James Design

Sanlam Investments FoodWineDesign Fair
Jozi hedonists can indulge all of their senses at this rich compendium of artisanal food, wine and design offerings

JOHANNESBURG'S THIRD GATHERING of South African winemakers, designers and food producers takes place on 23-25 November at the much-anticipated annual Sanlam Investments FoodWineDesign Fair, on the rooftop of Hyde Park Corner.
The boutique outdoor market showcases over 100 of South Africa's accomplished artisanal entrepreneurs.
Bringing his own brand of expertise to the design hub is eminent furniture designer James Mudge (top left) of Cape Town. Though hailing from a family with a background in crafting solid-wood furniture, he initially studied architecture before pursuing furniture design, and went on to open his own studio. On his path as an entrepreneur in South Africa, James has learned to trust his knowledge and believes in working hard to achieve his goals. What sets him apart from the competition is his devotion to detail in design: 'If you produce a good product and offer a reliable service, you will be busy,' he maintains. As someone who does not conform to trends, James believes his products will endure beyond the transient.
When it comes to matters of finance for James Mudge Furniture Studio, this designer follows a friend's advice: to invest in himself. James is a saver and when he does spend, it's on purchasing fixed assets for his business, when he can afford it. 'I've already built up long-term savings... I'm going to be opening a new showroom soon, and I will use them to fund the cost of decorating and stocking it,' he says.