TPM KZN Dec 2011 by The Property Magazine

cus S L Fo E A al LL N eci E IO Sp CH NAT Y SE TER IN

Property

Est. 2004, Is

KWAZULU-NATAL

DECEMBER 2011

Winner of 10 publishing awards

THE SUGAR HOTEL’S SWEET STYLE GLITZ & GLAMOUR IN DURBAN

decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate

SPLURGE! FANTA SY PROJECTS REVEALED

BOATING TRENDS EXPLORED

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Bronwyn Nielsen, host of CNBC Africa’s Business Tonight, talks retail real estate

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Contents DECOR

HOT DECOR & DESIGN The Shaw Sisters’ plan for local crafts, plus a new home for German kitchens in Umhlanga, gift shopping in Florida Road, and

THE URGE TO SPLURGE

14 14

Going OTT on interiors when money’s no object

TRENDS 10

handmade chandeliers

HOT PLATE The young chef from surprise on the Berea

The places and events you

HOTEL HOTSHOTS

Audi A8 L. Turn to page 2 for details.

SUMMERTIME, AND THE LIVING IS EASY

Hanging out with Durbs’

INTERNATIONAL Asia’s top seaside holiday destination, Bali’s Ayana

SEYCHELLES The new Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort and Spa, Etihad Airways’ new Abu

SPACE ODYSSEY

Dhabi–Seychelles route,

Fahrenheit Design takes

keen interest from Asia, and

a Durban penthouse from

a revamp for Le Méridien

gutted to glam

Fisherman’s Cove

REAL ESTATE 43

CENTRE OF ATTENTION Guest Editor Bronwyn

for a day outdoors

Nielsen of CNBC Africa’s

Green Point’s Sugar Hotel

major business services park

Resort and Spa

SETTING THE STAGE

Your essential accessories

HOT SPACE

Heidi’s Farm Stall up for Ofﬁce Park, and Ballito’s ﬁrst

a difference

COMMERCIAL grabs, a new wing for MRM

SOCIETY

some of SA’s top hotels tell

THE LAP OF LUXURY

DESIGN

Business Tonight takes the

LUXURY 09

JAPAN … SUSHI, SAKE AND SNOW!

A home staging service with

SA’s luxury boating industry

ON THE COVER

developments in Pinetown

thrill bar none

We climb aboard to explore

cottage, and fast-selling

The general managers of us what’s hot these holidays

work-from-home

spirits up these holidays

high-ﬂyers

WHAT’S ON need to know about

for a fab retirement, a

Retail therapy to keep your

Heading east for a downhill

Hartford House, and a

HOT INDULGENCE

pulse of retail real estate

RESIDENTIAL Le Domaine’s recipe

December 2011 | 1

ED’S LETTER

THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE ONLINE VISIT Browse thepropertymag.co.za

Photograph Grant Difford

for the latest features.

To do, or not to do?

We have all done it. Whether it’s in public or behind closed doors, we usually just can’t help ourselves. Sometimes it even happens multiple times. It’s pretty common – hell, even the president does it. Of course, I’m talking about the New Year Resolution. Never has a declaration of change been so loved yet so despised at the same time. The online Cambridge dictionary defines a ‘New Year’s resolution’ as ‘a promise that you make to yourself to start doing something good or stop doing something bad on the first day of the year’. We all know the usual ones – lose weight, get fit, drink less, quit smoking, save more, spend time with family and friends, give more to charity, work less, travel more, rid our lives of stress … They all sound so viable after a couple of glasses of bubbly and that third cream puff on Old Year’s Eve, but we all know that by February these resolutions will usually have been dumped unceremoniously into 2012’s out tray. Earlier, in fact, according to Positive Psychology News Daily (positivepsychologynews.com). Their research shows that it’s actually by mid January that a whopping 30% of resolution-makers will have reduced their efforts considerably and that, by June, most resolutions made in all earnestness will have been given the boot. Their research also shows that success is more likely if you make your resolutions public. No, I don’t mean announcing to everyone at your Christmas

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party that you are giving up smoking on 1 January while a cigarette dangles precariously from your lip. I mean gaining the support of friends and family who can encourage you and keep you on the right track to sticking to your resolution. Author Bill Vaughan said, ‘An optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves.’ And I would have to agree. Resolutions often come about because of failed relationships, failed diets, bad debt … They are made in the hope that the coming year might bring about the changes and happiness that the outgoing year perhaps did not produce. Resolutions are often made in the hope of better times ahead. Bearing this in mind, maybe we ought to encourage resolutions, positive affirmations to put good things out into the universe, and create the hope that they might just happen. But then, as one anonymous writer put it, ‘Many people look forward to the new year for a new start on old habits’. That being said, we could all do with a bit of help, so maybe starting a course to quit smoking, signing up to a gym and cutting up our credit cards is not a bad place to start, either.

