Frequently Asked Questions

Modern Gesture designs and produces lighting and homeware pieces in Cape Town, exploring different production techniques and craft skills, which includes experimentation with the physical and tactile properties of mixed mediums such as off cuts of wood, wax cord and various metals.

Modern Gesture believes that in each piece created a story is embedded into its materials, capturing the time and care engaged in the creation of each item. This practice ensures that each piece holds its own unique characteristics. Each product is handcrafted to engage our attention through the use of materials, shape and final design, allowing for a new approach to quality, innovative design and simplicity, but still holds an international appeal without losing its local relevance and sentiments.

At Modern Gestures our vision is to embrace and unify South Africa’s diverse cultural craft by telling stories through innovative, sustainable and unique products. Introducing a new approach to quality, simplicity and bespoke pieces by creating sensory experiences where passion and purpose come together.

I grew up in Retreat, Cape Town. When I started Modern Gesture, I wanted to employ people from my community. Some of my employees have come from a CMT background and have a sharp eye for detail and pattern. This has been a great asset to the business as the staff produce a high quality finished product. Some other staff members have some woodworking skills and this has benefited the business in knowing how certain heavy duty machines and tools function. As there are also many new processes in the production of our products there has been room to learn and grow. When starting Modern Gesture I had to learn many skilled work across the different fields of design. Over the years I have been able to pass these skills down to my staff members allowing them to grow further in their craftsmanship.

One of my biggest hurdles has been looking after my health through the ups and downs of operating a business. When starting Modern Gesture I wore all the hats needed to run the business successfully. As the business grew I employed 2 staff members to help with the workload. Through the pandemic in 2020, many new and difficult challenges arose, e.g. mental health challenges that affected my ability to design, in keeping the business sustainable. As a female business owner, it has been an important learning curve in finding balance between work and managing my health after COVID. The setting of healthy boundaries in the work environment and my personal life became an imperative factor. Being aware of how things can change on a global scale, and learning to navigate the change, to adapt, become innovative, resilient and persevere has made me a stronger and a wiser business woman.

Modern Gesture products are supplied Ex Works, meaning the purchaser is responsible for pickup and transportation from our facility. We ensure all items are expertly packaged for their protection, but once they leave our premises, the care and safekeeping of the goods transition to the purchaser’s responsibility, aligning with your logistic preferences and safeguarding your investment during transit

For complete satisfaction, you can exchange any purchase or opt for store credit (excluding shipping costs) within 14 days of receipt, should it not meet your expectations. Items must be returned in their original condition and packaging, accompanied by a copy of the original receipt. Please note, that return shipping is the responsibility of the customer and must be sent securely. Any costs incurred for shipping exchanges will also be borne by the customer. This ensures the process aligns seamlessly with our dedication to customer satisfaction and product integrity.

For cleaning, lightly dampen a soft cloth with a mild cleaning detergent and gently clean the surface of your light, mirror, or décor item. This method effectively removes dust and maintains the beauty of the weaving and wood components.

Should your products require fumigation before importation, kindly notify us in advance. We’re prepared to provide the necessary certification to accompany your order.