Meet our Visual Merchandising team

The ability to visualise something even when you’re working with an empty shell takes plenty of imagination, interior know-how, creativity and problem-solving skills.

Transforming a previously unloved warehouse into a haven of inspirational interior style is the kind of challenge our Visual Merchandising team love. Meet the people that brought it all together. 

Clockwise from bottom left: Lloyd Phiri, Olwethu Mahe, Theresa Wagner, Yolandi de Villiers, Lebohang Mokoena, Susan McCoubrey and Charles Chinakanaka

Read more about our brand new flagship store in Sandton. 

"The challenge was making the huge building feel homely, so adding the entrance hall and the coffee shop was essential to creating a welcoming atmosphere," says director Susan McCoubrey. 

"The main room in the centre of the store really grounded the display area so we worked from that glass-panelled room with the pressed ceilings and fireplace. The Cara Saven wallpaper then created the instant wow factor that collaborates so well with our products. I also adore the entrance hall on arrival. The bold yellows and warm concierge welcome worked so well."

"The Block Cafe settled nicely into the corner of the shop adding the bustle and cosy place to catch your breath while enjoying a simple signature toastie or parmesan fries!" adds Susan. 

Interior magic takes a team

Over a very short space of time, the team achieved interior magic and the result is there to see for yourself. You can expect thoughtfully curated room settings done to inspire you to create beautiful living spaces in your own home. 

“From the warehouse guys, to the casuals, to the decor consultants and the VM department - we all just worked together to ensure nothing got in the way of us opening a beautiful store,” explains Yolandi De Villiers, visual merchandising manager of Cape Town.

A new beginning for B&C

“I think the Sandton store is a new beginning for the B&C brand in Johannesburg,” adds Theresa Wagner, visual merchandising manager of Johannesburg.

Colour & collaborations

“People have loved all the colour,” Susan observes. “In a world of lots of grey and black decor people have loved all the bold, coloured walls and Cara Saven wall designs.” 

“The eclectic mixture of old, new, deep-buttoned, Asian, French furniture, the gallery space with Sibley original artworks and the exhibition of Sarah Heinaman sculptures adds a new dimension," says Susan. "We hope to make this a dynamic space to show off other talented artists in the coming months.”

“I think this store brings a whole new level of creativeness and excitement to what we stand for as a brand. There is no one like Block & Chisel. The Sandton store showcases this very well,” adds Yolandi.