Property APRIL/MAY 2012
Winner of 10 publishing awards
NATIONAL DIGITAL EDITION FOR iPADio Get it from Zin
ART & ARCHITECTURE: WITS ART MUSEUM OPENS ITS DOORS
Est. 2004, Issue 260
GAUTENG
decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate
PARK OFF
IN THE PARKS
HEAT UP YOUR SPACE
WINTER WARMER DECOR & BREAKS
Copperleaf Estate Real Estate: Is the game changing for agents?
RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Copperleaf Golf & Country Estate, Centurion
FUN FAMILY LIVING
34
Contents
DECOR
TRENDS
14
11
D DOWNLOA AL N IO T A OUR N EDITION FOR iPAD
64
from Zinio
43
an artwork in itself.
SO SOHO
THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF PARADISE
A pampering spot inspired
We explore the quieter side
dedicated to African art
Finnish-designed cases
by New York’s famous art
of Mozambique at Azura on
for your iPad, jacaranda
and shopping district
Quilàlea Private Island
HOT DECOR & DESIGN
woodcarvings, hot fixtures and fittings, and the award-winning team
12
from Snapp Design
27
38
THE BOOK OF SAMPLES A prophetic guide to this season’s heavenly fabrics
HOT PLATE
19
46
ON ON THE THE COVER COVER @ Maison. & Country Turn Estate, to page 11 for Centurion. the full story. For further details, see page 32.
BUSINESS AS PLEASURE
and food pairings, the place
Discover an instant love
up new head offices in
for high tea, and Southern
affair of the senses at Eden
Lynwood Bridge, Pretoria
cooking with MasterChef
Island, Seychelles
New dining havens, wine
WHAT’S ON
32
A SLICE OF THE GOOD LIFE
Where to be this month
Copperleaf Golf &
in Joburg
Country Estate, Centurion
AN ARISTOCRATIC FIND
34
comfortably zhooshed-
REAL ESTATE 55
STAYING THE COURSE HAS ITS REWARDS Seeff’s Pola Jocum
WINTER WARMERS
questions whether much
Explore the majestic
has changed in the
Dainfern offers up an estate
Fairlawns Boutique Hotel
industry due to continued
of great proportions
and Spa and other places
economic uncertainty
to keep away the chill this
PRETTY AS A PARK
winter. Plus! Decor pieces to
For leafy suburbs, trendy
keep you cosy
51
56
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE The allure of gated
ON-TREND AT TRENTS
estates, and how to
HOT COCOA
An evening of splendid
going away on holiday
From making it, to enjoying
conversation, fine wine and
it – we bring you the best
superb cuisine at Trents at
accessories for a steaming
St Andrews Signature Hotel
cup of cocoa
& Spa in Bedfordview
to Joburg’s Parks
TheCopperleaf Kitchen & Tasting Golf Room
24
Atterbury Property’s
vibes and quaint homes, get
64
first permanent space
SOME ENCHANTED ISLAND
USA winner, Whitney Miller
18
30
Step inside Joburg’s
LUXURY
DESIGN
16
20
HOT INDULGENCE Fashion and other luxuries to ease you into winter
secure your home before
57
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE Soweto’s newest shopping centre, Norwood Mall’s extension, and a treasure
ART AND ARCHITECTURE
chest of the soul
The Wits Art Museum is
thepropertymag.co.za | 1
ED’S LETTER THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE ONLINE VISIT thepropertymag.co.za for the latest features. FOLLOW US on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/thepropertymagazine twitter.com/thepropertymag SUBSCRIBE Call 0860 100 203 to learn more about our special subscription offer.
Photograph Grant Difford
+27 (0)87 230 0101
By accident or design There’s nothing better than departing from a lecture in a bubble of inspiration. This happened to me after listening to two international designers’ presentations at the recent Design Indaba simulcast. Unfortunately the Cape Town-based Indaba doesn’t quite get to Joburg, but technology has allowed us a peek into the lecture room. The first talk I attended was presented by a group called United Visual Artists, more specifically, Ash, Chris and Matt, from the United Kingdom. I stumbled onto this talk accidentally. Things weren’t
4 | April/May 2012
running on schedule and so I popped in halfway through and was instantly transfixed. UVA is a group of fine artists, architects, communication designers, and engineers, moving-image artists and computer scientists who are responsible for a number of startling installations around the world. I call them light installations, but the group doesn’t like their work to be bogged down by one term. Rather, they see it as a collection of sculpture, architecture, live performance and responsive installation. One of their temporary installations sat between the two bridges on Brooklyn’s shore in New York City, and the images astounded me. Built 10m x 10m, in a cube, Origin was a large-scale responsive LED sculpture designed to explore society’s acceptance of a technocratic life form. And once the sun went down it all began – an intense light show followed with a powerful musical score by Scanner, performed while people watched from inside the box. UVA had hoped that visitors would walk around the cube and immerse themselves in it while the light show moved around them, but they were pleasantly surprised when most visitors lay on the floor of the cube and watched it from below, mesmerised. In Toronto, UVA created its first permanent structure, Canopy, a 90m-long light sculpture that spans the facade of Maple Leaf Square. Construction was difficult and there was a lot of going back to the drawing board. The material had to be strong and durable to withstand Toronto’s fierce weather. The result is an installation made of thousands of identical modules, organised in a non-repeating growth pattern. The design, taken from the abstract form of the geometry of leaves, reflects nature and its surrounds, producing a sweeping effect of reflective surfaces, thanks to a combination of daylight and artificial light.
Simply put: magical. Yet mere words cannot do these visual feasts justice. Seeing is believing. Another inspired speaker on the day was Piet Hein Eek, a young Dutch furniture maker who had me at his first words: ‘I don’t like to do commissions – I make what I like.’ His story begins with a graduation project, the Scrap Wood cabinets (pictured left), a fine meshing of craftsmanship and quality materials – his ethos – that would lead to his success and, 10 years on, a huge creative space that houses his workshop, store, restaurant and gallery. And he is only getting warmed up … A local designer who also stirred my creative juices this month at the annual Home Channel Decor and Design Morning is Nthabi Taukobong, creator of the African Queen furniture range. Warm, funny and full of confidence, she took a chance despite many an obstacle to create the range, which has now filtered into fabrics, furniture and home accessories – even jewellery. She believes people need to stand up, realise their dream and then be accountable for that dream. So here I am, sitting down with cup of tea in hand, filled to the brim with all this knowledge and inspiration – and now what? It’s hard not to feel a little inadequate when walking in the shadows of such design greats, but as I sit here dreaming just a little of my next great project, I take solace in the parting words of Piet Hein Eek: ‘A lot of things are accidental in my career, and that in itself is quite nice.’
Nicky Manson, Editor
Property EDITORIAL Editor Nicky Manson nickym@medianova.co.za KwaZulu-Natal Bureau Chief Anne Schauffer anne@medianova.co.za Senior Subeditor Yaron Blecher Features Writers Genevieve Fisher (Western Cape) André Fiore (KwaZulu-Natal) Writer and Online Coordinator Catherine Riley
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15 230 copies free-to-home (including residential estates): Houghton Estate Melrose Northcliff Parkhurst Parktown North Constantia Park Saxonwold Westcliff Atholl & Atholl Ext. 12 Brackenhurst Brooklyn Fairie Glen Lucas Rand Waterkloof Waterkloof Park Waterkloof Ridge Waterkloof Glen Parkmore Bryanston & Exts. Dunkeld Dunkeld West Hyde Park Illovo & Exts. Inanda & Exts. Morningside River Club Sandhurst Sandown & Exts. Baileys Muckleneuk
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f the Month
SNAKES AND LADDERS I have just received the February/March edition and I’m sure you’re blushing as much as your readers are having a really good laugh. For timing, the choice of Rael Levitt as your guest editor and the cover line of ‘the growing status of the auctioneering industry’ and his unctuous editorial comments really take the biscuit as one of publishing’s great faux pas! Of course, the man is innocent until proven guilty, but subsequent events show that the auction industry stinks. Better luck next time. David Leslie, via email Crystal balls are useful tools in our industry.
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I feel so blessed to receive my stylish Property Magazine each month. I treasure each copy, and when my friends borrow them, the magazines are put into a plastic sleeve and everyone knows they must come back, because I keep every copy. The December 2011 article, ‘Japan: Sushi, Sake and Snow’, was amazing. It’s definitely on my wish list to ski in Niseko. Thanks for letting us know about these incredible destinations, things I would never have thought of had I not read about them in The Property Magazine. The magazine is a winner, led by a dynamic team, the engine that keeps everything going. Each and every one of you needs to be applauded. May The Property Magazine go from strength to strength, because you truly deserve it. Lynn Nagel, Cape Town Thank you, Lynn, for your encouraging comments. We sincerely hope your travel dreams come true.
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So I picked up the January/February edition of The Property Magazine last night, because I recognised the ‘Hide & Sleek’ house on the cover – my neighbour’s house from across the road. Reading the text, I thought what a nice piece of writing it was. Turning the page, I noticed that the article ‘Nothing to Wine About’ was by the same writer, and it knocked me out of my slippers. Nice work, Genevieve Fisher! Johan van Papendorp, Cape Town We’re sure you’re equally pleased with the profile she did on you,‘Creating Common Ground’, in our February/March issue!
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Keystone 2005 is a Bordeaux-style wine with aromas of blackcurrant, bramble and cassis and a hint of vanilla pod and allspice on the nose. +27 (0)21 865 2488, kanu.co.za
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Prop Mag F/P April 3/30/12 9:01 AM Page 1 C
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HOT PROPERTY
HOT space
So
SoHo A pampering spot with international flair
S
traight from the Big Apple comes the spectacular SoHo Nails, Waxing and Beauty Salon in Sandton City, Johannesburg. This exciting new
high-end salon offers the latest unisex trends in grooming. But what set this salon apart from its fellow pampering neighbours are its gorgeous New York-inspired decor and its clever use of intimate, indulgent spaces. Exposed red-brick facades and smooth wooden panelling with complementary soft golden lighting and fun accessories evoke a sense of sophistication and sexy style. There is a dedicated space for each service – massage and treatment rooms in the back, communal basins, state-of-the-art pedicure chairs, handand-nail tables and chairs sitting neatly in a row,
1
and separate drying areas where you can sit completely at leisure, reading the latest fashion or
2
gossip mags while your nails dry. Personal touches include client-friendly treatment stations with specially designed handbag and computer bag slots, cellphone charging facilities and Wi-Fi. The salon’s signature manicures and pedicures have the SoHo twist, using a magic ingredient that gently turns to gel as it soothes and moisturises. Add to that a relaxing massage and one of the neatest and longest-lasting paint jobs we’ve ever seen, and you’ll see why SoHo is so worth the Words Nicky Manson Photographs SDR Photo
visit. SoHo also offers treatments for expecting mommies and a number of Princess services for ladies under 10. Gentlemen needn’t feel left out. SoHo offers specially tailored manis, pedis and massages for guys. And then there’s the male Brazilian, or ‘manzilian’ – definitely for the brave.
3
+27 (0)11 784 0370, sohonycsalon.com
The pedicure section allows for large groups of friends to enjoy the pampering experience
Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more hot
1
spaces in your neighbourhood.
together. 2The layout of the salon is spacious and airy. 3The dedicated nail-drying area.
thepropertymag.co.za | 11
HOT PROPERTY
HOT PLATE
Restaurants for all occasions, including fine dining, lunch for the family and time out from retail therapy
WHITNEY MILLER, winner of the very first season of MasterChef USA, discusses the joys of Southern cooking.
Q You’ve published a cookbook, Modern Hospitality: Simple Recipes with Southern Charm. Could you share with us just one recipe secret?
Layering flavours. In my Inside-Out Chicken Potpie, I flavour my chicken with lemon pepper, and in my Shrimp Bisque and Grits, I flavour the shrimp with spices. These extra steps create a depth.
Q Your hometown is Poplarville, Mississippi, and your style of cooking is influenced by that culture. What is the key to the ultimate Southern dish?
It’s achieved through a depth of flavours and complementing textures, such as a plate of crispy catfish, a pot of flavourful greens (probably collard or turnip), rich and creamy black-eyed peas, crunchy coleslaw, a cast-iron skillet of crusty cornbread, and all of this served alongside a glass of sweet iced tea.
Q What is your favourite meal?
A bowl of my great-grandmother’s famous gumbo, served alongside her mouth-watering fluffy biscuits and home-made lemon meringue pie.
A LEAF FROM THE HISTORY BOOKS Did you know that the first mention of ‘afternoon tea’ was in the 19th century, when, many say, it was introduced to Britain by Anna Maria Russell, the Seventh Duchess of Bedford?
