DIYgirls’ dreamy patio
Vinette Diab-Nicholls is the owner and founder of DIYgirls. Both Vinette and DIYgirls are known for their fearless use of colour and pattern. Mixing up these design elements in fresh, bold, and creative ways is the name of their game.
Vinette has been a Home Fabrics client for the past four years and it’s delightful to see how she transforms ordinary spaces by using fabrics in such fresh and imaginative ways. One of her personal favourite projects was transforming DIYgirls’ patio at their Bryanston office in Johannesburg, for which she used textiles from Home Fabrics.
“I just love how versatile and durable the fabrics are,” says Vinette. She chose a colour palette of greys, charcoals, and beiges to create a neutral base. “I always advise my clients to stick to neutrals when buying big investment pieces, and adding colour and interest in the soft furnishings”
After establishing a grey and beige canvas from FibreGuard Out, she added a tropical touch with a botanical print Jab’s Outdoor collection and an animal print from UV Pro - Get Out collection for the stunning scatter cushions. “I mixed this up with different black and white geometrical designs, like the stunning hound’s tooth from UV Pro - Get Out Collection in the design called Rocks to bring balance and give the space a contemporary edge.
Continuing the theme of bringing the outdoors in, she added loads of greenery. “Plants always liven up a home, especially a patio. And it picks up the florals in the exquisite fabric beautifully.”
The coffee table showcases vases and sculptural objects of varying heights and textures, handmade by the DIYgirls Team. “The recycled glass brings a freshness, balanced by the earthiness of the sculptures,” explains Vinette.
Home Fabrics’ FibreGuard Outdoor ranges have always been her go-to whenever she designs outdoor spaces for DIYgirls’ clients. “When Home Fabrics say a textile is suitable for the outdoors, it really is. The FibreGuard Outdoor ranges are truly exceptional. The fabrics simply don’t fade, irrespective of exposure to the harsh African sun.”
Vinette especially loves FibreGuard’s fabric stain-free technology. “I want my clients to be able to relax in their indoor and outdoor settings completely, and not stress about wet feet, muddy paws, or spilt wine on their furniture and furnishings. FibreGuard gives my clients and me that peace of mind. They really make it easy to make the outside just as beautiful and luxurious as the inside.”
In addition to being UV protected and stain resistant, FibreGuard’s Outdoor ranges also stays colourfast when in contact with chlorine and salty water, making them perfect for the poolside or seaside. Says Vinette: “I love being able to guarantee a client that the fabulous prints on their soft furnishings will stay strong for many years and many pool parties to come!”
