Blackoak designs just for you

CHEZI TAILORS FURNITURE TO A CLIENT’S PERSONALITY AND SPACE WHERE IT’LL SIT.

Furniture maker’s client base grows daily – thanks to power of marketing, especially on social media.

The concept of bespoke furniture has become popular as designers currently have a stronger opportunity to grow their client base through new social media platforms. Siyabonga Chezi, owner of Blackoak Designs is one such business owner.

Chezi – who has over 12 years experience in the furniture manufacturing industry – started his business in 2010, after having worked for Make Furniture.

He was inspired to start Blackoak Designs as people generally don’t want the same piece of furniture in their houses as others. Chezi decided to become an inspiration for change in the furniture business.

“I saw an opportunity in this type of business because many people don’t want to have the same piece of furniture that somebody has, they want to have their own design,” says Chezi.

“They want their décor to be bespoke but that can come at a hefty price. I saw this as an opening to service a wider market at competitive costs.”

Blackoak Designs are based in the East of Johannesburg and Chezi’s workshop is near his home in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni.

The inspiration for his designs stems from working in conjunction with clients to create unique styles. “Most of my clients come up with their own designs, some want me to create a concept design for them. My creative process is to always search for distinct pieces. I tailor the furniture to the clients’ personality, what they like, how they are and the type of space where the furniture will sit.”

Chezi has been able to attract clients via word of mouth and through social media. The constant retweeting of images means his client base increases daily and Blackoak Designs are always top of mind when people search for furniture manufacturers online.

He also learned that trade shows are a great marketing tool. The buyer gets an opportunity to view the furniture first hand and place their orders immediately. Bespoke furniture is a large part of the business but Blackoak Design also services clients needing refurbishment and shopfitting – including kitchens.

An excited Chezi says his workshop is expanding to another space. “Currently we are operating from a double garage size workshop but are in the process of moving out into a much bigger space, about 100 square meters, to accommodate the demands that the business is bringing.

“Due to social media playing such a large and extraordinary role in our marketing, we cannot even take some of the orders because of our space capacity, that

I saw an opportunity in this type of business because many people don’t want to have the same piece of furniture that somebody else has. They want to have their own design. Siyabonga Chezi, @BlackoakDesigns

is why a move to a bigger space is necessary.”

Chezi is an inspiration to his community and has some words of wisdom to aspiring furniture business owners. “I want people to know that I’m always willing to rise up to any challenge I come across. I seldom smile and laugh a lot, I can only express myself better through the work that I do. I am a loving, passionate and God-fearing person.”

Chezi’s personality shines through in the pieces he makes.