My goal is to keep creating recipes and writing cookbooks that inspire people of all ages who want to get into the kitchen. I want to establish a voice and be known for my creative Southern cooking style. kalahari.com; whitneymillermc.com
She started the tea party to avoid being alone and bored in the afternoons. The social trend quickly struck a chord with other hostesses and became a worldwide phenomenon. The Westcliff is renowned for its afternoon teas, now made even more special thanks to the redecoration of the Loggia at La Belle Terrasse restaurant. With its spectacular vistas of Joburg, this gorgeous setting is ideal for tea. Indulge in exquisite fare in a setting of utter sophistication. Delight in fluffy scones served with farm-style clotted cream, red velvet cupcakes, baked cheesecake, carrot cake, milk tart, double-rich chocolate brownies, scrumptious fruit tartlets and bowls of freshly sliced fruits. For the more savoury inclined, there are finger sandwiches – smoked salmon and cream, cucumber and cream cheese, and egg mayonnaise with watercress – as well as mushroom empanadas and quiches, all created lovingly by the Westcliff’s new pastry chef, Lindy Pretorius, and her team. The Westcliff serves afternoon tea every day, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. +27 (0)11 481 6000, westcliff.co.za
12 | April/May 2012
Whitney Miller interview by Candace King
Q Where do you want your cooking to take you in the future, and what else do you want to achieve?
HOT PROPERTY
HOT PLATE
GOLF MEETS GOURMET With a strong emphasis on quality ingredients and extraordinary gourmet food-and-wine pairings, De Kloof Restaurant on Waterkloof Golf Estate is filling a gap in the culinary scene in Pretoria. The menu changes every day, both to keep it interesting for regular patrons and to serve dishes inspired by the freshest and best ingredients available on the day. At dinner time, this might take the shape of black-olive-crusted loin of lamb or pan-seared duck breast and confit duck leg served with vanilla pod pommes purée or, if you’re indulging in the restaurant’s decadent three-course brunch, smoked salmon scrambled egg served with a crispy potato rösti, asparagus and smoked salmon rosette followed by a fresh fruit platter and delicate lemon grass mousse. Set against the rolling greens of the golf estate, De Kloof is an oasis of calm. The decor is elegantly understated and perfectly complemented by Executive Chef Leanne Roberts’ exquisite presentation and subtle juxtaposition of fine food with powerful flavours. +27 (0)73 092 8562, dekloofrestaurant.co.za
COUNTRY OUTING Mount Grace Country House & Spa in the beautiful heart of the Magaliesberg has introduced its Winemaker Dinners, a gourmet wine-and-food-pairing series that will be held at the Rambling Vine restaurant, under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Franc Lubbe. Winemakers from the featured estates will host the dinners, to discuss their techniques. The hosts are: Achim and Takuan von Arnim from Haute Cabrière (May); Johan Malan of Simonsig (June); Jacus Marais from Nitída (July); Jacques Viljoen from
SHOPPING’S A HAPPY PLACE
Zevenwacht (August); Van Zyl du Toit
Why not enjoy a delicious cup of home-brewed coffee at the new D’light while deciding
from Allée Bleue (September); Andrew
on your next purchase? Situated between the Hartmann & Keppler Interiors and Smeg
Gunn from Iona (October); and Beyers
showrooms in Bryanston, D’light gives you the choice of sitting indoors or outside while you
Truter from Beyerskloof (November).
browse the latest decor mags and fabric books for inspiration, take in the newest furniture
The dinners will take place on Saturdays.
offerings or just take a minute to unwind over a tasty pastry. Its varied menu of sweet and
+27 (0)14 577 5600, mountgrace.co.za
savoury dishes changes weekly. +27 (0)72 401 2312, cakesbyandor.com
A FEAST TO A T New to Parktown North is Feastt (sic). Featuring a play area with a large wooden adventure jungle gym and a sandpit, the venue joins the small but growing list of kid-friendly Joburg restaurants. Baking all its goodies on site, Feastt’s delicious flavours will entice you. It’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the style is casual. We loved the burger with bacon and blue cheese as well as the fish and chips. +27 (0)11 447 8001, feastt.co.za
GO, TEAM SA In celebration of MasterChef setting up kitchen in SA, two of the show’s main sponsors, Nederburg and Woolworths, have collaborated to create two limited-edition wines. The first is a medium-bodied Grenache, the second a Sauvignon Blanc/Chardonnay blend. Available during the show’s run, and exclusive to Woolworths. 0860 022 002, woolworths.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 13
HOT PROPERTY
HOT DECOR & DESIGN
Create a talking point in your space …
David Holgreaves, Jonathan Fundudis and Renko Nieman are the award-winning Joburg-based team
SNAPP DESIGN.
Q What inspires you?
Our quest is driven by the process of discovery and self-fulfilment. Our brand is summed up in a word, ‘redefine’, so we try to add value to that which we are designing, for the ultimate objective of enjoyment and enrichment. We redefine through a duel approach: firstly, innovation in the product, and in turn, improving the way people live, through their interaction with our products.
Q How do you keep up with global design trends? We do not like to be governed by trends. We aim to define our own design language and in turn to create unique pieces. Our intention is to design investment pieces that have longevity, as we believe that timeless design is meaningful.
Q Tell us about your latest range.
Each of the products was defined and inspired by a totally different approach. The two cork products were inspired by the material itself, as we wanted them to reflect cork’s wonderful properties. Considering the inherent pliability and unique profile form of the material that was initially used to explore various concepts, plasticine became the inspiration behind the creation of the Splay salad servers. The Engage wine rack was inspired by Lego and Meccano, where as kids we were able to express our individuality through the use of these building sets.
Q Why the exciting move into furniture?
Furniture has such a profound impact on our lives, so we could not resist putting our imprint on this design field. +27 (0)82 444 8254, snappdesign.com
14 | April/May 2012
TUNE IN TO TECHNOLOGY New to the South African land of mobile technology is TuneWear’s stylish Eggshell Finlandia collection of cases for iPhone 4S/4. Just like an eggshell, the cases are extremely lightweight yet heavy on protection. TuneWear’s seven Eggshell Finlandia patterns were developed by Finnish designer Juho Viitasalo, and their names are inspired by scenes from Finland’s countryside. Taimi (red), for example, represents a seedling, Sade (purple) means rain, and Kukka (yellow), means flower. Available from cellphone shops nationwide, the pack comes with TuneFilm protective film, a cable-winder stand, a home button cover, a squeegee and a cleaning cloth. You can also visit TuneWear’s website to download matching wallpaper for each case pattern. +27 (0)11 794 8897, sales@copafusion.co.za; tunewear.com
TOUCHY-FEELY New to the German-manufactured Kahla porcelain range is the Touch series. These items have a velvety soft surface but are robust, heat resistant, dishwasher safe and microwave safe, and their innovative design makes drinking and dining a pleasure. Available nationwide from Kitchen Passion. +27 (0)11 327 5943, kitchenpassion.co.za
HOT PROPERTY
HOT DECOR & DESIGN
MAKE IT SNAPPY Having won an international Good Design Award last year for Slice, its signature cutting board, Snapp Design wowed the crowds again at the Design Indaba 2012 when it unveiled its new collection of homeware. The team’s latest series includes a cork-based range as well as kitchenware, lighting, and Snapp Design’s first-ever furniture pieces. +27 (0)82 444 8254, snappdesign.com
LIGHTING UP MIDRAND K. Light Import has opened the doors of its new showroom in Midrand, unveiling a gorgeous collection of lighting solutions. This space allows the public to view the collection and to chew the ears off K. Light’s well-informed staff. The showroom houses a host of lighting delights, including crystal chandeliers, table, wall and floor lamps, halogen fittings and spotlights. You can’t buy from the showroom direct, but you’ll find distributors online. +27 (0)11 234 0652, klight.co.za
PURPLE PARTNERSHIP Jacaranda & Co. is a beautiful partnership between two Pretoriabased artists and the businesswoman who saw the potential in their work. Ronel van Bassen designs, and Moses and Jessica carve romantic heart, angel and protea shapes out of the wood from fallen jacaranda branches. These pieces will add an artistic dimension to any setting. Find them at Oh Ma Lela’s in Northcliff. +27 (0)82 779 8740, ohmalelas.co.za; +27 (0)12 329 2174, roneldesign.co.za
MAMMA MIA! From the home of classic Italian design come Tocati kitchen taps, designed and manufactured by Armando Vicario, a family business dedicated to quality and craftsmanship. Sleek, contemporary and ergonomic designs, economical aerators as standard – it’s all there. Available with chrome plating, or in some instances, in black brass. Choose from five designs at Womag (World of Marble & Granite). 0861 196 624, womag.co.za
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HOT PROPERTY
HOT INDULGENCE
Fashion, wine and other luxuries to ease you into winter … UNMASK THE INNER YOU The QMS Medicosmetics Collagen Facial is the perfect antidote to the year’s stress. Collagen plays a critical role in the rejuvenation of the skin. The QMS Medicosmetics range effectively aims to aid damaged and ageing skin by increasing your collagen levels. Tightened, rejuvenated and glowing skin is just one of the effects that are visible immediately after treatment. The facial uses the entire range of QMS Medicosmetics products, which is now available in SA, including the three core products: day collagen, night collagen and exfoliant fluid. Two different refreshing masks are applied to encourage blood flow – the first forms a hard shell and the second is applied cold and then becomes rubbery. Indulge in a QMS treatment or buy the products for home use. Available from various outlets and spas nationwide. +27 (0)11 022 1658, qmsmedicosmetics.co.za
SPORTING STYLE Inspired by the colours of the French flag, Le Coq Sportif’s winter range is accented with bright reds and blues and crisp whites. The La Paix range of T-shirts and hoodies in retro colours makes sportswear fit not only for gym, track and field, but also for hitting the town. Available from Le Coq Sportif stores in the Western Cape and Gauteng. +27 (0)12 345 4527, lecoqsportif.com
16 | April/May 2012
LOCAL LUXURY It doesn’t get more proudly South African than the Beauty Factory’s luxurious products, home-grown in Midrand. We love the beautifully packaged Genealogy fragrance range. Find Beauty Factory stores in the Free State and Gauteng or shop online. beautyfactory.co.za
HOT PROPERTY
FROSTED FASHION PRINCESS
Grande Provence Heritage Wine
The Fall/Winter 2012
Estate in the Franschhoek Valley
Collection by eminent brand
has released the Grande Provence
Nine West is an eclectic
Shiraz 2008. Created by winemaker
montage of the season’s
Jaco Marais, the Shiraz 2008 is an
most sensational styles
elegant, medium-bodied red wine
in footwear, handbags
aged in French oak barrels for 15
SHIRAZ WITH FRUITY PIZZAZZ
and purses. Inspired by
months and it pairs perfectly with
the fashion of the 1970s,
meat or curry dishes. If berries, blackcurrants and plums are your
colour blocking re-emerges
taste sensations, then look out
as a season favourite,
the for the slick, contemporary
expressed in rusty red, brown, mustard and burnt orange,
‘GP’ label. Available nationwide.
