I met Rina-Marie the first time in 2003 as first year student at chef school. I remember being very impressed with her quirky style. Nine years later and Rina-Marie is now married to Niel and living on a farm outside Stellenbosch, and she has not lost her great sense of style and creativity one bit. 

When we launched this series, Rina-Marie was one of the names that immediately popped into my head. So I asked her if we could shoot her house, and she kindly agreed. Rina-Marie and Niel live in a lovely cottage on Overgaauw farm, called The Shepherd’s Cottage. It’s tradition on the farm that the newly married couple live in that cottage for two years. Rina-Marie’s in-laws and Niel’s sisters all stayed in this cosy cottage. Niel’s grandfather is to thank for all the beautiful shutters with the heart shaped cut-out. 

When we were oohing and aahing about her gorgeous house, Rina- Marie modestly replied that they inherited most of the furniture, but I know it’s not that simple. It’s quite an art to combine lost different pieces in order to create a look that works. 

Thanks Rina-Marie for opening your home to us. If you’re in the Stellenbosch area be sure to pop in for a wine tasting at Overgaauw. Rina is also an amazing chef so if you need a caterer for a function or wedding do give her a shout. Another big thank you to Claudia de Nobrega for taking all the gorgeous pictures. 

5 minutes with the lady of the house:

How would you describe your style? 

Well, we inherited, restored or revamped most of the furniture we have. My mother-in-law gave us a few great pieces when they moved off the farm into a new home. So it’s a mixture of many different styles that include both old and new. In that case I suppose my style could be described as eclectic. 

Did you take on any DIY projects in your new home. 

Yes, my husband devised an extra kitchen counter with a built in sink. We also painted a pine dresser bright yellow. It used to be in my room when I was still at school, but now it’s quite comfortable in our living room. I also made sheer linen curtains for the big farmhouse windows. 

What your most prised possession in your home.  

The three Shany van den Berg paintings above our fireplace. It was a gift from my parents on my 21st birthday. The two wood and leather chairs in our living room, that used to belong to my husband’s grandfather, also has a very special place in my heart.