Property JUNE/JULY 2011
Winner of 10 publishing awards
Est. 2004, Issue 222
KWAZULU-NATAL
decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate
OUR TRENDS ISS WE TAK UE:
TRENDWATCH KIT OUT YOUR HOME OFFICE
E YOU ON A TOUR O DIFFEREN F THE T ZO OF OUR NES IDEAL HOM E
THE NEIGHBOURHOOD
Maximise your retirement lifestyle
RE/MAX’s Peter Gilmour on why the South African property market is looking up for homebuyers and property investors
9 771811 700007
ROB ROY RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE VILLAGE
11 0 0 6
HIGH-TECH DINNER AT PLUM
RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Rob Roy Retirement Lifestyle Village, +27 (0)31 777 6218, robroylifestylevillages.co.za
HILLCREST AND BEYOND
13
31
Contents DECOR
LUXURY
8
13
HOT SPACE Get away to the Charles Smythe Cottage on Gowrie Farm Estate.
24
SWATCH OUT Experts in fabrics, paints and furniture tell you
10
HOT PLATE Italian heritage at Stretta Cucina in Hillcrest, and we talk to Florent Hameau, head chef at Cassia Restaurant at Nitída Wine Farm, about what’s cooking this winter.
.
11
44
ON THE COVER Rob Roy Lifestyle Retirement Village. Turn to page 28 for more details.
45
Out and about with KZN’s movers and shakers.
DESIGN 56
HOME WORK Trendy yet functional home office furniture.
REAL ESTATE 49
WHY THINGS ARE LOOKING UP Peter Gilmour, chairman of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, on why you should feel
Shiny trinkets, fashion, tequila and a spicy read
confident about buying real estate in SA.
HILLCREST AND BEYOND
50
RESIDENTIAL The North Coast’s best-kept secret, and the
The village is booming, but pockets of
City’s plans for a bold refurbishment of Bulwer
countryside can still be found … If you know
Park in Glenwood.
where to look.
31
SOCIETY
HOT SHOP to keep you warm when the mercury drops.
19
Ordinary and extraordinary come together to create both living space and playground.
how you can add some colour to your life.
TRENDS
DOWNTIME
IN THE ZONE
51
COMMERCIAL Dube TradePort’s hot potential, Africa’s own
We take you on a tour of the different zones in
World Trade Centre, and an innovative public
our ideal, on-trend home.
precinct management project in Durban’s CBD.
PRIVATE COLLECTIONS The Private Property team shows us the way
52
OFFSHORE Chalets on the Austrian Alps, Malawi’s mall
of the future during a Property Dinner at Plum
mania, and a revamped colonial gem on
Restaurant at Hotel on the Park.
Lamu Island.
June/July 2011 | 1
Australian born designer marc newson’s aesthetic vision and uncompromising originality have won him international acclaim. objects designed by Newson, as well as being perfectly engineered mechanisms, created with meticulous attention to detail, appear to provoke physical reactions, making you want to look, to touch. His talent is not restricted by materials, he knows how to develop any design with simple genius: from the Lockheed Lounge, the extraordinary aluminum chaise longue, an iconic piece in the history of design, to the spaceplane for EADS astrium or to the complete interiors for Qantas airway’s A380 ‘superjumbo’ Fleet. With Smeg, Newson experiments, for the First time, with the design of domestic appliances and demonstrates, once again, that his unmistakable creations are capable of speaking to everybody and that there is no object that his talent cannot shape. Smeg believe that objects of daily-use should not only Fill an environment; they should create an atmosphere. This is why technology and functionality are deeply connected to style and aesthetics. This sensitivity, which has inspired the collaboration with great architects and designers of our time, is the perfect expression of Made in Italy which combines art and industrial expertise in everyday objects. Soft lines, maximum functional intuitiveness, elegant surfaces in stainless steel or glass and colours: these are the distinctive elements of the new aesthetic line designed by Marc Newson. Because the house is a place to live, not to pass through.
3 YEAR WARRANTY SMEG:
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SHOWROOM:
Northgate Island Unit D2A, Section Street, Milnerton, Cape Town Tel (021) 510 0390
Property
thepropertymag.co.za
EDITORIAL Editor Sandy Welch Deputy Editor Nicky Manson nickym@medianova.co.za Gauteng Bureau Chief Jackie Gray KwaZulu-Natal Bureau Chief Anne Schauffer anne@medianova.co.za Senior Subeditor Yaron Blecher Subeditor Mariola Fouché Features Writers Genevieve Fisher, Andrea Firth (Western Cape) André Fiore (KwaZulu-Natal)
Western Cape Sales Tharien Nel, Michèle Jones, Justin Lyons KwaZulu-Natal Regional Sales Manager Jenni McCallum KwaZulu-Natal Sales Charles Roets
art Art Director Warren Uytenbogaardt warren@medianova.co.za Senior Designer Trudine Scannell Senior Retoucher Tim Lake
marketing Circulation Director Vanessa Marks Senior Events Manager Mariska Neethling
Gauteng Sales Anine Ehlers, Marc Lahoud, Mavashini Naidoo, Obed Sealetsa Mozambique Sales Phil Baker Namibia Sales Mynard Slabbert Traffic Controller Liesl Dodgen
CONTRIBUTORS Dave Mullany, Peter Gilmour, Lisa Witepski Photographers Val Adamson, Ruvan Boshoff, Angela Buckland, Sally Chance, Adriaan Louw, Graham Mitchell, Sam Norval, Grant Pitcher, Karl Rogers, Paul Shiakallis, Brenda Veldtman PRINTING Paarl Media ADVERTISING sales@medianova.co.za Group Sales Director Shanee Smart
PUBLISHED BY MEDIA NOVA (PTY) LTD Managing Director Tony Vaughan tony@medianova.co.za PA to Managing Director Cheréés O’Reilly cherees@medianova.co.za Associate Publisher (Namibia) Mynard Slabbert mynards@mweb.co.za Finance Manager Leanne Cox leanne@medianova.co.za Online Assistant Catherine Riley Technology Coordinator Jean-Paul Siljeur Receptionist Kashiefa Jacobs Driver Willem September, Joseph Khoza
SAPOA Property Journalism Awards 2011: Winner – Best Property Publication Nedbank Property Association Awards 2010: Winner – Mover & Shaker Award (Tony Vaughan) PICA Awards 2009: Winner – Special Award, Overall Publishing Excellence PICA Awards 2008: Winner – Consumer Magazines, Largely Free Distribution, and Highly Commended: Editorial Excellence, Public Interest Writer of the Year (Ed Suter) 20th SAB Environmentalist of the Year & Environmental Journalists of the Year Awards 2008: Winner – Merit Award, Print & Internet SAPOA Property Journalism Awards 2008: Winner – Best Property Publication, and Special Mention – Property Feature Journalist (Ed Suter) PICA Awards 2007: B2B – Publishing Excellence, Leisure Mondi Magazine Awards 2005: Winner – Foresight SAPPI PICA Awards 2005: Winner – Philip Tyler Trophy for Innovation in Magazine Publishing Brandhouse Media Owners Challenge Awards 2005:Winner – Innovation in Publishing SAPPI PICA Awards 2005: B2B – Highly Commended Mondi Magazine Awards 2004: Industry – Finalist Launch Edition: April 2004 WESTERN CAPE 3rd Floor, 33 Bree Street, Cape Town 8001 PO Box 50601, The Waterfront, Cape Town 8002; Phone 0861 765 833 Fax +27 (0)21 421 7891 GAUTENG 8th Floor, Fredman Towers, 13 Fredman Drive, Sandown, 2196 PO Box 785828, Sandton, 2146; Phone 0861 765 833 Fax +27 (0)11 884 2830 KWazulu-natal Ground Floor, 55 Gladys Mazibuko Road, Berea 4001 Postnet Suite 329, Private Bag X10, Musgrave 4062; Phone 0861 765 833 Fax +27 (0)31 208 5278 Namibia Phone +264 (0)61 248 161 Fax +264 (0)61 245 942 SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES Email subs@ramsaymedia.co.za Online magsathome.co.za Local Phone 0860 100 203 Fax 086 670 4101 International Phone +27 (0)21 530 3255 Fax +27 (0)21 531 7303 SMS 41871 with reference ‘Property Magazine’ (R2/sms) for subscription enquiries EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES General editorial@medianova.co.za Society Western Cape socials@thepropertymag.co.za Society Gauteng socials@thepropertymag.co.za Society KwaZulu-Natal socialskzn@medianova.co.za Hot Property hotproperty@medianova.co.za Published monthly in three regional issues: Western Cape, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Current ABC Audited Circulation (Q1 2011, January–March): Western Cape – 31 482, Gauteng – 32 275, KwaZulu-Natal – 19 906, Total Nationally – 83 663 Web Stats: over half a million hits (548 668); Property Club Members – 24 884 AMPS Audited National Readership (2011A): 287 815
Property
WESTERN CAPE
OUR TRENDS ISSUE:
WE TAKE A TOUR YOU ON DIFFERENOF THE T ZONES OF OUR IDEAL HOME
DESIGNED FOR LIVING A KZN BEACH COTTAGE
DESERT STAR!
NAMIBIA’S DREAM DEVELOPMENT
Hollywood meets shared ownership
Property
GAUTENG
Property
KWAZULU-NATAL
OUR TRENDS ISSUE:
BAGATELLE
MALL OF MAURITIUS:
Atterbury and ENL developing the island’s first regional shopping mall
OUR TRENDS ISSUE:
WE TAKE A TOUR YOU ON DIFFERENOF THE T ZONES OF OUR IDEAL HOME
TRENDWATCH KIT OUT YOUR HOME OFFICE
WE TAKE A TOUR YOU ON DIFFERENOF THE T ZONES OF OUR IDEAL HOME
THE NEIGHBOURHOOD HILLCREST AND BEYOND
HIGH-TECH DINNER AT PLUM
MODERN SANDTON PENTHOUSE – A NEW URBAN LIFESTYLE AMONG THE CLOUDS
TRENDWATCH KIT OUT YOUR HOME OFFICE
THE NEIGHBOURHOOD A PLACE CALLED SANDTON
REUBEN’S AT
THE NEIGHBOURHOOD THE KZN MIDLANDS
ROB ROY RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE VILLAGE
ONE&ONLY CAPE TOWN TRENDWATCH
Maximise your retirement lifestyle
KITTING OUT YOUR OFFICE RE/MAX’s Peter Gilmour on why the South African property market is looking up for homebuyers and property investors
RE/MAX’s Peter Gilmour on why the South African property market is looking up for homebuyers and property investors
RE/MAX’s Peter Gilmour on why the South African property market is looking up for homebuyers and property investors
On this month’s covers Western Cape: Desert Star, Namibia. +264 61 401 536, desertstar.na Gauteng: Bagatelle Mall of Mauritius. Leasing: Lucille Louw, +27 (0)12 471 1600, lucille@atterbury.co.za KwaZulu-Natal: Rob Roy Retirement Lifestyle Village, Botha’s Hill. +27 (0)31 777 6218, robroylifestylevillages.co.za Disclaimer The publisher and editor of this magazine give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised within this edition. Copyright Media Nova (Pty) Limited. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from Media Nova (Pty) Limited. The publishers are not responsible for any unsolicited material.
P. LE GRANGE & SEUNS/SONS
medianova.co.za
ED’S LETTER
Going out on a high note Photograph Ruvan Boshoff
It’s a bittersweet editorial for me this month, because it will be my last with The Property Magazine. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’ve met the most amazing people across a range of disciplines, from real estate, decor and design to those in the leisure and entertainment field. I was completely new to the real estate industry, but have found it fascinating, and to all the people who helped and supported me with information and insight over the past year, I have to say a big ‘thank you’. I’m delighted to announce that The Property Magazine has been awarded the Sapoa Publishing Award for ‘Best Property Magazine of the Year 2011’. It’s just another accolade in a long line of awards, but one that we are truly proud of. A lot has to do with the amazing team that puts the magazine together, especially our incredibly talented art director, Warren Uytenbogaardt, who worked endless hours to ensure the redesign of the magazine went according to plan. The award was given at the annual Sapoa conference, where one of the highlights was the address by Human Settlements Minister Tokyo Sexwale. Tokyo’s message to property owners was clear: while property ownership for all is essential, and everyone has a right to own property, the principles of the Constitution of the country are sound, and this extends to property ownership. ‘No law can just allow arbitrary deprivation of property,’ he said. ‘Our Constitution cannot be treated as a piece of toilet paper. It is a formidable law that comes with the dreams and hopes of the people.’ At the same time, he encouraged Sapoa members to assist him in his mission to deracialise property ownership in South Africa, and to reunite the townships of South Africa with its cities. ‘We need to reverse the legacy of apartheid to unite Johannesburg and Soweto, Umlazi and Durban. We need to close that gap and unite the people,’ he said. On a final note, it’s fitting that the guest editor of my final issue is Peter Gilmour, chairman of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, because he was one of the very first people I interviewed when I first started working at The Property Magazine, and throughout the year he and his team have been extremely supportive. Nicky Manson, currently deputy editor of Sandton magazine, will be taking over as editor of The Property Magazine from next month. I’m sure she’ll get as much joy out of it as I have.
THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE ONLINE VISIT Browse 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. 0861 765 833
Sandy Welch, Editor
If you haven’t yet, you really should …
Check out the Paul du Toit sculpture on top of Strand Tower
Try the oldest Glenmorangie whisky in existence,
Taste the grilled fillet of beef with herb mash and
Hotel on Strand Street in Cape Town. Entitled That’s Me on
Pride 1981, a single-malt Scotch named after its year of
spinach purée with vegetable panache and port jus at
the Corner, this quirky, fun installation, which so perfectly
creation. It’s a limited-edition whisky, so it is packaged in
Dash Restaurant at the new Queen Victoria Hotel at the
captures the spirit of Paul’s work, is part of Cape Town’s bid to
beautiful crystal decanters, and there are only 1 000 of
V & A Waterfront in Cape Town. Made with a compilation
become World Design Capital 2014. pauldutoit.com
them available worldwide. In South Africa, it sells for about
of wild mushrooms, it’s presented like an artwork – almost
R30 000. +27 (0)21 424 5594; glenmorangie.com
too beautiful to touch. Chef Stephen Templeton’s focus is on sourcing the freshest of local ingredients, and never is this more apparent than in this dish! +27 (0)21 418 1466, queenvictoriahotel.co.za
4 | June/July 2011
Land from R650 000
Brettenwood Lakes from R3 295 000
Homes from R3 250 000
When you choose Brettenwood Coastal Estate you can enjoy an abundance of foliage surrounding your site. These sites are clustered in small enclaves, which are screened from each other by Mother Nature herself. Natural foliage, ridges, water ways, wetlands and beautiful trees keep you constantly in touch with the fauna and flora of the Estate.
