Stylish fashion brand Desray needs no introduction. In fact Desray dresses make a regular appearance in South Africa’s leading glossy magazines. You will also find Desiree Jearey’s beautiful garments  in more than 60 boutiques all over South Africa, or in one of their four exclusive shops in the Western Cape. But today we will not be gushing over her classic dresses, trendy scarfs or flattering tops. No, we are heading to Newlands for a peek at Desiree’s gorgeous family home.

Desiree says she never really fell in love with the house. They bought it purely for position and area. “It was quite an ugly 1950’s house but it had huge potential and was easily moulded. After having our first child, we knew that we needed to leave the long summer nights in Fresnaye to go to the very leafy suburbs of Newlands to be near all the great schools”, says Desiree. The once ugly house is now a beautiful and comfortable home where they like to spend time with family and friends. We really love the relaxed feel of the house, which reminds me of a holiday villa.

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5 Minutes with Desiree: 

My style is best described as... Modern colonial with clean simple light. Less is more with a black and white theme

I am inspired by…

Internationally – Ralph Lauren (I always say that him and I were separated at birth). Restoration hardware in New York. Locally Pezula Interiors in the city bowl. Le Grange in Franschoek. My greatest garden inspiration is Babylonstoren.

I love my home because…

Through renovations I have made our special space. Lazy days on the veranda encourage happy memories being made by family and friends. It is a peaceful and comfy home which the only place I want to be after a full working week at the Desray head office. I love the property because it is like an artist canvas which is easily changeable season on season which suits my instinct to redesign.

My home DIY projects include…

I repaint summer on winter, I make new curtains. I re-upholster the couches to give it a new fresh look without having to spend too much money.

I splurged on…

Beautiful fabrics, furniture from Pezula, glass and wicker wear from Le Grange. My big cow plate from Babylonstoren.

My advice for other home decor enthusiasts is… Less is definitely more. Buy cheap, buy twice. An amazing new scatter cushion can give an entire lounge/bedroom a new look for very little money.

The biggest challenge was ...

Turning an ugly duckling into a swan

What do you love most about your home?

My bedroom. Especially my bed!