Fynbos & fairy lights: how to set the scene for a naturally chic Christmas
Top make-up artist Algria Ferreira-Watling invites us into her serene Cape home to share the secrets to creating down-to-earth festive decor
Image: Greg Cox/bureaux.co.za
A bleached-out palette, raw finishes and an aesthetic that borders on the monastic are the hallmarks of this home in Cape Town's central and historic Tamboerksloof neighbourhood.
What makes this captivating, sanctuary-like habitat even more remarkable - given the absence of bright colours or lustrous textures - is that its owner, Algria Ferreira-Watling, is one of SA's most in-demand make-up artists.
The source of Algria's inspiration can be traced to her childhood. "I come from a poor background. We didn't have material possessions, but there was always so much love," she says.
"I work in an industry founded largely on traditional notions of beauty and consumption, but I've never desired 'things'. My dream was only ever to live with my family in a modest house that had a feeling of tranquillity. Why would I desire a palace when what I have is perfect?"
Image: Greg Cox/Bureaux
Image: Greg Cox/bureaux.co.za
"Things found in nature, objects that have already had many lives, the soft wrinkle in a piece of linen. These are a constant source of inspiration for me," says Algria. "Christmas calls for luxury, but there's no right or wrong interpretation of what that means. Faded and evocative or full-on and festive, as long as what you see makes you happy."
FERREIRA-WATLING'S TOP 7 FESTIVE DECOR TIPS
1. Strings of fairy lights are a Christmas essential
They can be put in vases, in the fireplace, draped over the mantle, around door frames or left hanging from the ceiling in the corner of a room.
2. Upcycle glass bottles into candle holders
Fill clear white wine and cordial bottles with boiled or distilled water (to stop the water from clouding too soon) and place sprigs of fynbos, heather or woody herbs inside.
Use as holders for elegant taper candles on your tablescape or wherever you want atmospheric lighting.
3. Keep gift-wrapping simple and rustic
Crinkle brown Kraft paper and plain newsprint into tight balls and spread out for use. You'll be left with an organic, crushed-linen look.
Give each present its own unique treatment. Experiment with white and brown twine and use fynbos - plain or spray-painted - as well as spray-painted seed pods as embellishment. Wrap the twine casually for a more informal appearance.
4. Incorporate greenery
Source fynbos and create whimsical free-form wreaths and garlands. Use gold and copper craft wire and black leather cord for contrast and a hint of shine.
5. Spray-paint is an easy way to indulge your creativity.
Coat found objects from nature such as seed pods and dried flowers in antique gold and copper for an understated glow. Fynbos, spray-painted black, is an edgy interpretation of this idea.
Apply the same technique for the garlands, using gold and copper craft wire.
Image: Greg Cox/bureaux.co.za
Image: Greg Cox/Bureaux
6. Stick to a monochromatic scheme for your table setting
Approach a monochromatic table setting like a fashion designer, focusing on layering and texture: think shades of chalk, grey, charcoal and bone.
Anchor the scheme with a beautiful linen tablecloth; set places with vintage silver-plated cutlery, rough-edged linen napkins tied with hemp string and handmade crockery (black adds drama).
Arrange a mix-and-match assortment of upcycled glassware for sprigs of fynbos and candles, and add a final flourish in the form of gold and copper spray-painted seed pods.
Image: Greg Cox/bureaux.co.za
Image: Greg Cox/bureaux.co.za
7. Serve your guests a deconstructed "naked" cake.
Make two classic sponges (one large, one medium) and trim them into circular shapes. Layer only the tops of each cake with buttercream frosting (hence the term "naked") and sprinkle on a fine layer of edible glitter. Embellish with sprigs of fynbos or woody herbs.
• Styling: Shelley Street Floral Designs: Storm Ross/thehollowayshop.com