A colour revolution

A character-filled home is not created overnight. It’s a work in progress and over time it fits the residents like a glove, as the Strauss’ home proves.

‘I simply love clutter!’

Zelda Strauss is modest about her home and collection of décor treasures from around the world with which she’s filled it.

This is a home that speaks of distant journeys, constant change – and occupants who have no patience with things dull and boring. Stepping through the front door, you pass walls covered with holiday mementoes and family photographs, as well as a beautiful console with a colourful marine theme that welcomes you, seaside-style. This is, after all, Mossel Bay.

At every turn you’re greeted with a carefully considered combination of elements that create beautiful cameos. And despite a decade-long drought along the southern Cape coast, the Strauss garden is beautifully green and Zelda’s quick to point out that there are usually plenty of flowers too. The strelitzias and lush shrubs patiently waiting for rain are a good indication of how spectacular the flowerbeds must be, but for now the house’s colourful décor makes up for the absent blooms.

Eclectic collections adorn every nook corner and room, much like this  area in the bar.

The entrance hall offers a warm welcome.

The fireplace doubles as an indoor braai where the family regularly  enjoys a hearty meal.

Zelda gave this console table a grass-green twist.

This cosy little nook is Zelda’s personal retreat.

This colourful lounge extends out onto the stoep where Zelda enjoys reading.

Zelda and Pieter bought the pendant lights in the USA and had them adapted locally to hang from the ceiling. The linen slipcovers on the chairs around the kitchen counter allow for the look of the room to be changed in seconds.

Zelda displays some of her marine collectibles on the console at the entrance.

The formal living room is sophisticated and tranquil.

The master bedroom is elegant, with a screen serving as a headboard.

The slate finishes in Zelda and Pieter’s bathroom create a dramatic effect in the soft light of the small chandelier above the bath.

Zelda and her dog Ketha at the fireplace in her bedroom. Zelda’s mother announced her engagement in the dress hanging on the wall.