ABC Audited National Circulation – Total Circulation, Jan.–Mar. 2011: 83 663 AMPS (2011A) Audited Readership: 287 815
You tell us
THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE KWAZULU-NATAL DISTRIBUTION 3 237 copies to luxury outlets: 14 187 copies free-to-home in the following areas The Boat House (including residential estates): The Vineyard on Ballito Berea Zimbali Lodge Musgrave Fairways Lodge Morningside Teremok Marine Windermere La Bordello Beverly Hills Madeline Grove B & B Cowies Hill The Palms Guest House Waterfall/Kloof Essenwood House Hillcrest The Balmoral Maytime Phezulu Game Estate Upper Umhlanga The Royal Hotel Lower Umhlanga Riverside Hotel & Spa Upper La Lucia Sica’s Guest House Lower La Lucia The Westville Hotel Prestondale Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel Broadway Quarters Hotel Mount Edgecombe The Manor House Hilton Fairway Guest House Wembley Docklands Hotel Ballito Umdloti 310 copies to retailers and subscribers
The Property Magazine was in our room on our arrival at the Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa, where my daughter and I spent four nights in the Damask Suite being well taken care of. (One morning, standing at the doors leading onto our private patio and the garden beyond was a pair of Egyptian geese having their breakfast while we enjoyed ours. My daughter placed a rose behind my ear as we planned our day of spa treatments and tours.) We loved the Lacoon chair in the article about Espresso Design, as well as the outdoor furniture shown in the Cane Time ad. The article on home heating solutions was also interesting – I’d love to have a stylish fireplace in my home. Thank you for the inspiring ideas, and thanks to Erinvale for the great rest! Karen Leigh, via email
Property
thepropertymag.co.za
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I noted with interest that The Property Magazine won the ‘Best Property Magazine of the Year 2011’ award at Sapoa recently. I would like to express my congratulations to you on behalf of the entire Pam Golding Properties Group on this richly deserved acknowledgement of your contribution to the property industry. Andrew Golding, via email
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Property Prope rty y t r e Prop DESERT STAR! Est. 2004, Issue 220
WESTERN CAPE
JUNE/JULY 2011
decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate
Winner of 10 publishing awards
OUR TRENDS ISSUE:
DESIGNED FOR LIVING A KZN BEACH COTTAGE
Est. 2004,
WE TAKE YOU ON A TOUR OF THE DIFFERENT ZONES OF OUR IDEAL HOME
JUNE/J ULY 201 Issue 222 1
G GAUTEN estate
, luxury, design decor, trends
Winner of
& real
10 pub lishing awards
NAMIBIA’S DREAM DEVELOPMENT
TREN DWA Hollywood meets shared ownership KIT OU TCH T YOUR
HOME
U TRO ENR
OFFIC OURTHE E NE TRENDS HILLCR IGHBOU ISSUE: RHOO EST
E S: BAGATELL MAURITIU
WE TAKE YOU ON A TOUR OF THE DIFFERENT ZONES OF OUR IDEAL HOME
MALL OFENL developing the
Atterbury and onal shopping mall island’s first regi
KWAZ ULUNATA L
Est. 200 4, Issu decor, e 222 trends, luxury, design & rea l esta te
awards 10 publishing Winner of
2011 JUNE/JULY
I’ve just picked up the latest issue of The Property Magazine. It’s riveting, as usual. I’ve been an avid reader of The Property Magazine for a little over a year now. The first time I saw it, I bought it because of its size; it’s bigger than other magazines. I paged through it, and I was mesmerised. I’d previously published a youth publication in Bloemfontein, and used your visionary magazine as the benchmark of superior design, editorial and content delivery. Out of all the magazines I buy, yours is the finest; Top Billing magazine doesn’t even come close to it, and they have TV, radio and online to back them. As a 26-year-old aspiring publisher who loves and appreciates the written word as an instrument of change, inspiration and even greatness, I think The Property Magazine and Sandton magazine are amazing – world class. It takes vision, guts and foresight to create, maintain and grow an enterprise as phenomenal and brilliant as yours. Keep on pushing beyond all imaginable creative and editorial boundaries. Lwish Kodise, via email
WE ISSU DS A TAKE E: DIFFTOUR YOU EREN OF THON T E O IDEAF OURZONES L HO ME
AND BEYO D ND
THE NEIGHBOURHOOD A PLACE CALLED SANDTON
HIGH -T DINN ECH ER PLUM AT
REUBEN’S AT – A NEW PENTHOUSE UDS SANDTON NG THE CLO ONE&ONLY CAPE TOWN MODERN STYLE AMO URBAN LIFE
TRENDWATCH KITTING OUT YOUR OFFICE
H TRENDWATC ICE R HOME OFF
YOU RE/MAX’s Peter Gilmour on why the South African property market KIT OUT is looking up for homebuyers and property investors
ROB R LIFE OY RET MaximSTYLE IREMEN V ise your T retiremILLAGE
HBOURHOODS THE NEIG MIDLAND THE KZN
RE/M AX’s Peter Gilmo is loo king up ur on wh y the for ho So mebu yers an uth African prope d pro perty rty ma invest rket ors
erty market African prop the South tors our on why rs and property inves Peter Gilm buye RE/MAX’s up for home is looking
OVER 83 000 copies reaching South Africa’s most powerful individuals and investors!
ent lifes tyle
National Readership
287 815
KwaZulu-Natal Circulation
19 906
AMPS Audited National Circulation (Jan.–Mar. 2011)
WINNING LETTER Write to us and you could win a Bugatti Glamour Range kitchenware hamper
REGIONAL CIRCULATION The Property Magazine – KwaZulu-Natal The Property Magazine – Gauteng The Property Magazine – Western Cape The Property Magazine – Combined
ABC Audited National Circulation (Jan.–Mar. 2011) 19 906 32 275 31 482 83 663
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GMIB03321 Property mag Glasses in Cabinet.indd 1
2011/05/19 3:25 PM
Country
COMFORTABLE
Durban-based architect Sally Adams has designed a stylish, multifunctional home in the KZN countryside, one which offers itself up as a getaway for golfers, a conference venue or a glorious hideaway for those yearning to curl up.
I
t began like this. Durban-based architect Sally
needed to design something that works within the
on the eye, easy to live in, a little contemporary, but
Adams was tasked by the developer, Guy
parameters of the ‘Midlands farmhouse’ architectural
not too contentious.’ Sally says they explored the use
Smith, to design a structure to supplement the
language. Guy is always seeking fresh, loose
of steel and glass: ‘A pavilion or barn reference to
accommodation already found at Gowrie Farm
interpretations, and he got them here.
the steel structure of some standard farmyard barns.
Estate, namely The Clubhouse and The Folie, as well as to integrate a conference facility. ‘The site is exquisite,’ says Sally, ‘overlooking
Sally describes her inspiration for the design as ‘a combination of retaining some elements of farm architecture – a series of loosely connected, small
Obviously it isn’t a standard farmyard barn at all, but it was part of the idea.’ Designing a home which has conferencing as a
the dam as it does.’ She’s right, it is perfect –
buildings – a little bit of a reference to a barn, and
requirement didn’t faze Sally. She has effectively
particularly so when the vista from the house includes
then, accommodation of the pretty harsh climate of
designed a home to be lived in, but has created
picture- postcard fields of cows doing what cows
the region. It can go from almost snowing at night
spaces which extend and work well for the
do. Gowrie is a full working farm, so although you’re
to the most perfect day. It was really important to
delegates, such as multipurpose garaging that can be
warmly welcomed to the home and the estate, you
capture the sun, while making the most of those
transformed into a 24-seat (60-seat, cinema style)
won’t forget where you are.
incredibly beautiful, tranquil views.’ She continues,
conference venue; level turf spill-out spaces which
‘Just that whole sense of indoor-outdoor flow, and
allow for a marquee; and sheltered and/or sunny
near- English climate, with four seasons a day, invites
how to give the dwelling a contemporary twist. We
central courtyards for luncheons.
the country lifestyle of thick jackets and gumboots,
didn’t want a literal interpretation of the farmhouse
bracing walks and roaring fires.
concept. We were aiming to create something which
the interior as ‘collaborative’. ‘I wanted to keep
didn’t entirely flip ‘farmhouse’ on its head, but rather
within Sally’s aesthetic and simple monochromatic
challenged the concept, yet was very liveable, easy
colour scheme, so we didn’t fight with the landscape
As if you’d want to – this landscape and
The Charles Smythe Cottage is on Gowrie Farm Estate, so Sally, together with architect Dave Barrow,
8 | June/July 2011
Interior decorator Margaret Howard describes
HOT PROPERTY
HOT space
1
2
Words Anne Schauffer Photographs Angela Buckland
3
4
5
6
and what’s out there, but rather retained that deep
riempie chairs with a contemporary custom-made
Golf, fly fishing, books, birdwatching, Scrabble, the
serenity and calmness of the space,’ she says.
table and classic linen couches with two very simple
Midlands Meander and some of the country’s top spas
The client was adamant that the furnishings be
black leather chairs and square ottomans.’ The
are an easy stretch away. The cottage is self-catering,
comfortable and inviting – primarily a home, nothing
bedrooms, with bathrooms screened by translucent,
but for those who fancy a brisk walk, Wellies, fresh
too edgy – and not the cold commerciality of a
lightweight shoji screens, exude that luxurious aura,
country air and the company of a curious cow or
conference space. ‘We particularly didn’t want it
with the finest down duvets and 300-thread, pure
two, the Gowrie Farm Clubhouse offers a hearty
to have a hotel feel – “country comfortable” is the
cotton percale linen, pure wool throws and carpets,
country breakfast.
coined phrase – and loads of natural fabrics were
underfloor heating and double glazing. The heating
used,’ says Margaret.
meant no heavy drapes were needed for warmth, so
gentle stay at Charles Smythe Cottage is as far away
Margaret was freed up to keep it light and bright.
as one can get without emigrating.
The decor meshes comfortably with the structure:
The Charles Smythe Cottage is the ideal escape
tones of grey throughout give that contemporary
For conference delegates, families and couples, a
Charles Smythe Cottage,
feel, accentuated by framed black and white images
for a week or weekend, no matter the time of year.
+27 (0)33 266 6294, gowrie.co.za
of the KZN Midlands by Angela Buckland, while the
The inviting living area has a double-sided feature
Dave Barrow, +27 (0)72 755 0866
furniture and furnishings are a well- balanced mix
fireplace, while the oversized stretches of glass offer
Minim Interior Design, +27 (0)82 926 1022
of classic and modern. ‘We paired Pierre Cronje
ever-changing views over the lake and golf course.
Sally Adams Architects, +27 (0)31 205 1902
Style, charm, cosiness, and a dramatic backdrop. 2Light-filled living areas. 3The bathroom’s cool, clean lines.
Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more fabulous
1
getaway destinations.
4
A design nod to a barn, but modern and comfy. 5It’s often all about golf. 6The spacious conference facility.
June/July 2011 | 9
HOT PROPERTY
HOTSPOTS
Fab finds to satisfy body and mind – Italian fare with South African flair, fine art and miniatures, innovative furniture design and locally made decor items.
FLORENT HAMEAU, head chef at Cassia Restaurant at Nitída Wine Farm in the heart of the Durbanville Wine Valley in Cape Town, hails from Normandy, France. He reveals what brought him to South Africa, and shares the secret to perfectly prepared lamb.
Q How did you end up living in Cape Town and working as head chef at Cassia?
Q What is your favourite winter ingredient?
It would have to be mushrooms – I love their different textures and flavours. One of my favourites is an old French classic, coq au vin, which to me is home-style cooking at its best.
Q Who would be your dream guests to cook for?
Italian heritage
The newly opened Stretta Cucina at Hillcrest’s Heritage Market is creating a stir, because of its easy-going lunches and dinners. An Italian restaurant serving up authentic Italian food, Stretta Cucina utilises classic components, such as Italian flour, fresh homemade tomato sauce and a wood-fired oven for baking assorted thin-based pizzas. It has a good range of dried and fresh pastas and does a popular wood-fired baby chicken in peri-peri or lemon and herb. Fillet steak, veal and grilled calamari also feature on the menu. Weekly specials include gems such as osso bucco, blue crab soup and even more pizza and pasta. +27 (0)31 765 8862
Gordon Ramsay, to show him what real food should taste like! On a more serious note, cooking for Nelson Mandela, who is a national and international icon, would be the biggest honour that I could imagine.
Art stop
Q Lamb is your favourite dish. Any tips to getting it right?
combined works of Audrey and her husband, Darren
Good-quality free-range lamb is essential, as is time, patience and the right seasoning.
The new Audrey Rudnick Gallery in Umdloti promises heaps of original artwork. The gallery is a trove of the Aiken. Audrey is a world- renowned surrealist painter and sculptor and creator of the Pod People and the Skirt People, and Darren is famous for his miniature sculpted portraits, painted ’70s collages and, of course, his caricature chess sets, including The Old vs The New
Q What do you like most about South African cuisine?
The simplicity and honesty of the food. Traditional dishes, such as potjies, with their versatility, are really great. There are also the different ingredients that we have available here and are not found anywhere else. +27 (0)21 976 0640, cassiarestaurant.co.za
10 | June/July 2011
SA Parliament, and Music Legends. Close to the airport and right next door to two of Umdloti’s best restaurants, the gallery has quickly become a hot stop for anyone looking for a gift as small as a gopher or a serious collectable. Gallery hours are from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday. But with their studio just down the road, they’re open for business at the ring of the phone. +27 (0)82 787 2470, audreyrudnick.com; thehoozoo.com
Compiled by André Fiore and Genevieve Fisher
I met my wife, Safura, in the UK while I was working as a chef in a restaurant in London. She is from Cape Town and we decided to move back to South Africa and the Cape, where her family is from. I had heard about Cassia and in April 2008 I applied for the position of chef de partie, got it, and am still here.
HOT PROPERTY
HOT SHOP
Shiny things for the magpie in you, and bewitching things from near and far. AMOROUS SPARKLE Thinking of tying the knot? Then get her a personalised handmade platinum and diamond engagement ring from Ida-Elsje Jewellery. Or try various settings, from precious metals to wood or even synthetic amber. Available online at Africhic. +27 (0)21 424 1101,
Turn over
SPICE UP YOUR BOOKSHELF Just released by local author, Shubnum
Jared Dwyer’s new Glenwood space
Khan, is her debut novel, Onion Tears.
is turning heads, and is the perfect
Billed as a ‘don’t miss’, the beautifully
showcase for his business, Woodman’s
told story is set in contemporary
Carpentry – The Innovation and Maintenance Co.