0861 765 833

THE PROP ER MAGAZIN TY E WISHES READERS ALL OUR A FAMILIES ND THEIR HAPPY XMA VERY A A PROSPE S AND RO NEW YEAR US !

Nicky Manson, Editor

This month, I would love to splurge on …

Christmas shopping at Trenery and Country Road.

An Axor Bouroullec bathroom. Designed by the

A new Raviolo chair. Designed by Ron Arad, this

These Australian brands, whose collections have to

sought-after French designers, Ronan and Erwan

outdoor chair is made from rotational moulded

date been available to us through Woolies exclusively,

Bouroullec, these innovative creations are pure

polyethylene in a variety of bright startling colours.

now have their own stand-alone stores in the new

simplicity, soft organic shapes and gorgeous designs.

I love this orange one – it would make a statement

Sandton City extension in Joburg and at Cape Town’s

The range includes more than 70 products, allowing

anywhere in a home. Available from Nomic, across SA.

V & A Waterfront. Simple happiness.

you to compose the perfect space. Available from

+27 (0)82 325 9789; magisdesign.com

Hansgrohe SA in all regions. hansgrohe.co.za

4 | December 2011

Property EDITORIAL Editor Nicky Manson nickym@medianova.co.za KwaZulu-Natal Bureau Chief Anne Schauffer anne@medianova.co.za Senior Subeditor Yaron Blecher Features Writers Genevieve Fisher (Western Cape) André Fiore (KwaZulu-Natal) Staff Writers Candace King, Catherine Riley, Tammy Sutherns ART Art Director Warren Uytenbogaardt Senior Designer Trudine Scannell Contributing Designer Keverne Morland Senior Retoucher Tim Lake CONTRIBUTORS Dave Mullany, Bronwyn Nielsen PHOTOGRAPHERS Val Adamson, Stefan Antoni, Fiona BarclaySmith, Sally Chance, Michael Glenister, Barry Goldman, Grant Pitcher, David Ross, Nico van der Meulen PRINTING Unity Press ADVERTISING Sales@medianova.co.za Sales & Marketing Director Shanee Smart

thepropertymag.co.za Gauteng Sales Anine Ehlers, Samantha Freese, Wilhelm Odendaal, Riette Stevens Western Cape Regional Sales & Marketing Manager Michèle Jones Western Cape Sales Tharien Nel, Justin Lyons KwaZulu-Natal Regional Sales & Marketing Manager Jenni McCallum KwaZulu-Natal Sales Assistant Sonja Ackerman Directory Sales Amanda Faas Namibia Sales Mynard Slabbert Media Coordinator Cindy Comer PUBLISHED BY MEDIA NOVA (PTY) LTD Managing Director Tony Vaughan tony@medianova.co.za PA to Managing Director Tarryn Townsend General Manager Mark Pettipher markp@medianova.co.za Circulation Director Vanessa Marks Finance Manager Leanne Cox leanne@medianova.co.za Finance Assistant Samantha Reinke Credit Controller Anthea Odendaal IT Coordinator Adrian Petro Drivers Willem September, Themba Gumede, Josef 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

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Suppliers of Outdoor Furniture ON THIS MONTH’S COVERS Audi A8 L, audi.co.za

Indoor/Outdoor Suite

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.

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You tell us Property involves us all. What’s your view? Email readers@medianova.co.za. HOT HAPPENINGS I read your ‘Hot Space’ article about the Grand Room on the Camps Bay strip – absolutely stunning. The decor and furniture is too beautiful. And to think that it looks out onto such an incredible view … It makes us Joburg dwellers very jealous of what Cape Town has to offer: style and beauty all in one go. Thanks for keeping us updated with tips and news from the property world.Very inspiring! Leigh O’Conner, Parkview

LETTER o f the Month

BLOOMING LOVELY The flower-inspired lighting decor designs in November’s ‘Trend Watch’ section are mind-blowingly stunning! I need to get my hands on one of those! I specifically loved the Flower Bloom Hanging Lamp. Michelle Stevenson, Fish Hoek

A GREAT READ Thanks for the great monthly Property Mag – a good read with lots of good advice and a fantastic opportunity to win your exciting competitions! Angela Addinall, Cape Town

WILD WONDER I really like the zebra ottoman from Fellowes Interiors that featured in the November ‘Hot Decor & Design’ section. Very chic and ethnic! The African theme is so in right now. I just hope no zebras were harmed in the process! Jade Smith, Bryanston

