Our Story

A message from Chelsea Kunhardt - Founder of Alkaline

Alkaline, founded in 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, is a home decor brand that epitomizes the fusion of functionality and style under the creative direction of Chelsea Kunhardt. Born from a humble beginning in a laundry room, Alkaline initially focused on crafting handmade soaps, but a pivotal shift occurred when Chelsea introduced a handmade soap dish, steering the brand toward specializing in homeware products.

Inspired by the simplicity and symmetry of geometric patterns, Chelsea utilizes eco-friendly and non-toxic materials in every creation, ensuring that each item is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally conscious. Her commitment to high-quality, handmade craftsmanship and a sustainable ethos transforms ordinary spaces into stunning showcases of design.

Operating from a dedicated workshop in the KZN Midlands, South Africa Alkaline has evolved from a solo endeavor into a team of five, each contributing to the brand's growth and upholding its core values. 

With a dynamic palette of colors and textures, and an ever-evolving exploration of new materials and techniques, Alkaline offers unique décor solutions that promise to elevate the essence of any home. We are immensely grateful for the community’s support as Alkaline transitions from a passion project into a community-embraced brand, eager to explore new horizons while staying true to the ethos that sparked this remarkable journey.

Meet The Team

  • Winston

    Meet Winston - He is cute but destructive

  • Thandeka

    Thandeka, a 30-year-old mother and vital new addition to the Alkaline team, has significantly enhanced our operational efficiency with her innovative approaches. Her passion for fashion design shines through as she refines our production processes, contributing to both our aesthetic and functional excellence. Hardworking and driven, Thandeka's involvement at Alkaline is not only pivotal for our growth but also for her professional development, as she gains valuable experience toward launching her own business in the future. Her dedication and style make her an indispensable part of our mission to deliver high-quality, sustainable home decor.

  • Bongi

    Meet Bongi, a key figure in Alkaline's finishing team, renowned for her meticulous attention to detail and compassionate nature. At 33, this devoted mother of two infuses every task with her rich life experiences and an unyielding commitment to excellence. Before joining Alkaline, Bongi’s diverse background included roles as a domestic helper, caregiver, and even a beekeeper, enriching her skill set and work ethic. She plays a crucial role in the final stages of our product line, ensuring each item meets our high standards with her careful finishing touches. Outside work, Bongi cherishes family time and expresses her love through baking, creating treats that bring joy to her children. Bongi’s continuous personal and professional growth makes her an indispensable asset to the Alkaline team.

  • Rose

    Meet Rose, the 59-year-old Coaster Queen of Alkaline and mother to Chelsea, the founder of our innovative home decor brand. Having been with us for nearly two years, Rose has crafted thousands of coasters, each a testament to her love for creativity and hands-on work. Her role at Alkaline harnesses her passion for tackling daily challenges and her delight in working with her hands, often getting joyfully messy in the process. Rose's artistic contributions and motherly presence bring a unique warmth and dedication to our team, making her an invaluable part of our community and the ongoing success of Alkaline.