South Africa and evokes sharp and
‘I don’t like to redo what’s been done,’ says Jared, ‘so I don’t use the
spicy kitchen aromas as it recounts
word “revamp”.’ Proving the point, he turns used objects and materials
the life stories of three generations of
into fantastic new features, such as bespoke shutters, tables, cupboards
Muslim women. Shubnum teaches at
or shelving. No space is too big or too small for him to work with, and
the University of KwaZulu-Natal and is
he prides himself on undertaking more innovative projects, such as
a freelance journalist and cartoonist.
transforming awkward spaces into workable places, as well as creative
+27 (0)11 327 3550,
challenges, such as mobile bars, loft rooms and kitchens.
penguinbooks.co.za
+27 (0)83 817 8852
idaelsje.com; africhic.com
LIQUID SILVER Made from 100% pure Weber blue agave in Jalisco, Mexico, Silver Patrón – the world’s most widely enjoyed premium tequila – is now available in South Africa. The glass bottles, each an individually hand-blown work of art, are reason enough to get some. +27 (0)21 905 9066, liq.co.za
WINTER WITH WITCHERY
Country style
The winter range by coveted
The brand-new art and decor store, Abundance, is situated in Karibu
updated classics with a
Nursery in Umhlali, and stocks ‘a bit of everything’, including edgy Koop
dose of individuality for
furniture made from alien timber, classic pieces from Oyster Bay, designer
fashion- forward women
cushions by Minim, Maridadi pewter-ware, art by Fran Jex and a wide
and men. Available
selection of decor accessories, lamps and contemporary jewellery. Owners
from Stuttafords.
Fran Jex and Sue Boulle combine green sentiments with empowerment
+27 (0)11 879 1000,
by buying as much as they can from local women (and a couple of men),
stuttafords.co.za;
creating employment and reducing the store’s carbon footprint.
witchery.com.au
Australian clothing brand, Witchery, is all about
+27 (0)82 444 1518, abundanceartanddecor.com
June/July 2011 | 11
HOT PROPERTY
HOT STUFF
GETTING SOME AIRPLAY The Zeppelin Air is the newest AirPlay wireless audio system that any music fans should put on their bucket list. Designed by Apple, the fully integrated AirPlay technology allows users to easily stream their music wirelessly from their iTunes, iPhone, iPad or iPod touch, without having to dock the device into the speaker system. The Zeppelin Air is the latest improvement on the original, multi-award- winning Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin, providing another seismic shift in audio performance, design and functionality. We love the spaceship-like design, which is appropriate for any contemporary home. AirPlay requires iTunes 10.1 or later and an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch with iOS 4.2 or later.
+27 (0)11 907 9092, hfxsystems.co.za
ENTERTAINMENT WHAT’S ON artSPACE, 6–25 June Installations and paintings rub shoulders at artSPACE. Pop in to see A History of My Life in 100 Objects by Louise Jennings and The Anatomy of the Un-seen by Grace Kotze . +27 (0)31 312 0793, artspace-durban.com
Out and about in June Roll up! Roll up!
Durban Spar Women’s Race, 19 June Enjoy a winter morning at the 22nd Annual Durban Spar Women’s Race, beginning and ending at Moses Mabhida
KZN audiences stand to be enchanted anew when South Africa’s Burlesque sensation,
Stadium. The 10km is open to all ladies over 15, and the
Madame Zingara, starts performing in Durban from 1 June until 13 August. Madame Zingara’s
5km race is open to entrants as young as nine.
Theatre of Dreams opens at the Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World with a dinner
+27 (0)31 312 9374, ladiesrace.co.za
circus spectacular in Victoria, the elegant, world-renowned mirror tent. The group’s new acts duo, will perform feats on roller skates that defy both gravity and probability; a double-strap
East Coast Radio House & Garden Show, 24 June – 3 July
act by Ukraine’s Oleksii and Oleksandr will display their breathtaking agility and strength; Ben,
Durban’s largest lifestyle show, featuring over 300 home
The Rapper will enchant with his sensual Caribbean voice; and three Mongolian Princesses
and lifestyle stalls, including creative home products,
will perform mesmerising contortions. The performances will be accompanied by a decadent
electrical appliances and outdoor patio accessories, takes
four- course feast at this great family treat or romantic night out for two.
place at the Durban Exhibition Centre. +27 (0)31 368 7630,
Tickets: R350–R450. 0861 623 263, madamezingara.com
houseandgardenshow.co.za
promise to astound and amaze: Ivan and Kristina, the incredible Russian husband-and-wife
12 | June/July 2011
ON SHOW
Downtime In this home, the ordinary and the extraordinary come together to create both living space and playground. Words AndrĂŠ Fiore Photographs Grant Pitcher
June/July 2011 | 13
ON SHOW
‘M
aximise on the view.’ That was the first and foremost brief given to architect Cornel Cloete of Cloete Architects and Project Managers. And presented with a superb corner site, comfortably elevated, with sea views that stretch from the coves of Ballito to Durban’s Golden Mile, Cornel found that the scene was already set for sheer indulgence in this regard. The result of his work is a four-bedroom, five-bathroom home with seismic views that arrest and ripple through into every room. Situated on Zimbali Estate, this sprawling, 490m2 home has been designed both as a holiday destination and permanent residence,
and in the opinion of its Gauteng-based owners, it is set on ‘one of the best, if not the best, resort in the country’. To fully enjoy their downtime, the owners wanted a home that could accommodate their family in more ways than one. This motivated the ingeniously designed upstairs and downstairs entertainment areas, each totally separate, yet both with direct access to the superb double rim-flow pool so that the owners’ university-going children can entertain without getting into their parents’ hair – and vice versa. Vast entertainment spaces were a must in this home, and the splendid dining-andunwinding options available on the upper deck around the superb wrap-around pool
Right Cloete Architects and Project Managers has created an entertainment paradise with splendid sea views from all living areas while maintaining the intimacy of a family home. With years of experience, DNO Construction KZN has delivered customer satisfaction by placing great emphasis on client communication and interaction in order to achieve the desired result during the construction period. Below Presenting a warm welcome and a uniquely sophisticated ambience, Corobrik Burgundy clay pavers quietly do the job, while the thermal
Cloete Architects and Project Managers, +27 (0)82 322 1405
mass of the clay brick walls helps optimise thermal comfort.
Corobrik, +27 (0)31 560 3111
14 | June/July 2011
ON SHOW
Architecture that takes your breath away
DNO Construction KZN, +27 (0)82 555 0887
Formed in 2003, Cloete Architects and Project Managers trades from its head office in Secunda, and from its 2006-established branch office in Ballito. Specialising in luxury residential and commercial buildings as well as industrial buildings, Cloete Architects and Project Managers has been involved in many prestigious projects throughout South Africa and abroad, and takes pride in its well-established client relationships and in delivering designs that create buildings that are an asset to their clients and their communities.
June/July 2011 | 15
ON SHOW
‘We chose Cornel Cloete because he has new ideas.’
Opposite, top left Linear hand-axed Saxon Stone provides a look that’s natural, distinctive and innately beautiful. Designed, supplied and installed by The Sandstone Story. The Sandstone Story supplies and installs natural stone nationwide. Opposite, bottom right Exotic Kitchens creates environments by combining thought and imagination. Every detail is matched to reflect and suit the homeowner’s personality, not just in the kitchen, but also in every room of the home.
16 | June/July 2011
ON SHOW
The Sandstone Story, +27 (0)32 946 3249
are just a hint of what’s on offer. As the water from the pool flows back towards the house as well as away to the sea, so the visual play continues. Glass flooring above an intimate outside courtyard, double-volume stairways, sheer, modern and stark against transparent walling and high-pitched ceilings featuring glorious rafter detail, add to the abundant space and complement the climate, allowing for the cooling flow of sea breezes, yet also offering the option of warmer spaces away from the weather when needs be. For a family that enjoys entertaining, kitchens are paramount, and this home boasts two adjoining kitchen spaces as well as an ample scullery. Designed and installed by Exotic Kitchens, these elegant spaces are divided into the ‘show kitchen’, which is open to visitors and immaculately appointed, and the second, ‘behind-the- scenes’ kitchen area that’s just as pristine and is where the prep and “hard cooking” are done, and
where the children are free to whip up a meal without worrying about the mess. Each of the en-suite bathrooms features double basins and double shower heads, so the house is already equipped to accommodate the holiday needs of the children and their future spouses and families, as well as the needs of other visiting couples. In comfortable co-existence with the surrounding natural environment, a neutral palette was decided upon, while building features and materials extended from water, brick and glass to soft sandstone and solid woods. ‘We chose Cornel Cloete because he has new ideas,’ say the owners. Cornel confirms their opinion of him when he says, ‘The whole point behind architecture, I think, is to keep looking for new ways to recreate the ordinary.’ If that amounts to extraordinary spaces for relaxation and recreation, then this home is it.
Exotic Kitchens, +27 (0)31 579 3800
Professionals list: Cloete Architects and Project Managers, +27 (0)82 322 1405, cloete.kzn@mweb.co.za Corobrik, +27 (0)31 560 3111, corobrik.com DNO Construction KZN, +27 (0)82 555 0887, andriesdnokzn@telkomsa.net Visit thepropertymag.co.za for a look at other
Exotic Kitchens, +27 (0)31 579 3800, ekitchens.co.za
extraordinary homes across the country.
The Sandstone Story, +27 (0)32 946 3249, sandstonesupplies.co.za
June/July 2011 | 17
PROMOTION
Strong investment
FUNDAMENTALS Aquacor’s new development, The Factory Apartments in Observatory, is primed to take full advantage of the recovering property market in the Mother City.
C
lear evidence of the recovering property market in Cape Town was apparent at the launch of The Factory Apartments, held recently at Aquacor’s head office. As Group Chairman Arthur Quinton, whose architectural practice spearheaded all of Aquacor’s landmark successes, such as Metropolis in Green Point and Millwood in Bryanston, pointed out when welcoming some 90 guests to the event, ‘The fact that so many of you are here proves that the recession is over!’ By the end of the evening, the first 20 apartments in this 129-unit, seven-floor building had been signed for – an amazing achievement in a market that has been moribund for the last two years. Observatory’s ‘quiet investment revolution’ The Factory Apartments will be located in the trendy suburb of Observatory, just 4km south-east of the CBD. This vibey residential area is enjoying something of a quiet investment revolution, as small businesses, art shops and galleries redevelop existing properties all along the well-known Lower Main Road strip. Surrounded by a plethora of well-attended tertiary institutions, it’s also a favourite suburb for young professionals, artists, media workers and postgraduates. Cape Town, the Los Angeles of Africa Matthew Quinton, Aquacor’s new business director, says he is delighted with the market’s response, especially the number of up-country buyers from Johannesburg and Durban. ‘Savvy investors always start with “location, location, location”. From that point of view, I predict that Cape Town is poised for another regional house price mini-boom that will outstrip the national averages.’ ‘Cape Town is clearly the Los Angeles of Africa,’ he adds. ‘Everyone wants to be here: it has the best-run municipality
18 | June/July 2011
in the world, and has just been chosen as the “World’s Best Destination” by the influential tourist website, TripAdvisor.’ The Cape wins the ‘semigration’ war Matthew says, ‘You just have to look at the “semigration’ statistics to see why Cape Town’s property values are set to rise well above the rest of the country’s. FNB’s Inter-provincial Home Buyer Monitor, published last month, clearly shows that Cape Town is the overall winner in the competition to attract skilled labour. According to prominent economist, John Loos, the Western Cape has shown a positive or “net inward” migration of +10,6%, compared to the next best province, Gauteng, which recorded a slight loss of skilled labour, showing a net outbound migration rate of -1,1%!’ Ideal investment for parents of students Michael Morris, Aquacor’s financial director, underlined another benefit of investing in The Factory Apartments. ‘Our new development is located at the educational epicentre of Cape Town, with UCT, CPUT, AFDA and Damelin all being within a 4km radius, and is excellently catered for by public and campus transport systems. So for any parent of a child starting their studies in Cape Town in 2013, investing in The Factory Apartments is something of a no-brainer.’ Michael adds, ‘Student accommodation is at a premium here. Instead of paying rent or exorbitant res. fees, you can house your child in your own secure, well-positioned apartment, which after three years will have developed into a potent foothold in the country’s most sought-after property market! A fair proportion of sales to date have been to exactly this profile of buyer. The huge demand for accommodation in the area also ensures that investors will not struggle to find tenants: rental demand in Observatory, not just from students, but also from young professionals, has been surging.’
Luxury features at affordable prices The building itself offers features that are rare in the area, including a rooftop entertainment deck with a swimming pool and braai area, as well as a gym and laundry, secure undercover parking and 24-hour manned security. No corners have been cut on finishings and interiors: all apartments will be fitted with kitchen cupboards in a superior two-tone melamine and kitchen countertops finished in a light-coloured granite; all bathroom brassware is by Grohe; and 600mm porcelain tiles have been used throughout. ‘We’ve even included built-in desks in the studio apartments – perfect for students, who simply have to move in,’ says Matthew. ‘We were fortunate to have the expertise of co-developer Ron Stringfellow, ex-CEO of Southern Sun Hotels, who worked closely with the architects and interior design team to ensure we created spaces that really work for the residents.’ The building will also be equipped with both wired and wireless high-speed broadband connectivity, which will allow for networked inter-apartment gaming. ‘Buyers are amazed that we have been able to offer luxury features of this kind for average selling prices of around R17 000/m2,’ says Matthew. Construction on The Factory Apartments is due to get under way in 2012, with completion anticipated for mid 2013. JLK Construction, which Aquacor has used for nearly 20 years, will be building the development.