THEATRICALLY TELLING I’m a huge fan of Pieter Toerien, so I was simply delighted when I saw the spread on Theatre Place. The apartments are very interesting and quirky – a true representation of Pieter. I loved looking through the pictures and seeing the detail in the apartments. It has certainly given me some great ideas for my own home. Jenny Robertson, Rondebosch

Property

thepropertymag.co.za

DISTRIBUTION ABC Audited National Circulation – Total Circulation, Jul.–Sept. 2011: 59 926 AMPS (2011A) Audited Readership: 287 815 THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE KWAZULU-NATAL DISTRIBUTION 4 477 copies to luxury outlets: 8 935 copies free-to-home in the following The Boat House areas (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

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WINNING LETTER Write to us and you could win a case Waterkloof Circle of Life Red 2009! Circle of Life wines embody the ongoing cycle of nature at Waterkloof Estate’s amphitheatre of vineyards on the outskirts of the Helderberg winelands. Made from biodynamically farmed grapes and only natural yeasts, the wine has low sulphur levels. Waterkloof

National Readership

287 815

AMPS (2011A) Audited Readership

Circle of Life Red 2009’s strong ﬂavours are the result of the estate’s site-speciﬁc vineyard blocks, some of which rise up to 300m above sea level. Notes of spice and cassis dominate this classic wine, with soft, juicy fruit following through. The wine ages well. +27 (0)21 858 1292, waterkloofwines.co.za

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REGIONAL CIRCULATION The Property Magazine – KwaZulu-Natal The Property Magazine – Gauteng The Property Magazine – Western Cape The Property Magazine – Combined

ABC Audited National Circulation (Jul.–Sept. 2011) 13 724 23 468 22 734 59 926

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HOT PROPERTY

HOT SPACE

Sweet like sugar

The newly renovated Sugar Hotel in Green Point is as sweet as boutique hotels come. In its sophisticated quaintness, this place oozes syrupy charm

espite its size, you can’t miss

the upmarket Gauteng guesthouse, AtholPlace.

enjoy feeling at home but also on an African

the Sugar Hotel. Situated along

Sugar Hotel had been going since 2005. With

holiday.’ The hotel has six suites with en-suite

Green Point’s busy Main Road,

their experienced eye, in 2010 Riaan and Mark

bathrooms, and a honeymoon suite with

its charcoal-grey exterior jumps

saw its potential and purchased it.

plunge pool. Each room makes use of a calm,

‘We moved to Cape Town, as living

or beige apartment blocks and the brilliant

and working in the bush got too much. We

blue of the sky. When you step inside its

wanted a better quality of life and to work

doors, however, dark and grey it certainly is

for ourselves,’ says Riaan. When they decided

face treatments, performed by experienced

not. In the light-ﬁlled reception area, neutral

to renovate, they initially wanted to enlist an

therapists, and the dining area and bar is an

ﬁnishes of beige and white stand out against

interior designer, but on second thought they

oasis of luxury opening up onto the pool deck.

the grey, tan and monochrome textured-

realised they were perfectly capable of doing

The executive chef prepares breakfast daily

leather furnishings.

it themselves. ‘We have travelled extensively

for the hotel guests as well as lunch and dinner

around the world, and, when we began

on request.

Partners and owners Riaan Vermaak and Words Genevieve Fisher Photographs courtesy Sugar Hotel

cool palette of whites, light greys and accents

out from among the sameness of the white

of light sea green. There are two wellness rooms for body and

‘We are set in the perfect position: right on

Mark van Rooyen embarked on an extensive

renovating, we thought we should channel all

renovation of the boutique hotel earlier this

those worldly inﬂuences into the look of the

Main Road. Cape Quarter is down the road and

year, and the result is more than they could

hotel,’ he says.

the beaches and city centre are a bus or taxi

The four-month project culminated in

ever have hoped for, with guests describing

ride away,’ says Riaan. He says the most rewarding part of the

Sugar Hotel as ‘a cosy, luxurious home away

a chic, contemporary hotel with Parisian

from home’.

inﬂuences in the suites, a Scandinavian

four-month renovation was when he saw the

aesthetic achieved throughout with the use

reaction of guests who had stayed at the hotel

successful hospitality establishments, having

of light, raw-ﬁnished wood and glass, and

before the refurbishment. We’re sure they felt

previously managed and worked in various

soft furnishings with a distinctly African look.

as if they had bitten into the sweetest, most

lodges and guesthouses, such as the ﬁve-star

‘This fusion of styles is greatly appreciated by

delicious treat they’ve ever tasted.

