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The African Voyager

Cape Town, South Africa

Shop local, shop unique: Cape Town‘s one-of-a-kind retail spots

Southern Africa • Shop • Shop local, shop unique: Cape Town‘s one-of-a-kind retail spots

One-of-a-kind retail spots in Cape Town

Text with links to Cape Town, Western Cape and South Africa.

Top photography courtesy of Cécile & Boyd

Merchants on Long

Merchants on Long is a concept store that celebrates the best of what the African continent has to offer, featuring both emerging and established brands. Opened in 2010, Merchants on Long has become an international platform for brands like Maxhosa Africa, Sindiso Khumalo and Rich Mnisi. Every item sold here has a story, often handmade by artisans from across the continent, blending traditional techniques with modern aesthetics. Merchants on Long features a curated selection of clothing, accessories and jewellery from designers who emphasise sustainable and ethical practices. Shopping here is an immersive experience, filled with rich textures, vibrant patterns and a sense of discovery at every turn. If you’re seeking to take a piece of African luxury home, Merchants on Long is a must-visit.

Merchants on Long
34 Long St
De Waterkant
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Merchants on Long

AKJP Studio

AKJP Studio, led by artist Keith Henning, is a multifaceted hub for South African design. Stocking its in-house label alongside collections from over 30 local creatives, AKJP offers a diverse mix of fashion, accessories, ceramics and homeware. The store champions both emerging and established talent, providing a space where craftsmanship and creativity come together. Henning, alongside CEO Claudia Leigh Selzer, curates monthly window installations – always a highlight for us – so it’s worth swinging by to see what’s new. The space also hosts collaborative events, nurturing a sense of community. Adding to its charm, AKJP has a café and bar serving locally sourced treats, making it much more than just a retail experience.

AKPJ Studio
73 Kloof St
Gardens
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of AKPJ Studio

Out Of This World

True to its name, Out Of This World lives up to its promise of offering furniture and decor that’s anything but ordinary. Out Of This World is a unique store that specialises in authentic tribal art and crafts. The store’s collection includes everything from traditional masks and sculptures to intricate beadwork and textiles. Each item is sourced directly from artisans, ensuring that you get a piece of genuine craftsmanship. A visit here feels like a little treasure hunt – you never quite know what you’ll find, but it’s sure to be something extraordinary. We also recommend stopping by The Stranger’s Club, a cosy café situated next door. The space is filled with upcycled furniture and artefacts from Out Of This World, they serve some seriously good coffee that will enhance your shopping experience.

Out Of This World
1 Braemar Rd
Green Point
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Out Of This World

Always Welcome

Always Welcome features a thoughtful collection of furniture, lighting, ceramics and textiles by local designers like Joe Paine and Dokter and Misses. You’ll find items that transform spaces into something extraordinary, from sleek minimalist chairs to bold, artful décor pieces. The space itself is beautiful, with clean white walls and exposed brickwork that highlight the beauty of the products on display. The store often hosts pop-ups and exhibitions, making it feel like a living, breathing gallery where design constantly evolves.

Always Welcome
108 Shortmarket St
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Always Welcome

Cécile & Boyd

Cécile & Boyd is a must-visit if you love sophisticated and eclectic interiors. Known for their work in high-end hotels and private homes, this store showcases pieces that combine comfort with a touch of luxury. This iconic showroom is set in a historic arts and crafts home, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages lingering visits. Known for their holistic lifestyle concepts, Cécile & Boyd offers a carefully curated selection of designer furniture, lighting and accessories. The store’s philosophy revolves around the high art of living well and this is evident in every piece they offer.

Cécile & Boyd
26 Kloof Nek Rd
Tamboerskloof
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Cécile & Boyd

Budism Couture

Budism Couture is a hidden gem in Cape Town that feels more like a creative sanctuary than a typical clothing store. Founded by Budi Adji and Philipp Althof, this boutique is renowned for its exquisite, hand-embroidered gowns and daywear couture. Each piece is a testament to the highest level of artisanship and luxury, tailored exclusively for each client. The store’s interior, featuring muted tones and clean lines, perfectly complements its unique clothing range, which spans everything from statement dresses to refined basics. If you are looking to add a one-of-a-kind statement piece to your wardrobe, Budism Couture is a must-visit.

Budism Couture
88 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Budism Couture

Han

Ceramist Hannah Massey’s vessels with biomorphic shapes bring an artistic edge to functional homeware. Her hand-built pieces merge contemporary design with ancient influences, making each one unique. At Han, you’ll find sculptural ceramics inspired by nature and human anatomy, with every curve and texture telling a story. Located on Loop Street, the space is both a showroom and a working studio, where Hannah often collaborates with local artists and designers to keep things fresh. It’s the kind of place where you can see the creative process in action. Plus, their rotating window displays are always worth a peek – something new is always in the works.

Han
31 Loop St
CBD
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Han

African Jacquard

We’re currently obsessed with African Jacquard’s Bogolan bed throws. These stunning throws, inspired by the traditional designs of West Africa, feature bold geometric patterns that really pop against a honeycomb weave. Made from a blend of cotton and linen, they add a cosy yet stylish feel to any room. The African Jacquard showroom in Cape Town is the perfect place to explore their luxurious range of jacquard-woven textiles. Using a technique that allows intricate designs to be woven into fabric, African Jacquard’s pieces reflect the essence of Africa with a modern twist. Every visit feels personal, with their friendly team always ready to help you find the perfect piece to bring a touch of elegance and warmth to your home.

African Jacquard
53 Church St
CBD
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of African Jacquard

Kat van Duinen

If you are looking to invest in timeless, luxurious fashion, Kat van Duinen is a must-visit. Kat van Duinen’s designs are unapologetically sophisticated, with a touch of edginess that sets them apart from typical luxury brands. Founded in 2010, this boutique specialises in exotic leather goods and high-end fashion. Each piece is crafted from the world’s most precious materials, like exotic leather, silk and cashmere, showcasing impeccable tailoring and intricate hand-beading. The boutique’s interior reflects the brand’s ethos – clean, modern and imbued with subtle African influences, creating a perfect backdrop for its striking collections.

Kat van Duinen
72 Loop St
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Kat van Duinen

Pedersen + Lennard

Pedersen + Lennard’s light-filled showroom showcases the best of contemporary South African design. This dynamic duo’s craftsmanship is all about clean lines, sustainable materials and a minimalistic yet warm aesthetic. Each piece is designed and manufactured locally, reflecting a commitment to quality and timelessness. From sleek bar stools to chic planter stands, their furniture combines functionality with a dash of playful design, making it ideal for modern urban living. Whether you’re setting up a new home or looking for that perfect side table, Pedersen + Lennard offers a relaxed, hands-on approach to furniture shopping that feels down-to-earth and accessible.