Design in Focus: Studio Ananta

You first notice the bold colours and patterns, and then the sheer playfulness of the creations by this local design studio. The duo behind Studio Ananta, sisters Viveka and Rucita Vassen, set out to capture the vibrancy of traditional crafts (beading, wire sculpture, weaving, crochet) with a functional, modern, joyful and luxury aesthetic. “It’s all about reimagining heritage techniques in unexpected, modern ways,” they say.

Since launching their studio in 2022 (an idea hatched during the pandemic), they’ve made quite a splash, featuring at all the major design shows (Decorex, 100% Design Africa, Cape Town Design Week) and named Design Indaba Emerging Creatives in 2023. They’ve also been shortlisted twice for the Scape Awards Maker of the Year.

Bold blending

With backgrounds in fashion design (Viveka) and graphic design (Rucita), the siblings bring a multi-disciplinary approach to home decor. They also bring a rich dual heritage – South African and Indian. Growing up in Rylands, Cape Town, “our childhood was steeped in colour, cultural festivals and a strong sense of family and community,” they say.

Being surrounded by bright bold saris, vivid flower garlands, intricately patterned textiles, beads and embellishments sparked “an early love of colour, pattern and maximalism”. They bring this to their work, their designs blurring the line between art and functional object; dig a little deeper, and every item is layered with meaning.

Statement pieces

Their collection includes the eye-catching, intricately patterned and beaded Purna vases (an expression of abundance), Maata Pita (Mother Father) table lamps, honouring parents as protective guiding lights, and the abstract Trimurti hanging lights (a set of three with different forms, evoking eastern spiritual philosophy).

They’ve also made handbags (a woven raffia number) and furniture, such as the Masaruma stool (with a seat made from crocheted audio-cassette tapes), the Samani chest of drawers (with beaded knobs), Aadi side table (with a beaded top) and the pineapple-inspired Annaci drinks unit.

There is no limit to what they’ll try, and there is always a fresh concept coming out of their studio. They’re currently exploring one-of-kind collectable furniture and conceptual artworks, and also launching an Ananta-designed Airbnb apartment.

Behind the name

Ananta (the Sanskrit word for “infinite”) speaks to “endless creativity and the cyclical nature of creation,” the sisters say. It also grounds them in a more conscious way of designing, aiming to make heirloom pieces that are “meant to last a lifetime and beyond” – and a belief that handmade items hold the spirit of the maker forever.

The sisters seek out and collaborate with local crafters – such as the women from Monkeybiz and Re.Bag.Re.Use, who work from their township homes doing intricate beadwork and weaving. In this way, they’re uplifting communities and also ensuring that traditional artisanal skills survive into a new generation.

“There is a strong movement towards authenticity and storytelling in design, pieces that are not just functional but layered with meaning and identity,” the sisters say. “We want to do it all! We’ll keep pushing boundaries, deepening our relationships with artisans, and sharing cultural design stories with the world in ways that are bold, joyful and full of heart.”

Find their work at Merchants on Long (34 Long Street)
Boutique at Mount Nelson (76 Orange Street)
Contact 084 800 3311, info@studio-ananta.com
Studio (by appointment) 81 Queen Victoria Road, Claremont, Cape Town

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