THE GOLD STANDARD

We caught up with Nikki Schomer, owner and designer of bold planter range Gold Bottom Pots

Why the name, Gold Bottom Pots?

It’s very literal, since all our pots have a gold bottom.

That’s unique. Why would you do that?

Partly because this unique finishing touch lets you know you’re holding the real deal. But more importantly, it reminds you that when you purchase a Gold Bottom Pot you have invested in a product that took time to be carefully handcrafted and was made to last, with respect to people and the environment. We like to think of these qualities as the golden lining at the bottom of everything we do.

What inspired you to start making pots?

My love for planters started with a love for plants, but I struggled to find pots that did the beauty of the plants justice. I thought the whole concept needed to be revised. Why wouldn’t you put as much consideration into the plants and the pots as you are adding to your space, as you would into other home décor? Hence I designed bold, contemporary pieces that do not need to, nor want to, hide in corners. If you are still looking overseas for your stimulus, you are missing out

Your pots have an African sensibility. Is this integral to your brand?

We are a proudly South African brand, with our products designed and produced in South Africa, by skilled South Africans, from start to finish. In this regard, Africa is at the heart of everything we produce.

How are your pots made?

They are moulded and painted entirely by hand, in small batches. The process takes time and requires exceptional craftsmanship and artistry, but this results in minimal waste and low environmental impact, while delivering perfect and beautiful products.

What can we expect from future ranges?

We are designing a new painted series to follow up our current Fields of Gold collection. I’m excited for the colour palette that will see new stone finishes being incorporated, too. We will also soon be launching new planter sizes to handle a wider range of plants.

Your thoughts on the local design scene?

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A local design product you’d love to own? A Ninevites rug.

The colour you couldn’t live without? Black (with a touch of gold).

A trend you’re excited about for 2018? Patterned plants. I can’t wait to pair statement foliage with our pots!

What are you reading at the moment?

NoViolet Bulawayo’s novel We Need New Names.

Where can we find you on a Sunday afternoon?

Even though I usually have to work on Sundays, Zula, my Jack Russell, leaves me no choice but to get to the park by 5pm — and packing a bottle of wine makes that fun for everyone involved.

goldbottompots.co.za