Thomas Boog’s Cape Town
Published on 31 October 2020
One-of-a-kind artist and stylist Thomas Boog nurtures an unbridled passion for shells, embellishing lighting and furnishings with mother-of-pearl and starfish. He regularly escapes Paris to seek out some South African sunshine in Cape Town, where he stays several times a year.
How long have you been living in Cape Town?
My wife, Elizabeth Leriche, and I actually live in Paris, but we’ve created what we like to call our “home of inspiration” in Cape Town. We fell head over heels for this breathtaking spot 23 years ago. It’s a place that serves up a mesmerising mix of culture and nature. The natural surroundings are both majestic and awe-inspiring, with Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles mountain range, and the crashing waves where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet.
Where would you say is the ultimate spot to get a real feel for the city?
To experience the full power of nature in the heart of the city, make a beeline for Kirstenbosch, Cape Town’s botanical garden. It stretches across more than 500 hectares. It’s vast and absolutely gorgeous - the most stunning garden I’ve ever seen. We love picnicking there on Sundays to immerse ourselves in the delightfully eclectic mix of ages, origins and cultures. You’re just as likely to hear African music as operatic airs. The snake-like Boomslang Tree Canopy Walkway, which is 130 metres long and 12 metres high, offers magical and breathtaking views over the tops of the trees. It was built to mark the garden’s centenary.
Another beauty spot that’s slightly further afield is the Babylonstoren garden, which is a striking kitchen garden surrounded by vines and home to a historic manor house. I particularly love the 17th century Dutch architecture. Plus, you’ll find the Babel restaurant there, under the artistic direction of my friend Maranda Engelbrecht.
Which places do you find most culturally inspiring?
The city’s modern art museum, the Zeitz MOCAA. It’s housed in an old silo, and the architecture is just something else! The work of one of South Africa’s greatest artists, William Kentridge, is exhibited there. His work is highly energetic, and his succession of images drawn in charcoal and then brought to life through video animation denounce injustice and violence. They carry the full weight of the country’s past.
In the same neighbourhood, there’s the famous Southern Guild gallery, which represents South Africa’s top contemporary designers. I’ve got a huge crush on the work of designer Porky Hefer, his poetic and graphic hanging nests and his fun and committed creations based on animals.
To those, I would add the Norval Foundation in Steenberg, an outstanding centre for the arts, where you can cast your eyes over pieces by the leading South African artists of the XXth and XXIst centuries.
Which restaurant or café would you say best captures Cape Town’s vibe?
The restaurant called Hemelhuijs, which is run by the exceptionally creative Jacques Erasmus. The menu is illustrated with still life photos that are pieces of art in their own right. I’d recommend going there for brunch - it’s delicious.
Then there’s The Pot Luck Club, one of Cape Town’s musts, which serves up little gourmet sharing platters. You’ll find it in the Woodstock neighbourhood, on the top floor of the industrial building that goes by the name of The Old Biscuit Mill. You’re guaranteed to get a warm and friendly welcome there.
Which neighbourhood instantly springs to mind when we say “Shopping in Cape Town”?
No-one comes to Cape Town to shop with big-name luxury brands, which are conspicuous by their absence. The Bokapp district is teeming with design pieces and beautifully handcrafted wares. In Cape Town, you’ll find everything Africa produces, from Zimbabwe to Uganda... basketry, photos and a lot of upcycled wares. I always have excess baggage when heading back to Paris!
Do you have any secret addresses you’d care to share?
The shop called Lim in Kloof Street has a wonderful range of items for the home, design pieces and handcrafted goods. A word of advice: if you fall in love with something, treat yourself straight away, as things never stay on the shelves for long!
Where is the best place to stay for anyone keen to explore the city? (favourite neighbourhood and/or hotel)
That’s easy - the DORP hotel, which overlooks the Bokapp district, for its understated luxury and its magnificent view of the city.
Which design piece can only be picked up in Cape Town?
Ceramic vases made by the artist Louise Gelderblom. They are sensitive, graphic and generous pieces. She ships worldwide: louisegelderblom.com.
