Fresh Digs, Fresh Finds: Funky Furniture Hunting in Cape Town
So, you’ve made the big move—welcome to the Mother City! Whether you’re unpacking boxes in a sleek CBD apartment, a seaside bungalow in Muizenberg, or a cozy cottage in the Southern Suburbs, one thing’s for sure: it’s time to turn that blank canvas into a home.
But where to begin? Luckily, Cape Town has no shortage of stylish spots and quirky corners to furnish your place with flair—without breaking the bank or settling for soulless flat-pack.
City Style: Start Local
For chic basics and design-forward pieces, head to:
- Weylandts in Green Point – industrial cool meets African luxe.
- Block & Chisel in Diep River – think timeless classics with a Cape twist.
- Decofern in Salt River – reclaimed, recycled, reimagined.
But let’s be real. You’re not just here for the standard stuff. You’re here for the unexpected.
The One-Hour Escape: Elgin’s Hidden Treasures
Hop in the car and take the scenic drive out to Elgin, just an hour outside Cape Town. This lush valley isn’t just famous for apples and wine—it’s a decor lover’s dream.
At Elgin Railway Market, you’ll stumble across stalls with handmade homeware, upcycled furniture, vintage oddities, and artisan textiles. Grab a flat white, browse to your heart’s content, and maybe pick up a wrought-iron coat rack or an antique globe you never knew you needed.
It’s part treasure hunt, part weekend therapy.
Finders Keepers, Baby
Nestled in the heart of Cape Town’s antique alleyways and weekend markets is a little legend called Finders Keepers. This spot is the holy grail for anyone into eclectic, soulful decor.
Expect mismatched chairs that scream character, lovingly restored retro sideboards, and reclaimed wood pieces that practically hum with history.
You’ll walk in for a coffee table and leave with a whole new aesthetic.
Top Tips for Furnishing Like a Local:
- Mix old and new. Cape Town style is all about contrast—think Scandinavian minimalism meets vintage African warmth.
- Shop slow. Don’t rush to fill your space. Let it evolve.
- Support local. From craft markets to small showrooms, the best pieces are the ones with stories.