Chitwa Chitwa game lodge in Sabi Sand and

our guests, who are mainly foreign and who

+27 (0)21 430 3780, sugarhotel.co.za

Riaan and Mark were familiar with

All suites feature a host of creature comforts. 2The welcome area is a mix of African and

Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more

European decor aesthetics. 3The unassuming entrance on a tranquil street in Green Point. 4A quiet

boutique hideaways.

reading enclave in one of the suites.

December 2011 | 9

HOT PROPERTY

hot plate Jackie Cameron has gone from

A cookbook to get your teeth into, charming eateries, and easy Christmas cooking

graduate of the Christina Martin School of Food and Wine to head chef at the legendary Hartford House in two years. The awardwinning, 20-year-old wonder-chef talks about her obsession (‘passion’ would be an understatement, she says) with food.

Q Where did it all begin?

I’ve been cooking since I was a tot, and it’s always come naturally to me. My grandfather had his own butchery, and my grandmothers and mother were – and are – so talented in the kitchen! In my family, everything happened round the kitchen and dining room table, and I learned most of the basic cooking principles around the adult legs in the kitchen! After an intensive year at Christina Martin, I spent a year at Mount Grace in Magaliesburg, where I was mentored by chef Richard Mackinson, whose guidance, I believe, led me to get the head chef’s job at age 20.

Q What are the basic tenets of your cookery?

Take the time to do things properly and you’ll taste the results in every mouthful. Respect the ingredients with which you work and work with only the best. I use local seasonal ingredients but they must be world class, like Fran of Swissland Cheese’s world-class goat’s cheese, and the small flocks of pheasant, guinea fowl and rabbits being produced by local farmers’ wives. I’m extremely lucky in the KZN Midlands: look around at the flourishing pastures and you can see why the food tastes so good. I’ve travelled the world and experienced beef everywhere and, I promise, there’s nothing like a well-aged Midlands beef fillet.

Serving up a Christmas feast

Woolworths is offering a delicious range of festive gourmet treats for Christmas this year, in collaboration with the award-winning chef, Luke Dale-Roberts from Cape Town’s Test Kitchen restaurant. Available nationwide, the range is made up of a selection of side dishes, including dressings and relishes, pre-prepared starters and main courses, and an original take on Christmas pud. We love Luke’s five-hour lightly smoked gammon-style pork belly with flavours of whole spice, orange peel and ginger. Get it at Woolworths’ Gateway and Pavilion stores in Umhlanga and Westville, respectively. 0860 022 002, woolworths.co.za

Garden setting

Q What’s your favourite cookbook, and do we hear rumours of your own?

A new addition to the KZN restaurant scene, Circle Café at the Durban Holocaust Centre, behind the Durban Jewish Centre, has been very well received. It is situated in the tranquil Garden of Remembrance, a tribute to the six million Jewish lives lost and is equipped with a jungle gym for kiddies and high walls for safety. The menu features a delicious selection for breakfast and lunch as well as decadent teatime treats. Naturally, all the meals are kosher, and there are vegetarian options, too. Open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except for Saturdays. +27 (0)31 368 1766

10 | December 2011

Words André Fiore

I love Thomas Keller. My most recent acquisition is Noma [by René Redzepi]. Yes, I’m compiling a cookbook, which will include food items I can’t resist for home dining, recipes that wow for anybody with basic culinary knowledge, and all the recipes I’ve tried and tested, served often at home, and fancied up for Hartford’s table. It’s called Jackie Cameron at Home. +27 (0)33 263 2713, hartfordhouse.co.za

HOT PROPERTY

HOT PLATE

Dishing it up

Livingston’s Gastropub in Glenashley has just celebrated its ﬁrst birthday. Although it’s not widely known, the spot is a hive of activity and gets loads of support from enthusiastic locals who enjoy the great vibe, consistently good food, affordable prices and daily specials. Livingston’s promises oodles of festive season cheer, too. +27 (0)31 562 9018, livingstons.co.za

Delicious reading

Miss Dahl – From Season to Season is the sequel to Sophie

All spiced up

Dahl’s popular Voluptuous Delights. Go on a food journey through the seasons – think nostalgic squash and Parmesan

Havana Grill is sporting fresh new grooming, and we’re loving it! Just in

soup for autumn or grilled peaches with pistachios

time for the festive season and the coming year, this injection of clean

and ricotta for summer. Beautifully presented, this is a

sophistication and dollops of class, with healthy input from Egg Design

must- have for any kitchen shelf. Distributed by Jonathan

and Sky Gardens, has added a cool and airy Cuban beach house feel in

Ball Publishers. jonathanball.co.za

keeping with Havana’s contemporary new menu offerings. Still boasting private upstairs dining rooms and catering for events and functions of up to 300 on the wide veranda or indoors, this venue is just as inviting whether you’re doing a corporate breakfast, lunch off the beach or an evening out. +27 (0)31 337 1305, havanagrill.co.za

Oh, Mamma!

