Hello!
I’m Dawn Mackay, the Founder & Principal Designer at sanctuary ekhaya and sanctuary table.
Nestled in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa, I share my life with my wonderfully charming (and occasionally annoying) husband, Nic; our sharp and witty 10-year-old son, Lwandle; and our delightful firecracker of a 5-year-old daughter, Ndalo-Enhle.
A Life of Service and Creativity
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Guided by the principle of service to others and self, my days are a whirlwind of school pickups, cooking meals, listening to spontaneous stories, wiping bottoms, and helping my husband find items right in front of him. Amidst this beautiful chaos, I pour my heart into Sanctuary Ekhaya and Table, where I create content, products, and services that inspire and support the modern woman to craft spaces that nurture both body and soul.
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The Power of Home
There’s a unique magic in walking into a beautiful home—the way it looks, yes, but more importantly, how it makes you feel. Perhaps it’s because I grew up without much, in places where the specter of violence loomed large, that I vowed to create a sanctuary for my family.
Over the past 15 years, through determination and creativity, I’ve transformed every space
we’ve called home into a haven, even when we were “brokety-broke.” I believe that beauty and comfort are not just for the privileged but for everyone, and that crafting a home that makes you feel safe and loved doesn’t have to come at a great cost.
The Heart of Sanctuary Ekhaya
Sanctuary Ekhaya is a reflection of my journey and my belief in the transformative power of home:
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Sanctuary: A sacred space; a safe haven; a place of refuge and protection.
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Ekhaya: From isiZulu, my mother tongue, meaning "home."
At Sanctuary Ekhaya, we exist to help you transform your home into a sanctuary—a space you and your family are always eager to return to. Whether you own your home or rent, there are countless creative and affordable ways to infuse your space with warmth and personality.
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Let’s Make Your Vision a Reality
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Whether your space needs a complete makeover or just a subtle refresh, let’s connect over a cuppa and explore how we can bring your vision to life. Together, we’ll create a home that tells your story and feels like your true sanctuary.
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