an ‘African’ aesthetic there is a tendency to descend into clichés of Zebra and generic earth tones. Whilst there is nothing wrong with earth tones, it can become safe and samey-samey with no real hint of the owner’s true personality. Ethniciti is in the process of reinforcing their online presence to make it easier and more convenient for clients to engage with the brand and also to reach out to a wider global clientele.

Inspired? Try seeking out the unique and unusual, as a little imagination and an eye for detail can create amazing things!

David Adjaye for Pact
More known for adding to a city skyline and working with more rigid materials, reknowned architect David Adjaye teamed up with US clothing manufacturer and retailer, PACT to design a collection of sustainable men’s and women’s underwear to benefit the Green Belt Movement. PACT’s partnership with the Green Belt Movement meant that 20 trees were planted for every pair sold during Earth Week, April 2010, as 100% of each sale was donated to the organisation. Following on from the Earth Week launch, 10% of the sale price for each pair is donated towards the initiative.

The Green Belt Movement was started in Kenya by 2004 Nobel Peace Prize winner, Activist and Environmentalist, Dr Wangari Maathai in 1977, and has to date seen more than 40 million trees planted throughout Africa. An initiative working at grassroots level, the Green Belt Movement aimed to redress environmental damage and since its inception has evolved to encompass advocating for human rights, women’s empowerment and the support of good governance and peaceful democratic change.

The underwear is made from premium organic cotton, printed with David Adjaye’s specially commissioned ‘Green Belt’ print. The print was designed to evoke the spirit of renewal and hope; and has lush green tones forming the background and sees yellow-stemmed fig leaves, designed to echo the shape of the African continent, running through it.