They say they’ve brought a little bit of Italy to Glenashley, and shoppers at Mamma Luciana’s just-launched Deli can vouch for that. Breathe in that heaven-sent deli aroma as you enter and select from the wide range of Italian cold meats, cheeses, waters, biscotti and crackers as well as pastas, breads and sauces made by Mamma and her team. Other imported Italian products include coffee machines, wines, cookbooks and kitchen utensils selected by restaurateur Marco Conte on his travels through Italy. Not to be missed is the Deli’s superb new ice cream, made by a local ex-Argentinean according to dreamy traditional methods. +27 (0)31 562 1405, mammalucianas.com

Surprise, surprise

Called Hai.Bo, after the Zulu expression for surprise and delight, this new venue does all that the name suggests and more. New owner Theuns Smuts, from Durban’s Moyo, says, ‘It’s situated in the premises of what was Bean Bag Bohemia. I missed Bean Bag so much that I opened this to pay homage to it.’ Hai.Bo is a radiant collection of eclectic delights: walls in deeply vivid colours, antique Victorian chairs upholstered in shweshwe fabric, toilet cubicles pasted with ’70s Scope covers, sangoma pamphlets and chalkboard scribbles. With its downstairs area’s off-the-street ease and trendy bar menu and the ﬁne-dining offering upstairs, Hai.Bo has quickly re-established itself as the spot on the Berea to see and be seen. +27 (0)72 674 4609

December 2011 | 11

HOT PROPERTY

HOT DECOR & DESIGN THE SHAW SISTERS, Angela and Janet, are doing

Original gifts, handmade chandeliers and cabinets, stylish German kitchens, spicy home fabrics and cosy floor ‘sweaters’ are on our list

it for themselves and giving designer status to local South African craft

Q What drove you to start Shaw Sisters?

Gift tagged Vanilla House at

It was a time of change for each of us,

54 Florida Road has

and there was a wonderful opportunity

just reopened under

to start something we had always

new ownership. Its

dreamed about. We were surrounded

wide spread of goodies,

by people making great product and

carefully sourced locally

loved that we live in a province that has

and abroad, include home

such a rich crafting heritage of beading

treats, jewellery, scarves,

and woodcarving. While many of these

scented candles, body

traditional crafters have been relegated

and bath essentials and

to curio vendors, we believe that with

a range of revamped

appropriate design interventions and an

antique furniture. The

understanding of the boutique market,

owners have created a

their product can be seen and valued in

beautiful space where

a new way. We wanted to combine this

you can ﬁnd a special gift

with our love of travel and exploration:

for any occasion. Vanilla

we enjoy seeking out people all over

House also offers gift

the world who are still making things by

vouchers for those times

hand and using ancient methodologies,

when you can’t make up

such as plant dyeing, hand-weaving,

your mind, and it delivers.

crochet and embroidery.

+27 (0)31 303 5176,

Q Can you describe your product ethos?

vanilla-house.co.za

market for handmade product. We want

Design greats have landed

to be part of, and stimulate, an economy

to the excitement of all Natalians. Durban joins the ranks of over 140 cities worldwide where

where independents and individuals

this brand can be found. Poggenpohl introduces a new breed of luxury and award-winning

thrive – a healthy counterbalance to the

design to kitchens, and you can experience three of these amazing designs, namely +Segmento,

hegemony of corporates.

+Integration and Plusmodo, in store. +27 (0)31 584 7788, agk.co.za

Our vision is to ﬁnd new routes to

Alpine German Kitchens has opened its new Poggenpohl studio in Umhlanga, Durban, much

Q Where can our readers view your work?

We exhibit at Sarcda annually, where retailers who are listed as stockists on our website order our work. We do one retail show a year, FoodWineDesign in Joburg, and we’re honoured to be part of the permanent collection of contemporary craft at the Tatham Art

Q Your favourite pieces? [Angela] Folded book pendants. [Janet] Handwoven plant-dyed textiles. We’re having fun with our South African ﬂag cushions as a humorous counterpoint to all the UK ﬂags we see in local interiors! +27 (0)31 312 4475, shawsisters.co.za

12 | December 2011

Shaw Sisters photograph Sally Chance

Gallery, in Pietermaritzburg.

HOT PROPERTY

HOT DECOR & DESIGN

Hellooow again!