+27 (0)21 417 4343, thefactoryapartments.co.za
the NEIGHBOURHOOD
Hillcrest and Beyond Words Anne Schauffer Photographs Sally Chance
Not that long ago, Hillcrest was deemed country, and everything beyond was described as ‘two days away on horseback’. That’s all history now …
D
escribing Hillcrest as ‘countryside’ raises as disbelieving a laugh among residents as does calling it ‘a village’. The face of the town has undergone a substantial, often traumatic, lift and tuck, and the speed of the development and accompanying implosion of the infrastructure has driven the wanna-be villagers nearly insane. It wasn’t nicknamed ‘Hellcrest’ for
nothing, as another road rage incident headlined in the community newspaper. ‘We moved to Hillcrest for the gentle country life, and soon thereafter, the countryside upped and offed,’ grumbled one relative newcomer to the area. The grumbling is subsiding now as Hillcrest the construction site becomes a standalone urban entity. The village is not only increasingly more self-contained,
June/July 2011 | 19
the NEIGHBOURHOOD with all work and play needs fulfilled, but also it’s become a town to where the big boys of commerce and retail are relocating. Shopping centres are vast and comprehensive. Visually, too, the new landscape has begun to flex its green muscles and soften the surrounds, so all in all, acceptance of the reality has dulled the whingeing. Of course, Hillcrest on steroids was largely a response to the property boom of yesteryear, so when the downturn froze much of the construction, Hillcrest as a work in progress was a particularly ugly moonscape. Gradually, though, the construction industry has been dusting off its hard hat, and everything is coming back to life. For those who don’t want an urban setting, there are dirt roads a few kays away. On the edges of Hillcrest are numerous green and pleasant lands and, for now anyway, they offer the country life. On this side of the freeway, there’s greener pastures in the bigger plots and smallholdings, and even gated estates are popping up in little enclaves, such as Botha’s Hill, Assagay, Drummond, Alverstone and Shongweni, while across the freeway, there’s deep horse country at Summerveld. Gated estates with their shared costs, lock-up-and-go appeal and heightened security are significant players on the Hillcrest property-scape, and have proven to be distinctive drawcards to buyers from a wide range of age groups, from first-time homeowners in Plantations to retirees at Le Domaine. The new Hillcrest Private Hospital opened its doors in early April, and this, says Clinton Nel of RE/MAX Address Kloof, ‘puts world-class medical and emergency facilities on our doorstep without our having to travel out of the area’.
20 | June/July 2011
He adds, ‘The hospital is good news for property investors, as new staff are looking for upmarket rental accommodation.’ Opposite the hospital, a new retirement village, Hillcrest Country Retirement Estate, is at an advanced planning stage, and is a welcome answer to the dire shortage of retirement estates. Up at Botha’s Hill, the remodelled old Rob Roy Hotel, known as The Rob Roy Lifestyle Retirement Village, is drawing upmarket retirees. Chairman of the Hillcrest Ratepayers’ Association and Conomirra and Deputy Chair of the Combined Ratepayers’ of Durban Association and the KZN Ratepayers’ Association, Lilian Develing, has fought the fights – good and bad – for the district for many years, and is a mine of information on who’s doing what, when and where. The accelerated growth of Hillcrest inevitably led to an infrastructure imbalance, whether it was inadequate sewerage systems or roads entirely unable to cope. Most issues have either been rectified or are being addressed. At one stage, a moratorium on building prevented the rise of further gated estates when the municipal services were deemed to be entirely inadequate. One of the ongoing debates is that of Emberton, a proposed development of the old driving range in the Gillitts district. Lilian says it’s been a yo-yo situation for three years now, and even though the environmental impact assessment has been approved by the Department of Agriculture, it’s now on appeal, as is the rezoning application. The intention is to build affordable housing, a small shopping centre and a gym over the railway line. The developer has applied for 525 units, consisting of blocks of flats and
medium-density housing. Emberton borders Augusta, a well-established, upmarket gated estate with quick access to the freeway – a very desirable attribute in a traffic-congested town – and a superb golf course, and this will-they-won’t-they has disrupted the ‘good life’ vision that residents have long enjoyed. The Upper Highway is renowned for a number of superb schools, in particular the boys’ private schools of Highbury and Kearsney; the co-ed Thomas More and St Mary’s DSG (Diocesan School for Girls) are both a stone’s throw away, in Kloof. A number of excellent government schools service the area too, but Lilian says there’s still a severe shortage: ‘More than 5 000 units have been built in the past five years, but no new schools have been built or planned.’ So, who moves up the hill to Hillcrest and beyond … and why buck the trend to head north? Numerous reasons, one of the oldest being the climate: at its lofty height, Hillcrest is considerably cooler than the coast during the swampy summer months, and although some find the mist and fog of the area more of a hazard, most enjoy the seasonal changes, both in terms of temperature and visuals. Trees change colour, carpets of autumnal leaves line the roads, smoke spirals from chimneys, and everybody and their dog has gloved hands wrapped round a hot coffee with accompanying steaming breath at the Shongweni Market on icy Saturday mornings.Twenty minutes away, in Durban, if you were seen wearing gloves, you’d stop traffic. Keith Wakefield, CEO of Wakefields Real Estate says, ‘Hillcrest still provides good-value-for-money properties, with R1 million to around R1,5 million being
more or less middle of the market. For example, a three-to-four-bedroom home with two lounges, a double garage and a pool in Hillcrest Park could be had for around R1,6 million. With Hillcrest having grown at the speed that it has, many buyers are looking at spots like Botha’s Hill and Assagay, which offer a country feel. Both these “suburbs” of Hillcrest offer better value than Hillcrest proper, with starter homes at just on the R1-million mark. With the demand increasing in the lower price ranges, Assagay and Botha’s Hill can look forward to prices increasing at a higher-than-average rate.’ At the other end of the scale is Summerveld, home to South Africa’s Jockey Academy, racehorse trainers and equestrian pursuits. This little pocket of exclusivity, tucked between the N3 and M13, has become a wonderful place to call home.With its lush paddocks and bridle paths with views from coast to ’berg, Summerveld sits on the fringe of suburbia, and consists largely of country homesteads equipped for equestrian leisure and sports activities, and beautiful, stately homes. Keith says, ‘Zoned for equestrian activities, 2ha is the minimum subdivision allowed. The roads are sandy, as horse-walking is permitted, and the speed limit is “crawl” so as not to frighten skittish young racehorses out for their daily exercise. Prices start at around R3 million, rising to around R20 million. As most of the permissible subdivision has already taken place, land here is at a premium, ensuring the area’s exclusivity and continued growth in asset value. The property downturn notwithstanding, the growth in value of these properties over the past number of years has been in the region of 500%.’
the NEIGHBOURHOOD
Opening page, this page top left and opposite, bottom right The Summerveld Racing Track – there’s ample countryside on the fringes of Hillcrest. Opposite, bottom left A stylish Summerveld home on 2ha being marketed by Wakefields. This page, clockwise from top right Retire in style at Rob Roy; commerce arrives in Hillcrest with a shout; the never-ending building site; from here to eternity – views over the Valley of a Thousand Hills.
‘For those who don’t want an urban setting, there are dirt roads a few kays away.’
June/July 2011 | 21
The NEIGHBOURHOOD
Clockwise from top left Horses are an integral part of life at Kirtlington Park residential estate;
THINGS TO DO IN THE HILLCREST AREA
get on your bike at Giba Gorge; a rugby tournament at Kearsney College, Botha’s Hill; every man
1. Take part in water sports, angling, game viewing, picnicking and camping at Inanda Dam. +27 (0)31 765 7724, msinsi.co.za
and his dog at Shongweni Farmers Market.
2. Dine out at the award-winning restaurant, The Aubergine.
Commenting on the buoyancy of the rental market, Malcolm Peacock of Just Letting says, ‘Today, with security concerns, complexes are the most popular.Tenants want to be close to schools and shopping centres and to have quick, easy access to the highway. Price-wise, a three-bedroom unit in an estate will start at R5 500, going up to R25 000 in the top estates. A home starts at around R6 000. Rentals under R10 000 are moving quickly; others are taking a bit longer.’ Michele Wilson, director of Seeff Properties Hillcrest & Kloof, reiterates the strength of the townhouse market, and says demand for rentals has reached an all-time high: ‘Our rental market comprises the executive to the average family, who are either returning to South Africa from “not so good” experiences abroad or are in
the process of building a new home.’ She points out the increased opportunities for industry: ‘Developments and smaller factory warehouses have gone up in the Brackenhill areas.This has encouraged businesses to grow, and service their clients more effectively between say Gauteng, Pietermaritzburg and the Greater Durban areas.’ ‘Town and country – that’s Hillcrest and beyond,’ says Alwina Muggeridge of Pam Golding Properties Kloof and Hillcrest, ‘best of both worlds.’ Linda Marsden-King of Dormehl Property Group concurs. ‘Hillcrest has done all the right things. Yes, there were growing pains, but it’s been worthwhile. Notwithstanding the need for service improvement from the municipality, we now have a real town serving the needs of a
+27 (0)31 765 6050, theaubergine.co.za 3. Enjoy water sports, hiking, birding and overnighting at the national heritage site of Shongweni Dam. +27 (0)31 765 7724, msinsi.co.za 4. Rise at dawn for breakfast at Shongweni Farmers Market (dogs welcome). +27 (0)31 777 1554, shongwenimarket.co.za 5. Get on your bike and tackle the highs and lows of Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park. +27 (0)31 769 1527, gibagorge.co.za
growing number of residents, totally negating the need to travel down the Hill.’ The “Hill” – the perilous, truck-pitted Field’s Hill – is the bane of Upper Highway life and the thing preventing the entire community of Durban from rising upwards instead of moving sideways. Lilian says the quest by those of the Outer West to move the toll road from Mariannhill to the Lion Park is ongoing. ‘If the trucks had to pay at a toll
nearer to Pietermaritzburg, they wouldn’t be tempted to avoid the toll road into Durban and take the alternate route down Field’s Hill into Pinetown and Durban,’ she says. A member of one of the region’s founding families says drily, ‘Field’s Hill is to the residents of these upper reaches, what the weather is to the English: a way of life, a unifying talking point and a fair reason to be late for work.’
With thanks to … Dormehl Property Group, Linda Marsden-King, +27 (0)31 764 6262, dpgkzn.co.za Just Letting, Malcolm Peacock, +27 (0)31 765 6609, justletting.co.za Lilian Develing, liliand@webafrica.org.za Pam Golding Properties, Alwina Muggeridge, +27 (0)31 765 6755, pamgolding.co.za RE/MAX Address, Clinton Nel, +27 (0)31 764 1702, remax-address.co.za Seeff Properties, Michele Wilson, +27 (0)31 765 5326, seeff.com
Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more information
Wakefields Real Estate, +27 (0)31 765 9760, wakefields.co.za
on the top neighbourhoods in South Africa.
22 | June/July 2011
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24 | June/July 2011
ASK THE EXPERTS
SWATCH OUT Experts in fabrics, paints and furniture tell you how you can add some colour to your life. Photographs Val Adamson and Paul Shiakallis Hair and make-up Chelsea Hill
June/July 2011 | 25
ASK THE EXPERTS
DECOR8
ST LEGER & VINEY
MAVROMAC
LEISURE LOUNGE
Ashlea Lay, Owner
Colin O’Mara Davis, Brand Manager
Hanneke Swart, Managing Director
Lynton Lloyd, Owner/Managing Director
Tell us more about your business. We are a specialist paint retail store that emphasises service, quality and price. We offer paint products for just about any application, and carry decorative, roof and tar paints and industrial and wood finishes. We have our own contracting division and some approved paint contractors. We also do colour consultations and paint technique workshops. In essence: ‘Think Paint – Think Decor8’! Current trends in SA and abroad? Colour, colour and more colour! Feature walls have proved very popular, allowing for the impact of colour in a room without making it appear smaller. Your latest, most popular products and services? The ChemSpec DeCO Signature range, an excellent decorative paint that we can tint to almost any colour. It offers a 10-year guarantee and is reasonably priced. Our workshops have proved to be very popular, and raising money for the SPCA by sharing our knowledge is very rewarding. And our records of customers’ colour matches go back many years. High-profile projects you recently completed? We supplied product for Portuguese Island in Mozambique. We also supplied paint for 320 West Street, Docklands Hotel, Shell House, Pentravel Cape Town and more. Our products reach Zambia, Transkei, Richard’s Bay – even the UK.
Tell us more about your business. St Leger & Viney is the leading supplier of decorative furnishing fabrics and wallpapers to the South African design industry’s professionals, and occupies a strong, directional presence in the contemporary design landscape. We represent and distribute the world’s most prestigious brands, among them: Cole & Son, Christopher Farr Cloth, Élitis, GP & J Baker, Kravet, Lee Jofa, Lizzo, Mulberry, Parkertex, Ralph Lauren, Raoul, Volga Linen, Warwick, as well as many others. Current trends in SA and abroad? The overarching theme in interiors right now is what we could call the ‘Global Ethnicity’ trend. It speaks to the romance and adventure of travelling abroad and collecting mementos that become talking points in the home. For inspiration we look to ethnographic design motifs, primarily from the BRICS group, so the next trend cycle is all about kelims, ikats, paisleys, arabesque, chinoiserie, kente and so forth, but, interestingly, we’re pairing them all together for a melange of culture, so to speak. Your latest, most popular products? Our brand-new editeur collections. We expect ‘California Romantic’ by Ralph Lauren to do well, as well as the ’50s collection by Sanderson. A high-profile project you recently completed? The styling of the Grand Theatre for Grand Designs Live in collaboration with Imagine Nation.
Tell us more about your business. Mavromac is the chosen distributor of some of the world’s foremost international brands, and is also home to the country’s most stylish local brand, Mavromac South. We welcome both decorators and members of the public into our showrooms nationally, and assist them with their own or their client’s brief. We carry a vast range of fabrics, and narrowing the choices down through the use of various criteria, such as function, pattern, style, colour or price, is an essential and timesaving service we offer. What are your criteria for imports? Our international editeurs launch new collections annually and some biannually, bringing us the latest global trends. Our own Mavromac collections are sourced worldwide, and through extensive travel, our eyes and minds are tuned to spotting the latest trends and educated in cutting-edge technology of yarns, yarn compositions, weaves and printing processes. Mavromac South collections are right up there with global trends! Tell us about a high-profile project that you recently completed. In conjunction with leading SA decorators, we have recently been involved in supplying soft furnishings to One&Only Cape Town, Four Points hotels in Africa, private game reserves, ministerial lounges at airports, private hospitals, wine estates and island resorts.
Tell us more about your business. Leisure Lounge specialises in the manufacture of custom-made, upholstered furniture. All items are manufactured at our Durban factory, and are beautifully displayed in our showroom on the premises. A satellite showroom is situated in Pietermaritzburg, serving the Midlands area. We also deliver anywhere in SA. We stock an extensive range of samples from all the leading fabric houses, as well as a wide range of genuine bovine and kudu leathers. Current trends in SA and abroad? Deep-buttoning is massive in chesterfield sofas as well as in more contemporary designs. Silvers and greys are particularly popular in modern designs, with traditional buttons being replaced with glass buttons. Leather is still very popular, with a big call for vintage or pull-up leathers, especially in the deep-buttoned designs. Name some high-profile projects you recently completed. We recently completed two hotels in Mozambique. We are also extremely proud of being the sole supplier of upholstered furniture to Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium, including the presidential suite. Having been making furniture in Durban for the past 20 years, I’m sure that our furniture abounds in many of Durban’s residential, corporate and hospitality establishments, and we look forward to continuing in the same vein for many years to come!