and extravagance is expressed
+27 (0)21 876 8600,
in a range of clutches, purses,
grandeprovence.co.za
pumps, wedges and heels. Jewelled ornamentation in vibrant and decadent, supersaturated colours give way to a new class of casual luxury. Look out for the collection at Nine West stores nationwide. +27 (0)11 783 2356, ninewestsouthafrica.co.za
BEAT THE BEAR Do as the Russians do and keep those autumn chills at bay with the newly launched Russian Standard Original and Russian Standard Gold vodkas. Launched in SA by ABV Brands, this premium vodka, one of Russia’s finest, is best enjoyed over crushed ice or as a cocktail mix. We love the dramatic bottle design. It is inspired by the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, which stands in the heart of Moscow. Available nationwide. +27 (0)21 801 6181, afbev.com
SHARING IS CARING New fashion boutique, 73 on Kloof Street, in Cape Town, is a space shared by two young labels, Adriaan Kuiters and Take Care. Designed by Keith Henning, Adriaan Kuiters is a nostalgic take on men’s fashion from the 1950s, while the Take Care range, designed by Jessica Harwood, is replete with simple and elegant basics. +27 (0)82 571 4216, takecareclothing.com; adriaankuiters.com
RAWDONS REFURB For country lovers, the great news is that the iconic Rawdons Hotel, established in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands in 1954, has had a facelift. Over R2,5 million has been spent on the rooms alone, with extra care lavished on the famous Room 23, Mrs Rawdon’s private suite. The reception has been moved to its original location and the dining room has also undergone a substantial revamp, offering classic style and taste. The conference facilities have been upgraded to bring them in line with current demands. Boardwalks have been built, wrapping around the dams and extending into the forest, for the benefit of walking, birding or cycling enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Boar’s Head Pub and Notties’ microbrewery on site continue to delight visitors. +27 (0)33 266 6044, rawdons.co.za
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HOT PROPERTY
GAUTENG DIARY
Adapt Or Fly, until 29 April Pieter-Dirk Uys is taking 2012 by storm with his new stage act, featuring all the favourite National Party characters intermeshed with the familiar ANC presidents. Performed at the Joburg Theatre, the show is billed as ‘a personal political comedy-trek along a familiar, long tiptoe to freedom, through the minefields of racism and sexism that have always made up the tarmac of our political freeway’. This is one show not to be missed. Tickets: R120. 0861 670 670, joburgtheatre.com
Lusito Land, 19 April – 1 May Regarded as Joburg’s best Portuguese festival, the annual Lusito Land Festival is here again. Featuring live music, great traditional Portuguese food, caipirinhas on tap and plenty of stalls, Lusito Land is the place to be this Easter time. The festival is perfect for the whole family and is booming with fun. Tickets: R60. +27 (0)11 435 8583, lusitoland.co.za
The Wine Show, 4–6 May SA’s most sought-after wine producers will be bringing you a learning and tasting experience under one roof – the Coca-Cola Dome in North Riding. Expect to leave with plenty of bottles of wine from participating estates! Exhibitors include Blaauwklippen, Diemersfontein, Gabriëlskloof, Raka, Simonsig Estate, the Winery of Good Hope and Topaz Wine Company. Tickets: R100. 0861 915 8000, computicket.com; +27 (0)21 888 8803, wineshow.co.za
Fat Pig, until 5 May Penned by the internationally acclaimed playwright and screenwriter, Neil LaBute, this award-winning Broadway show will be staged by a star-
Michael Bublé, 5–6 May
studded local production team at the Old Mutual Theatre on the Square. The play tackles issues of body image and Hollywood ideals in a playful and thought-provoking manner. Starring Chanelle de Jager, Colin Moss, Lee-Anne Summers and Clayton Boyd. Tickets: From R125. +27 (0)11 883 8606, theatreonthesquare.co.za; +27 (0)82 553 5903, strictlytickets.com
Michael Bublé, 5–6 May Experience this Grammy-award-winning singer’s Crazy Love tour at the Superbowl, Sun City, and enjoy hits like Home, Everything, Haven’t Met You Yet and Hollywood. Tickets: R543–R970. 0861 915 8000, computicket.com
Fat Pig, until 5 May
Send your 2012 event information to readers@medianova.co.za. 18 | April/May 2012
hot property
HOT mandate
An aristocratic
find
1
‘Overflowing with old-world charm’ is the only way to describe this month’s Hot Mandate in Johannesburg
T
his double-volume, classically styled property is situated in Highgate Village on Dainfern Golf and Residential Estate in Fourways. Epitomising perfection, the 700m2 house stands on a 1 612m2 erf. It has five bedrooms, all en suite. Built for the large or growing family, the home is spacious yet cosy and features beautiful fittings. Created with entertaining in mind, the kitchen is for the keen cook and is the heart of the home, thanks to its size. It has a place for cooking, eating, doing homework … even a cartwheel or two, if you’re so inclined. The luxurious fireplace does not go amiss either.
There is a formal dining room next door, a sexy, fully fitted bar area with wooden panelling, a large living area with second fireplace and a TV room. The home’s luxury features include air conditioning, an intercom system and elegant wood and sandstone flooring throughout. Whether it’s drinks for two or corks flying at a party, the wine cellar is an entertainer’s delight. The entertainment continues outdoors with breakfasting on the private patio while taking in the views of the landscaped gardens and the priceless vistas of the park and dam, or enjoying a braai around the swimming pool or indulging in a Jacuzzi and sauna. The property
also offers two studies, a guest cloakroom, a scullery, four garages and two staff suites. When you purchase a home on Dainfern Golf and Residential Estate you are automatically granted membership of Dainfern Country Club, which has function rooms, a members’ bar and a restaurant. The estate offers a host of amenities, including Dainfern College, and sporting facilities, such as its legendary golf course. This gem is available for R11,9 million from Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty. For more information, contact Brenda Rohde on +27 (0)82 469 0092 or visit sothebysrealty.co.za.
2
3
1
Casual elegance on a 1 612m2 stand, overlooking the park. 2The master-crafted kitchen with eating
area next to a cosy fireplace. 3Partial view of the patio with dining and seating areas.
If you would like to have your hot mandate featured, email editorial@medianova.co.za.
thepropertymag.co.za | 19
PRIME PROPERTY
When the Wits Art Museum in Braamfontein opens its doors, both its concept and context will express its integral connection with Joburg
EXPANDED FEATURE IN DIGITAL EDITION
Words Natalie Bosman Photographs Mark Lewis
T
he stars of the show in any gallery are almost always the artworks. But with little less than a month to go before the marvellous Wits Art Museum (WAM) opens to the public in mid May, the building’s sculptural lines, voluptuous volumes and tranquil pockets of white emptiness are all the composition that the senses need. Senior curator Julia Charlton aptly describes the atmosphere in the cathedral-like venue, saying that it seems as if the space is ‘holding its breath’. It has been a long journey to find a space worthy of the 9 000 or so pieces of classical and contemporary African art in Wits’ collection. A national competition was held, in which architects Nina Cohen, Fiona Garson and William Martinson took the honours in 2005, with their vision of the space as a gateway between the university and the city. Their decision to subvert the idea of the traditional art gallery and use wide expanses of glass and
20 | April/May 2012
shopfront-type windows, inviting the city to share in the space, undoubtedly set their project apart, and won them the honour of designing what is a first for Johannesburg, namely, ‘a permanent space dedicated to African art’. Nina Cohen and Fiona Garson Architects went on to bring the project to fruition. WAM covers 5 000m2. Half of this is devoted to exhibition space, divided into the street gallery, the core gallery, the mezzanine gallery, the basement gallery and the strip gallery alongside the stairs descending into this basement gallery. The rest is allocated to state-of-the-art, climate-controlled storage amenities and research, teaching and administrative teaching facilities. THREE IN ONE WAM owes its quirky multilevelled structure and unconventional spaces to the fact that it’s composed of three buildings fused into one – the old Shell garage
PRIME PROPERTY
CENTRE OF ATTENTION View of the core gallery and suspended storage areas, from the mezzanine level.
thepropertymag.co.za | 21
PRIME PROPERTY
on guard Foyer of the Wits Art Museum, closely guarded by an iconic Edoardo Villa sculpture.
22 | April/May 2012
PRIME PROPERTY
a joburg first Clockwise from top left View of the WAM from Jan Smuts Avenue; staircase leading down to the basement gallery; the voluminous core gallery.
and nine-storey University Corner building, which now forms WAM’s airy open entrance; a magnificent 20-storey building crowned by the old revolving restaurant; and lastly, a three-storey building with a beautiful crypt-like basement, which forms one of WAM’s most atmospheric exhibition spaces. For any other architects, turning three spaces into one and dealing with inherited structural dimensions might have been an unwelcome challenge. But for Nina and Fiona, it was a chance to delve into history and practise sustainable architecture. Fiona says, ‘We were working with very good building stock in the three structures, and we saw the reuse of existing structures as a very sustainable way of doing architecture. We respected the beauty in a lot of the elements that were already there, and all three buildings had a very particular character, which we hope we have expressed and moulded around.’ The building process uncovered gorgeous marble floors, now restored to their former glory, and the beautiful glossy blue tiles adorning the exterior walls and entrance hall were discovered when large steel louvres were removed. Nina and Fiona cleaned up the tiles and added gold studs to the points where the louvres had been attached, to give the facades a Zulu beadwork effect. Equally striking is the bold ring of deep, earthy brown bricks that wrap around the outside of the building and immediately attract your attention when you walk or drive along Jorissen Street. These represent the storage areas of the museum and form a central design element that is echoed throughout. ‘The art collection, when it’s not being exhibited, has to be housed in a dark space, and we wanted to express that,’ explains Nina. ‘We battled to find the right material, until we stumbled across this coping brick, which we inverted to give it a woven,
African look. Brick is also such a “Joburg” material, so we’ve used it to make reference to the city, too.’ The exterior of the museum is fortified with brick storage blocks, and this motif is repeated on the interior in the form of three suspended white blocks that hover above visitors to the museum. These house the treasure troves of artworks that Wits has cared for with such devotion over the years. ‘I think that where we differed from a lot of the other entries was putting the storage areas above the ground level, as opposed to down in the basement,’ explains Nina. She adds, ‘We deliberately suspended the storage areas above the core gallery so that they’re visible. These encased enclosures are also accentuated and deliberately visible from the street, which is what makes it such an interesting space.’ Art on art It’s a rare treat to see the WAM in all of its whitewashed purity, but equally exciting to imagine the 300-odd artworks that will soon be colouring the walls, as part of the museum’s opening exhibition, titled WAM! Seeing Stars. Highlights of the exhibition include Jackson Hlungwane’s Women’s Altar to God, a multi-part installation of wood, rock and metal, and the late Robert Hodgins’s acrylic A Beast Slouches. They’re the perfect complement to an architectural work of art, such as the WAM. As Fiona says, ‘The spaces have a sculptural beauty of their own, but you can just imagine the stories that are going to unfold on these walls and in these spaces. I am confident that this building can take all of those voices and colours.’ +27 (0)11 717 1000, wits.ac.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 23
ON SHOW
Words Tammy Sutherns Photographer Karl Rogers
BUSINESS AS
PLEASURE Going to work has never been so aesthetically pleasing
24 | April/May 2012
ON SHOW
WBHO, +27 (0)11 321 7200
Above WBHO was the building contractor for the Lynnwood Bridge development and is one of the biggest construction companies in South Africa. WBHO has always strived to be the best construction company in southern Africa. WBHO’s motto, ‘Rely on Our Ability’, signifies the concept of a focused company that concentrates on providing its customers with a qualitative product. To this end the group mobilises its management skills and uses its resources in the most efficient and cost-effective manner to produce projects of the required standard and quality. WBHO is proud to be associated with the Lynwood Bridge development.
P
icture yourself arriving at work and being greeted by warm, earthy and natural tones, manicured lawns, sweeping greenery and an inviting, sleek building. Enter, and find gorgeous colours infused with modern and slick office comfort. For the Atterbury Property team, this is now a reality for them every morning, thanks to their new head office in Lynwood Bridge, Pretoria. Zahn Hulme from Atterbury says the company wanted to incorporate its family culture. She says, ‘We wanted the workspace to be warm and inviting, yet stylish, elegant and earthy. We are a down-to-earth bunch, and the wood and natural colours create that feeling.We also used oversized, artistic photographs of our own developments on the walls.’ After the third phase of the development was completed, in 2011, Atterbury Property worked closely with architects Studio 3 and Wytske van Wyk from Wytske van Wyk Interiors on its head office’s interior design as it moved its offices to Pretoria. The exterior of the Lynwood Bridge office encompasses soft lighting, cylindrical and circular
curves, and makes use of glass and natural colours. Lined with cobblestone paving, surface panels pop away from the structure, and glass windows are framed with overhanging slabs that complement the building with sunken lighting. The entrance hall is marked by a suspended roof, with soft lighting leading visitors through the doors. A glass elevator shaft helps to enhance the building’s professional feel. Building firm WBHO played a large role in the process, too. Tinie Bonnet from WBHO says, ‘After completing the building shell, we were requested to proceed with the tenant installation for Atterbury, who would be using the second and half of the first floor as its new head office.’ Tinie says one of the requests from Atterbury was for a spiral staircase and a double-volume area in its office space. To do this, the builders had to remove a section of the curved glazed facade, demolish a section of the second floor slab and install a steel spiral staircase before closing up the facade again. The result is majestic. Blues, greys and browns greet the visitor in the interior of the Atterbury offices. Gerhard van der
Westhuizen from Atterbury says,‘The architects played a big part in the space planning. We wanted a modern and professional yet relaxed, homely feel.’ He adds that they achieved the look they were going for by including driftwood finishes combined with a lot of glass. The entrance hall, encased in glass windows, allowing natural light to filter through the building, houses a beautiful wooden reception desk, decorated with a plant feature. Wooden wedges add interest to the tiled floor, differentiating it from run-of-the-mill office spaces. Pillar structures litter the entrance hall, characterised by strips of wood in a unique and quirky design, for a little bit of difference. Encased by glass screens, the waiting room provides cushy comfort with large, puffy chairs in blues, greys and browns, while the wooden coffee table and plants provide a homely feel. Blues and wood flow through to the rest of the office’s interior design theme. The office is also home to a variety of plants, keeping the space natural and fresh. The boardroom exudes a sense of professional comfort, with sunken lights twinkling over the large
thepropertymag.co.za | 25
ON SHOW
Opening page An impressive spiral staircase, beneath a wire sculpture by Rina Stutzer, leads to the bright pause area at Atterbury’s new head offices at Lynwood Bridge, an Atterbury development. This page, above The striking reception area.