Thumbs up to the new organic range of beaded chandeliers from Hellooow Handmade. Created from hand-rolled ceramic beads made from recycled paper clay, and now dip-dyed too, they’re available in just about any colour that takes your fancy. Besides its growing range, Hellooow offers custom-made light ﬁttings, so if what you’re after hasn’t yet been made, they’ll be delighted to help. +27 (0)82 465 1845,

Old-school glamour

hellooow.co.za

Cape Town-based Box Living’s Galeri Travellers Edition Collection now includes the Tuan Night Cabinet. Right out of a Hollywood movie, the cabinet is handcrafted from FSC-certiﬁed white oak and ﬁnished in English walnut. Box Living delivers nationally and internationally. +27 (0)21 465 6480, boxliving.co.za

Home seasoning

New to Home Fabrics is the Salt & Pepper range, where the former is woven in 80% polyester and 20% cotton yarns and the resulting semiplain weave creates an interesting mix of texture and colour. Pepper has a similar quality, with an interesting horizontal ribbed texture. Both fabrics are suitable for curtaining and accessories and have received the Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which conﬁrms that they do not contain any harmful chemicals and meet various environmental standards. +27 (0)31 303 1202, hf.co.za

Knit wit

Taking inspiration from handwoven sweaters, the Mangas Collection, created by the renowned Spanish designer, Patricia Urquiola, for Gan Rugs, will turn your ﬂoor into the main design feature of a room. Made from 100% wool, this range also includes cuddly poufs. Available from Limeline in Cape Town. Order online. Nationwide deliveries. +27 (0)21 424 8682, limeline.co.za

December 2011 | 13

HOT PROPERTY

HOT INDULGENCE

The latest from Fordoun, a delightful organic spa and luxe items for the holidays SALUTING SINATRA This year, Montegrappa Pens’ limited-edition Icons Series pays homage to Frank Sinatra. The tip bears a stave with a G-clef, while the barrel and cap are ﬁnished to resemble the fabric of a pinstripe suit. The encore is the cap, which is engraved with a silhouette of Sinatra’s signature fedora and has a pocket clip resembling a mic. The rollerball pen is our favourite, with its orange accents recalling Sinatra’s famous quote, ‘Orange is the happiest colour’. For stockists, call Luks Group. +27 (0)11 262 0396, luksgroup.co.za

ROOMS WITH A VIEW Promising sunsets over the mountains, underﬂoor heating, luxurious spaciousness and bathrooms with an outdoor shower, Fordoun Hotel and Spa has just launched an extra ﬁve suites to complement its existing lovely offerings. Individually decorated, and boasting original artworks, these suites, say Fordoun’s owners, have

SUMMER SUNNIES

vistas to rival the best that Africa has

Diesel eyewear is back for summer, and thanks to its

to offer. Ideally positioned for easy

collaboration with Marcolin, the sunglasses experts, it’s

Midlands exploration and, of course,

a bold and sexy new collection. The unisex range comes

total indulgence at the spa, this is

in a variety of colours, with shiny or matt ﬁnishes.

a break to grab hold of with both

+27 (0)31 584 6792; diesel.com

hands.+27 (0)33 266 6217, fordoun.com

BLOWN AWAY

CREATIVE COGNAC New from Hennessy

Residents down south and festive season

Cognac is the limited-edition

visitors are guaranteed a real treat at In Sense

Hennessy VSOP gift pack.

Organic Spa at Southcoast Mall. This lovely

The sophisticated beverage

little retail boutique spa offers loads of

is now available with a

personal service by certiﬁed professionals,

double glass set designed by

including a registered Ayurvedic therapist, and

renowned Hong Kong-based

two exclusive organic ranges so pure you’ll

designer, Michael Young.

want to eat them. So successful has the salon

+27 (0)31 902 8877,

been since its August opening that owner

rgbc.co.za

Tasmee Hylkema is taking her offerings to the beaches, so look out for In Sense therapists available to treat you in situ in the Shelly Beach and Margate areas. +27 (0)39 315 7315, insenseonline.co.za

ACCESSORISE IN STYLE Case Scenario and Pantone Universe have joined forces to produce tough, sexy iPhone 4 release new cases in the colours du jour. Exclusive to Loom, which does nationwide deliveries. +27 (0)11 447 4330, loom.za.com

14 | December 2011

Words André Fiore

cases. Each season they will

HOT PROPERTY

HOT STUFF

LG Electronics introduces its Plasma PenTouch TV. It offers you all the advantages of a PC with Internet access as well as an interactive screen that allows you to control content directly on the screen by using a special pen. The slim, sophisticated Plasma PenTouch TV incorporates LG’s plasma display panel cells, a scratch-proof protective glass screen, a stylish TruSlim frame, and RGB expression and optimised brightness for crisper images. It comes with a suite of amazing software, including a gallery, built-in slide show, family calendar and digital photo frame. At the click of a button on the remote, the unit slips into PenTouch mode, enabling you to access and edit ﬁles via the TV screen. The TV supports simultaneous two-pen use. The pen batteries can be recharged through USB ports on the back of the TV unit. The TV’s sturdy four-legged stand ensures that the 60” screen of about 40kg remains in place when you get up close to it. The Plasma PenTouch TV is available with or without 3-D capability, priced at R10 999 and R25 999, respectively.

