House of Chommies
Written by Carolyne Wamono
Welcome to the House of Chommies, where you and your furry BFF embark on a journey beyond imagination, celebrating the essence of craftsmanship in the heart of Cape Town's historic Gardens district. This one-of-a-kind concept store is nestled within the walls of a restored heritage building, formerly known as Ravenswood House, blending seamlessly with the enduring charm of late classical Georgian architecture from the 1800s and adorned with Chommies' vibrant African contemporary inspired aesthetics.
The Brand
Nathalie Klijn's pursuit of a slower, more fulfilling life brought her to Cape Town, a city where Chommies was born—a vibrant brand that celebrates the profound impact of our beloved four-legged companions.
Leaving behind a demanding career in Europe, Nathalie found inspiration in Cape Town's natural beauty and cultural richness. Her muse, Ringo, an adopted canine companion, taught her the value of cherishing the present moment. Chommies, with its playful and colourful designs, is her ode to the joy that dogs bring to our lives.
For Dogs...
The term 'Chommies' is borrowed from South African slang, a play on the old saying we all know that a dog is “man's best friend”. Chommies embodies this, specialising in crafting high-quality, eye-catching accessories for dogs (and cats), tailored to their unique needs. From durable leashes for those long walks to comfortable harnesses and unique collars, Chommies ensures that your pet is both comfortable and stylish. Their offering for pets also extends to the most luxurious velvet dog beds and travel mats and other extras such as dog toys.
…And the People who Love Them
The fun doesn't stop there! Chommies also offers an array of vibrant accessories for people, including keyrings and phone necklaces, in the Chommies eclectic quality and style.
Additionally, the brand has recently introduced Mo-Hey - a line of luxurious Mohair knits for humans. The Mohair yarn used in these knits is responsibly sourced from Adéle’s Mohair, a local yarn producer in the Karoo, known for their dedication to fair trade and environmentally-friendly practices, in accordance with the Responsible Mohair Standards (RMS).
Each Mo-Hey piece undergoes a meticulous process—hand-sheared, hand-spun, hand-dyed, and hand-knitted using traditional techniques. The result is a collection of unique knits, distinguished by their unparalleled quality and craftsmanship. The collection not only epitomises the brand's dedication to superior quality but also underscores its profound commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing practices.
Chommies represents a celebration of African craftsmanship, embodying the highest standards of quality. Its vibrant collections are handmade using the finest materials in their Cape Town studio, where traditional techniques such as rope whipping, macramé, weaving, leatherwork, fine beading, embroidery, and knitting are reimagined. Some artisans bring inherited skill from generations before, while others have been nurtured and developed in-house. Each creation is a reflection of this pride, passion, and love.
While Chommies initially emerged with the aim of connecting people passionate about exquisite design with those who adore their furry companions through its stylish, handcrafted walk-wear, the demand for more prompted the brand to broaden its product offerings. The new ‘House of Chommies’ is just the beginning of that journey.
The Space
Step into the world of Chommies, where two realms—the past and the vibrant present—coalesce seamlessly, creating a dreamy ambiance that is both chic and welcoming. As you enter the great hall of this Georgian gem adorned with intricate decorative millwork, your senses are treated to bursts of colour in pinstriped to multicoloured walls. Here, bespoke pet accessories, handmade knitwear, and artisanal treats, all infused with the vibrant spirit of South Africa, await.
For dog enthusiasts and their four-legged companions, the House of Chommies is nothing short of a dream come true. It's a visual symphony where Chommies' designs harmonise with the stunning architecture. Beautiful furniture, carefully curated art, and elegant chandeliers further enhance the space, creating an atmosphere of luxury that warmly welcomes both you and your dog, making you feel right at home.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Table Mountain, which further enhances the dreamlike atmosphere, you'll be treated to glimpses of Cape Town's natural beauty as you immerse yourself in a world of luxury and play.
Of course, a dog-friendly space wouldn't be complete without an outdoor area. The House of Chommies has a secluded courtyard with inviting dog-friendly benches and a charming water fountain that doubles as a dipping pond. The garden, originally designed by Cape Town landscaper Franchesca Watson, adds to the tranquility of the space.
Visitors can unwind at café tables with custom beaded surfaces and original metal outdoor chairs, inspired by Malawian basketry, exclusively crafted for this haven of an escape.
Visit their website at www.chommies.com to discover their exquisite collections and find out more about the House of Chommies.