Profile: Adams & Adams Adams & Adams is a leading South African law firm specialising in intellectual property law, in addition to providing general commercial legal services. The firm has grown into a South African law icon, with the largest intellectual property law practice supported by a strong commercial, property and litigation practice. Founded in 1908, Adams & Adams has more than 100 years of legal excellence and experience. Adams & Adams currently has more than 62 partners and a further professional complement of over 140 experienced attorneys and candidate attorneys, with more than 350 support staff members. The firm’s operations are based in Africa, with offices in South Africa (Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban), Mozambique, Angola, Tanzania (Zanzibar), Burundi and Cameroon. Adams & Adams prides itself on offering a wide range of specialist practice areas organised within the Commercial, Property and Litigation (CPL) Department of the firm. The Property Law team specifically handles all aspects relating to property law in South Africa and is based at the firm’s head office in Lynnwood Bridge, Pretoria. The Property Law team provides a wide range of services to the firm’s private and corporate clients. The Commercial Law team assists clients with the drafting of contracts, advice on the implementation and termination of contracts, general legal advice and services in regard to niche areas, for example banking law, competition law, administrative law, tax law, restructuring and financing, to name but a few. The Litigation team is well established and deals with most aspects of litigation, including commercial litigation, such as disputes arising out of contracts, and also litigation in banking law, insurance law, competition law, liquidations and consequences of insolvency, administrative law, family and matrimonial law, motor vehicle accident claims, personal injury and delictual claims, amongst others. In fact almost all areas of civil litigation are covered by the firm. Adams & Adams, specifically the CPL Department, values the client relationship it has with Atterbury Property, the developer of the Lynnwood Bridge precinct.
wooden conference table. The table is laced with big black office chairs that give off an air of corporate luxury. A wooden high-top counter is also utilised in this space.The result is a fusion of sleek design and warm atmosphere. Gerhard says,‘We are professional yet relaxed in our corporate environment. Everybody at Atterbury also works together as a close-knit family. Our offices are, after all, our second homes.’ Zahn adds that a challenge was finding a way to optimise the use of openplan spaces yet retain a sense of privacy, and thus many glass divisions were used. One of the most striking features of this interior is the sweeping wooden staircase that leads to a landing fitted out with wooden chairs and tables. Light is utilised to artistic effect in this space and a beautiful wire sculpture of Africa hangs over the stairs. Gerhard and Zahn say their favourite feature is the sculpture, which was crafted by Rina Stutzer. The staircase is lined with aluminium railings and surrounded by glass windows that reflect the light. This area is also a favourite of Tinie’s, who says, ‘The office space has a very relaxed feel to it; however, when you look at the various elements, you can see that a lot of attention was given to the quality of the building.’ The braai area, where employees can enjoy the sun and fresh air, sustains the earthy tones, with large natural-coloured tiles and wooden slats. The braai is encased in smooth countertops that include wooden cupboards the colour of honey. White benches and tables lead onto a small manicured garden that’s strewn with tiled stepping stones and has a handsome rock feature. The overall feel of the office space is uniform with quirky pieces of wooden furniture and plants thrown into the mix, giving it a spark of something different. The use of lighting and the sculpture in the staircase allow visitors a bite of the creative and fun side to working in the corporate world. Zahn says this definitely influences how their employees feel at work, where they share meals together, and the entire team feels involved at all times. With impeccable finishes, tasteful colours and that little creative spark, Atterbury’s head office is one that makes visitors simply green with envy.
Professionals List Adams & Adams – Attorneys, +27 (0)12 432 6000, mail@adamsadams.com, adamsadams.com Atterbury Property Holdings – Developer +27 (0)12 471 1600, zahn@atterbury.co.za, atterbury.co.za WBHO – Building Contractors, +27 (0)11 321 7200, wbho@wbho.co.za, wbho.co.za
26 | April/May 2012
ASK THE EXPERTS
THE BOOK OF
SAMPLES
A prophetic guide to this season’s heavenly fabrics Photographs Michael Glenister Location Envy Lounge, Sandton City
thepropertymag.co.za | 27
EXPERTS ASK THE EXPERTS
HALOGEN INTERNATIONAL
HERTEX FABRICS
HOME FABRICS
THE FABRIC LIBRARY
Gail Butler, Managing Director
Katrin Herrmann-Van Dyk, Sales Director
Haidee Kramer, Director
Angus Lindsay, Sales Manager
What makes your company a leader in the fabrics game? Halogen International is a leader in the fabric industry because of the quality of our products as well as the wide selection that we have on offer. We have a large collection of locally stocked fabrics and represent a number of top international fabric and wallpaper brands, such as Andrew Martin, Pepe Peñalver, Duralee and York. Why do you love fabrics? A change of fabrics can alter the ambience of a home and give your space a complete facelift. There is such an enormous selection of fabric available to us that we are spoilt for choice. What is your top winter fabric for this season, and where is the best place for its use? Velvets, in various textures and colours. Velvets can be used in all applications, sofas, curtains and accessories. Velvets with a distressed texture seem to be the most sought after this season. We have a wide selection available for you to feast your eyes on. The latest trends in fabric? Mixing patterns, colours and textures together. Faux leathers that have a sophisticated edge, and of course, velvets and satins, which add a touch of glamour. In terms of colour, the pairing of true reds, plum, amber and gold seems to be coming through strongly this season.
What makes your company a leader in the fabrics game? Hertex is 25 years old this year. We believe that our focus on the needs of our customers is key to our success. In our world, the customer comes first, no matter what. As a family business, we are focused on sustainability and quality. This has assisted us in our growth over the years. Why do you love fabrics? Fabrics are so tactile and subjective. There is always something new to choose from and it is such a dynamic and ever-changing environment. I was brought up with fabrics and I remember running around the mill as a toddler. I would say fabric runs in my veins. What is your top winter fabric for this season, and where is the best place for its use? Colour is making a comeback, but greys and beiges are still top sellers. Bring in some bold pattern on small pieces, cushions or blinds. Traditional winter fabrics, such as wools or felt, have never been a big hit in South Africa, but it is seen as a trend in the northern hemisphere. The latest trends in fabric? More and more prints – digital, botanical, novelty and loads of colour. Vintage florals, finishes, stonewashed leather and linens. Recycled will become more and more popular. Plain fabrics enjoy high-technology finishes, such as glazing, brushing and tumbling.
What makes your company a leader in the fabrics game? Home Fabrics has the largest variety of fabrics available, not only in our own collection, but also in the many famous international brands that we distribute. Why do you love fabrics? Fabrics are in my blood and are integral to my life. They bring such joy and pleasure as they appeal to so many of our senses. They are visually exciting and are wonderfully tactile, enhancing our homes and our lives. What is your top winter fabric for this season, and where is the best place for its use? We are launching a luxurious new velvet-style quality called Swanky, which comes in 32 rich, exotic colours. It feels glorious and it is also easy to care for and really durable, so it’s ideal for use in the family home. The latest trends in fabric? For winter, we are looking at lots of plush pile fabrics and fabrics with lots of texture and dimension. Our latest Monsoon collection is a perfect example, with its rich, wintery colours and soft, luxurious textures. How can fabric be used to create a warm feeling in the home? The more the merrier, we say. Fabric really helps to create a warm ambience in a home, as opposed to the use of blinds and shutters, which create a cooler, more clinical look.
What makes your company a leader in the fabrics game? We have been a household name in the industry for over 35 years and have a wonderful selection of affordable fabrics. Why do you love fabrics? Once the bug bites, one is really smitten, and I have loved my many years in this industry. What is your top winter fabric for this season, and where is the best place to use it? We have a stunning new range called Hotseat that we are launching this month and it is really perfect for the coming winter season. The stripe design, Boss, is going to be a winner, with its wonderful texture and striking colour combinations. This fabric is ideal for use on furniture, headboards and for accessories. The latest trends in fabric? One of the big stories at the moment is ‘green’ fabrics, and the Fabric Library is proud to be launching a selection of ‘green’ fabrics with the necessary certification that confirms that they have been manufactured with no harmful chemicals and that the process is environmentally friendly. How can fabric be used to create a warm feeling in the home? It always makes a difference in a room if one has great curtains, as they create an ambience and insulate a room.
+27 (0)11 448 2060,
+27 (0)11 262 4108,
+27 (0)11 262 3492,
+27 (0)11 265 9000,
info@halogen.co.za
hertex.co.za
homefabrics.co.za
fabriclibrary.co.za
28 | April/May 2012
Safe Heaven. Why are increasing numbers of SA’s wealthy elite choosing to invest, live and work out of Mauritius? s 2ANKED IN THE 4OP @"EST 0LACES IN THE 7ORLD TO ,IVE s ! SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR FAMILY s ! SECURE HOME FOR YOUR ASSETS s "USINESS TAX RATE AS LOW AS PERSONAL TAX ONLY s .O FOREIGN EXCHANGE CONTROLS OR INHERITANCE TAXES s 7ORLD CLASS INFRASTRUCTURE EDUCATION AND HEALTH s YEARS OF POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC STABILITY s /NLY A HOUR m IGHT
International award-winning Villas Valriche is the island’s premier lifestyle estate, offering Championship golf, 5* hotels, Beach Club, activities and sports for all ages and luxury freehold golf villas with spectacular sea views. *Daily Telegraph, UK (Nov 2010)
Ryan Proksch
+27 73 392 3233
info@villasvalriche.com I www.villasvalriche.com
VV_PropertyMay_290312_Final.indd 1
29/03/2012 14:44
SHOW DEVELOPMENT
island Some enchanted
Words Sam Gates Photographs Supplied
Eden Island, an upmarket residential development on a man-made island in Seychelles, engages you in an instant love affair of the senses
Y
ou just can’t help falling head over heels in love with the Seychelles islands.This beautiful archipelago in the Indian Ocean, all turquoise seas and dazzling beaches with curvy palms and photogenic boulders artfully placed by nature, is simply divine. Throw in some of the world’s best snorkelling, diving, fishing and sailing, discover that the temperature is always above 25ºC, and you’re smitten. As a deservedly popular honeymoon destination, Seychelles is famous for its luxurious, all-inclusive resort hotels and for being the perfect place to unwind. But if you love to explore, eat, sleep and play without restrictive timetables, yet still want every home comfort, then you’re looking for much more than a hotel. Ultimately, what you really need is a place on Eden Island. Eden Island is a stunning marina development consisting of a range of apartments,
30 | April/May 2012
maisons and villas on a private island connected by bridge to Mahé. Set on 40ha of verdant grounds edged with perfect white sandy beaches, every luxurious home is on the water. Explore further and you’ll find swimming pools, a gym, tennis court, clubhouse, restaurants and a retail plaza. It’s the only development of its kind in the Indian Ocean, one that’s been quietly transforming the lives of homeowners there, and Seychelles itself. It’s not hard to see why. Leaving the hustle and bustle of Mahé behind you, you drive over the Eden Bridge and things seem to … well … slow down. In the development it’s battery-powered vehicles only, and every property comes with a golf buggy. It makes for a peaceful and safe environment, blissfully free of bristling burglar bars and noisy alarms. The island is aware of its trailblazing position and quietly takes its responsibilities very seriously. No cars means low carbon emissions, a desalination plant ensures the
island isn’t a drain on precious water supplies, and all the plants are indigenous or endemic. It’s difficult to believe you’re on reclaimed land, and that’s mostly due to the skill of the South African urban planners and architects, the Dennis Moss Partnership (DMP). By creating properties and urban areas in Seychellois style and working to design principles that incorporate a sense of place, history, craft and nature, they’ve enabled this man-made island to blend in seamlessly with its environment. For Annelize van der Watt, a DMP architect who’s been working on the island since its conception, local heritage was a huge inspiration. ‘Seychelles has a unique island feel, so we wanted to echo the local architecture in a modern way whilst keeping the essence of that background and colour,’ says Annelize. Mornings on this enchanted island see the marina bustling with boats heading out to fish
SHOW DEVELOPMENT and explore, while the gentle climate works for casual sailors and serious enthusiasts alike. At night, the sounds of crickets and geckos mingle with the splashes of flying fish and the soft ringing of masts as yachts rock gently by the jetties. Want to charter a boat or bring your own? No problem. Every property comes with a private mooring, and if yours is a super-yacht, then the international marina has ample space. If you love fishing, Seychelles is practically a farm. As Christophe Houareau, business development manager of Eden Island Marina, jokes, ‘A bad day’s fishing in Seychelles is coming home with 20 fish.’ Homeowners love the lifestyle, with many of them trading up to larger houses or taking additional properties for friends and families. Others acquire them as rental investments, helping to satisfy the fast-growing demand for holiday lets and long-term corporate rentals, a result of the development’s excellent facilities, security and proximity to the airport. The market can’t get enough of Eden Island, and so the developers have just released five new
two- to six-bedroom villas, each with private swimming pool. Clients may choose from seven villa designs by Ray Alexander, each with signature red roofs, Victorian- inspired architecture and internal layouts framing panoramic views. Set on a raised peninsula, these villas will offer spectacular views of four of Seychelles’ prettiest islands, where the ocean swirls around the land in a staggering array of blues. And if you like your water even closer, private steps down to the ocean mean you can practically snorkel in your own garden. Within the villas, a choice of pearl, coral and granite interior palettes is available, all echoing the natural colours and textures of the island. Furnishing homes in foreign countries can be a nightmare, so the island’s interior designers have created four decor schemes, with a complete range of complementary furniture, art and decor. They’ve thought of everything, from day beds to cocktail shakers, so all you have to do is choose. The villas are being released now in April and are scheduled for completion in 14 months’ time. They’re
priced from $2,95 million to $4,5 million (about R22,5 million to R34 million). Eden Island isn’t just a unique concept; it’s an astonishing success story. Over 380 residences have been sold to buyers from 38 countries, over 40% of them to South Africans. All properties are sold as freehold title, and the purchase qualifies buyers and their families for Seychelles’ residency. In addition to contributing $150 million (about R1 billion) in foreign direct investment to the economy, Eden Island has created more than 500 permanent jobs across Seychelles. Craig Heeger, CEO of Eden Island Development Company, says,‘We’re immensely proud of Eden Island. The architecture, landscaping and laid- back island lifestyle exceed what we promised.’ He’s right. But the real success of Eden Island is the way it makes you feel. In this frantic world, it’s hard to find the time or the space to actually enjoy life. Eden Island lets you do just that. With thanks to … Pam Golding Properties, Brian Gradner, +27 (0)82 361 4381, edenisland.sc
Opposite Aerial view of Eden Island over Anse Bernitier and the super-yacht marina to Mahé Island. This page, centre, clockwise from left Lunchtime traffic passing the lawn of a stunning sea-facing villa; maison bedroom and veranda overlooking the yacht basin in the Seychelles Now decor scheme; interior of a maison bathroom with Shell finish; living and dining area of a typical Eden Island maison with furnishings from the Island Light range. This page, bottom, left to right Villa living room designed in the popular Plantation style, with views across the ocean to Sainte Anne Island; aerial view of Eden Island over Anse Tec-tec.
