Melissa Kerkhoff Lula Fabrics

“I started Lula Fabrics in March 2007 with a loan from my brother, who believed I could make a success of my business,” says Melissa Kerkhoff. “I studied textile design, and after working in sales for various leading fabric houses I was itching to develop my own range. I saw a niche in the market for graphically bold, vibrant, coastal, classic, locally produced fabrics.”

Melissa now has a beautiful, bright space that stocks seven textile ranges – all printed on natural fibres (cotton, linen or a blend of the two). She also has agents representing her brand internationally from the US to Europe and Australia.

Melissa customises designs for the hospitality industry and for decorators looking for something unique to offer their clients. “We offer a custom colour service, allowing the client to select a colour from our palette and to print the design of their choice on a fabric of their choice, so you can create your own special fabric,” she explains. “Being a small company enables us to have more flexibility.”

With an ever-expanding collection of designs, there’s something for everyone in a space Melissa aptly describes as a “festival of colour”. She has tipped the Timur Summer range from the Silk Road Collection to be a best buy this season, and the Link print in the Geometrics Collection is always a favourite. Lula Fabrics, 67 Constantia Road, Wynberg, (021) 797-7472, lulafabrics.co.za.