Design duo make debut on new reality show

A student and an alumnus from the Department of Architectural Technology and Interior Design will make their TV debut on a brand-new interior design reality show this weekend.

Thabang Malamatsho and Bongani Puza are among the contestants of My Design Rules, which starts on SABC 3 on 29 September. Expresso Show presenter Ryle de Morny has been announced as the host.

Thabang, who graduated with a Diploma in Architectural Technology in 2019 and is now enrolled for an Advanced Diploma in Interior Design, heard about the show from Senior Lecturer Colleen Cocotos, who had been contacted by the show’s producers.

“Colleen looked at my portfolio and asked me to enter,” said Thabang. I was a bit hesitant because I am working full-time and studying but eventually, I decided to give it a go.”

The show invited design-oriented contestants to enter as pairs and at least one person per duo had to have some kind of design experience but not more than five years of professional experience.

Thabang and alumnus Bongani both work at Osmond Lange.

Thabang said he didn’t like to box himself as an interior designer or an architectural technologist but rather saw himself as an artist.

He described his experience on the show as brilliant, adding that he was grateful for all the people he got to meet.

Puza said he met Thabang on his first day at CPUT while they were both applying for student accommodation.

“We connected because we are both from Gauteng and studied similar technical subjects in high school, which ultimately helped us during our studies.

“I completed my National Diploma in Architectural Technology in 2019. After that, I continued my studies part-time while working full-time, pursuing an Advanced Diploma, which I completed in 2020. I later developed a passion for interior design due to the exposure I gained while working with interior designers in the office. I decided to further my studies in Interior Design by enrolling in an Advanced Diploma programme, which I graduated from in 2024.”

Regarding his decision to enter the competition, Bongani said: “I was inspired by Thabang. Although I was busy at the time, I told myself: ‘Why not show South Africa our talent?’ It presents a great opportunity to design something that will be showcased on TV, and I was also motivated by the prize that we could win if we succeed.”

Cocotos congratulated the duo and said: “Your calm, thoughtful approach, and professionalism reflect the qualities we value in the design industry. The work you presented was of outstanding quality, with excellent mock-ups that demonstrated your design talent. While the nature of television often emphasises the dramatic, the integrity and composure you exhibited will serve you well in your future careers. We are proud of your accomplishments and excited to watch you in action on SABC3 on Sunday, September 29 at 7 pm."

Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: Frederickskennediji@cput.ac.za