thepropertymag.co.za | 31
ADVERTORIAL
This fantastic estate encapsulates in one destination everything I love about family living, from home and leisure to the great outdoors. Set in a country club environment, it has a spectacular course that represents a fair and enjoyable test for golfers of all standards and ages – Ernie Els
A slice of the
GOOD LIFE Looking for exceptional family living? Look no further than Copperleaf
T
ake a drive away from the hustle and bustle of Sandton or Centurion and in 20 minutes you will find wide-open spaces and majestic views of the Magaliesberg mountains – from Copperleaf Golf & Country Estate. Copperleaf is an exciting residential estate in Gauteng, offering incomparable country living in proximity to the urban centres of Pretoria, Johannesburg and Centurion. Launched in September last year, Copperleaf is designed to maintain a sense of space, with the majority of the property dedicated to parkland, the golf course and open areas. The leisure facilities at this family-oriented estate include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a gym, tennis courts, mini cricket oval and accompanying pavilion, as well as acres of walking and cycling routes.
32 | April/May 2012
The golf enthusiast will love Copperleaf, the home of the first Els Club in South Africa. The championship golf course boasts a magnificent clubhouse where golfers can relax after a challenging round of golf. ‘The new clubhouse and facilities here are second to none. The homeowners at the estate are living out their dreams and that tells me that this is country club living at its finest,’ says South African golfing hero, Ernie Els. There is also a Golf Academy, catering for first-time golfers and for those who wish to improve their game. The academy is run by the Tuks High Performance Centre, and top-class trainers and state-of-the art technology with full video analysis are on hand. Families will love the Copperleaf Café, which offers a break from cooking. As well as providing
last-minute convenience shopping, it’s a place where friends can meet for a cappuccino and freshly baked muffins. Golfers can enjoy a light lunch after their round, and in the evenings, special times can be shared over pizza. You can indulge in some serious pampering time at Copperleaf Spa, whose many treatment facilities and wellness packages will leave you feeling rejuvenated and recharged. Professionally trained therapists are on hand to offer you the best advice, which all adds to the experience. Soon, a fully supervised children’s centre will be opening there, too. Of the 1 129 stands on the estate, 450 are available for sale.The stands vary in size, from 500m2 to 1 500m2, and are available from R375 000. If you are interested in building your dream home, Copperleaf provides
ADVERTORIAL
full architectural guidelines as well as a dedicated building control officer who can assist with all the guidelines. For peace of mind, the gated estate offers comprehensive security, including electric fencing and security cameras. For families looking for a slice of country life close to the city and their place of work, Copperleaf offers a sense of security, peace of mind and an abundance of family-friendly activities and lifestyle amenities. Come out and enjoy the estate’s ambience, ask questions, enjoy a coffee or enquire about specific stands. Copperleaf ’s sales team is there to assist.
Top, clockwise from left The 10th green, clubhouse and residences at Copperleaf Estate; Copperleaf Café; exterior view of the Els Club clubhouse; residents enjoy a game of cricket at the oval. Centre strip, from left Sheer indulgence – the indoor swimming pool and a treatment room at Copperleaf Spa; aerial view of the cricket oval; children can’t get enough of the estate’s sports facilities; the Els Club – the first of its kind in South Africa; Ernie Els (middle) and the Copperleaf sales team; Ernie practises his swing on Copperleaf’s professional 18-hole golf course.
With thanks to … Copperleaf Estate, +27 (0)12 072 0200, copper-leaf.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 33
GAUTENG WINTER WARMERS
WRAPPED UP FOR WINTER
W ARM the cockles of
IN JOHANNESBURG
It’s time to invert the stereotype and experience the best of South Africa. So, grab your duffle coat, don your mittens, and be pleasantly surprised.
your heart
As we move into the cooler months, staying at home snuggled on the couch becomes our default setting. In the following pages, we round up some exciting new decor products that will help to keep you cosy, and we bring you the specialists’ heads-up on
Discreetly hidden in the leafy folds of a Morningside suburb, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa exudes a certain old-world charm and sophistication
this season’s decor trends. However, there is also lots to keep you busy away from home too, including new restaurants, boutique hotels and spas, who all have something special planned for Winter 2012 … And no, you may not wear your slippers!
Words Nicky Manson Photographs Supplied
F
airlawns’ charm and personal touches stem from the fact that it was once an equestrian estate set on 10ha of rolling green lawns. Today it is the dream come true of the current resident owners, John and Anna Thacker, who converted their private home to this grand hotel. GM Michael Kewley and his team are responsible for the smooth running of Fairlawns. The hotel is central and is cleverly soundproofed against the noise of the city by its foliage and positioning, so you can bask in utter tranquillity. The magnitude of this award-winning, five-star Palladian-style hotel only comes to light once you get the royal tour. From the road, you would never guess that the property spans 5ha and boasts 40 rooms, conference facilities, an outdoor pool, a gym and spa, the Terrace Restaurant and a bar. The hotel caters to local diners and international business travellers and tourists alike, but we think it makes the perfect winter getaway too. The Terrace Restaurant is a feast of culinary delights and visual treats. Its marble floors are a chessboard of white and black. White linen tablecloths, subtle flower arrangements, silver cutlery, and the scene is set. Glass doors slide wide open in the warmer months, allowing diners to move onto the large deck overlooking the pool and gardens. But in winter they stay firmly shut, inviting indoors
the beautiful views of Joburg’s winter skies while keeping the icy weather at bay. The glass doors also allow the light to flow in, and it merrily bounces off well-placed mirrored walls in the room while a large fireplace filled with pine cones takes centre stage. Executive Chef Keith Frisley does not disappoint. The menu is seasonal and the winter meals, carefully paired with wine, are a sensory seduction. The inviting Fairlawns’ bar is next door and with its warm and inviting ambience, it’s perfect for a nightcap on the large leather couches by the fireplace. In fact, there are a number of intimate spaces scattered around the hotel that allow you a minute to relax, whether it’s browsing in the library, having a cup of coffee or reading the paper. For a snug experience, stay the night and take your pick from a courtyard suite, villa suite, Grand Chateau suite, classic suite or presidential suite. There are fireplaces in 20 of the 40 suites – the perfect place to enjoy a glass of complimentary sherry. King-size beds, gorgeous cotton linen and warm blankets thrown across comfy couches, not to mention a wide-screen TV, make up rooms that radiate comfort and warmth. And to finish on a high note, visit Fairlawns’ Bali-style spa and give your body the pampering it deserves to help fight the cold and dry Joburg +27 (0)11 804 2540, fairlawns.co.za winter.
The Grand Chateau at Fairlawns lives up to its name. 2 & 4Elegant Grand Chateau suites.
1
Elegant dining at the Terrace Restaurant, with views of the hotel’s verdant gardens.
3
34 | April/May 2012
GAUTENG WINTER WARMERS
2
3
4
1 thepropertymag.co.za | 35
GAUTENG WINTER WARMERS
Seal in the warmth
A whisky bar, a restaurant and a cellar (but no partridge in a pear tree) are our top winter warmer spots in Jozi.
A WARMING TIPPLE There’s nothing like a glass of the good stuff to keep you warm on a cold, blustery day. And the only place to go to in Joburg to quench that thirst is the Southern Sun Hyde Park Sandton hotel’s sophisticated Whisky & Cigar Bar. With its comfortable brown leather couches, sexy decor and subtle lighting, the bar overlooks the outside deck and pool and provides a stunning outlook over the suburb. But the standout feature of this space is of course, its whiskies, cognacs and cigars. One of the best selections in town, we’re told. +27 (0)11 341 8080, southernsun.com
36 | April/May 2012
GAUTENG WINTER WARMERS
INDULGE AT PIGALLE Nestled in the Michelangelo Towers on Nelson Mandela Square, Pigalle Sandton’s interior is a mix of baroque and art deco. In fact, the term ‘old school’ comes to mind, and that’s exactly what you get – good old-fashioned food and service. Complimentary espresso cups of curried butternut soup whet the appetite and remove the chill before the indulgence begins. We loved the duck spring rolls with sweet chilli sauce and the prawn tandoori, which pack a bite for starters, while the slow-roasted lamb in phyllo topped with baby spinach and feta on an island of mash in a moat of tomato gravy looked like an entry from MasterChef. Langoustines are Pigalle’s speciality, so treat yourself. Also try the chocolate fondue – out of this world. Finish off the meal with a shot of Fior di Latte, a white chocolate and grappa liqueur … Nuff said. +27 (0)11 884 8899, pigallerestaurants.co.za
TURN UP THE HEAT UNDERGROUND Discover a dining experience like no other, beneath the Saxon. There are two cellars, one housing red wines, the other housing white wines – and up to 1 000 bottles in each. The cellars formed part of the original home that later was converted to the Saxon Boutique Hotel, Villas & Spa establishment that we know today. An intimate space, seating only 12, this is the ultimate venue for winter dining for a group of friends or a romantic dinner for two. Feast on the culinary delights and indulge in the hotel’s extensive wine selections, including top local and international labels, under the watchful tutelage of award-winning sommeliers. Wrap yourself up against the chill in the cosy embrace of fine silver service, vintage wines and great food. +27 (0)11 292 6000, saxon.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 37
WINTER WARMERS HOT PROPERTY
WINTER COLOUR FORECAST – WARM AND BRIGHT! Anne Roselt, colour manager at
Cool fusion ENRAPTURED
Plascon, gives us her insight into
This extremely comfy, locally produced modular seating
winter colour trends for interiors.
range, the Rapt Collection, is definitely geared towards winter chilling. It’s available in a host of pop colours
The good news is that we are still
and a range of materials, including velvets, cotton
seeing lots of colour this winter. But
linens, velveteen and, for the outdoors, coated
the cold means that we are naturally
canvas. Use it to add interest to any living area.
drawn to warmer colours, so we are
Available from the Modern Home Company in Green
sure to see Pantone’s colour of the
Point, Cape Town and Kramerville, Johannesburg.
year, Tangerine Tango, adding some
Nationwide delivery. +27 (0)21 434 0611,
heat. Orange is also good to introduce
+27 (0)11 262 0258, modernhome.co.za
to a colour scheme, as it is a cheerful, playful and sociable colour. If bright orange is not for you, have a look
FURRY AND FABULOUS
at the Origins palette in the Plascon
Graphica Textiles, well known for its leather and
2012 Colour Forecast. Toffee Fudge
leather- like fabrics, has recently launched in South
is a muted version of orange that has
Africa, bringing us a new range of accessories called
many of its traits. Greens are bound to
Winter Home. The collection consists of sophisticated
stick around for winter. Organic prints
faux fur throws and cushions that are made of hi-tech
are inspiring many of the greens we’re
modacrylic fibres, are easy to care for and are difficult
seeing. Natural colours provide a
to tell apart from genuine fur. You will find Graphica
wonderful background for all colours
Textiles’ showroom in Kramerville, Johannesburg.
and they never go out of fashion. For
Orders can be placed online, too. +27 (0)11 493 6833,
some added romance, muted pinks
graphica-textiles.co.za
can be added to the naturals. Also still strong for winter are golds, bronzes and coppers, as found in the Plascon Designer range of metallics. Colour
FIRECRACKER
blocking, geometric shapes and
The Avani is a compact ceramic bioethanol fireplace that also serves as an interesting
cheques are all big this winter. It’s a
ornament. Don’t be fooled by its size, though. This little wonder has a thermal output of
wonderful time to find something that
10 000 Btu (British thermal units), making it a very effective heating source. The best
really inspires you. +27 (0)21 417 1111,
part about it is its portability – you can move it from room to room as needed. Get it from
plasconspaces.co.za
Beauty Fires in Woodstock, Cape Town, and Kramerville, Joburg. Or order online for courier
Words Genevieve Fisher Photographs Supplied
delivery to your door. +27 (0)21 461 9821, +27 (0)11 262 0258, beautyfires.com
38 | April/May 2012
WINTER WARMERS
What better excuse to deck out your interiors than a change of season? LOVE IN THE TIME OF WINTER The Juno love seat by Casamento wowed visitors to this year’s Design Indaba. A perfect perch for lovers to get
Q&A Chris Zimberlin of Limeline Interiors, importer of designer European furniture, tells us what’s hot this winter.
close, it is upholstered in grey stonewashed flax linen and embroidered with bamboo yarns in a delightfully romantic
Q: What are your top tips for
red pattern. The inners are made up of 50% recycled fibres
redesigning an interior space for the
and 50% latex foam. Available in store in Woodstock, Cape
colder months?
