LEE + ZANELLE
House Signature Shiraz – Lee Jacobs (43) & Zanelle Basson (25)
The wildcards of Season 2. Both from Paarl, Zanelle is a horse-riding enthusiast with a meticulous eye for detail, while Lee is a former Mr South Africa runner up, a popular radio presenter and a familiar face in the lifestyle space. They’ve never met before – but the My Design Rules team paired them up for this season to see whether hometown pride and complementary skills can translate into winning designs.
Lee & Zanelle describe their Primary Bedroom and Ensuite Bathroom:
Winelands Sunset
The main bedroom unfolds as a calm, stylish sanctuary, gently wrapped in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Winelands. Rich earth tones—drawn from the warm, lingering hues of a Cape Winelands sunset—soften the space and invite an instant sense of serenity. A striking artwork by local artist Jeremy Rose anchors the room with soul and storytelling, adding depth and character to the minimalist palette.
Thoughtfully divided into an en-suite bathroom, dressing area, and sleeping zone, the room flows with an effortless elegance. Each space holds its own identity yet remains connected through a consistent language of natural textures and refined simplicity. The oak furniture introduces warmth and craftsmanship, while the skinny shaker duco cupboards by ELK elevate the room with a clean, contemporary sophistication.
The en-suite bathroom continues the narrative—beautifully clean, polished, and quietly luxurious. Its modern lines and considered finishes create a spa-like atmosphere that complements the tranquility of the bedroom.
Altogether, the space feels like a serene retreat, a place where you truly nestle into the picture-perfect landscape beyond the windows, embraced by design that is both grounded and graceful.
