May 2024
Spier’s new store, The Cowshed, is making its presence felt in the winelands, selling not just goods, but truly good goods that tell stories of integrity from the heart of local communities and makers. An authentic, enticing and enchanting store in every detail, The Cowshed feels like the intersection between art gallery shop and farm padstal, with a high street curatorial hand weaving it all together. A wood-burning stove warms the space in winter, with cosy seating and worn-in Persians underfoot inviting browsers to take it easy.
The Cowshed at Spier is a visual feast and a must-go gifting destination for seekers of authentic South African design, wine, food and craft. It entices sensorially on every level, with layers of fragrance and a sense of the human hand in every element: spun, carved, woven, knitted, hand-loomed, picked from the garden, painted or paginated. As gifts, these come wrapped in layers of tissue, in ribbon-tied biodegradable gift bags that make gifts feel as good to give as they are to receive.
The goods carry the legacy of responsible sourcing and the striving of artisans who are connected to the earth, communities and each other.
Housed in one of the oldest buildings on The Werf at Spier, The Cowshed has a very human ethos of intentional design and care. Visitors are greeted by collections that honour ethical craftsmanship and support creative entrepreneurs whose vision is to make beautiful things, in collections that keep changing seasonally.
From collectible homewares to books, toys, candles, bags and hats by esteemed local artisan designers, the sense of abundance is beautiful. Then surprise! – in the far corner at the back: organic farm produce, Spier’s top wines and farm deli favourites, including Farmer Angus’s famous produce in the freezer. And, to one side, an apothecary of healing teas and tinctures that beg to be sampled and explored. All with its own narrative of purpose and passion.
QUALITY & CREATIVITY WITH A CONSCIENCE
At The Cowshed, quality is more than a standard; it’s a point of principle. Makers and crafters embody regenerative thinking and stewardship of the planet. Their creations reflect nature’s wisdom and generosity, made with imagination and attention to detail using materials that have either been repurposed from waste or handpicked from sources with spotless credentials.
The Cowshed at Spier invites you to explore a place where every purchase makes a difference. Connect with these stories of hope and heart, and become part of a movement towards a more creative and connected future.