0800 54 54 54, lg.com/za

highlights are performances by the Durban City

The Food Market, 22 December

Orchestra and the Caribbean Connection Steel

For the second year running, the Food Market

Drum Band and a visit from Father Christmas.

has won the 2011 Eat In Award for Best Market

There will be collection points for donated

in the Eastern Region. Find out what all the

clothes and toys for children. Early- bird

fuss is about at the special Christmas market

tickets R60, or R80 at the gates. Children

on 22 December, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m at the

6–12 years are R20 and kids under 6 are free.

Hellenic Community Centre.

+27 (0)31 202 5819, ticketbreak.co.za

+27 (0)84 409 5444,

Shongweni Christmas Market, 16 December

thefoodmarket.co.za

Taking place in Assegay on the grounds of

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, until 9 January 2012

the Shongweni Farmers Market, the event

The ﬁnal Kickstart Theatre Company’s

features a colourful range of handmade crafts,

production of the year is a heart-warming

Christmas decor, a wide variety of food, and

family pantomime, showing at the Elizabeth

‘It’s a match made in heaven,’ say the

fun for the whole family. Live music in the

Sneddon Theatre and featuring writing and

market coordinators, ‘and we love it!’

main tent is provided by various local artists,

direction by Steven Stead, design by the

They’re talking about Durban’s I Heart

including the Durban-based Kings and Queens.

multi- award-winning Greg King and musical

Market, which has blossomed since

8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. +27 (0)31 777 1554,

direction by Evan Roberts. Tickets are

moving to its new venue at the Moses

shongwenimarket.co.za

R100–R130.

I Heart Market

Mabhida Stadium in October. Focusing

0861 915 8000,

home-made goods, the market beneﬁts

Piggly Wiggly Country Village Christmas Party, 17 December

from strict product control and offers

Visit the delightful Piggly Wiggly, aka Highgate

visitors a wide and varied range of

Farm, in the Natal Midlands and get into the

9th Annual Affordable Art Show, until mid January 2012

foodstuffs and design and decor items.

festive spirit with carriage rides, party packs,

This year’s exhibition, taking place at Artspace

And with issues such as the market’s

photos with Santa, ceramics painting, candle

Durban, features artworks done in a variety

carbon footprint, self-sustainability and

dipping, rock golf, carols by candlelight and

of media, including oil paintings, ceramics,

support of the local economy taken care

night shopping. The party starts at 3 p.m.

sculptures, prints and photographs.

of, you can buy with a clean conscience.

Tickets are R65. +27 (0)82 441 5795,

+27 (0)31 312 0793,

Open on the ﬁrst Saturday of every

pigglywiggly.co.za

artspace-durban.com

KwaZulu Weavers Summer Holiday 23km Run and Walk, 16 December

It’s a Wrap, until 21 January 2012

Starting from Bergville Primary, this is a scenic

includes retro fashion, vintage toys,

point-to-point-route run and walk in the Berg

accessories, household decor, street art, new

Aka ‘Carols by Candlelight’. Take picnic baskets

area. Lifts are provided to the 10km mark for

media and photography.

and blankets along to this annual family event

those who can’t face the challenging climb.

+27 (0)31 303 4891,

at the Durban Botanic Gardens. This year’s

+27 (0)72 244 5611

thecollective-durban.com

on proudly South African, handmade,

month, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. iheartmarket.blogspot.com

Old Mutual Christmas Festival Concert, 13 December

computicket.com

The Collective’s ﬁrst festive season exhibition

December 2011 | 15

Words Candace King

PUTTING PEN TO

DESIGN

Setting

the stage

Get Willy Wales of Space Energy to stage your showhouse and you might just net more than the asking price on your luxury home

Willy Wales says that when he was in his mid30s guys his age were driving sports cars and living in homes that looked like university digs, while he had a beautiful home and was collecting prize interior decor items. Today he’s turned his collection into a lucrative home staging business.