+27 (0)31 208 9520 | mavromac.co.za
+27 (0)31 208 4418 | leisurelounge.co.za
De o
Paint & D ecor S pecialists
+27 (0)31 765 2300 | decor8@decoreight.co.za
26 | June/July 2011
ST LEGER & VINEY +27 (0)31 303 5477 | stleger.co.za
THE FABRIC LIBRARY
RECLINER SPECIALIST
Neill Strydom, Managing Director
Rona Mahomed, Sales Manager
Tell us more about your business. The Fabric Library is one of the leading wholesale distributors of furnishing fabrics in SA. We distribute countrywide, with showrooms in Jo’burg, Pretoria, Durban, PE and Cape Town. Our strength lies in the variety of our collections, ranging from curtaining to upholstery, and from earthy to chic and sophisticated, serious to whimsical, smooth and textured to colourful and muted. In short, our fabrics can satisfy any taste and any budget. We also represent the imported ranges of Romo, Osborne & Little, Clarke & Clarke and Fabricut. The Fabric Library is very much involved in the decorating trade, striving to serve our customers to the highest standard. Your latest service offering? Recently we launched the South African Interior Designer of the Year Award. The aim is to recognise and reward outstanding contributions to interior decoration and design and to acknowledge design excellence and new ideas and techniques across SA. It is a celebration of innovation, inspiration, and lasting achievement within interior decoration and design, and is open to anyone who is involved with or has an interest in interior decoration and design, from novices to students and professionals. Enter now! Closing date: 17 July. Prizes over R1,2 million. Visit interiordesigneroftheyear.co.za.
Tell us more about your business. Recliner Specialist manufactures elegant seating to accommodate the dimensions of any accessible space. We provide seating for home theatres, as well as lounge suites and single chairs. We offer our clients a choice of designs, upholstery (fabric or leather), mechanisms and configurations, thus enabling our clients to create unique, stylish arrangements for their living areas. Our home theatre seating solutions incorporate multiple recliners with platforms for additional rows, as well as consoles and cupholders to complete the cinema effect. The mechanisms available in our products include push-back (manual), incliners, glider plus 360º swivel, remote controlled and ‘lift-and-tilt’. We are also key suppliers of specialist chairs to health-care providers and retirement villages. Your latest, most popular products and services? We are currently installing cinema seats with overhead lighting for each seat on a yacht. This is a really exciting project! High-profile projects you recently completed? We provided our furniture to homes that were featured on Top Billing. Quite an accomplishment!
+27 (0)31 313 3860 | fabriclibrary.co.za
+27 (0)31 263 1662 | recliners.co.za
TRENDS
In the
zone We’ve roped in interior design and decor heavyweights to give us the heads-up on the hottest trends in home spaces. Words Genevieve Fisher
T
ake a walk with us through our ideal, on-trend home, where you will be inspired by the living room’s throwback to the ’70s, the bedroom’s Bohemian ambience, the kitchen’s monochromatic colour scheme, the bathroom’s rounded and soft finishes, the drama of the entrance area, the dining room’s sense of ease and the outdoor area’s feeling of … well, being an extension of the other rooms in the house. This concept home has been filled according to the wishlists of the top professionals in the interior decor and design industries, and captures the key trends of our time.
June/July 2011 | 31
PROPERTY neighbourhood watch TRENDS
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Tropico Suspension Lights (Foscarini), Créma Design. 2Snap Ribbon Mirror, Box Living. 3Grey Ceramic Tile (Pergo), Barrow Flooring. 4Fractured Mirror, Okha. Concetto Range – Amethyst Display Table, Caesarstone. 6Walk Series Porcelain Tiles, Italcotto. 7Blown-Glass Vases, Red Hot Glass.
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Entrance Zone Adam Court, Okha:
‘When stepping into the entrance area of a home, you should get a tangible sense of arrival, an ambience of excitement and drama that marks the moment of crossing over into a new environment. High ceilings, gallery-like spaces, elevation of the area, or different wall treatments to the rest of the interior, are good ways to evoke this. The entrance area is also the first opportunity to display individuality as well as charm in the form of artworks and captivating sculpture, as it is an area of exchanging first impressions and formalities of social decorum. It is also the ideal location to feature large-scale sculptural lighting, something powerful and unique that can be seen even when approaching the property. ‘With regards to furniture and accessories, a long and narrow server will allow you to display tabletop artworks, vases and glass collections, plus it’s the ideal key-drop area. I would suggest working with fewer, more dramatic statement items rather than cluttering the space. Mirrors are ideal accessories to make the area feel bigger, especially if they are as grandiose as possible. And, of course, everyone has one final mirror check before they step out. ‘Most entrance areas are not large, so try to create a greater sense of openness and space with light, airy colour palettes, as the last thing you want to encounter is a badly lit, dark and dingy environment. The experience should be uplifting, invigorating and sensory on every level. When it comes to finishes and flooring, hardy, durable, easy-to-clean natural materials are currently on trend, such as marble, slate, timber, and porcelain tiles.’ +27 (0)21 461 7233, okha.co.za
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Concetto Range – Blue Agate, Caesarstone
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TRENDS
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Jewelled Egg Wall Light, K. Light Import. 2Snap Diva Chair, Box Living. 3Tress Floor Lamps (Foscarini), Créma Design. 4Ostrich Shell Bowls, Ashanti Design. Stainless-Steel Tray (Bugatti), Italian Lifestyle. 6Table, Side Chairs and Armchairs (Cherner Chair Co.), Créma Design. 7Boathouse Pine Plank (Pergo), Barrow Flooring.
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Dining Zone
Maira Koutsoudakis, Life Interiors & Architecture & Creative Direction: ‘Lighting is crucial to the dining zone: a feature light fitting or ceiling activation makes the area intimate and adds a sense of drama and magic through the channelling of light and mood. Over-scaled light fittings and the hidden source of light are big trends, as is the use of new lighting technology in the spirit of sustainability, such as energy-saving LED lights, which can be installed in clusters and are dimmable. ‘When it comes to on-trend furniture, the excesses of the recent past and subsequent recession have steered tastes towards more honest, authentic furniture and interiors. Less Duco-sprayed furniture, more one-off, handcrafted investment pieces that, in styling and materials, will wear well and have longevity. Chairs are tending towards lower-backs, and tables are being made out of sandblasted timbers to expose their grain and colour. ‘The colour combination greige remains a big trend, and on the material front, grainy timber and wild, eccentric, exuberant marble and stone are pertinent. Another big trend in the dining zone is more from a functionality perspective, namely, the ease of having facilities close at hand. For example a well- positioned, well-designed server that has a silver tray with decanters and elegant glasses invites use by guests, freeing up the host to get on with the serious business of entertaining. Adjustable mood lighting and slipcovers on chairs allow for changing the dining space from day to night, informal to formal, making spaces flexible and alive.’ +27 (0)11 783 5965, lifeinteriordesign.com
June/July 2011 | 33
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Living Zone Trevyn McGowan, Source:
‘Anything retro that has a ’70s feel is currently big for interior spaces. New York’s Upper-East-Side aesthetic, inspired by the 1970s, is the source of inspiration, “antiques of the future”. Rooms have a feeling of spaciousness and non-clutter, where sofas are elevated, allowing you to see the floor, and don’t take up a lot of space. Carpets and rugs are tending towards the exotic one-offs with an Indian feel and patchwork design, which act as the focal piece of a room. Groups of interestingly shaped coffee tables, as opposed to one large one, is a growing trend, as are interesting sculptural pieces, such as vases and lamps, which are also good focal points. ‘With regards to colour palettes, washed-out ’70s sepia is the biggest influence, with muted flesh tones, greys, beige, toffee and pale pinks being derivatives. ‘This retro feel continues through to lighting, where a backdrop and ambience of warmth is achieved through the placement of bulbs in ceiling recesses and adjusted by downlighters. Added to this, strategically placed standing lamps or clusters of lamps that create nodes of light are a big trend, as are unique and off- centre chandeliers. ‘When it comes to materials and textiles, luxe fabrics are important, because of their texture and quality. Layering of various textures is another big trend, particularly with leather, sheepskin, velvet and mohair.’ +27 (0)44 877 0719, source-sa.com
European Oak Rustic-Grade Flooring, Bestwood Flooring. 2Tray Tables, Dokter & Misses. 3Dragon Sofa, Colonial House Design. 4Red Light Carpet, Bretz Imports. Etch Lights (Tom Dixon), Créma Design. 6Ceramic Vase, Hennie Meyer Ceramics. 7Floor Cushion, Weylandts. 8Apollo Leather Occasional Chair, Chateau d’Ax. 9 Floriana Wingback, Sarah Ord Interiors. 10Orbital Lamp (Foscarini), Créma Design. 11Leaves in Autumn Footstool, Skinny La Minx. 12Wall-mounted bookcase system (Zalf), Espresso Design. 13Future City Wall Decal, Wall Art Stickers. 14Flash Tables (Tom Dixon), Créma Design. 1
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Timekeeper Midnight, Hertex Fabrics
with a restrained yet sophisticated look. Vintage furniture that not only has provenance but also hints of the future is currently on-trend – the line of thinking is,
PROPERTY neighbourhood watch
Cooking Zone
Wendy Grater of Alpine German Kitchens, and Andrew Hamilton Barr of Espresso Design Wendy says the 21st-century kitchen is fast becoming the social/nerve centre of the home, and its design needs to reflect this. ‘Its functionality now incorporates cooking, entertaining and socialising, as well as digital communication, stock control and home security control,’ she says. ‘It’s all about using space, accessories and finishes to make the kitchen a reflection of you and your lifestyle.’ Andrew Hamilton Barr says kitchens are becoming increasingly simplified yet beautiful, to give them a timeless element. In terms of design, he says the trend is for Italian manufacturers to team up with well-known designers so that kitchens are cutting-edge and are associated with a world-renowned name. Well-designed lighting that is functional and sets the mood is important in kitchens. The big trend here is to integrate lighting within the cabinetry. Wendy and Andrew agree that there is a move away from halogen lighting to more eco-efficient LED lighting. ‘Illuminated cabinetry with glass fronts and shelving units with glass shelves with integrated LED lighting provide great opportunities to set up accents within the kitchen design where storage meets display,’ says Wendy. In terms of kitchen cabinetry, Wendy says cabinets are going beyond the traditional depth of 600mm. ‘“Transparency”, “revealing” and “concealing” are key themes, while glass drawer sides and fronts are extremely popular. We are also seeing glass being used as a worktop material and for door fronts. Glass can come in different finishes, from gloss to sandblasted, and can also be coloured,’ she explains. Andrew says the thickness of the doors also varies – the trend is a less-chunky, 12mm door. ‘There is also a move towards handle-less cabinets,’ he adds. Monochromatic colour palettes are big in worktops, splashbacks and doors. In finishings, natural tones, wood veneers and repro-wood veneers with white still dominating are all on-trend, says Wendy. ‘Black and white glass, high-gloss or soft hydro-lacquer have never gone out of style, and white appliance ranges that can match white kitchens or provide a contrast to other neutral colours are becoming more prevalent.’ The latest trend in kitchen flooring is towards a seamless finish that allows an integrated flow from the kitchen to the rest of the open-plan living area. ‘We’re seeing oversized, high-gloss and matt porcelain tiles in neutral colours, as well as stone-laid flooring, such as Quartzcarpet,’ says Wendy. ‘Marmoleum is a popular choice right now,’ adds Andrew. ‘It’s an eco-friendly covering that offers a seamless floor.’ When it comes to being eco-sensitive, Wendy says antibacterial worktops, non-toxic glues for the cabinetry, hydro-lacquers and sustainable woods are popular. (Recycling bin systems are standard in European kitchens.) New eco-friendly products for worktops are coming onto the market, such as PaperStone by StoneTech, which is made from 100% recycled paper and petro-free phenolic resins, and is a beautifully finished, sustainable composite surface offering a New Age alternative to the commonly used natural stones. +27 (0)21 422 2373, agk.co.za; +27 (0)21 422 5283, espressodesign.co.uk
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Rational, Alpine German Kitchens. 2Quartz Carpet Millstone, Quartz Carpet. 3Joseph Joseph Flo Oil and Vinegar Pourers, Banks. 4Phoenix Stone in Black, World of Marble and Granite. 5White Bugatti Italy Appliances, Italian Lifestyle. 6Side-by-Side Fridge, LG. 7Cassis Deep Heart- Shaped Stoneware Casserole, Le Creuset. 8 CombiSet, Miele. 9Unoedue Modular Wall-Unit System in Wood and Matt Lacquer, Espresso Design. 10Rational, Alpine German Kitchens. 11Under-Counter Fluorescent Tube Fittings and Built-In Cabinet Downlighters, Lighting Warehouse. 12Water Zone Concept (Dornbracht), Flush Bathrooms. 1
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Quartzcarpet Millstone, Quartz Carpet
TRENDS
PROPERTY neighbourhood watch
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Sleeping Zone Paul Duncan, Woolworths:
‘There’s nothing more important than the bed, of course. But what makes it really comfortable, apart from a good mattress, is an upholstered headboard. Bedrooms have become more than just sleeping zones: they’re rooms in which to lounge about and relax. Sofas and big, comfortable armchairs are becoming more apparent in the bedroom, which is now re-imagined as a sitting room in which you also sleep and that has easy access to the bathroom nearby. Dressing rooms are always great, but if you haven’t the space, there is the option of having built-in cupboards that masquerade as freestanding pieces. ‘Lighting is important in the bedroom, because of the calm and romantic ambience inherent to the space. One lamp for ambient lighting is essential – tall with a big shade – as is a smaller reading lamp or even a desk lamp that has very focused directional lighting. ‘When it comes to linen and fabric, a current trend is T-shirt bedding: it’s warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Mixing and matching bed linen is also a big trend right now: mixing pattern and print, pattern with stripes, both large and small scale – the look is slightly Bohemian, but it gives a rich visual texture to the room. There’s a move towards greater luxury and indulgence in the bedroom as people search for products which help the cocooning urge that seems to be prevalent right now, which is why 300-400-thread-count Egyptian cotton is popular. In the same breath, though, with regards to eco-sensitivity, there is also a move towards using other fabrics, including linen and cotton blends, such as bamboo and modal. Layered beds are also a favourite trend at the moment: beds layered with throws, cushions, quilts and so on are more appealing and inviting. ‘With regards to colour palettes, berries and reds are huge, though you might consider using them gently. Colours that tend to be favoured in bedding are more restful colours, such as pastels, naturals and white.’ 0860 100 987, woolworths.co.za
38 | June/July 2011
TRENDS
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1 Vicky Side Table, Frank Böhm Studio. 2Linen, Gavin Rajah Homeware Collection. 3Mahendi Red, Lula Fabrics. 4Origami Aloe Cushions and Prickly Pear Rug, The Mohair Collection. 5Wingback Chairs (Tom Dixon), Créma Design. 6Rangoli Rug (Nanimarquina), Créma Design. 7Scatter Cushions, Ashanti Design. 8Trestle Lamp, Dokter & Misses. 9 Silver Oak Vinyl Floors (Pergo), Barrow Flooring. 10 Chandwa Patchwork Bedspread, Weylandts. 11 Testa Double-Sided Headboard (Nanimarquina), Créma Design. 12Floating Boxes with Drawers, ODE DIY.
