I was a graphic designer at an international ad agency. While I loved my work, I craved a life where I didn't need to ask for permission to live;
I wanted freedom on my own terms.
Nice to meet you! I'm Nelett Loubser. For over a decade, I've navigated the beautiful messiness of being a creative in business, juggling multiple hats, and chasing big dreams. Now, I want to share that journey with you. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting out, I want you to know: being an artist is a privilege, not a burden. It’s time we embrace it together.
WHAT I STAND FOR
FOUNDER, CEO, designer,
DESIGNED LIFE MENTOR,
CREative entrEPReneur since 2010
Unrealistic deadlines, undervalued work, and the constant pressure to accept the “struggling artist” narrative—it’s exhausting, isn’t it? But I believe it doesn’t have to be this way. Simpler, slower, better—that’s the creative life we all deserve.
That’s why I’ve shifted from being a full-time designer to becoming a Creative's Life Mentor. My mission is to guide designers and artists through the unspoken struggles of our industry. I’m here to show you that thriving as a creative isn’t just possible—it’s your right.
I created the Designers’ Playbook Planner and Desk as a blueprint to simplify the admin side of your business so you can focus on what you love: creating. It’s not just a tool; it’s a step toward reclaiming your power as a creative. Because here’s the truth: you’re not just an artist. You’re a force of nature. And it’s time you owned it.
So whether you’re here for tools to simplify your freelance life, articles that inspire, or a community that gets you, welcome. Let’s design a creative life on your terms—simpler, slower, and better.
For 24 years, I’ve been part of the design world. I’ve hustled late nights, juggled demanding clients, and worked on everything from global campaigns to local gems. I’ve lived the dream and the chaos that comes with it, and along the way, I realised something crucial: the way our industry works isn’t always kind to the human side of creativity.
FEATURED IN
My journey began in an international ad agency, where I honed my skills and discovered my passion and skill for design combined with creative strategy.
In 2010, I took a leap of faith and started KunsHuis from my mom's dining room. It was a humble beginning, but it was filled with dreams and determination.
So, I started building a client base outside my advertising job. Eight months later, in 2010, just a month after marrying, I launched KunsHuis, driven by the belief that I can make a life doing what I love.
Back story
My Husband wanted to ask for my hand in marriage only two months after we were together! I asked him how long his longest relationship was, and he said six months - so I said that if we were still together after six months, he could ask me. So, on our six-month anniversary, he wanted to ask me, but I couldn't get leave from my work. Only the day after I managed to get the time away - he asked me to marry him (very romanticly at a lodge with cheetahs - it was extraordinary!). Afterwards, he told me he wanted to do it ON our anniversary.
I don’t just design for brands—I design tools, stories, and spaces to help you feel at home in your creative life. From products that style your desk and calm your chaos to honest chats on the BEYOND DESIGN podcast, everything I offer is here to support you in the messy, magical in-between of freelancing, creating, and figuring it all out as you go.
THIS SPACE IS FOR YOU DEAR DESIGNER
(so far)
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2010
2024
2014
2015
2020
2012
2018
2023
2021
2022
My designed journey
NOW FOR THE IMPORTANT STUFF
I never knew it, but am a farm girl at heart!
Love our Namibian farm as a get-away!
I am a total coffee-snob!
Love me some great coffee in the morning.
Love reading books, fiction and non-fiction
Found out art will be in my future back in 1990
I am a total water addict! #waterpolice
Since 2004, I've had the incredible opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients. Here are just some of the brands I've collaborated with:
Working with CI guides and brand guidelines for clients such as Old Mutual, Nedbank, BP, Standard Bank, SA Breweries, and DStv Namibia, I’ve developed and designed a variety of campaigns, advertisements, booklets, brochures, newsletters, and other design materials needed to support these esteemed companies.
AWARDS
2006
Third place in the Visi Bombay Sapphire Gin glass design competition. Yes, I'm still proud of this one!
2007
Gecko Craft Design Award. I was on a roll!
2008
Stone/Gold award for a radio ad, part of a fantastic team effort.
2009
Completed a course on the Basic Principles of Ogilvy Worldwide. Won two bronze awards at the Maputo Ad Festival. A big year!
2014
Team Namibia Consumer Bag Design—one of the four winners. Bags full of creativity!
2016
Finalist in WRAPTIOUS.com Cushion Design Competition. Love surface design!
2018
Second runner-up in the Development Bank of Namibia Innovation Awards for Braveart.com.na, my side passion.
2021 & 2023
Voted Best Graphic Design Agency in Namibia by MEA Markets. An honour that made all the hard work worth it!
Your at-a-glance guide to where I stand on all the truly important things.
Pizza and Champers
Ryan Reynolds and the late Queen
Fries with Tomato sauce!
Surfer
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park - wildlife preserve in the Kalahari Desert - the closest I have been to our Great Creator!
Very nice whiskey
Mascara and lip balm & tooth brush
Green smoothies... and pizza.
Farm then beach
Sex and the City, Just like that, Bridgerton, Gilmore Girls and Dawson's Creek
REMEMBER:
Welcome Powerful Creative — This isn't just any newsletter; it's packed with inspiration and tips to help you design a life that's uniquely yours. Join me to fuel your passion, build confidence, and design your life with purpose. Say goodbye to cluttered inboxes—every email brings joy and real insights to help you create a life you'll love.
Ready to go BEYOND DESIGN?