I had the pleasure of visiting the beautiful city of Cape Town last week, and high on my design hit list was the incredible Delos store at the old St Mary’s school in Woodstock. I knew I was in for a treat but nothing could prepare me for this treasure trove!

Specialising in sourcing chandeliers and feature light fittings, Delos also offers a feast of antique and custom made mirrors, furniture, architectural pieces and the backdrop to a magnificent venue hire.

Jason Calvert was able to talk me through some of the pieces in the store and give a brief story of them whilst off-loading a delivery of reclaimed French shutters and intricate wrought iron panels, the bustle added to the excitement! An interesting note on the wrought iron panels is that their construction predates the technology of welding, so both panels’ design incorporates holes for the screws to slot through, essentially binding the two panels together.

Let me set the scene… Located in this picturesque church and courtyard of an old school, Delos is nothing short of spectacular, full of charm and history. The pieces are procured from around the world, from Argentina to Morroco, Egypt , and of course across Europe. The signature Delos blue walls and checkerboard floors set a distinct dramatic tone- so fitting for all the artefacts and gems on display. 

I didn’t know where to look first, each piece is so unique and has a story to tell, here are some of my favourites! Top on my wish list is an old safe- restored and useable or, in the best case, still with original keys and locks. These beautiful finds are sourced mainly from Europe, England and India dating between early 1900s and the 1940s, they are fully water and fire resistant. You can feel by the weight of the door that they meant business and what fun to wonder what it held and who it belonged to and what it held.

Seeing this completely fitted Austrian pharmacy was like being transported in a time machine. Complete with German labelled drawers and antique medicinal bottles, all that was missing was a moody old chemist with robe and glasses. This pharmacy dates to the 1800s and is not for sale, it forms part of the architecture of the store and is a serious show stopper!

These salvaged boat lights really caught my eye. Jason visits ship scrap yards in India and restores the light fittings to working condition, the quality of the soldering and hardware is exceptional. The image below on the right shows floor lamps which were originally bolted to the floor of the deck. What a statement piece to have in a space!

Thank you Delos for providing me with such an indulgent historical experience, such a treat for  a designer- imagination racing and eyes sparkling! I was swept away to a different time and place… If you would like to visit (SO worth it) set aside the time to see everything- 181 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town. If you’re Joburg based follow their Facebook page and website for exciting product updates.

 http://www.delos.co.za/    https://www.facebook.com/Delos.CapeTown

Images: taken by Chiara and from the Delos website.