Thebe Magugu, acclaimed South African designer and winner of the prestigious LVMH Prize for Young Designers, has unveiled his latest venture: Magugu House. Nestled in the leafy suburb of Dunkeld in Johannesburg, this newly opened retail space transcends the conventional concept of a store.
According to ART News, spanning a sprawling 32,000-square-foot plot, Magugu House is not merely a retail destination but an immersive experience. Housed within a historic home dating back to 1931 and steeped in three generations of family history, the space seamlessly integrates public areas, the brand’s offices, and an atelier for bespoke creations.
Magugu’s vision for Magugu House extends beyond fashion; it serves as a cultural institution, hosting exhibitions, installations, and events. In his announcement on Instagram, Magugu expressed his aspiration to consolidate his diverse projects and collections under one roof, creating a unique campus experience.
The ground floor of Magugu House boasts a vibrant palette of pistachio and terracotta, with a showroom, fitting room, reception area, and intimate art galleries showcasing the latest Heritage capsule collection alongside collaborations like the one with Valentino for Vogue’s dress-swap initiative.
One notable feature is a corner in the entrance hall dedicated to the brand’s signature sisterhood emblem, displayed on a book tote designed by Magugu as part of his Dior capsule collection. Each collection by Magugu bears the imprint of South African culture, exploring themes ranging from the legacy of apartheid to personal heritage.
Magugu House represents a bold step forward for the designer, cementing his status as a cultural arbiter while offering fashion enthusiasts and art aficionados alike a sanctuary to explore, engage, and celebrate creativity in all its forms.
