About us
Our Story
The Journey
Our journey begins with Southern African iconography and cultural symbolism. Tusks are depicted alongside humans in ancient Rock Art paintings, and for thousands of years, humans have enjoyed a close relationship with this material, using it for functional and decorative purposes. And now, much like the tusk that faces extinction, so do the practices of craft and making.
Our Brand
At the core of our furniture design studio is a celebration of connection—to heritage, to nature, and to each other. TUSK envisions furniture design as a custodial practice of the crafts – an opportunity to encourage contemplation, conversation, and a deep sense of rootedness.
TUSK Design Studio transcends the boundaries of time, drawing inspiration from the rich woodworking and craft traditions of the region while fiercely preserving the stories that shaped its vibrant tapestry.
We firmly believe that play, creativity and optimism are the cornerstones of the sustainability movement
The Team
Chelsea Jordan
Chelsea is the co-founder and designer of Tusk Studio. She is a multi-disciplinary creative with a background in architecture and environmental management. In her work, she bridges education, design, and sustainability, exploring cultural narratives that shape the built environment and extend into furniture design.
Angelique Swanson
Angelique Swanson is the co-founder and designer of Tusk Studio. She has an Advanced Diploma in Interior Design from CPUT, and this background has laid the foundation for her passion for simple and articulate joinery. She has a strong enthusiasm for effective design that makes lives easier and hopes to incorporate sustainability and adaptability into her work.
Len Horn
Len Horn is an experienced project manager and master carpenter, blending hands-on craftsmanship with high-level site oversight. He is an expert in managing the full building lifecycle, leading multi-skilled teams, and translating blueprints into precise structures. Passionate about sustainable timber-based innovation and alternative building technologies to deliver efficient, high-quality construction solutions across South Africa.
Russel Abrahams
Russel Abrahams is a master carpenter and custom furniture maker with more than three decades of industry experience. Known for his exceptional attention to detail and sharp eye for design, Russel specializes in crafting bespoke woodworking pieces that perfectly fit his clients' spaces and styles. Over the past 30 years, he has combined traditional joinery methods with modern techniques to deliver durable, heirloom-quality furniture.
Janine Horn
Janine Horn is a dynamic financial services leader, mentor, and changemaker passionate about financial literacy, economic equality, and women’s empowerment. As the founder of The DragonFly Institute, she disrupts traditional finance conversations by blending mindset, financial wellness, business strategy, and consumer advocacy to create lasting impact.