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Suzani Red, Lula Fabrics
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Rainshower Icon Hand Shower (Grohe), Bella Bathrooms. 2Sen Bath (Agape), Lavo Bathroom Concepts. 3Quadro Basin Mixer (Studio RKDO), Lavo Bathroom Concepts. 4Viega Toilet Flushers, On Tap. 5Vero Black Gloss Console (Duravit), On Tap. 6Nahho Floatation Bathtub, Duravit.
Bathing Zone
Karyn Robyn, Duravit South Africa: ‘Today, the bathroom is becoming a living room space that offers a refuge from the complex world we live in. The dominant trends are the soft bathroom with an avant-garde feel, where shapes and designs are more rounded and cosy than sharp with hard edges and corners; the green bathroom, where natural, ecologically sound materials and timeless, enduring design dominate; the fashionable bathroom that takes on the quality of a living space and becomes an indication of the user’s personal tastes; and the minimalist bathroom, which promotes modern design that makes life simpler, with a natural or poetic character. ‘The notion of a private spa is growing in appeal as wellness becomes a primary focus in the bathroom. The demand for luxury, aesthetic appeal and the cult of the body combine in a sophisticated concept that enables these experiences to be enjoyed in intimate privacy. Mood lighting, whirl-tubs, multifunctional showers, saunas and other spa equipment, such as air nozzles, jet nozzles or rotating back-and-foot-massage nozzles, help to create personal spas. ‘The benefits and beauty of water have become an inspiration, from its cascading from shower heads in interesting formations to interesting bath designs that encourage submersion. Technological trends to watch out for are electronic fittings, touch-free operation devices and convenient push-button control of showers and other bathroom features. When it comes to colours and finishes, high-quality wooden surfaces, such as ebony, bleached oak, cherry tree or rosewood, give the bathroom a lively warmth and personality and introduces a sense of the living room into the bathroom. New, eye-catching black and white high-gloss finishes and black sanitary ceramic items are on-trend.’ +27 (0)11 722 9060, duravit.com
40 | June/July 2011
Glazed Porcelain Tile in Niagra Ivory, Bathroom Bizarre
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Bean Bag, Ashanti Design. 2Barcelona Dining Table and Chairs, Bloc Outdoor. 3Lino Soft Table Set, MBM. 4Floora Standing Light and Ivy Pouffe/Luminescent Table (EMU), The Modern Garden Company 5Dedon Nestrest, Cane Time 6Havana Suspension Lamp (Foscarini), Créma Design 7Nova Desk Bowl, Styler 8White Club Sofa Set (Gloster), Marlanteak 1
Outdoor Zone
Susan Perry, The Modern Garden Company ‘By defining outdoor zones, you can add another three or even four clear outdoor “rooms” to your house, visibly adding value to your property. Outdoor zoning can be done by means of shading, heating and lighting. Solar lighting has been a trend for a while and is progressing rapidly into more aesthetically pleasing design forms. LED/rechargeable is still a significant player and is taking on some much more organic, fluid and interesting forms. Lighting is also being used to ‘The retro aesthetic is big this season, as with indoor furniture. It seems that the prevailing economic conditions have made us nostalgic. At the Milan Furniture Fair this year, it was all about new products on old themes. Many of the classical designs were reinterpreted and re-engineered in contemporary materials, giving a new look to old favourites. Fully upholstered outdoor furniture is currently the way forward – even if the furniture manufacturers were playing it safe in the designs, the fabric technologies continue to progress. Many of us love the brights that are available, but are not quite brave enough to follow through. So keep with the neutrals, and go with the on-trend palettes for accessories, such as the glamorous fuchsia, lime green and silver. ‘Outdoor carpets are becoming very popular, and shapes continue to be organic or to move towards the “new retro”. Multifunctional furniture is another big trend, such as seating that doubles as lighting, stools that open up to become lounging cushions, loungers that fold to become tables and ottomans with tray tops that double as seating or side tables.’ +27 (0)21 434 0611, moderngarden.co.za
42 | June/July 2011
Bean Bag, Ashanti Design
create soft architecture, giving shape and form without structure.
TRENDS
In the
zone suppliers A–Z
Alpine German Kitchens, +27 (0)21 532 2626, agk.co.za Ashanti Design, +27 (0)21 461 0367, ashantidesign.com Banks Kitchen Boutique, +27 (0)21 461 3190, banks-shop.co.za Barrow Flooring, +27 (0)11 444 8500, barrowflooring.co.za Bathroom Bizarre, 086 155 5000, bathroom.co.za Bella Bathrooms, +27 (0)11 262 3731, bellabathrooms.co.za Bestwood Flooring, +27 (0)21 465 1035, bestwood.co.za Bloc Outdoor, +27 (0)82 335 6899, outdoorfurniturestore.co.za Box Living, +27 (0)21 465 6480, boxliving.co.za Bretz Imports, +27 (0)79 288 0431, southafrica.bretz.com Caesarstone, +27 (0)11 822 1350, caesarstone.co.za Cane Time, +27 (0)21 510 1072, canetime.com Chateau d’Ax, +27 (0)10 201 2392, roshnee.pillay@chateau-dax.co.za Colonial House Design, +27 (0)21 421 1467, colonialhouse.co.za Créma Design, +27 (0)21 434 0661, cremadesign.co.za Dokter & Misses, +27 (0)11 025 2469, dokterandmisses.com Duravit, +27 (0)11 722 9060, duravit.com Espresso Design, +27 (0)21 422 5283, espressodesign.co.uk Flush Bathrooms, +27 (0)21 511 7888, flushbathrooms.co.za Frank Böhm Studio, +27 (0)21 447 9590, frankbohmstudio.co.za Gavin Rajah, +27 (0)21 424 7842, gavinrajah.com Hennie Meyer Ceramics, +27 (0)21 975 1339,
henniemeyerceramics.co.za Hertex Fabrics, 086 043 7839, hertex.co.za Italian Lifestyle, +27 (0)11 447 4703, italianlifestyle.co.za Italcotto, +27 (0)21 425 4192, italcotto.co.za K. Light Import, +27 (0)21 552 4370, klight.co.za Lavo Bathroom Concepts, +27 (0)21 461 0180, lavo.co.za Le Creuset, +27 (0)21 905 8529, lecreuset.co.za LG, 080 054 5454, lg.com Marlanteak, +27 (0)21 425 3817, marlanteak.com MBM, +27 (0)21 461 3552, mbmafrica.co.za Miele, +27 (0)11 548 1900, miele.co.za ODE DIY, 086 111 3080, ode.co.za Okha, +27 (0)21 461 7233, okha.com On Tap, +27 (0)21 422 2516, ontap.co.za Quartz Carpet, 086 1782 789, quartzcarpet.co.za Red Hot Glass, +27 (0)21 863 0330, redhotglass.co.za Sarah Ord Interiors, +27 (0)82 378 2155, sarahord.com Skinny laMinx, +27 (0)82 779 9401, skinnylaminx.com Styler, +27 (0)11 708 6090, styler.co.za The Lighting Warehouse, +27 (0)11 201 2621, lightingwarehouse.co.za The Modern Garden Company, +27 (0)21 434 0611, moderngarden.co.za The Mohair Collection, +27 (0)41 487 1386, mohaircollection.co.za Wall Art Stickers, +27 (0)84 061 4121, wallartstickers.co.za Weylandts, +27 (0)21 425 5282, weylandts.co.za World of Marble and Granite, +27 (0)11 234 4401, womag.co.za
Built-in Cupboards Bars Vanities Studies Built-in Cabinets Fittings (skirting, dado rails, architrave, panelling) BARS
KITCHENS
STUDIES
BEDROOM FURNITURE
DINING ROOM FURNITURE
LOUNGE FURNITURE
Lamu headboard Lamu dining table
Zen low plasma TV unit
Zen dining table
Londo coffee table
Londo side board Lamu dining chair Lamu pedestal
Pinetown 2 Devon Road, Pinetown, 3610 031 709 6770
Londo Dutch coffee/side table
Savoy tub chair
Londo side table
Sky occasional chair
www.afrormosia.co.za
Hillcrest 8 on Old Main, Shop 4&5, Hillcrest 031 765 4986
The Saint James on Venice Luxury Boutique Hotel
Indoor/Outdoor Suite
Suppliers of Outdoor Furniture
www.canetime.com | cane@canetime.com 12 Kramer Road Kramerville Johannesburg | Tel: 011 2622752 Cell (Durban): 0824104969
This 14-bed boutique hotel is nestled in the upmarket, leafy suburb of Morningside, Durban, close to the trendy eateries of Florida Road. Durban’s beachfront, major sports stadiums, such as Kings Park and Moses Mabhida stadiums, golf courses and Greyville Racecourse are also nearby. For business guests, The Saint James on Venice is well positioned for easy access to the ICC and city centre, within 10 minutes of the Umhlanga Ridge precinct and 20 minutes from the airport. Beautifully restored and with old-world values of comfort and service, The Saint James on Venice offers all the modern conveniences, including luxury transfers and state-of-the-art conference facilities. The signature restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, a traditional high tea and dinner, which can also be enjoyed outdoors in the shade of a beautiful old fig tree. For further information please do not hesitate to contact The St James on Venice on 031 312 9488, gm@stjamesonvenice.co.za or visit www.stjamesonvenice.co.za.
100 Venice Road Morningside Durban 4001
networking
Society
Living the high life in KwaZulu-Natal.
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Deloitte candidates passed their IRBA board exam: 1Odete Pereira, Mario Sampaio, Samantha Pereira 2Yajina Jeawin, Arth and Ahuti Jeawin 3Sayeeda Rasool, Mariam and Ismail Rasool. The Kingdom of the Netherlands donated R200 million to eThekwini Water and Sanitation: 4Mandla Malakoana, Mary-Anne Cobarg, Aaron Mfunda Dave Larkin, Jutta Dedekind, Simon Scruton, Speedy Moodliar 6Michael Sutcliffe, Rob de Vos, Neil Macleod, Cornelius Ruiters. Opening night of The Strat Pack:
Ashleigh Dean, Mali Sewell, Christy Adlam 8Jason Andrew, Fiona Clark, Barry Thomson 9Mandy and Shaun Dragt. Relais & Châteaux champagne and canapés do at The
7
Oyster Box Hotel: 10Jill Wagner, Tony Romer-Lee, Lew Rood, Annie-Claude Bergonzoli, Liz McGrath, Nick Dreyer, Shan Varty. eLan Group’s charity Royal Luncheon at Riverside Hotel: 11Sylvia Bickerdick, Sydney and Lynn Hammond 12Rose Naidu, Daphne Govender, Cynthia Ambrose 13Donel van Zyl, Rebecca Johnston, Ashley Graham.
To see who else we’ve featured in our Society pages, visit thepropertymag.co.za. Email social photographs for consideration to socials@medianova.co.za.
44 | June/July 2011
Compiled by Debbie Reynolds
5
the PROPERTY DINNER
Private Collections
Words Anne Schauffer Photographs Val Adamson
Survive or thrive. That was the rigorous debate which occupied a very vocal group of guests who wined and dined sumptuously at Hotel on the Park, courtesy of Private Property group and The Property Magazine.
