Designers Around the World interviews real-life designers about what it is like to run a design business in countries all over the world.  As you'll see these designers have all different backgrounds and experiences, but I think you'll be surprised how similar we all are too.  

About Rachelle Paradise

After studying Graphic Design and working in advertising for many years, Rachelle had two boys so she no longer wanted to work the “crazy hours of advertising. To set her own hours she branched out into interiors and has been in business for 17 years now. She lives and works in Cape Town South Africa.

Why did you become an interior designer?

I love creating spaces for people. I really enjoy the fact that you can become close to your client. Working in their home for the duration of the job. Many clients are still firm friends years after their project is complete. I love working with space and being able to realize people's dreams. There is so much room for creativity in this industry. The possibilities are infinite.

What does it take to be a successful designer in South Africa? 

It takes developing excellent working relationships with your clients. Really listening to their needs, being able to create their dream space and not your own, and working to budget if needs be. One needs to be on top of one’s game all the time, providing excellent service time after time.

What is the biggest struggle you face as a designer in South Africa?

The biggest struggle in my opinion is the rand/dollar rate which is sometimes prohibiting when wanting to add some international, especially European pieces.

How do you charge? 

I charge 750 Rands per hour initial consultation fee, then once we start the project I add in a 20% service fee on top of everything including bought purchases.

What traits or talents have made you successful?

Firstly I think being able to truly understand the client’s brief is essential. You are designing for them not yourself and you are there to facilitate their intentions. I also like to keep a very clean minimalist approach to my work.

What does a successful interior design business look like in South Africa?

Most of the top large interior design companies are working in the corporate and domestic markets for me I chose to specialize in the domestic market. There is a fortune of competition as there are many design firms. I think the most successful design firms are the ones working in the international market.

What are the requirements to be an interior designer in South Africa?

A diploma in Interior Design from one of the many colleges.

Do you see any differences between design in the US and South Africa?  If so, what are they?

Yes, I find the design in the US very cluttered. They tend to like collections of things and display them everywhere. I am talking about my own opinion of the average American household. In South Africa, because of our long Summer's we tend to live a lot outside and therefore it is important to incorporate indoors and out using open plan living making the spaces free-flowing.

What is your ideal project?

Working from an empty shell with a flexible budget. Doing the whole house from the ground up. I am very hands-on with all aspects of my projects. So I love doing custom furniture, blinds, curtains and all the soft finishes. There is nothing nicer than when the client has faith in your abilities and lets you get on with everything.

What is the design community/ design industry like in South Africa?

It is super competitive as there are many of us.

We are very blessed in South Africa to have incredible artisans, artists and craftspeople who we can draw on for projects. Some of my suppliers I have been working with for years and have grown with me. All these incredible people together are who create the incredible style and work ethics that is uniquely South African.

All photos courtesy of Rachelle Paradise. You can contact Rachelle at rparadiseis@gmail.com.

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