News
Summer Design – Matching accessories and decorative boards
Success in interior design isn’t always achieved through a formulaic approach. Frequently we find that matching accessories and décors works best based on the season we’re in and adapting to a more organic presentation of the styles and trends that follow. Of course, with summer on the horizon, our task is to maintain a steady finger on the pulse and offer unique combinations that embolden a timeless yet seasonal appeal.
For us, it’s about finding ways to match a broad selection of design trends and maintaining a strong design identity, in essence, matching our décors with existing trend-setting interior design brands. We take a closer look at five leading companies and offer advice on complementing their designs with our growing collection.
From Unicolours, Woodgrains and Fantasies, these unique designs go far beyond the simple allocation of urban vs natural. They’re designed to enhance the physical space surrounding you and encapsulate, compliment and contrast the accessories you choose to style your home with.
Using...
Did you know these four facts about MDF?
Medium Density Fibreboard or MDF is a strong, stable, and versatile wood-based product. This impeccable man-made sheet material is used in various construction and interior design projects. We have spoken at length about the benefits of MDF over other building materials (see more here). Still, beyond its universal appeal, the story of MDF’s rise to prominence has a fascinating backstory.
The history of MDF is a topic we’ll uncover later. Today, however, we’re looking at four interesting and quirky facts about MDF that you most likely never knew!
The creation of MDF was an accident
Much like the invention of penicillin or potato chips, MDF came about entirely by accident. The story goes back almost 100 years to the State of California. In 1925, William Mason, an engineer and close friend of Thomas Edison, was attempting to figure out a way to convert discarded woodchips into insulation for the cold months ahead.
Yet rather than shutting down his equipment as intended, he left the machinery to work overnight. The woodchips ended up merging into a thin yet ultra-durable sheet. A happy accident resulted in one of the world’s most loved DIY and interior design materials. Credit William for figuring out an effective way to recycle before it was cool!
MDF can be used to build cities
Well, tiny model ones, at least! Since MDF is incredibly versatile, it’s also easy to cut in whichever shape or form you desire. Because of this, boutique toy makers and model home designers use MDF to create intricate building models which buyers can paint and collect at their leisure. Some of the more notable designs include to-scale doll houses and tiny furnishings.

Image Source: Pinterest.com
Clearly a material worth noting if you’re a hobbyist! Companies such as Declan and Leah, who specialise in creating quality dollhouses have been basing most of their designs on MDF for quite some time.
MDF...
7 Defining pillars of interior design
For any designer creating a new space for a client, there needs to be a process of ensuring that all practical and aesthetic needs are met. You’ll quickly learn that there is both an art and a philosophy to adhere to. A functional design that offers balance and function may seem easy to achieve at first glance but in reality, adding a beautiful decor aesthetic can define the dream interior space for anyone.
...
Innovus – a standard bearer for the modern showroom
As one of South Africa’s leading brands in decorative boards and finishes, Innovus has expanded its range and offers a comprehensive product overview which blends European trends with an African twist.
...
Tshala Business Invest: Plant, Cultivate, Grow. Enterprise Development Opportunity
As a company defined by the adage of Taking People Further, Sonae Arauco South Africa (Pty) Ltd is investing in small businesses by offering entrepreneurs the opportunity to participate in our Tshala Business Investment Program. Keeping in line with our corporate vision, we aim to plant, cultivate, and grow businesses that need our support through a one-year program.
...
A comprehensive overview of our base products
In a world where cheaply made and off-brand products swamp our markets, purchasing your materials from a company that offers a superior product that is both sustainable and durable is always your preferred choice. Sonae Arauco offers two baseboard types; Medium-Density Fiberboard and Particleboard. We also include a range of different substrates within each baseboard offering to match various applications and conditions.
...
The Innovus Showrooms Series in 2022 ft. Cupboard Craft

We’re showcasing the craftsmanship of locally owned companies by shedding light on how they utilise Innovus Decorative Products in their designs and revealing how our new décors influence regional trends.
...
The four core benefits of Innovus Decorative wood-based boards
Innovus Decorative Products is Sonae Arauco’s brand of decorative product offerings. Defined by the concept of Matching Life which speaks to the overarching philosophy that it is present in all areas of our lives: the rooms in our homes, public spaces, and ultimately, the places where we live and work.
...
Latest trends when Incorporating Innovus wood-based boards into your décor design 2022
As an expert in the field of interior design, you are no doubt fully aware that there is a balance between sticking to the latest trends, and retaining classical designs that have timeless appeal. Fortunately, with the comprehensive design applications of Innovus Decorative Products, you are spoiled for choice.
...
The Innovus Showrooms Series in 2022 ft. Le Grandt Woodcraft
Shedding light on locally owned and run businesses that use Innovus decorative boards in their designs gives us an opportunity to showcase their creative zeal as well as an avenue to understand how our new décors affect local trends.
...