Town, or order online. National and international delivery available. +27 (0)21 448 6183, casamento.co.za
A: If you belong to the group of fortunate people who have fireplaces, winter will concentrate around this. To redesign an interior space will mostly mean taking the emphasis away from the views towards the more homely and family-orientated features of the house. If you don’t already have one, try introducing a central heating element. A fireplace would be an ideal solution, but there are less expensive options, such as the BioFire. Avoid cold tiles on the floor – loose rugs will quickly give a warm feeling. Avoid large open windows – the correct window treatment will certainly make a difference. Introduce cosy, comfortable seating elements that fit snugly around a person and give a secluded, warm feeling, and finally, invest in a good, warm throw. Q: Any new pieces at Limeline that epitomise the term ‘winter warmer’? A: The classic Egg chair by Arne Jacobsen is back – don’t make
IRREGULAR BUT SPECTACULAR
the mistake of buying a fake! The Sfatto ‘cuddle and snuggle’ sofa by Francesco Binfaré for Edra is very
Although it’s called a rug, the Zoom Rug by Nanimarquina
wintery, and the new woollen rugs
looks more like a snuggle pod for the floor. The long-
by Patricia Urquiola and heavy luxury
haired rug is irregular in shape and is complemented
throws from Minotti will definitely
by a cushion of the same colour. In addition to being an
warm up any room.
attractive ornament, the cushion invites you to sit, lie down
+27 (0)21 424 8682, limeline.co.za
or do whatever you feel most comfy doing on the warm surface, making it ideal for winter relaxation. Available from Créma Design’s showroom in Green Point, Cape Town. Order from the Cape Town shop – they deliver nationwide. +27 (0)21 434 0661, cremadesign.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 39
calore_propmag_ad_FA.pdf
1
2012/03/30
1:35 PM
AN ECO-FRIENDLY SYSTEM THAT CAN HEAT YOUR ENTIRE HOME
By choosing pellet stoves you can reduce electricity Pellet stoves are
consumption by up to 53%.
extremely efficient, fully automated heating systems.
They use wood pellets, C
M
Y
which are manufactured
Pellets burn very cleanly
from compressed sawdust
and create only a layer of
and wood waste, as fuel.
fine fly-ash as a by-product
The pellets have a low
of combustion.
CM
carbon footprint, as
MY
they are made in South
CY
Africa and are now available at Calore
CMY
retail stores.
K
Most stove models can efficiently circulate the warmth to nearby rooms via air ducts.
Multifire has the unique capacity to distribute heat evenly from floor to ceiling. The system draws hot air from the ceiling
LIVE WARM. LIVE GREEN.
level and distributes it via a fan on the floor level.
Exclusive agents of:
Cape Town: Tel +27 21 425 4192 Johannesburg: Tel +27 11 796 5098
www.calore.co.za
PROMOTION
TALKING TO THE EXPERTS Morné Vermeulen, Store Manager at Calore Fireplaces & Stoves, discusses the best heating product for keeping your home welcoming and warm this winter
What’s your ultimate heating solution for home or business? Calore Fireplaces & Stoves offers the ultimate heating solution for your home, in the form of either a closed combustion wood-burning fireplace or a pellet stove which can, thanks to the Multifire System, distribute heat evenly through the room as well as to multiple rooms up to 16m away, via ducting. How long does it take the product to get a room nice and toasty? Our units are extremely efficient. Our closed combustion systems will heat the room to a comfortable 22º within 25 minutes. How easy are the units to install, and do you offer a turnkey service? Our units are installed by trained subcontractors supported by our in-house trained technical consultants. What are the other benefits of your fireplaces and pellet stoves? Our fireplaces operate at a minimum efficiency of 75%, which equates to 3–4kg/hr for our wood burners and 1,5–2,4kg/hr for our pellet burners. The pellet burners are eco-friendly, fully automated units that allow you to preselect your desired room temperature. How would you spend an ideal winter’s day? After a delicious Sunday lunch with my family, I would cuddle up with my kids in front of a warm fire and read to them the most memorable stories.
+27 (0)11 796 5098, calore.co.za
TRAVEL
The People’s Republic of
Paradise Quilálea, an intimate and extremely beautiful desert island a short hop from Pemba, Mozambique, with accommodation recently refurbished, has become a republic … of paradise
Words Tony Vaughan Photographs courtesy of The Roving Ambassador
thepropertymag.co.za | 43
TRAVEL
Opening page Bird’s-eye view of Quilàlea – a practically unrivalled private-island experience. This page, above The Villa Quilálea infinity plunge pool at sunset, where you can unwind and feel at one with your tropical surroundings.
F
or me it’s all about big birds and little birds: both of them bring out an erotic and romantic emotion in me as I enter them – I feel happy, alive, excited and free. So by the time I stepped off the little bird that flew me from Pemba to an island a short boat trip from Quilálea Island, I would have been happy spending a couple of days carrying coconuts around (and believe me, there’s a lot of them) than relaxing on a beautiful island. A chance to spend a few days on a desert island isn’t to be sniffed at, certainly when compared to a few days at the office, and I guess I’ve been extraordinarily spoilt over the years. This island, she wasn’t my first, and she certainly won’t be my last! Islands off places such as Brazil, Australia, Maldives, Seychelles, Malta, Malaysia, Greece, Mauritius, Thailand, Spain, Mexico and Borneo have made the list, and so it’s fair to say that I’m a pretty good judge of island experiences. ‘First impressions count.’ It’s drummed into us from school, through personal relationships and
44 | April/May 2012
certainly in business. And when it comes to hotels, islands and restaurants, they’re often the deal-breaker. What is it they say, you don’t get a chance to make a second impression? Although with an island it’s kind of a little different, as short of swimming or paying a lot to turn around, you’re there, in the hands of whatever service and product they have to offer. Compared with a 90-minute Thai massage in Bangkok, the first impression Quilálea makes is as subtle as a 30-minute back massage in a five-star hotel: you know you’ve had something done to you, it felt good, and you want more. Stepping off the boat you are greeted by the manager, your personal butler and the dive instructor (and general island bird and plant person if he can’t get you under the water), smiles abound, and then everyone quickly disappears and you start your island holiday. The most important person in your life for the next few days is your butler, not because anything is difficult or because you are left wanting, but merely because, for him, you are the most important person
in his life for the next few days. And therein lies the difference between Quilálea and most other islands: it is personal. It is very personal! Never invasive, never pushy, always there but never there – qualities with which a person is born, recognised by Quilálea as important, and selected and fine-tuned by the island’s management team. The butler subtly forms a partnership with you, quickly tunes in to your needs and desires and smoothly makes each component of your visit a pleasure. Coming a very, very close second as the most important person in your life for the next few days is the chef. Don’t get me started on island food elsewhere: often slop, often boring or too elaborate and often a lot of other things that makes a burger back home appealing. The chef at Quilálea, however, is right on the money – young, enthusiastic and with the right amount of humility, he prepares fresh, exciting food. Exciting in that it does a lot for the eye and even more for the palate. It’s home cooking, professionally done, with the right balance of flavours, the right size of
TRAVEL
Clockwise from top Furniture built from traditional materials and local arts and crafts add to that away-from-it-all feeling in the breezy bedroom of Sunset Villa; the Quilálea team – always there to make your stay a magical one; the sunken lounge area in the bar.
culinary challenge and, importantly, the right portion size, allowing you to get to his mouth-watering desserts without feeling as if you need a round-theisland swim to work off the calories. Of course, if you feel you do need a round-theisland swim – a fraction far, although you can walk it in 45 minutes or so – there’s the island whistler for you. No, not a rare species of the feathered variety, but
rather the young Afrikaans dive instructor, whistling away as he adds yet another personal dimension to the island vibe. Whether in the water, below it, on various boats or on land, his switch is always in the ‘on’ position – again, he’s not in your face, but there for you when you feel the need to shake it up a gear or two. And having dived all around the world and seen some
amazing things under water, I can easily say that he’s by far the most excitable person under water ever, making every dive memorable. Throw in a spa with an amazing view, lunches and dinners set for you in some beautiful, romantic locations and large bedrooms with tasteful island decor and you have close to the perfect romantic island escape.
With thanks to … Tony’s trip to Quilálea Island (special RSA Resident Rates apply) was arranged by The Roving Ambassador and Tourism Corporation Africa. The Roving Ambassador operates like a private bank, indulging a select clientele with magical journeys to Africa’s most exclusive destinations, from the Cape to Gauteng and Kruger National Park to Mozambique’s islands of Benguerra and Quilálea and onwards to mystical Marrakech and its palatial Ksar Char-Bagh. Quilálea Private Island – managed by Azura Island Retreats, which also manages the deluxe Azura at Gabriel’s on Benguerra Island in southern Mozambique – has been named in Tatler’s Top 101 Hotel’s in the World Awards 2012. (Also part of The Roving Ambassador’s portfolio, Royal Malewane Private Game Reserve was nominated by private clients and awarded the title of Third- Best Hotel in the World in Travel & Leisure (USA) in 2011.) Tourism Corporation Africa’s preferred airline partners are Airlink and British Airways (International). The Roving Ambassador is renowned businessman Andrew Shapland, who is based in Cape Town, London and New York. Tourism Corporation Africa, +27 (0)21 426 0991, (fax) +27 (0)21 422 0337, shanaaz@tourismcorp.co.za, tourismcorp.co.za; Azura Island Retreats, azura-retreats.com
thepropertymag.co.za | 45
LIVING IN …
Pretty as a
PARK
For leafy suburbs, trendy vibes and quaint homes nestled in the big city, you can’t do better than the Parks Words Tammy Sutherns
Photographs Tammy Sutherns and Supplied
‘T
he Parks’ in Johannesburg refers to a broad area. The neighbourhoods of Parkhurst, Parkview, Parktown North and Parkwood are all nestled between the hubs of Rosebank, Sandton and the Johannesburg CBD. Incorporating some of the oldest neighbourhoods in Johannesburg, they are linked by beautiful tree-lined streets. In the 1890s Parktown North was a residential area for the poor. In the last century, however, the
colonial-style of the homes and the village atmosphere has become sought after in the property market. Parkhurst was once home to the lower middle class. Homes there were built in a grid, and all with maudlin sameness. The majority of those houses have since been knocked down and replaced with grand homes. Parkhurst has become a chic hub of quirky restaurants, trendy shops and homely sidewalk cafés, with Fourth Avenue being a particularly vibey street.
Parkview is over 100 years old and village-like in its atmosphere, with some of the older homes still making up the neighbourhood. One of the older suburbs of Johannesburg, Parkwood also oozes history and charm.
With thanks to … Kings Estate, +27 (0)11 447 4420, kingsestate.co.za
BEAUTY AND PLEASURE Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Parks attract tourists, visitors and investors. Close to Johannesburg Art Gallery, Johannesburg Zoo and Nelson Mandela Bridge, things to do are not hard to come by in the Parks. For those interested in heritage, the Apartheid Museum, Absa Money Museum and Newtown Cultural Precinct are all a short drive away. Only 35 minutes from OR Tambo International Airport, the Parks also host a variety of guest houses and B & Bs. We love Bridge House in Parkhurst – it’s a little pocket of country in the city. Given the range of boutique stores dotted about the Parks, retail therapy is readily available.
46 | April/May 2012
Your home deserves Kings
S a x o n wo l d – R 9 8 0 0 0 0 0
Parktown North – R6 500 000
(incl. VAT)
Dunkeld – R9 200 000
Pa r k h u r s t – R 5 9 5 0 0 0 0
29, 7th Avenue Parktown North, Johannesburg, 2193 Tel 011 447 4420 www.kingsestates.co.za
Living In …
Putting down roots Gregor Farmer from Kings Estate gives us his insight into the Parks’ suburbs.