T
here we were at Plum, but you’d be forgiven for thinking it was Apple or BlackBerry. If you’re still mired in the mindset that the property industry is all about show houses and ‘For Sale’ boards, you’re probably still carrying an abacus to tot up the bill. Meet the new breed of property professionals, who bring an iPhone and a tablet PC to dinner. Prepare to be booted out of your comfort zone. It was a great night in all respects: Hotel on the Park proffered a starlit Durban sky and arranged the perfect evening temperature for bubbly and sushi on the patio, and in response, we added a very lively group of hosts and guests who rolled up their elegant sleeves from the word ‘go’. The guest list
included the co-hosts – the team from Private Property and The Property Magazine KZN team – plus Private Property’s guests from related industries. Property may have been at the heart of the evening, but technology kept it pumping. The CEO of Private Property, Justinus Adriaanse, is a self-confessed techno junkie, and freely admitted that he budgets every year for technology upgrades to his toys and tools. He wouldn’t consider being behind the curve, and he’s the one at the head of the queue for the latest Apple tablet, iPod … you name it. And he’d brought them to dinner. We weren’t sure if that was the norm or if he’d brought it along to substantiate his claim that those at the forefront of technology are guaranteed to clean up the field. In his welcoming words,
he declared Private Property ‘a technology company which happens to be in the property industry’. He added, ‘We are thinking a lot about how 2020 is going to look. We need to gain a firm understanding of what will make your industry easier, particularly in terms of technology, and to achieve that, we want you to talk to us.’ Clearly, that’s why we were all there. To talk. Well, that, and some excellent food, wine and lively company. Once we’d established that Justinus hadn’t slipped any Blue Bulls memorabilia into the goodie bags (an unsafe move in Sharks’ territory), and he’d crushed Jonathan Acutt of Acutts in a BlackBerry-vs-Apple arm wrestle – ‘like VHS or Betamax,’ Colin Botha of attorneys and conveyancers Chapman
Guest list Jonathan Acutt Acutts, Justinus Adriaanse Private Property, Gareth Bailey RE/MAX Address, Colin Botha Chapman Dyer Inc., Justin Clarke Private Property, Mark Coetzee Private Property, Owen Dormehl Dormehl Property Group, Earl Gabriel Just Property Group, Richard Gray Harcourts SA, Andrew Hathorn Beall Chaplin & Hathorn, Keith Hendra Hendra Estates, Noleen Hendra Hendra Estates, Jenni McCallum Media Nova, Megan Rencken Private Property, John Roberts Just Property Group, Anne Schauffer Media Nova, Fred Soukop Soukop Property Group, Jane Steiger Private Property, Colette van der Waldt Private Property
June/July 2011 | 45
the Property Dinner
Dyer Inc. said drily – we moved on to the serious business of clinking glasses of Protea Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot and ordering our meals. What a delectable menu – meticulously prepared by Plum’s chef, Jason Turner, with a presentation as enticing as the contents. Pausing between mouthfuls, our guests reached consensus that estate agents today need to be tech-savvy; the days of the cellphone brick as the ultimate lady estate agent’s weapon are long gone. ‘The tablet is an essential tool,’ said Justinus, as he flipped open this neat little item alongside his dinner plate. Lively conversation centred around the changing face of property and estate agencies in SA. How far behind the rest of the world are we? ‘Not that far at all,’ said the Private Property team. Take auctions: in South Africa, perceptions around auctions are different; we think we’ll get a bargain. In the US, there’s not that associated air of desperation – only 20% of their properties sell on the day, because there are reserves. There, auctions are simply one way of selling a property, not a desperate measure. But our views are changing. One of the biggest changes taking place in the industry is in people’s perception of ‘the opposition’. It wasn’t that long ago that Private Property was viewed as just that. Now it’s considerably more collaborative than competitive, and agents round the table, including Noleen and Keith Hendra of Hendra Estates and Fred Soukop of Soukop Property Group, all view Private Property as a significant helping hand. Co-founder of Private Property, Justin Clarke, smiled. ‘Awesome to have a group of people who could be opposition but are instead working together,’ he said. ‘Everybody here is forward-thinking – they see the industry changing, and they acknowledge the need to change with it. This is a progressive group …’ Speaking of progress, the Just Property Group plans to be the top property letting organisation within the next two years, said CEO John Roberts. He described their modus operandi for working with lessors: ‘We guarantee you your rental on the first of the month. No matter what the tenant’s doing, we pay you the rental, and continue to do so for as long as it takes us to sort it out (up to three months, but we’ve never experienced that). Nice for the landlord; not so nice for errant tenants. We are running a default rate of less than 1%, no matter what the national statistics tell us.’ Impressive. And, to stress the value of their listings on Private Property, he added, ‘Just Letting on its own achieves 130 000 visits a month.’ Owen Dormehl from Dormehl Property Group was pretty vocal: ‘The virtual tours on Private Property are fantastic. A client walked in and said, “We’ve seen a property on privateproperty.co.za; we want to buy it.” That’s how good those tours are.’ In his opinion, it’s the agent who markets a property correctly who’ll make the sale. ‘My interest is in establishing, for example, a great relationship with Fred Soukop. He has the property; I have the client; we work together.’ Gareth Bailey, CEO of RE/MAX Address, said, ‘Today, it’s about the agents first, then the brand. As times get tough, it’s more about the person you want to deal with than the brand. Belonging to a great brand means you’re in business for yourself, but not by yourself.’ Richard Gray is CEO of Harcourts South Africa. He firmly believes that technology is his brand’s competitive advantage. ‘Lots of people are either paying lip service to it, or are in denial. Technology is our trademark,’ he said. Justinus said technology also makes the industry substantially more efficient: ‘You’re using the same
46 | June/July 2011
amount of time and energy, but achieving so much more.’ A grin. ‘Are you ever going to beat a Ferrari when you’re riding a horse?’ Not likely. But by then we were tucking into our delectable sweet trio of chocolate brownies with homemade maple syrup ice cream, vanilla brûlée and lemon tartlet … and we wouldn’t have noticed if a horse had cantered through Plum.
The Menu With Bubbly Norwegian salmon sushi handrolls Fishcakes with roasted paprika pepper mayo
1
Vegetarian sushi handrolls To Begin @ Plum Artichoke pâté with olive chutney and artisanal breads Next @ Plum Grilled red fish on quinoa, lentil and baby spinach risotto, lemony mayonnaise Fillet steak on broccoli and fontina croquette, salsa verde and griddled marrows Layered crispy brinjal, broccoli fontina croquette, sweet mint dressing, chilli butternut, grilled marrows, sweet tomatoes and paprika truffles To End @ Plum Trio of chocolate brownie with home-made maple
6
syrup ice cream, vanilla brûlée and lemon tartlet Plum Restaurant, Hotel on the Park 296 Steven Dlamini Road (Essenwood Road) Berea, Durban. +27 (0)31 201 0017, hotelonthepark.co.za
9 8
13
14
the Property Dinner
4
2
3
Noleen Hendra 2Jane Steiger, Owen Dormehl 3Colette van der Waldt
1
4
Richard Gray 5Jenni McCallum 6Colin Botha 7Anne Schauffer, Gareth
Bailey 8Megan Rencken 9Mark Coetzee 10Justinus Adriaanse 11Keith Hendra 12Andrew Hathorn, Noleen Hendra 13Justin Clarke 14Jane Steiger 15John Roberts, Earl Gabriel 16Jonathan Acutt 17Fred Soukop
5 7
12 10
11
15
16
17 June/July 2011 | 47
Directory
The Marine Building The Marine Building 22 Gardiner Street, Durban 22 Gardiner Street, Durban Tel: (031) 374 8100 Fax: (031) 374 Tel: (031) 3748135 8100 www.nhbrc.org.za Fax: (031) 374 8135 www.nhbrc.org.za
The Bull Run Restaurant is famed for its prime cuts of exquisite South African beef â&#x20AC;&#x201C; served via itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own in-house butchery â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and an extensive selection of the ďŹ nest Cape wines. Situated near popular nightspots in the upmarket suburb of Sandton, the energy and vibe of the Bull Run caters for any occasion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; be it a business lunch, dinner before a night on the town, or a corporate function. Opposite the Johannesburg Stock Exchange Adjacent to the Protea Hotel Balalaika Sandton 20 Maude Street, Sandton
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Tel + 27 (0)11 884 - 1400 | E-mail info@thebullrun.co.za Group Bookings reservations@thebullrun.co.za
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The Wish Collection - Exclusive Stockists
Frette Bed and Bath linen Corneliani mens wear Baccarat crystal Books, Candles and Chocolates Ladies and mens grooming products Ettinger leather accessories
To advertise in this space, please contact Mavashini Naidoo on 0861Â 765Â 833 or email mavashini@medianova.co.za.
Shop 1 Lower Level Illovo Square Shopping Centre, Sandton Tel: 011 447 4495 Fax: 011 447 4844 Cell: 082 850 5439
T ES U G R O IT ED r ou ilm G ter Pe
Real estate
residential, commercial, offshore
WHY THINGS ARE
LOOKING UP There are many reasons for homebuyers and property investors to feel confident about buying real estate in South Africa.
Main photograph 123rf.com Profile photograph Sam Norval
T
he local property market has moved firmly into a stage of recovery. The real estate market will strengthen gradually as the year continues, as there are many signs to support a measured recovery of the general economy and the local real estate market. For one, mortgage interest rates are at historically low levels, and house prices are at levels last seen in the early 2000s, and are still decreasing in real terms. These conditions give buyers a great opportunity to secure a well-priced home or investment. Historically, as lending criteria tightened, so the demand for property fell, and this, coupled with South Africa’s high ratio of debt to disposable income, substantially reduced the ability of people to buy property. The global increase in unemployment numbers and companies’ profits dropping didn’t help matters, and homeowners in SA and around the world found it difficult to meet their monthly bond commitments, and either lost their homes or fell into arrears. But now, after three years of falling property
prices and lowered demand for real estate, bank mortgage advances are back at levels of 11 years ago. And while they may take some time to recover to the levels seen in the mid 2000s, the worst of the downturn is over. Knowledgeable investors understand that it is best to purchase at the bottom end of a cycle, where they can take advantage of the favourable market conditions which create ideal investment opportunities for savvy buyers. Added to this is the fact that South Africa has one of the fastest-growing middle-class population segments in the world, which sees new buyers entering the real estate market each month. Home prices and interest rates have also opened up the property market to people who could not afford to buy a house five years ago and who have been waiting for market conditions such as the ones we have now, where purchasing real estate is a tangible possibility. On the whole, things are looking up. South Africa has been admitted to the BRICS group, a move that could significantly improve the economy in the future. Large
investment flows into the country as investor confidence in emerging economies strengthens and increased tourism numbers since the World Cup, which have resulted in an inflow of capital, have had a positive impact on the economy. The government has introduced tax proposals in an effort to attract multinational companies working to establish a base for their future African networks, and the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Business Confidence Index has increased from 86,4 in February to 88,3 in March, the highest level since September 2008. All this indicates that the economy has gathered momentum and remains resilient in the face of global events. When it comes to real estate, our local industry has been somewhat tarnished by recent events, and the latest revelation by the Estate Agency Affairs Board (EAAB) chairman as to the state of the regulatory body appointed by the DTI has not helped. While the industry has struggled with the EAAB for years, it has still largely managed to regulate itself, led by the ethos and values
of upstanding individuals, companies and real estate groups who have been around for 20 years and more. That a very small percentage of operators does not uphold this level of professionalism, and is highlighted in the media, should not imply that the industry as a whole is bad. While it is reasonable to assume that not all of the more than 100 000 property transactions that take place annually in South Africa go smoothly, my 40 years of international real estate experience leads me to believe that we have one of the best and most sophisticated real estate industries in any emerging economy across the globe.
Peter Gilmour, Chairman of RE/MAX of Southern Africa June/July 2011 | 49
RESIDENTIAL Real Estate
Your Move
Playground revamp Work on an extensive upgrade to Bulwer Park in Glenwood is set to commence soon, and is expected to inject new life into this rather neglected area. In addition to improving security, lighting, ablutions facilities, furniture and landscaping, the focus will be on forging new relationships with neighbouring properties, such as the KZNSA Gallery, the KZN Institute for Architecture, Glenwood Primary School, Stella Sports Club and the Helen Joseph strip, in order to maximise the park’s prime position. Cafés spilling out onto lawns, an indigenous nursery, new pathways for sports and recreational activities, such as dog-walking and cycling, a totally revamped children’s playground and an upgrade of the BMX track are included in the plans. Sustainability is also being addressed through the restoration of biodiversity, water sensitivity and the use of renewable energy technology. ‘Through this project, the Architecture Department of eThekwini has shown the benefits of close and direct consultation with affected communities and stakeholders in the positive development of the living environment,’ says City Architect Jonathan Edkins. +27 (0)31 311 7009, durban.gov.za
Chairman: Lew Geffen of Sotheby’s International Realty (South Africa) A property market still struggling to come out of the recession now has to deal with rising mortgage applications rejections as commercial banks further tighten the tap on lending. Figures show that in the market in which we operate (the R2,5-million price range), mortgage applications rejections have increased from 4,4% last year to a double-digit 10%. The banks are trying not to overheat the market and have adopted a conservative approach to lending. In addition, inflationary pressures are mounting in the economy on the back of rising energy costs and food prices, while employment
The South African real estate industry will look back on 2011 as a watershed year in its evolution to establishing a professional image. – Peter Gilmour, Chairman, RE/MAX of Southern Africa
and consumer confidence are down in the first quarter of this year compared with the fourth quarter of last year. Household credit extension,
‘The homes hav been designed toe maximise upma rk coastal living.’ et
including mortgage advances, remained well in single-digit territory in the first three months of the year, reflecting the state of household finances and the resultant ability to take up credit. Coupled with this is the expectation of inflation rising to an average of just below 6% year-on-year in the fourth quarter of this year, with interest rates currently forecast to remain unchanged until early 2012, when the first rate hike is expected. The banks’ prime and variable mortgage interest rates are forecast to rise by a of next year to a level of 11,5% by year end. Growth in house prices may owe its improvements largely to a depressed base and not to improving market conditions. Residential property prices are set to
Secret hideaway
Launched about two years ago but still one of the North Coast’s best-kept secrets, Sovereign Sands at Blythedale Beach is a prestigious development set on 4ha of secure, prime real estate featuring a splendid
achieve a muted growth this year in line with
half- kilometre of beach frontage. The estate offers a mix of freestanding homes and duos designed to maximise
inflation. This is likely to be at a lower rate than
upmarket coastal living. These typically have three to six bedrooms, a lounge, dining room and kitchen, a
the level of growth recorded last year; however,
double garage, basement parking that can double as a storage unit for jet-skis and the like, and an expansive
with interest rates remaining at historically low
outdoor deck with optional pool. Several of the homes have internal courtyard gardens. Blythedale’s year- round
levels, homebuyers are being urged to take
subtropical climate makes it ideal for bathing on the protected beaches, surfing and diving. There’s even a
advantage of the current environment to secure
ski boat launch site on the lagoon near the end of the village. Sovereign Sands is conveniently close to the
a favourable home loan.
half- dozen championship golf courses in the area, Gateway Theatre of Shopping and Umhlanga Ridge business precinct, and is just 20 minutes from the new airport. ‘Three-bed frontline duos start at R2 995 000, and pets
Lew
are most welcome,’ says Henri Frencken for Sovereign Sands. +27 (0)82 906 5517, sovsands.co.za
50 | June 2011
Compiled by André Fiore and Jackie Gray
cumulative 250 basis points during the course
COMMERCIAL Real Estate
South Africa’s inclusion in the BRICS group has established a foundation for very proactive commercial growth. – Peter Gilmour,
Chairman, RE/MAX of Southern Africa
Port potential
Dube TradePort, home to King Shaka International Airport, is currently a hive of activity. Investment opportunities are now available to different business sectors in some of its divisions. +27 (0)31 307 2857, dubetradeport.co.za Dube City – Dube City is envisioned as a 24-hour live-work-play development that will accommodate hotels, offices and retail space. There is large scope for the development of corporate head offices and professional, medical, financial/ banking, property and other business offices. Phase 1 will include a hotel complex, an event and exhibition space, conferencing facilities, restaurants, wellness centres and entertainment areas. TradeZone – The TradeZone, which is directly linked to the airport’s cargo terminal, is a new and significant development which provides dedicated sites for the import, manufacture and assembly of goods and the export of cargo. The range of business uses to which it can be put includes logistics, warehousing, light manufacturing, processing, commerce and consolidation and the handling of high-value cargo. Through the provision of state-of-the-art airfreight handling facilities, the TradeZone is expected to attract businesses in the motor components, electronics, high-value goods, clothing and textiles, perishables and value-added
World Trade Centre comes to Africa
logistics industries. AgriZone – The AgriZone is an integrated agricultural export zone comprising 63ha of net developable land, including land for the cultivation of high-value farming produce and the provision of facilities designed to
Cape Town has become the first city in Africa
promote agricultural production and export. Of the available land, 20ha have been developed, and a further
to establish a World Trade Centre. Following
93ha are available for lease from Airports Company South Africa. The AgriZone will benefit high-yield,
a private sector initiative by top business
time-sensitive air-freighted horticultural products and will include greenhouses, shade-netting and pack houses.
executives representing 13 countries in sub-
Potential tenants of agricultural land include local and international producers and agribusiness companies, says
Saharan Africa, the newly established centre
commercial property executive, Mark Beckett.
