Magical Realism

Inside the Overberg home that’s pioneering a casual approach to Victorian rustic

- Vicki Sleet

As an avid collector and a purveyor of decor and furniture, it’s only natural that Cobus van Niekerk becomes attached to some of the pieces he finds at auctions or by chance in exotic locales. But for the most part, once he’s had his fill of enjoyment, he’s happy to pass on his finds to those who visit his iconic antiques and collectables shop, based at his home in Stanford in the Overberg. ‘I like to “play” with the items I find, mix them up and move them around. I’m not a snob or a purist when it comes to putting a Regency piece with 1960s chairs. In fact, that’s what I love to do. And once I’m ready to move on, then that’s it – goodbye,’ he laughs. Of course he’s attached to some key furniture items that he’s had for many years and a current obsession with urns of all shapes, sizes and materials doesn’t look set to abate anytime soon, but precious he is not.