The Interior Scoop

Liezel Booy is the owner and senior interior designer at Rainey Skyes Interiors in Pietermaritzburg. She joined her late mom, Lyn Kritzinger, around 20 years ago, who was its founder and specialist in furniture restoration. Liezel now runs her own showroom and offers interior decorating services for both homes and corporate offices. She specialises in curtaining, blinds, upholstery, wallpaper, custom-made couches, and restorations.

According to Liezel, an emerging trend is “Afrohemian”, which is a blend of African and Bohemian styles. “This is a combination of vibrant African patterns, rich cultural heritage and natural textures with the relaxed, eclectic and free-spirited essence of boho living. Key elements of this trend include earth-infused palettes (sandy shades, tones of terracotta, deep greens, ochre). It blends handwoven textiles, carved wood, and layering colours and textures into our homes that celebrate South Africa. It feels meaningful to our culture,” she explained.

A few items you can incorporate into your space include woven wall hangings like benga baskets, natural rugs like jute, smaller-sized ceramics, and oversized artworks. By incorporating light-textured throws, you can achieve a layered appearance, and finish off your look with tall palms in baskets or a selection of plants that you love.

Liezel’s Top Picks:
• I support local textile companies such as Papini Trading Silkhouse, from which I get my wallpaper and textiles, etc. They can be viewed online. Many local companies in Pietermaritzburg carry their range of products, but the public can’t order directly from them.
• Pura Vida for home fragrances and skincare. I treat scent as a core element in any room I design; it creates ambience. I especially love soy or beeswax candles and reed diffusers.
• Touchwood Interiors has a great selection of plants.
• I love supporting local people in my designs and often buy my baskets and other pieces from local vendors.

“Decorating your own home isn’t about creating a perfect showroom; it’s about creating a space that tells your story. Start with what you love, then build around those pieces with colours, textures, and accessories that complement them.”

http://www.raineyskyes.co.za