When Ballito mom Meg Cardwell found herself craving a creative outlet beyond the pressures of corporate life, she had no idea a dream – literally – would spark her next chapter.
Formerly a buyer for Mr Price and later an interior stylist, Meg loved design but longed for something more personal. Enter MOVA – the newly-launched children’s decor, furniture and toy brand she co-founded with long-time friend Georgie Dekker. “I actually dreamt that Georgie and I started a company together,” laughs Meg. “I woke up and thought, this is crazy, but she’s the one.” A month later, Georgie quit her job, and together they began building MOVA from scratch – before they even had a name!
MOVA blends curated imported children’s decor with proudly South African furniture and textiles. From beautiful wall tapestries and washable rugs to locally crafted furniture that grows with your child, the brand is a stylish breath of fresh air in the kids’ interior space.
Childhood spaces, reimagined
With Meg’s background in design and buying, and Georgie’s gift for finance and logistics, MOVA is positioning itself as a go-to for parents seeking elevated, timeless pieces for their little ones’ spaces.
Designed to grow
A product philosophy close to Meg’s heart? Adaptability. “We’ve really focused on interchangeable pieces that grow with the family,” she explains. Think a curvy kids’ table that doubles as a coffee table later, or an occasional chair that works just as beautifully in the nursery as it does in your lounge.
Local and global touches
MOVA blends South African craftsmanship with curated international finds.
From handcrafted wooden furniture made right here on the North Coast to imported imaginative toys like MODU building blocks, it’s a mix that sparks creativity while staying practical.
Meg’s tips for designing a kids’ room
· Invest in one hero piece
Choose one standout item – a tapestry, a statement rug, or a beautifully crafted feature element – to anchor the room and set the mood.
· Add personality with texture and layers
Wall hangings, playful rugs, and tactile accessories instantly elevate a space and make it feel warm and imaginative.
· Balance style with practicality
Opt for washable, durable items (hello, cotton rugs that go in the washing machine!) and smart storage baskets to keep the room calm and clutter-free.
· Choose pieces that grow with them
Furniture that adapts beyond the nursery years means more value and less waste.
Details: www.movaliving.co.za;
IG: @mova.living
