The Old Mushroom Farm Directory: Alkaline

Meet the artisans who have set up shop in The Old Mushroom Farm Tunnels.

We chatted to Chelsea Kunhardt, owner of Alkaline, in their factory shop in Tunnel 4 at The Old Mushroom Farm, KZN Midlands. Chelsea started out producing her range of Jesmonite products from home, with a tiny shop space in TOMF's Makers Market. She now occupies a full tunnel here at The Old Mushroom Farm for her mini factory and shop front. We are so proud to see how Chelsea has grown her business and has expanded due to its success (now stocking big names like YuppieChef). Read about Alkaline's journey below in out The Old Mushroom Farm Directory series.

Please introduce yourself, introduce your business and describe what it is that you do.

Alkaline, founded in 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, is a home decor brand that epitomises 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 Tunnel 4, The Old Mushroom Farm, KZN Midlands, South Africa Alkaline has evolved from a solo endeavour 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.

Would you describe your business as artisanal and or ‘indie’ (independent)? Why?

We would define ourselves as a blend of artisanal and independent. Reason being, we have operational independence from larger companies and conglomerates, and our operations reflect the structure of a small group of individuals whose personal beliefs, expressions, and passions form the groundwork of our operations. Simultaneously, our product ethos reflects the focus on craftsmanship, product quality, and uniqueness often seen within artisanal industries.

How and when did your business start? And how long have you been at The Old Mushroom Farm?

Alkaline was founded in 2021, amidst the chaos of the Covid-19 pandemic. 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.

If your business journey up to this point was a movie title, what would it be?

"Beyond the Laundry Room"

What is your favourite thing about being at The Old Mushroom Farm?

I would have to say the collaborative and inspirational environment brought on by being surrounded by an array of unique businesses and business owners all bringing their own methodology to the small business “hustle”

What message would you like to put out there to encourage folks to support small businesses like yours?

Support Local, Empower Dreams

When you choose to support small businesses, you’re not just buying a product—you’re investing in dreams and fostering community. Each purchase is a vote for sustainability, a nod to exceptional craftsmanship, and a stand against the impersonal nature of mass production. Small businesses enrich our communities with unique, often handcrafted goods that carry the personal touch and passion of their creators.

By choosing to shop small, you help preserve the art of craftsmanship, promote economic diversity, and ensure that real people continue to drive innovation and quality in what we consume. Your support empowers small business owners to keep their dreams alive and deliver excellence right to your doorstep. Together, we can build a future that values quality over quantity and personal connections over distant transactions. Join us in making a difference—one purchase at a time.

Chelsea and the Alkaline team produce an incredible range of unique Jesmonite homeware products. Chelsea has designed original, functional and fun products in bold inspiring colours. The team's attention to detail and high standards for quality make the brand truly noteworthy. Visit Alkaline's store to browse their product range and get a sneak peek into the 'behind the scenes' of indie factory life. Browse The Old Mushroom Farm directory for more inspiring shops to visit on the Midlands Meander.

P.s. Look out for Alkaline products in the Boutique Apartments at The Old Mushroom Farm accommodation.