We all know The Silk and Cotton Co. Meet Taryn Swanepoel. The new owner … who’s already making some exciting additions!
One of the first things Taryn Swanepoel did when she relocated up to Joburg from Cape Town was to set up a meeting with the owners of The Silk and Cotton Co.
They were selling, she was keen … “and the rest, as they say, is history,” she says.
She always had a passion for interiors, and “the idea of running my own business, and in this case, a brand that has such a following with the most incredible fabrics and international agencies, is a dream come true. What better way to marry my passion with an equal passion for fabrics and textiles?”
When talking about her new ‘office’, she practically glows. “Our new showroom in Kramerville is a beautiful and light space filled with the most incredible locally printed fabric collections as well as imported ranges, and is also home to some of the world’s finest international brands offering fabric, wallpaper, and trimmings. ” The showroom is indeed as beautiful as she describes, inviting customers to spend an hour or two with the friendly staff, deliberating over the myriad choices available. “Our customers range from trade clients – designers, to decorators, architects and specifiers. We also welcome retail clients into our space. There is something for everyone, including delicious coffee!”
Taryn is revamping some elements of the business too. Her new incoming furniture collection is called ‘Parlour’ – and we can’t wait to see it! “It was born from my love for interiors and design, and is the perfect opportunity to showcase our fabrics on a larger scale. Seeing fabric made up on a sofa, for example, allows the client to really get a sense of how it will look and feel, which in turn gives the client a confidence in buying the fabric and trusting it will deliver in its look and end use.”
Taryn initially got started with sofas but soon enough a small collection was born. “This collection resulted in a design look that speaks of an ease of living, a desire for a quality product that will last and a need to own your space. The Parlour is more about personal than perfect. Our core furniture range including sofas, upholstered chairs and wood pieces are locally made by hand in the finest workshop in the country.” They’re all about the ultimate in quality, longevity, and comfort. “Our cushions are all made from either local prints or international brands like Jim Thompson, Fabricut, and Barbara Osorio.”
On the horizon, there’s a new print collection being launched as well as an outdoor range that will be the answer to all our sunny day prayers. “Silk and Cotton are at the beginning of a new range being developed as we just launched two new collections toward the end of last year. We just opened a small showroom in Cape Town, and will be expanding that very soon. Our brand is growing and expanding!” Taryn says.
With all these expansions, developments and innovations, Taryn still finds the time for everything else – and we mean everything! “School runs, Instagram posts, admin, emails, laughter, cups of tea, losing my phone multiple times in one day, getting excited when we have great orders, taking calls, assisting with queries, assisting on the showroom floor, planning, making payments, following up. It’s a day filled with every part of the business, being present and trying not to let any balls drop!”
As tempting as it is to stay in the showroom, Taryn makes time for family too. “My husband and I are up early on weekends as our two kids are still very young and have no idea what a lie-in means, ” Taryn laughs. “On weekends, we go for walks with our dog or take the kids for bike rides around our neighbourhood. We are fortunate enough to have a family home on the Vaal River and make the most of weekends enjoying the river and all it has to offer.”
Given half the opportunity, Taryn loves having people over. “We both love entertaining. It brings us such joy. I love cooking and trying out new recipes. We also love spending time with our larger family. Since moving up from Cape Town, it’s such a treat to be able to see them whenever we can! When I have some time, I also enjoy running and reading.”
To keep up with Taryn’s latest pursuits, follow: @silkandcottonco; @tandcofabrics; @parlourcollection
Visit www.silkandcottonco.co.za and sign up for newsletters and special offers or to read the new blog with great tips and ideas for your home.
Text: TAYLA BLAIRE. Photo: MEGAN BRETT.
Footstools in plain and printed fabrics, rubs, armchairs and accessories … we’re a little dazzled by this fabulous range
Rattan Francis Server, R6250
Jute lamp base, R990
The large Mila Bath Mat in cream or white, R1015
The Wonderland Cushion – Barbara Osorio design, R3500, and Animalia cushion cover in Sky Blue, R699