Q What makes the Parks so appealing? The Parks truly are an eclectic mix of suburbs and people, and this is a major factor in their appeal. Furthermore, they are suburbs that are steeped in history, and because they are well established, their infrastructure – including some of the country’s top schools and universities – appeals. The Parks are also dotted with some of the city’s most wonderful parks, attracting families and pet lovers alike. An area such as Parkhurst is enormously attractive to many people because of the café society lifestyle, which has become a trademark of the suburb.
Q Is living or working in the Parks a good investment?
It certainly has proven to be a wise investment for many buyers over the past years. The Parks’ properties have held their value because of their enormous appeal.
Q Describe a typical Parks property?
There isn’t one. The various areas do have similar homes, but due to many renovations over the years, the architecture and styling of the various suburbs have undergone tremendous change. ‘Typical’ could be used to describe the Parks areas, simply because of the verdant surroundings of the suburbs.
Q What types of homes are available and what can potential owners expect in terms of size and price range? Homes range in sizes and values, from smaller properties in Parkhurst to the larger properties and price ranges of Saxonwold and Westcliff.
Q How do home prices compare with those in other suburbs? Homes in the Parks are undoubtedly more expensive than in outlying areas, due to their appeal as well as their centrality.
Q Are the Parks only for the elite or can the up-and-coming professional still afford to buy in the area? This would depend solely on budget, as many of the areas carry large price tags. However, areas such as Parkhurst have proven to be popular with up-andcoming professionals. But many of the areas don’t have too many high-volume complexes that allow for up-andcoming professionals to start on the property ladder.
Q Are there areas within the Parks that are more popular than others?
That depends on various factors: areas from Parktown North to Westcliff are popular with families as the properties tend to be larger and are within good distances from the top schools. An area such as Parkhurst enjoys a mix of buyers, from single people and young couples to retired couples who have decided to downsize but still want to enjoy the attractive qualities of the Parks that they have come to know.
This spread, top left to right Zoo Lake is a popular spot among residents of the Parks, as it is scenic and offers them green recreational space. Middle, left to right This Charles Marinier-designed home, one of the pricier properties in Parktown, was sold by Kings Estate; the leafy streets of Parkhurst; St Columba’s Presbyterian Church in Parkview is one of many beautiful old churches in the area.
Parking off The green and leafy suburbs are home to many residents. There is a wide variety of schools available in the area, including Greenside High, Japari, Jan Celliers Primary and Pre-Primary, Parkview Junior and Senior, Rosebank Primary, Parkhurst Primary, Parkview Senior Primary, Saint Martin’s Junior Primary and St Teresa’s School. Shopping spots such as the Mall of Rosebank and Hyde Park Corner are close by and the Joburg city centre is less than 20 minutes away. Fourth Avenue in Parkhurst offers foodies a wide choice of trendy restaurants and coffee shops, such as George’s on 4th, Possum’s and Espresso. Parkview’s village houses art galleries and restaurants, including Gingko and Scusi. On Sundays, Parkwood residents can enjoy the Rosebank Rooftop Market, just a short drive away, while Parktown North is home to Moema’s, our fave place for yummy lunches and sweet delights. The Parks are also close to Emmarentia Dam and its rose garden – ideal for Sunday picnics or for feeding the ducks – and Zoo Lake. For sports fans, Ellis Park Stadium is a short drive away, while Parkview Golf Club attracts golfers from all over the Parks. There is also a huge range of spas and beauty clinics in the area, particularly in Parkhurst and Parktown North.
48 | April/May 2012
…two lovely entertainment areas…
Finding your perfect match is easy with private property Every property. Every area. From esate agents to private sellers. Everything’s on show.
PROPERTY DINNER
On-trend at
Trents Words Jackie Gray Photographs Michael Glenister
St Andrews Signature Hotel & Spa was the backdrop for a Property Dinner co-hosted by The Property Magazine and Private Property
L
ocated in the foothills of the Gillooly’s Mountains and overlooking Gillooly’s Lake, St Andrews Signature Hotel & Spa in Bedfordview personifies five-star luxury. The grounds are immaculate, the service more so. Within, marble floors, chandeliers, rich wallpaper and plush furniture create an elegant ambience. Having snacked on tasty canapés under an autumnal moon, guests congregated at Trents, St Andrews’ signature restaurant, where Executive Chef Rico Carlinsky introduced his mouth-watering menu for the evening. Media Nova MD Tony Vaughan welcomed everyone and introduced his fellow maverick, Justin Clarke of Private Property, who had recently stepped back into the role of CEO. Justin said he has every intention of making Private Property ‘fun’, again. If the company’s new Google-like premises in Ridgeside, Umhlanga, are anything to go by, then we can certainly expect some exciting changes, soon. Some interesting changes appear to be occurring on the property front. Glenn Norton of Re/Max
Masters and Neville Brits of Re/Max Dazzle, who service the northwest suburbs and Kempton Park, respectively, said they are fielding more requests and that more deals are happening. Glenn added that the increasing cost of living and the prospect of the government’s e-tolling system are driving people to buy property closer to their places of work. Over starters, Jo Ann Gray of Firzt Realty and Chris Jacobs of Johan Jacobs & Malcolm Moodie Attorneys voiced similar sentiments. Jo Ann said properties priced under R2 million are moving fast and that Firzt Realty is thriving, thanks in part to its association with Private Property. But she pointed out that big-ticket sales have decreased somewhat. As for Chris, it was as if the recession had never happened: ‘Business is better than ever before and we are positive about the market going forward.’ Glasses of wine in hand, Aubrie Etchells and Harry Meyburgh of Etchells & Young Property Brokers, which specialises predominantly in rentals, discussed how pleased they are with their partnership with Private Property: ‘We’ve advertised with Private
Property for five years now and can safely say that our business wouldn’t be where it is without them.’ From a property financing perspective, both Magnus Leibrandt of Norton Lambrianos Attorneys and Peter Voss of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty SA said they reckon the banks are becoming more flexible and that property still represents a sound medium- to long-term investment. Investors are certainly eyeing investment opportunities on the East Rand, said Christelle Rentsch of Fine & Country Kempton Park. She said developers are buying up land in the area, which she calls the ‘gateway zone to South Africa’, in anticipation of an imminent upswing. Over a decadent chocolate assiette, Christelle’s ‘commander in chief ’, Linda Erasmus, remarked that the only way for the property market is up, and that conditions overall appear to be improving. The evening ended on a high note.The change of the seasons could be felt in the autumnal air outside Trents as guests departed, and winds of change for the better certainly seemed to be in the property industry’s future too.
Guest list Rose Alcaraz Richard van Schalkwyk Attorneys, Tracy Benatar Private Property, Cindy and Neville Brits Re/Max Dazzle, Justin Clarke Private Property, Mark Coetzee Private Property, Linda Erasmus Fine & Country South Africa, Aubrie Etchells Etchells & Young Property Brokers, Jackie Gray The Property Magazine, Jo Ann Gray Firzt Realty, Natasha Grobbelaar Private Property, Clive Hodge Home Show, Chris Jacobs Johan Jacobs & Malcolm Moodie Attorneys, Debbie Justus Adrienne Hersch Properties, Magnus Leibrandt Norton Lambrianos Attorneys, Craig McDonald Yammin Hammond Inc., Harry Meyburgh Etchells & Young Property Brokers, Glen Norton Re/Max Masters, Christelle Rentsch Fine & Country Kempton Park, Marinda Schmidt SmartSell Kempton Park, Shanee Smart Media Nova, Tony Vaughan Media Nova, Lanie and Peter Vos Sotheby’s Johannesburg South.
thepropertymag.co.za | 51
property dinner
MENU Starter
1
Smoked salmon and cream cheese with coriander foam.
2
Roasted tomato stuffed with Danish feta and olives served with basil pesto and roasted pine nuts. Cucumber and spearmint granita. Main Beef fillet with boudin blanc, saffron and smoked red pepper risotto. Duo of grilled kingklip and mussel pie served with roasted Roma tomatoes, beetroot purée and prawn bisque. Grilled aubergine tian with avocado and smoked pepper risotto. Dessert Brie, macadamia nut and honey parcel. Chocolate assiette of chocolate mousse, rum and chocolate cupcake and white chocolate parfait. Wine
6
Excelsior Viognier 2010/11 Stellenrust JJ Handmade Merlot 2006/7
7
Felicite Chardonnay 2009 Rickety Bridge Dessert Natural Sweet 2010 Trents Restaurant St Andrews Signature Hotel & Spa, 22 Milner Avenue, St Andrews, Bedfordview, Johannesburg, 2007. +27 (0)11 453 4242, st-andrewshotel.co.za
Christelle Rentsch 2Jackie Gray 3Harry
1
Meyburgh 4Cindy and Neville Brits 5Debbie Justus 6Tony Vaughan 7Aubrie Etchells Natasha Grobbelaar, Justin Clarke, Marinda
8
Schmidt 9Chris Jacobs 10Glen Norton 11Marinda Schmidt 12Linda Erasmus 13Mark Coetzee Clive Hodge, Rose Alcaraz 15Peter and Lanie
14
Vos 16Magnus Leibrandt 17Craig McDonald Tracy Benatar
18
52 | March 2012
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12
property dinner
3
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5
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18 thepropertymag.co.za | 53
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R O IT ED um T Joc ES la U o G P
Real estate
residential & commercial
Staying the course has its
rewards With 32 years’ experience in real estate, multiple-award-winning agent Pola Jocum questions whether much has changed in the industry due to continued economic uncertainty
Main image 123RF.com Portrait photograph Supplied
I
have been in the real estate industry for over three decades, and together with my daughter and business partner, Nadine Jocum, I have built up a reputation that is based on trust, experience, expertise and resilience. Today, faced with reports of a tough property market, I can’t help but think just how short our memories are. I’ve witnessed the booms and busts, and while the latter have been some of the most challenging years, staying the course has its rewards. There can be no doubt that technology, from the Web to mobile technology, has dramatically impacted our industry and significantly influenced consumer behaviour, and although our business continues to evolve, my philosophy remains that while I cannot change the market, I can control the marketing. Agents have to adapt to the prevailing conditions, and be innovative. When the rest of the market was quiet, we sold R50-million in real estate in August, a historically quiet month, and gave out references that resulted in record sales of R40 million in Fresnaye, R10 million in Sunset Beach and a joint sale of R24,5 million in Llandudno.
Matching a buyer to the right property at the right price and on the right terms has always been a challenge. Previously, buyers could only get a bond if there was an existing bond on the property or if they could find an investor to secure the loan. Since the introduction of the National Credit Act in 2007, lending criteria have tightened up considerably. The expectations of the sellers have always exceeded what buyers are prepared to pay. If there is good value, the property will sell. If not, it will stay on the market and may undersell in the end. Let me illustrate: a modest house on an excellently located plot in Camps Bay sold in 1994 for R550 000. Although initially unrealistically priced at R7,25 million, it sold for R6 million in 2009. This could be seen as a price drop of 20%. In reality, it was a fair price and not related to a depressed market. While the market may move sideways during an economic downturn, my approach is that a deal is never dead. I have on many occasions brought the buyer and seller back to the negotiating table.
Property is one of the best-performing asset classes. In 1979, the average price for a house in Camps Bay was just R33 000. By 1997, I had broken through the R4 million barrier with a record R4,75 million sale, and sold the same property again in 2007 for R14 million. This year has started off on a positive note, with increased buyer activity, but sellers are cautioned that they need to work with a skilled agent and heed their advice as to the correct market price. While market conditions undoubtedly favour buyers, those who are still unrealistically waiting to buy at the lowest price may well miss the boat.
Pola Jocum, Agent, Seeff Atlantic Seaboard, Cape Town
thepropertymag.co.za | 55
Residential Real Estate
Your Move Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty Executive Director Sandy Geffen on the finer points of securing your home before going on holiday … When we plan to leave our homes in order to take a well-deserved holiday, we need to turn our attention to security, for our peace of mind and so that we may return to peace. Many homes already have top-notch systems, but there are many smaller considerations that make such a difference to securing our homes in a different way. Firstly, our animals. Are they remaining at home and being cared for by a responsible person? Should we enrol a sitter, or someone who will visit every 24–48 hours, to make sure that our staff is adequately looking after all our animals? Secondly, call in your security company and fill in a holiday information form about occupation on the premises, access and keys, full details of caretakers (it’s better to have two caretakers), motor vehicles on the premises and general operation in your absence. Lighting is extremely important. Install a timer and set it to switch on the lights just before dark and at different intervals during the night, to give potential intruders the impression that your home is occupied. With regard to alarms, you should call in all technicians, prior to leaving, to supervise the efficiency of or repairs to passives, sensors,
Above and this image: Dainfern Golf and Country Estate
remotes, electric fencing and alarms. Staff and security guards need cellphones and torches as well as self-charging lighting that switches on automatically in case Telkom or Eskom go down. Contact the people in charge of your newspaper
Estates offer good value
deliveries, mail, garbage collections, food
The real estate market, in terms of gated complexes and upmarket golf and lifestyle estates, is
deliveries and so on. They should be made aware
flourishing, because these types of developments offer affordability and high security, and the
of your departure and return dates and should not
properties are low maintenance. Lew Geffen, chairman of Sotheby’s International Realty South
deliver anything whilst you are away.