is ready for business. Julius Steyn, CEO of World Trade Centre Africa, says it functions as a meeting place where business and trade activities of various countries are promoted between private sector entities. It also provides up-to-the-minute information about trade agreements between countries. Research indicates that the compound growth rate for sub-Saharan Africa will amount to 4% a year between 2011 and 2020, and the World Trade Centre aims to facilitate 1% of this growth within five years, which will come to about $70 billion (about R480 billion). ‘With the establishment of a World Trade Centre in Cape Town, an effort has begun to bring together private sectors with the support of their respective governments in the SADC and NEPAD regions in a politically neutral way to establish a trade block with the rest of the world,’ says Julius. World Trade Centre Cape Town is headquartered at Crystal Towers, Century City. +27 (0)87 944 4072, wtc.co.za
Top priority The City Architects Department of eThekwini Municipality is piloting an innovative public precinct management project in Durban’s CBD, focusing on the area surrounding the Albert Compiled by Andrea Firth and André Fiore
Luthuli ICC Complex, Gugu Dlamini Park and City Hall. Project Executive (Sustainable Architecture), Derek White, says the Priority Zone Facility Management pilot project has already had an impressive impact on safety and security in this area, with a considerable increase in the safety of ICC delegates since the project commenced just over a year ago. This is a result of a combination of visible security patrols, upgraded litter-picking and cleansing routines, attention to detail in landscape maintenance and new cooperative relationships built up with all stakeholders in the area. The intention of the project is to protect the municipality’s investment in high-profile capital building and streetscape assets by improving the standards of precinct management in their vicinity using a partnership of city and private sector expertise and resources. +27 (0)31 311 7009, durban.gov.za
June/July 2011 | 51
OFFSHORE Real Estate
The growing stability in some southern African regions means we can look forward to investment in all real estate sectors. – Peter Gilmour, Chairman, RE/MAX of Southern Africa
East African sanctuary Siani Estate, hidden away just off the coastal path between Lamu and Shela, Kenya, is a 5ha estate brimming with coconut groves and mango plantations, and it’s there that you’ll find Siani House. Set amid gardens and orchids, the property comprises a main house with three bedrooms, of which two are en suite, a two-bedroom guest house and four-bedroom staff quarters with kitchen and laundry, and is being marketed by Acquire Africa at R29 million. Siani House is the inspired creation of renowned interior designer and magazine editor, Marie- Paule Pelle, who over several years has completely renovated, remodelled and redecorated the original colonial house with African, Indian, Arabian and European artefacts she collected during her travels. The estate has over 300m of sea frontage facing the Lamu Channel, and just in front of the property is a beach cove that’s ideal for swimming and provides safe boat anchorage. It is also just a few minutes stroll (or a few moments by speedboat) from Lamu town, fashionable Shela village and the island’s 13km beach. +27 (0)21 794 8128, acquireafrica.com
Austrian wonderland AdMakers International is marketing an exclusive ski chalet development in the Austrian Alps. The development, Am Duxer Anger, is situated in the picturesque village of Hochkrimml along the Gerlos Pass, on the border of Salzburg and Tyrol. At 1 700m above sea level, Am Duxer Anger is among the highest ski villages in Austria, making it one of the world’s prime winter sports destinations.
Interior designer , Marie-Paule Pelle, has entire ly remodelled the colonial house.
These contemporary two- or three-bedroom ski chalets, priced between ¤160 000 (R1,6 million) and ¤224 000 (R2,2 million), are all south-facing, perfect for capturing the sunlight and mountain views. The development is environmentally sensitive and has superior finishes, such as granite in the
Malawi mall mania
bathroom and kitchen areas, larch wood floors in the living room and bedrooms,
The Gateway regional retail mall in Lilongwe, Malawi, is on schedule for
and underfloor heating throughout. Owners may choose from a variety of custom
completion in mid 2012. To date, 70% of the space of the R340-million,
fittings and furnishings. Am Duxer Anger has direct access to 166km of ski slopes,
17 500m2 commercial development has been signed for or is under
and ultramodern ski lifts. In summer, residents can enjoy the lush green forests,
negotiation, and confirmed bookings are expected to increase to 80% within
which are full of birds and animals. Other attractions include the incredible Hohe
the next few months. The Gateway is located in Malawi’s fast-growing
Tauern national park and the famous Krimml Waterfalls (Europe’s highest), not to
middle-class western suburbs on the intersection of the North-South
mention the area’s sensational golf courses. +27 (0)21 448 7074, admakers.com
Kaunda Road western bypass and the main East-West Mchinji Highway linking Lilongwe with Zambia. The centre has been designed to A-grade (including air conditioning) institutional investment standards and will be the most advanced mall of its kind in the greater region. The project is owned by MPICO Malls, a subsidiary of the listed Malawi Property Investment Company, which in turn is a subsidiary of Old Mutual Malawi. Of the available space, 9 000m2 will be occupied by major South African fashion and furniture retailers. At 3 500m2, Pick n Pay will be and a taxi rank will be provided. The site can accommodate a second development phase, which could include a four-star hotel, a medical centre and offices or a major standalone DIY goods retail centre, and discussions with potential tenants are already under way. +265 99 996 8855, malawiproperty.com
52 | June/July 2011
Compiled by Genevieve Fisher
the food anchor. Over 1 000 parking bays
723m2 4 Beds 4 Baths 3 Lounges Vacu-Maid Underfloor heating 4 Garages Study Pool Jacuzzi Granny flat potential Web ref: 218942 On entering, a sense of formality evolves into family comforts, imposing columns, classic even tones & the best in high-end finishes! A mahogany kitchen & magnificent Travertine marble staircase which leads upstairs to oversized bedrooms & bathrooms. Entertainment veranda with cascading pool, Jacuzzi & view. PRIZ MUNDELL (NQF4) 084 240 1130
R4 500 000
SUPERB OPPORTUNITY FOR BOUTIQUE COUNTRY LODGE OR CHEF SCHOOL – DELUXE MANOR HOUSE!
A GENTLEMAN’S RESIDENCE OF DISTINCTION
800m2 Manor House with 5 Beds & 4 Baths 4 Cottages 30,568m2 Land 70m2 gourmet kitchen with cold room BBQ & Pizza Oven Web ref: 237922 Bring your vision & your banker – turn this superb home into an enviable commercial venture. Loads of space to grow your own produce. With creative vision, the potential is enormous. Stunning outlook over the Drummond Valley. 10 min from Kearsney & 15km from Hillcrest. BEV JONES 082 466 6838
R3 900 000
KLOOF
R3 200 000
SOLE MANDATE
KLOOF
House 600m2 Land 6,725m2 5 Beds 3 Baths 3 Lounges Study Pool Jacuzzi 2-Bedroom Flat Enormous Workshop Web ref: 236845 One of Kloof’s most prestigious homes has become available. Set in a manicured garden with flowing water features & amazing entertainment areas. Solid wood floors, Burmese teak leaded windows with an Anglo-Gothic style are some of the distinguishing features. Separate, new 2-bed flat plus a large workshop area. JOHN NOTHARD (NQF4) 082 491 4447
SOLE MANDATE
R4 200 000
HILLCREST
DUAL MANDATE
KLOOF
R4 900 000
SOLE MANDATE
MAGNIFICENT “LANGFORD” MANSION – REDUCED!
DRUMMOND
SOLE MANDATE
R5 850 000
TRI MANDATE
HILLCREST
AN ACHIEVEMENT IN LUXURY
EXECUTIVE’S LUXURY HIDEAWAY
MODERN DESIGNER SIMPLEX IN PRIME MEADOW LANE AREA
510m2 3 Beds 2.5 Baths 2 Lounges Dining room Separate home office or flat 2 Garages Web ref: 239492 Elegant & spacious proportions, designed for living life in style! Lavish dining area, complemented by an “eat in” kitchen where family stories & laughter can be exchanged. A master bedroom worthy of its name, with indulgent Cleopatra bathroom which enhances relaxation. Manicured formal garden, with entertainment veranda & social pub room. Happy endings begin here … VARINA ROSS 072 119 3089
R2 550 000
KLOOF
R2 550 000
SOLE MANDATE
HILLCREST
MICHELE WILSON (NQF5) 083 415 3970
SOLE MANDATE
R2 700 000
BEV JONES 082 466 6838
335m2 3 Beds 2 Baths 3 Lounges Study Dining room Pool Double Garage Web ref: 239296 Luxurious modern unit in small complex with easy access to highway. Open-plan living is at the heart of this home with a gourmet kitchen to delight even the most discerning buyer. Tons of extras to enhance an easy lifestyle.
DUAL MANDATE
HILLCREST
417m2 2 Beds 2.5 Baths 2 Lounges 3 Garages Study 2 Dining rooms Entertainment Wine Cellar Entertainment deck Web ref: 232378 Peace & privacy will wrap around you. Set right on the Gorge – the breathtaking view will seduce you time and time again. A lifestyle where gourmet opportunities will be shared and the professional can work from home. Custom-built wine room for an intimate dining experience. Views from every room.
A GREAT PLACE TO GROW YOUR FAMILY!
CONTEMPORARY STYLE
COME AND EXPERIENCE THE ENCHANTMENT!
CHANTAL PATTERSON (NQF4) 082 309 2051
PRIZ MUNDELL (NQF4) 084 240 1130
267m2 3 Beds 2 Baths 2 Lounges 2 Garages Pool Web ref: 239496 This is the ideal place to call home – a large, level garden for children to play safely, it’s a spacious home with good flow allowing ease in entertaining. 2 lounges with feature dual fireplace plus two covered verandas all set in a pet-friendly, secure, gated estate allowing you to live with complete peace of mind.
427m2 4 Beds 3 Baths 2 Lounges 4 Garages Pool Granny flat potential Tennis court Web ref: 219133 This recently renovated home will appeal to the growing family! With space to play … pool, tennis court, trampoline and jungle gym … and entertain on the huge patio, this trendy home on an acre has something for everyone.
Hillcrest & Kloof 031 765 5326 1st Floor, Christians Village Mall, Old Main Road, Hillcrest
350m2 4 Beds 2.5 Baths 2 Lounges Sep. home office/flat 2 Garages Views Expansive entertainment deck Heated pool Web ref: 236841 A warm, comfortable family home, with formal lounge, crackling fireplace & sep. lavish dining room. The 2nd lounge has its own entertainment kitchen & built-in gas cooker leading out onto the expansive entertainment deck, with solar-heated pool & treed views across Makaranga Lodge! The cherry on the top is an enormous flat or home office. MICHELE WILSON (NQF5) 083 415 3970
Your Smartest Move Yet...
UPPER HIGHWAY prestige property Collection Kloof Office
Hillcrest Office
Office 031 764 0017 Fax 031 764 0089
Office Fax
031 765 6755 031 765 2954
Kloof R2,950,000 Character home in very good position. Cosy lounge with fireplace for those chilly nights. Second lounge, dining room, bar and study. 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Gym, security, staff accommodation. Double auto garages.
Kloof R2,350,000 A beautiful, modern home in a private, quiet cul-de-sac. Easy access to schools. Glorious landscaped garden. Comprises 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 4 reception rooms, double garage and full staff accommodation.
Kloof R2,800,000 Unique opportunity to own the Manor House in a secure complex in prime Park Lane. Loads of character and charm. Comprises 4 large bedrooms 2.5 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, studio, pool and double garage.
Di van Rensburg 083 440 1638
Judy Bezuidenhout 083 230 0646
Judy Bezuidenhout 083 230 0646
WEB ACCESS: 1KF104727
WEB ACCESS: 1KF104725
WEB ACCESS: KLF 1047426
Kloof R5,900,000 2 acres with a little forest and stream host this immaculate home, where no expense has been spared. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3 receptions rooms, cottage, 4 garages, staff accommodation and pool.
Kloof R2,350,000 This well-located, 440sqm property offers 4 bedrooms, ultramodern bathrooms and kitchen, two huge lounges, pool, upmarket servant quarters and large entertainment room. Don’t miss a good bet!
Kloof R2,390,000 Well-appointed, 4-bedroom simplex in a small, sought- after complex with large walled landscaped garden. Close to schools and amenities. Staff quarters, 2 entertainment patios, double garage and carport.
Judy Bezuidenhout 083 230 0646
Robert Infanti 083 266 8940
Linda Fielers 082 453 4050
WEB ACCESS: 1 KL 153076
WEB ACCESS: 1KF 104730
WEB ACCESS: KLF1048469
GILLITTS R3,300,000 This amazing home will make you feel like you are on holiday in a game lodge. Indigenous garden with huge entertainment veranda for outdoor living. 2 spacious lounges, modern open-plan kitchen and a rim-flow pool.
Kloof R7,400,000 One-in-a-million home with 180-degree gorge views. Ultramodern kitchen and entertainment areas make this glamorous home perfect for families and executives. Work-from-home suite. Small, elite security enclave.
Kloof R5,800,000 Lovely and safe family home in an upmarket area. 5 bedrooms, 3 lounges, large open-plan lounge to sunny patio to pool and views down the 5 389sqm of pancake-level land. North facing. Separate cottage.
Gill Jones 074 110 6444
Pam Mullany 082 899 3455
Pam Mullany 082 899 3455
WEB ACCESS: 1KF 104732
WEB ACCESS: 1KF 104733
WEB ACCESS: KLF 1045883
kloof@pamgolding.co.za | hillcrest@pamgolding.co.za
www.pamgolding.co.za
TREND WATCH
Sustainable business For the environmentally sensitive manager, CN Business Furniture’s EcoCentric Lite desk is part of the group’s range of exclusive, 100% eco-friendly furniture. The Team Air chair is by Italian manufacturer, SitLand. 0861 266 6545, cnonline.co.za
Early start This bright and funky bedroom design solution from Zalf’s
Home work
Keep your home office trendy yet functional with these select items.
Giornalone range, available at Espresso Design, is perfect for the boy exec-in-the-making. +27 (0)21 422 5283, espressodesign.co.uk
Play money SitLand’s Sit&Move chair is an Italian charmer that brings a sense of play to the office, while its ergonomic design promotes wellness at work. 0861 266 6545, cnonline.co.za
Universal flow Beauty and comfort meet functionality and durability in these box wall units and Flow chairs from MDF
Made in Switzerland and available locally from
Italia. Available at Limeline.
Dauphin HumanDesign Company, the Züco Sarno
+27 (0)21 424 8682,
Swivel Chair with natural-timber back is more than
limeline.co.za
furniture – it’s art. +27 (0)11 447 9888, dauphin.co.za
56 | June/July 2011
Words Sandy Welch
Sophisticated head-turner