Nando’s is turning up the heat with this new Casa, a celebration of local creativity featuring the dynamic patterns of Spamandla Mdunyelwa, a rising star from the Hot Young Designers (HYD) programme. The official opening event on 24 July was a hit, drawing influencers and media who experienced the restaurant’s unique blend of rich flavours and striking design.
As guests entered, they were greeted by bold burgundy tones and Mdunyelwa’s eye-catching ceiling patterns, setting a lively tone for the space. The design combines ebony timber accents and cork sheet inlays, creating an inviting and culturally rich environment enhanced by culturally inspired tile patterns and bespoke backrest details. The space features contemporary furniture pieces designed and made in South Africa by leading innovative designers, incorporating elements of craft such as weaving to link South African heritage techniques to contemporary furniture and lighting manufacturing processes. These pieces honour unique South African designers, featuring Naturalis for chairs, Plantr for planters, Saks Corner for custom hand wash units, and Pedersen and Lennard for bollards. Lighting by Mash T and Adobe Design enhances the cultural essence, creating a cohesive and immersive environment.
Mdunyelwa, originally from Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, expressed her excitement about her designs being featured in this new restaurant. “I’m honoured to have my work showcased in the Vergelegen Plein restaurant. This programme highlights South African creativity, and I hope visitors feel the passion and energy in every detail.”
Julio da Costa, the franchisee, celebrates his seventh opening with this launch and views the new store as more than just a restaurant. “This opening represents our commitment to creating a community space that celebrates inclusivity and local talent. We’re excited to bring this unique combination of exceptional food and design to Vergelegen Plein.”
Itumeleng Mogotsi, General Manager of the Cape Region, emphasised the commitment to supporting local talent and communities. “We love celebrating local talent. The Vergelegen Plein restaurant is just one perfect example of that as it features Spamandla Mdunyelwa’s talent for design. Throughout the world, opportunities for artists to feature their work through this programme are created. The opening of the new store highlights our dedication to working with communities, employing people from local areas, and creating opportunities for growth.”
The HYD programme, managed by Clout/SA, is a premier biennial design initiative in South Africa, offering young designers a platform to prototype their winning designs and receive tailored mentorship. Clout/SA aims to create a globally recognized South African Design Category Brand by supporting young design talent. The programme has launched many successful careers, including Thabisa Mjo of Mash T. Design, the inaugural competition winner in 2016.
The opening of the Vergelegen Plein restaurant is a testament to the power of local design talent and the impactful partnerships that nurture it. Mdunyelwa’s vibrant patterns and the thoughtful integration of South African design elements make this new space a place to enjoy good food and celebrate creativity, culture, and community. Great design and great food go hand in hand.
