‘Tussen Mure’ brings unique men’s interiors to kykNET
Exploring personal style, stories, spaces
The brand-new kykNET series \'Tussen Mure\', based on the iconic coffee table book \'Masculus – The Male Domain\' by Leoni Smit, is set to premiere on Sunday, 5 October, at 17:30 on kykNET (DStv channel 144).
The series promises a visual journey through interiors crafted with great care by a variety of South African men, blending stylish spaces with engaging conversations between the presenters and the men featured in the book.
The programme will be presented by Leoni Smit, the author, creative editor and stylist of ‘Masculus – The Male Domain’, who brings more than 20 years of experience in photography, advertising and television, and Eugene Coetzee, a designer known for his sense of balance, elegance and detail that provides viewers with a rare perspective on the intersection of creativity, functionality and emotion.
“The big difference is that it focuses solely on men and their style. It’s a journey of discovery, and it’s hard not to be inspired by the men, their style and their stories,” said producer Elmi De Pauw.
For Smit, the fascination began years ago, when she travelled across the country to find the right candidates and their spaces. “The interiors were chosen three years ago, and I specifically looked for spaces that reflected only men’s décor – no interior decorators, just authentic stories and real collectors. Yet they still had to meet international standards of taste,” she explained.
Coetzee echoed that sentiment, noting how every guest’s space radiated harmony, beauty and thoughtful design. “From detailed murals and elegant furniture to decorative objects – every element evokes appreciation for the aesthetic choices and the atmosphere created,” he said.
Telling personal stories
De Pauw added that while the stylish interiors immediately catch the eye, it is the stories behind them that stand out. “What makes ‘Tussen Mure’ special is that these homes were not designed by external decorators – each space was created by the men themselves, a direct reflection of their personality and lifestyle.”
Coetzee emphasised the element of surprise that runs throughout the series. “Colours, textures and light play a major role, and some homes feature harmonious colour palettes and unique furniture that provide an aesthetic experience. There are also personal touches – artworks, memorabilia and even simple items that give a space emotional depth. Many of the homes feature innovative and even eco-conscious designs, which makes them even more relevant.”
De Pauw described the experience of filming as deeply rewarding. “Every person we met was incredibly interesting and fantastic. I even spotted my own rug in one of the homes – that felt pretty cool. On a more serious note: all the men welcomed us with open arms and shared their stories and homes with us, and that made the experience incredibly special.”
Authentic interiors
For Smit, the message of the series lies in its potential to inspire. “If it’s just a talk show, viewers will simply chat along and enjoy it. But if the interiors are striking and meaningful enough, people will be inspired to take more risks, care less about what others think, and build their own spaces authentically.”
Coetzee added: “The message I hope viewers take away is that interiors are not just about physical spaces, but about the emotional and personal connection you have with your environment. When your home tells your story, it becomes a place of identity and happiness.”
Each episode offers a unique perspective, from the historic town of Philadelphia and Dapper De Wet’s horse-and-farm-heritage space to Barrydale’s “Langhuis” belonging to Gert van de Merwe and Jaco Jansen van Rensburg, filled with eclectic collections. The programme also features a playful tour with artist Nicolaas Maritz in his museum and Halfaampieskraal’s enchanting interior created by Jan-Georg Solms and Cobus Geldenhuys, a visual story full of surprises.
‘Tussen Mure’ is a programme for anyone seeking inspiration from men’s creativity, style and living spaces. From historical heritage to modern design, each story offers something unique to discover.
The series begins on Sunday, 5 October, at 17:30 on kykNET (DStv channel 144) and will also be available on DStv Stream and Catch Up.
The series promises a visual journey through interiors crafted with great care by a variety of South African men, blending stylish spaces with engaging conversations between the presenters and the men featured in the book.
The programme will be presented by Leoni Smit, the author, creative editor and stylist of ‘Masculus – The Male Domain’, who brings more than 20 years of experience in photography, advertising and television, and Eugene Coetzee, a designer known for his sense of balance, elegance and detail that provides viewers with a rare perspective on the intersection of creativity, functionality and emotion.
“The big difference is that it focuses solely on men and their style. It’s a journey of discovery, and it’s hard not to be inspired by the men, their style and their stories,” said producer Elmi De Pauw.
For Smit, the fascination began years ago, when she travelled across the country to find the right candidates and their spaces. “The interiors were chosen three years ago, and I specifically looked for spaces that reflected only men’s décor – no interior decorators, just authentic stories and real collectors. Yet they still had to meet international standards of taste,” she explained.
Coetzee echoed that sentiment, noting how every guest’s space radiated harmony, beauty and thoughtful design. “From detailed murals and elegant furniture to decorative objects – every element evokes appreciation for the aesthetic choices and the atmosphere created,” he said.
Telling personal stories
De Pauw added that while the stylish interiors immediately catch the eye, it is the stories behind them that stand out. “What makes ‘Tussen Mure’ special is that these homes were not designed by external decorators – each space was created by the men themselves, a direct reflection of their personality and lifestyle.”
Coetzee emphasised the element of surprise that runs throughout the series. “Colours, textures and light play a major role, and some homes feature harmonious colour palettes and unique furniture that provide an aesthetic experience. There are also personal touches – artworks, memorabilia and even simple items that give a space emotional depth. Many of the homes feature innovative and even eco-conscious designs, which makes them even more relevant.”
De Pauw described the experience of filming as deeply rewarding. “Every person we met was incredibly interesting and fantastic. I even spotted my own rug in one of the homes – that felt pretty cool. On a more serious note: all the men welcomed us with open arms and shared their stories and homes with us, and that made the experience incredibly special.”
Authentic interiors
For Smit, the message of the series lies in its potential to inspire. “If it’s just a talk show, viewers will simply chat along and enjoy it. But if the interiors are striking and meaningful enough, people will be inspired to take more risks, care less about what others think, and build their own spaces authentically.”
Coetzee added: “The message I hope viewers take away is that interiors are not just about physical spaces, but about the emotional and personal connection you have with your environment. When your home tells your story, it becomes a place of identity and happiness.”
Each episode offers a unique perspective, from the historic town of Philadelphia and Dapper De Wet’s horse-and-farm-heritage space to Barrydale’s “Langhuis” belonging to Gert van de Merwe and Jaco Jansen van Rensburg, filled with eclectic collections. The programme also features a playful tour with artist Nicolaas Maritz in his museum and Halfaampieskraal’s enchanting interior created by Jan-Georg Solms and Cobus Geldenhuys, a visual story full of surprises.
‘Tussen Mure’ is a programme for anyone seeking inspiration from men’s creativity, style and living spaces. From historical heritage to modern design, each story offers something unique to discover.
The series begins on Sunday, 5 October, at 17:30 on kykNET (DStv channel 144) and will also be available on DStv Stream and Catch Up.
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