Down to a fine art

These homeowners have combined their love of bold colours and unique artworks to create a space that’s both inviting and intriguing.

The walls, colours and art are a symphony! – Mynhardt

When we last visited chef and entrepreneur Mynhardt Joubert and his husband Ian Engelmohr, a ceramic artist (of Patat Ontwerp fame) and accountant, in their loft apartment in southern Paarl in 2016, the walls were a sedate white. Back then, it was still a new home but it was already a striking space with interesting architecture.

Now there’s no sign of a neutral palette. A home evolves over time and takes on new layers; in this instance, layers of paint!

“Ian and I went through a personal renaissance and feel this new era should coincide with colours of renewal,” says Mynhardt. “We got rid of all the artworks we didn’t like and started a new collection. The idea was to use the entire house as an art installation. We’re both crazy about art and what could be better than living in your own gallery?”

Since our first visit, Mynhardt and Ian’s loft apartment has been painted pitch-black, pure-white and then dark brown with light cream in-between. But now it’s a riot of colour: blue, purple, red and orange – and they love these four hues together.

“We didn’t buy any new furniture, we simply moved a few pieces around. Everything works so well together,” says Mynhardt.

“We went with our gut feeling. If it didn’t work, we would have just repainted it and tried something else. How would you know if you don’t take a chance? I’ve always loved paint as well as change and renewal. My friends are already saying that they give me three months before I change everything again!” >>

Talking points

Mynhardt has simple advice for other colour enthusiasts who are reluctant to try such bright colours: “Don’t be afraid. Choose one wall and try the colour there. And if it really doesn’t work, repaint it.

“The most important thing is to forget about other people’s opinions and just do what your heart tells you to do. Life is so short... We love living with these colours and seeing how they affect us. I plan to grow old with an eccentric outlook and I can’t wait for the day when my hair matches the colour of the walls! You must live life to the fullest in your own space!”

Guests are flabbergasted by all the colours and artworks, he adds. “They’ll stand and stare at certain colours and pieces for ages; these then become wonderful talking points and keep us occupied for hours – exactly what we’ve always wanted.”

WHO LIVES HERE? Mynhardt Joubert and Ian Engelmohr WHERE Southern Paarl

A blood-red accent wall highlights a collection of indoor plants displayed on wooden kists and a sideboard. The orchids, aspidistras and anthuriums add a touch of greenery to the house, which is located in an industrial area. The light blue wall to the right creates a striking contrast.

A bright orange forms the perfect backdrop for a playful wall of framed Springbok Hit Parade LP covers in the dining room. Dulux Blistering Sun

Dulux Lagoon Rest Light blue is a good choice for a workspace as it has a calming effect. An old kitchen dresser – matte black on the outside and bold yellow inside – has been cleverly repurposed as a cabinet for papers and the like.

Dulux Mediterranean Blue

IN A PREVIOUS LIFE... Before the colour explosion, the walls were painted white to create a tranquil environment. Mynhardt explains that colour is directly linked to his mood, thoughts and actions, and when he was going through a difficult time he wanted everything around him to be crisp, clean and neutral.

The collection of ceramic dog tail hooks is Ian’s handiwork. They were mounted on canvas with an eye-catching orange tail in the middle – which later gave rise to the entire wall being painted in the same colour. The couple believes this bright shade adds life and energy to a space.

We love this! This wall has been dedicated to family photos – both old and new. A combination of distressed wood, gold and The pendant in the main bedroom is brightly painted frames create a colourful focal feature. >> DP’S handiwork. The birds are perspex and the metal nest is a creation by Dutch designer Tord Boontje purchased by the couple in London.

The inspiration for the gold focal wall started with a collection of Theo Kleynhans plates; Mynhardt and Ian wanted to give it pride of place and decided to paint the entire wall a rose-gold as a backdrop. CONTACTS Patat Ontwerp facebook.com/patatontwerp Mynhardt mynhardt.co.za

The metallic colour on the wall changes by day as the light passes through the house and at night it shimmers like the desert. This paint is also very affordable. Hammerite Rose Gold

IN A PREVIOUS LIFE... A muted white palette accentuated by earthy elements made way for a bold new colour scheme.