Eclectic Elegance

An abundance of natural light beautifully balances the dramatic décor in this multifaceted home.

- Beatrice Moore-Nöthnagel

WHO LIVES HERE?

Steven and Lella Kondylis, with Charlie the Jack Russell and Lulu the Yorkie

WHERE Constantia, Cape Town

SIZE 506m²

The décor on the cosy stoep is elegant yet unpretentious, offset by a palette of white and grey.

Dining chairs from Tafelberg Furniture; sofas from Plaisir du Jardin

The striking wallpaper in the dining room, which extends all the way up to the mezzanine level, is a recent addition; Steven is mad about palm trees and Lella loves the greens and pops of red.

Wallpaper from Cara Saven Wall Design; chandelier from Morgan Associates; table and chairs from Block ’n Chisel

Dahlias picked from Jaftha’s Flower Farm in Constantia add colour to the old workbench, which has been spray-painted red.

By her own admission, Lella Kondylis is the antithesis of Marie Kondo, the famous Japanese tidying expert. Yet, Lelladoes not tolerate clutter. That’s what is so charming about her 30-year-old Constantia home: on the one hand, it’s light and airy and on the other, it’s all dramatic décor with oversized wallpaper and bright colours – all of which works together perfectly.

“Everything has a story and a little history, but I definitely don’t overthink my décor,” says Lella, a ceramic artist trading under Porcelain Petites. “I want a warm home, not a showroom.”