Gregory Mellor Design: African Interior Design Excellence

Gregory Mellor Design has a notable impact on the vibrant world of interior design, milestones are rare and celebrated with immense pride.

Milestones in design don’t come around often. But when they do, they’re moments worth celebrating with pride. This year marks one of those rare occasions for Gregory Mellor Design. Gregory has been named the Andrew Martin Interior Designer of the Year — one of the most respected awards in the global design world.

What makes this so remarkable? Gregory is only the second South African, and only the second African ever, to win this title. The last time the award came to South Africa was in 1999, when design legend Stephen Falcke received the honor. Now, 25 years later, Gregory follows in those footsteps, placing African design firmly on the international stage.

This award isn’t just about one man’s success. It signals a shift — recognition that African creativity, heritage, and craftsmanship deserve a place at the very heart of global design.

The Journey to Global Recognition

Gregory’s rise to the top wasn’t overnight. With more than 20 years of experience, he has built a career grounded in dedication, detail, and a love for design that connects people to place.

He started out at Thomas Hamel in Australia, learning the ropes before setting out on his own path. Since then, his projects have taken him all over the world — from luxury game lodges in East Africa to serene holiday homes by the ocean. No matter the setting, his interiors strike the same balance: sumptuous yet welcoming, beautiful yet livable.

For Gregory, design isn’t just about how a room looks. It’s about how it makes you feel. Every space tells a story, offering comfort, character, and a sense of belonging. That human touch is what makes his work stand out.

A Partnership that Strengthens the Vision

In 2022, Gregory’s vision grew even stronger when he welcomed Marc du Toit as a partner in the firm. Marc brings a background in furniture design and interior decorating, with a special talent for creating interiors that feel layered, authentic, and timeless.

Together, Gregory and Marc have delivered standout hospitality projects across Africa, setting new benchmarks for African luxury design. Their combined expertise has created a partnership that blends heritage with modern innovation, always pushing boundaries while staying true to their roots.

Celebrating African Craftsmanship

When Gregory accepted the Andrew Martin Award, his excitement was clear. He described it as a crowning accomplishment, one that left him and his team “pinching themselves in disbelief.” But behind his words was also a deeper message: this award isn’t just about personal pride. It’s about shining a spotlight on African design and craftsmanship.

Gregory often credits the artisans, suppliers, and workshops he works with. Their skill and creativity form the backbone of his projects. By honoring their work, he shows that design is never just one person’s achievement. It’s the result of collaboration and respect for craftsmanship passed down through generations.

A Style That Balances Tradition and Modernity

So, what defines a Gregory Mellor interior? It’s a mix of authenticity, elegance, and comfort. His designs are not about following trends. Instead, they’re about creating spaces that feel lived-in, timeless, and unique to each client.

Textures and colors are carefully layered. Art and furniture are chosen with care, never as afterthoughts. Traditional African elements blend seamlessly with modern touches, creating interiors that feel both rooted in heritage and ready for the future.

Every project begins with a simple question: how do the people who live here want to feel? By focusing on lifestyle and needs, Gregory ensures each home, lodge, or retreat becomes more than just a beautiful space. It becomes a place to belong.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for African Design

Gregory’s award is more than a personal milestone — it’s a moment for African design as a whole. It highlights the rich cultural heritage, the innovation, and the spirit of craftsmanship that defines design from the continent.

As the firm continues to evolve, its focus remains steady: comfort, craftsmanship, and authenticity. From creative direction and interior architecture to custom furniture and even landscaping, Gregory Mellor Design offers a complete vision of what modern, African-inspired luxury can look like.

With this new recognition, the future looks bright. Gregory’s work, and the work of many African designers rising alongside him, will continue to inspire and influence the world of interiors for years to come.

Gregory Mellor Design is more than a design firm. It’s a reminder that true luxury is not about trends or excess. It’s about spaces that feel real, rooted, and alive. And now, with the world watching, African design has never shone brighter.

Gregory Mellor Design Balancing Tradition and Modernity

Equally important, he sees this award as an opportunity to showcase the incredible workmanship. He gives credit to the quality of the suppliers craft and workshops he collaborates with.

This helps to shine a global spotlight on the talent and creativity flourishing at the southern tip of Africa.

Gregory Mellor Design is more than just an interior design firm. It is a beacon of innovation, creativity, and meticulous craftsmanship.

The firm’s signature offerings span creative direction, interior architecture, custom furniture design, and landscaping consultation.

Gregory Mellor Design Redefining Luxury

Each project is approached with a deep understanding of the client’s lifestyle and needs. This results in spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply personal and reflective of the way people want to live.

Gregory Mellor Design’s embraces an aesthetic that is authentic and eclectic, always meticulously considered and never bound by trends.

Whether it’s balancing texture and colour, integrating art and furniture, or blending traditional and modern design elements, the team’s multigenerational approach ensures that every project is infused with timeless elegance.