Where Memories Turn Into Keepsakes

From Scribbles to stories you can hold

One of my greatest loves has always been discovering the beauty of the world around me. Travel fills me with wonder — and wherever I go, I’ve always sought out a small keepsake to bring home. A postcard, a sketch, or a little piece of art that holds the soul of a place. These treasures always felt more meaningful than photographs; they carried the story, the atmosphere, and the memory of being there.

Back in my favourite city, Cape Town, I longed for keepsakes of this place too — but with my own creative spin. I began sketching the scenes I love most: Lion’s Head catching the last light of day, the penguins at Boulders, and Table Mountain rising above the city’s vibrant Cape Dutch architecture. What began as playful scribbles soon grew into a collection of illustrations — crafted with a mix of pen and paper, iPad drawings, and modern design tools.

Meaningful Design, Made for Every Home.

Decorating your walls should feel joyful — not complicated or out of reach. Yet so often, the options fall short: mass-produced prints that lack soul, or original artworks that feel out of budget or hard to frame.

Nilla Design Co was created to offer something different — authentic, locally designed pieces that are unique and personal, while still being accessible. Each illustration is crafted in a clean, modern style that fits effortlessly into any space, while carrying the warmth of a story. The result is art that feels timeless, design-forward, and approachable.

What began as a small series of wall art illustrations soon grew into a collection of thoughtful keepsakes — from greeting cards to tote bags and magnets — designed to be hung, gifted, and enjoyed every day.

  • 🌿 Locally Made

    Each piece begins here in Cape Town, inspired by its landscapes, neighbourhoods, and coastal magic.

  • 🎨 Thoughtful Design

    A careful blend of art and design ensures every keepsake is both meaningful and modern.

  • 💛 Beautifully Made, Fairly Priced

    We believe good design shouldn’t be out of reach — each piece is crafted with care and priced to make collecting art a little more lekker.

Every keepsake begins as a spark — a quick scribble in a notebook, a sketch on the iPad, or a moment captured in Cape Town. From there, it grows into a finished piece, ready to be framed, gifted, and loved. Whether discovered at a bustling market stall or arriving carefully packaged at your door, each design carries a little piece of Cape Town’s story into your home.

Bring a Piece of Cape Town Into Your Home.