The Purple Heron 2.13

The new bird on the block!
Nottingham Road has recently welcomed a new addition to the retail outlets operating in this picturesque hub of the KZN Midlands. A collaboration between two local residents, Janet Barry and Lucy Corder, their aim is to gather some of the finest local products created and produced in the area.
The Purple Heron staff members specialise in finding local artists; crafters and small artisanal businesses to market and showcase. The emphasis is on handmade; eco-friendly and up-cycled products. Many products have been brought together in a warm and friendly retail space that oozes character. This creative hub’s ethos is immediately apparent by the use of recycled pallets that have been effectively used as shop fittings.
An added bonus is the canvas printing facility at the rear of the premises. Residents and visitors to the area can take in or e-mail their own images to Lucy at Lifestyle Images and have these printed onto fine photographic art paper or on to canvas. A constantly changing exhibition of works by internationally renowned photographic artist, Neil Corder, who lives in Nottingham Road, is a permanent draw card. One can also come in to peruse photographic portfolio books and order artworks from these catalogues. Other photographic artists are also featured, as well as ceramic artists; wood turners and work by fibre crafters.
Janet and Lucy have a strong commitment to the upliftment of socially disadvantaged people in the area and currently display and sell the work of no less than 5 community projects. All of this thought and dedication has combined to produce a unique, old-fashioned Midlands store that offers a wealth of gifts; homeware; artworks and some unusual and interesting items that pique the interest of most visitors.
The gift choices range from the inexpensive fragranced wooden birds and hearts to hand crafted coffee grinders. A bathroom fragrance range starts with beautifully packaged bottles of bath dust, bath crystals and a variety of products in between and culminates in a selection of gift packaged sets for the bathroom and kitchen. Even the car enthusiast and the glamorous gardeners we like to show appreciation for, are catered to. A full range of Grinning Gourmet country gifts are also stocked. Delightfully different food related gifts.
Another feather in the Purple Heron’s varied plumage is their impressive range of jewellery on offer. A range of bracelets; necklaces and earrings that are each completely unique pieces are expertly hand made by a local jewellery artist. Laser cut designs on leather cuffs and another range of beautiful pieces crafted from antique silver cutlery create a diverse range that makes this THE store in the Midlands to shop for jewellery.


Don’t even try to resist the lure of the pretty flowers in the garden; the butterflies on the wall or the driftwood hearts hanging in the trees! This new Midlands creative hub is a small treasure trove that is guaranteed not to disappoint. Well worth a visit!
For further information, contact Janet 082 374 3305 or Lucy 071 575 3262.
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