Africa, says people are buying into these estates because prices are generally still below 2008
Your swimming pool requires attention in your
levels and are often well below the prices of comparable properties in the older, blue-chip suburbs.
absence. Make sure it’s maintained by your staff,
‘In the iconic Dainfern Estate north of Johannesburg, for example,’ says Lew, ‘there is a wide
add a floater and make sure to order chemicals
choice of homes available now for less than R5 million and almost 120 properties have been sold in
in advance. And, in stormy SA, your garden also
the past year, compared with about 100 in the previous 12 months.’ He says that three years ago it
needs tender care while you are away.
was quite difficult to find a home for under R3 million at Silver Lakes Estate near Pretoria, but now
Make sure your staff members are taken care of.
several luxury properties have been sold there for roughly R2,5 million. ‘Even better news is that
Stock up the freezer and supply petty cash for
many of the larger estates now incorporate upmarket apartment and townhouse developments
extras (unless you have groceries delivered).
that facilitate entry for younger buyers who will become the upgraders of the future. They also
Instruct your staff on running the property in
accommodate older buyers seeking to downsize to homes on estates that offer them additional
your absence, including the access control (this is
security and less maintenance.’
extremely important), and give them the phone
+27 (0)11 886 8070, sothebysrealty.co.za
plumbers and electricians. many aspects of home security by remote, even
Tax break
from your smartphone. A home technology
The South African Revenue Service has extended the amnesty period for those who still
security upgrade is far easier and less expensive
want to transfer their secondary properties from companies or close corporations into their
today than it ever was.
own names without paying capital gains tax or transfer duty. Lanice Steward, managing
I say ‘penny wise, pound foolish’ and ‘a stitch in
director of Cape-based estate agency, Anne Porter Properties (in association with Knight
time saves nine’. Assessing and repairing a small
Frank), says, ‘This is an opportunity no one who owns more than one residential property
hole before going on holiday is preferable to
should miss out on, for the simple reason that if the property is registered in the owner’s
returning to a gaping nightmare of a crater.
name, the first R1,5 million in capital gains will be exempt from tax. As the vast majority of
Technology now makes it possible to manage
properties sold in South Africa have not increased in value by more than R2 million, the tax Till next time, Sandy
56 | March 2012
saving for the owners will be substantial.’ +27 (0)21 671 9120, anneporter.co.za
Words Candace King
numbers of all your service technicians, such as
COMMERCIAL Real Estate
A welcome addition to one of the country’s most bustling real estate markets – Pola Jocum, Agent, Seeff Atlantic Seaboard
Deep in Soweto
Construction on the Diepkloof Square community shopping centre is under way and the centre, located in Diepkloof Extension 3, one of Soweto’s most affluent areas, is set to offer convenient shopping for the surrounding community when it opens in October 2012. With a 3 112m2 Pick n Pay anchor store, the 16 108m2 shopping centre will include about 40 shops and will offer generous parking space and easy access to the adjacent taxi rank. The shopping centre will be close to the N1 too. Companies taking up space in Diepkloof Square include Ellerines, Beares, OK Furniture, Geen & Richards, McDonalds, Steers, Debonairs, Old Mutual, Nedbank, KFC and Cashbuild. McCormick Property Development has teamed up with black- owned, black-managed investment holding company, Shanduka Group, for the development of Diepkloof Square. ‘Diepkloof Square will be the ideal convenient retail destination for residents of the area. It will complement the surrounding community facilities, which are already well established and supported,’ says Gavin Tagg of Retail Network Services. +27 (0)11 807 6995, rns.co.za
‘Books are the treasure chest of the soul’ Following its R68-million facelift, the Johannesburg City Library has finally reopened its doors to the public. The refurbishments, undertaken by Fikile Construction, included repairs and extensions to the original structure. With the words ‘Libri Thesaurus Animi’ emblazoned on the front of the building, the library has been described as Italian in architectural style, with modern tendencies in detail. The building features stained-glass windows, marble walls and escalators. The Carnegie Corporation of New York donated $4 million (about R30 million) to the project as part of its Revitalising of African Libraries programme. The library originally opened in 1935. +27 (0)11 407 7354, joburg.org.za
Norwood Mall gets some love Johannesburg’s Norwood Mall is set to add another major tenant to its mix, in the form of a 1 800m2 Food Lover’s Market, which will join the existing anchor tenants, Woolworths, Dis-Chem and Pick n Pay. Construction commenced in February and the store is scheduled to open in August this year. The changes have necessitated a reconfiguration of the mall, to provide good flows between existing sections and the new extension. Property investment company, Cavaleros Group, owns Norwood Mall and has hired Retail Network Services (RNS) to assist with the retail dynamics of the extension. RNS’ research shows that 80% of the mall’s customers visit it mainly for groceries. Fashion and restaurants are the secondary drawcards, and the reconfiguration of the mall reflects this. Graeme Liebenberg, group property and business development manager at Food Lover’s Market, says, ‘This extension is the ideal opportunity to be nearer to our many shoppers in the area and is in line with the strengthening of our brand equity in the Northern Suburbs of Johannesburg.’ +27 (0)11 807 6995, rns.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 57
CONSTANTIA This 4-bedroom French Provencal home with panoramic views of mountains & vineyards, meet with every requirement of 5 star family living.
H A M I LT O N ’ S P R O P E R T Y
P O R T F O L I O
BRYANSTON
late R30 m’s
As featured on Top Billing - Set on almost 3 acres of rolling lawns and indigenous mature gardens, this exquisite homestead in top address offers spacious, quality accommodation and easterly views. From the guarded entrance which meanders to the welcoming hallway, gracious double furnished receptions spill to the entertainer’s covered patio, overlooking manicured gardens, luxurious pool house and outdoor pool. Gourmet caterer’s and social kitchen - library, formal and informal lounges, bespoke wine cellar, indoor swimmer’s pool, gym, gentleman’s study, fully contained guest cottage plus 5 indulgent bedroom suites - main a talking piece! Additional features too numerous to mention - one of South Africa’s finest! To view call Regan: 082 320 6464 or Pauline Cribb: 082 573 6322.
Web ref: 9262
WATERFALL EQUESTRIAN ESTATE
asking R23 m
Set within this award Estate, with boutique hotel and Equestrian facilities, this French-chic abode (1325m2 u/r) offers unparalleled accommodation and quality throughout. From the impressive entrance with sweeping marble staircase, 4 overly generous receptions open to the entertainer’s covered patio with exposed trusses and overlooking manicured grounds (8500m2) with exquisite views to the Magaliesberg. Authentic cellar and cinema, gourmet chef’s kitchen with top appliances. 6 Stupendous bedroom suites, pyjama lounge and 7 stunning bathrooms. Garaging for 8 cars and ample domestic suites. Perfect in presentation...
To view call Resident Agent Vivienne Holmes: 083 455 4701.
Web ref: 2703335
RIVERCLUB
late R10 m’s BRYANSTON
R2.55 m FOURWAYS / Witkoppen asking R1.75 m
Web ref: 591000
Web ref: 664718
Web ref: 2956170
With unobstructive Northern views over the Riverclub Golf Course, this exquisite neo-Georgian cluster is designed for entertaining on the grandest of scales. Boasting an exceptional volume entrance, spacious receptions, plus theatre / media room, open to the covered patio with stunning evening sunsets and panoramic views. Pool pavilion with spa and lounger area. Award “Clive Christian”- styled kitchen is worthy of an award in itself. 5 Double bedroom suites, pyjama lounge and study. Lux staff and garaging for 3. Spectacular! To view call Sole Agent Regan: 082 320 6464 or Berni Crew: 083 679 0588.
Stunning single storey cluster in secure estate. This immaculate home offers 3 spacious receptions leading to covered patio with built-in braai and private garden. Modern open plan kitchen. 3 Bedrooms (mes), 2 full bathrooms. Staff suite, double auto garage. Quality finishes, excellent security. A must to view!
Ultra secure, light and beautifully modernised 3 bed, 2.5bathroom cluster home has it all! New oak & granite kitchen, tv room, lounge and dining leading out to covered patio with built in BBQ, mes with dressing area, laminate flooring throughout, double garage, pool, immaculate tropical garden & lux domestic suite/guest suite.
To view call Sole Agent. Erica: 082 871 7669.
To view call Sole Agent Gaynor: 083 258 1778.
W W W . H A M I L T O N S . C O . Z A
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2012/03/29 8:02 PM
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FRESNAYE
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R8 000 000
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Beyond the ordinary. Beyond beautiful. Beyond your expectations.
HYDE PARK An exclusive piece of art for the discerning buyer, situated in Johannesburg’s most prestigious 4th Road. Outstanding accommodation includes 5 double bedrooms all en-suite, a gym / home theatre and study. Excellent staff accommodation. Garaging for 4 cars, heated pool and landscaped garden. For exclusive private viewing please call Stephen Brick 082 551 7971 or Nina Obel 082 552 7325. web ref: 106013
OAKLANDS Elegant masterpiece. A triple volume home with 3 magnificent en-suite bedrooms. Spectacular kitchen for the connoisseur. Open plan study and pyjama lounge. Wonderful and spacious receptions lead to a large covered patio, landscaped garden and pool. This home is just what you want! For exclusive private viewing please call Carynne 082 902 4023.
web ref: 106089
VERED estates
011 341 1300
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info@vered.co.za
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www.vered.co.za
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ESKOM RATES ARE GOING UP ANOTHER 16%! Now you can rather pay up to 60% LESS by installing a solar geyser or heat pump from Totally Solar and have Eskom pay for some of it via their rebate. It pays for itself in less than three years and thereafter provides hot water for FREE. It works in all weather conditions and can be fitted out of sight. Phone for an on-site assessment to evaluate the best solution for you at a price that suits your budget. Eskom, SESSA and SABS approved with a 5-year warranty and expected lifespan in excess of 25 years.
Roger 083 651 0464 or tota l l y s o la r w c @ t i s c a li.co.za V i s i t o u r w e b s i t e w w w. t o t a l l y s o l a r. c o . z a
TREND WATCH
From its rich, delicious taste to the art of making a cuppa, cocoa inspires our choices this winter FANCY FROTHER Gone are the days of only enjoying a frothy beverage at a café. Thanks to the Bodum Mousse Milk Frother, making perfectly frothed milk is as easy as pressing a button. The spiral blender is adjustable to froth any amount of milk and the borosilicate glass beaker is safe for use in the microwave and for making hot foam. Available from Chefs Warehouse. Nationwide delivery. +27 (0)21 422 0128, chefswarehouseonline.co.za
OLD FAVOURITE We all have our favourite hot chocolate brand, but if you haven’t yet tried Nomu’s Drinking Chocolate, do yourself a favour and give it a go. Its rich, decadent taste is moreish and its versatility makes it great for hot or cold chocolate drinks. Best of all, it contains no
SMART GLASS
artificial colouring or flavouring. Find it at selected retail stores nationwide or at Nomu’s
The Pavina glasses from Bodum will not only
online store.
make an attractive addition to your kitchen
+27 (0)21 386 2000, nomushop.co.za
shelf, but are also intelligent in their design. Their double walls offer insulation, keeping hot drinks warm for longer, especially when pre- heating the glass before pouring. Each glass is handmade, which may lead to slight variations in height or thickness. While the glasses are great for winter, they are also usable for cold drinks, making them a fantastic year-round investment. The glasses are dishwasher and microwave safe. Available online from Banks. Nationwide delivery. +27 (0)21 4613190, banks-shop.co.za
CRAFTY CUT-OUTS These cute and quirky Kitchen Craft Le’Xpress stencils, available from Banks, are a fun way to decorate your drink. Packaged in a set of eight different colourful shapes, they let you get creative with your favourite drink sprinkles. Order online or visit Banks’ stores at the Cape Quarter or in Sea Point, Cape Town. Nationwide delivery. +27 (0)21 4613190, banks-shop.co.za
HOLDING A TUNE The new Whistling Teakettle from Le Creuset is perfect for making a cup of cocoa. Holding 1,6l, this enamelledsteel stove-top kettle comes with a fixed whistle, has easy-to-use locking handles and phenolic knobs and is
your kettle online or visit your local Le Creuset store in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban. 0861 773 321, lecreuset.co.za
64 | April/May 2012
Words Catherine Riley
suitable for all heat sources, including ceramic, gas, and induction hobs. Order
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