Words Tammy Sutherns Photographs courtesy Space Energy

Above left Space Energy uses its vast collection of objets d’art to add that special something to otherwise empty showhouses.

hat do you get when a Free State farm boy walks into an empty, high-end Joburg house and fills it with collectables from his 35 years of travelling? A net gain of R1 million on the selling price, that’s what. Willy Wales has been in and out of property development his whole life. He’s ‘done everything’, including owning lodges and interior design stores. But it was when he merged his work with his passion that he found his niche in the property world. ‘I had just built a development cluster in Parktown North when I decided to stage some of my collected pieces in the showhouses. I found that it worked very well – the units sold much more quickly,’ W illy says. It was 2008 and the property development and sales industries were on the brink of tough times. Willy had been collecting antiques and unique pieces from fairs and shops around the world for over three decades and decided it was time to try his hand at staging homes for a living. He says, ‘The first home that I staged, the owner’s asking price was R10 million. I told him to put it up to R12 million and that I would stage it for him. The estate agent rolled her eyes, like, “Who is this guy?” It sold for R11,2 million on the second show day. And I realised that this was the way to go.’ As estate agents caught on to the trend of home staging, his company, Space Energy, grew considerably. These days Willy stages at least two houses a month in Gauteng and will be launching branches in Cape Town, Durban and Pretoria next year. ‘I provide something unique,’ he says, easing into his armchair.

16 | December 2011

‘These pieces that I put into the homes are all my own things that I have collected over many, many years. I create a classic, eclectic look where there is an “old curiosity” feel. We will maintain that look around the rest of SA because that’s what’s selling. I’m constantly attending auctions and fairs to increase my collection. This is different to anything else that is offered in the country.’ Willy doesn’t settle for just any commercial piece. ‘I go to auction houses and hidden spots. Nothing of mine is a replica, and it creates an authentic look. When people ask if they can buy pieces from me, I ask them, how will I replace those pieces?’ Home staging is big overseas, especially in the US, where the stats show that sales increase by an average of 13% to 18% if sellers go this route. ‘Overseas, staging companies borrow furniture from showrooms and shops, but anyone can put a couch in a house. We do something different: we create homes because these pieces create a talking point,’ he says, looking round his living room, which is littered with sculptures, artworks, swords and antiques. Grinning, he adds, ‘But, believe it or not, I’m a minimalist.’ The objects are not enough though. Lighting is Willy’s secret weapon in creating beauty out of empty space. ‘What is the point of having a beautiful artwork if it isn’t illuminated?’ So popular have his designs become that people who have viewed his work have also asked him to design the interiors of their own homes, and Space Energy now has an interior design division. ‘I warn them, though, that we won’t be able to replicate the homes that I’ve staged because of how unique my things are. Their homes will have

a different feel.’ Willy can’t quite pin down where his eye for collectable pieces comes from, but he is delighted to be doing it. ‘I grew up on a farm in the Free State, so I have no idea where this passion comes from.’ And he never imagined Space Energy would expand so quickly. Some of Willy’s staged houses have fetched R1 million more than the original asking price. ‘People who are investing and buying these homes – homes that are over R3 million – are usually CAs or businessmen who come into an empty house and cannot visualise it as a home. They also focus on any flaws that the house may have,’ says Willy. ‘We put the sculptures and the artworks in and create a place that buyers want to spend time in, a space they find interesting.’ Space Energy charges sellers a monthly fee. Depending on the size of the home, this can range from R30 000 to R100 000 a month.‘It is such a small percentage of what the sellers will make on the sale of their house that it is an investment,’ says Willy. He adds that in the current economic climate, developers stand to make a lot more money if they stage homes in their developments. ‘There is a demand for this type of business,’ says Willy. And he’s planning to meet that demand by growing his client base, even though his particular approach to home staging can be taxing: ‘It’s like moving an entire house every time! But we will be expanding,’ he adds confidently.‘We just can’t keep up!’ With that, Willy sits back in his armchair, gazes round his living room and loses himself in his collections all +27 (0)83 440 8087, over again. spacenergy.co.za

PRIME PROPERTY

Words Anne Schauffer Photographs Sally Chance

SPACE

ODYSSEY This expansive Durban penthouse apartment had all the right ingredients for glory, and it was both terrifying and gratifying as it morphed from gutted to glam

December 2011 | 19

prime property

‘I

t wasn’t that the apartment was bad. It wasn’t. It was just dated. There was no real need to do what we did to it – gut it – but the client wanted a beautiful place, so we had to do the whole thing. It would have been like buying a pair of Jenni Button pants and matching it with a Mr Price shirt,’ Grant Webster of Fahrenheit Design says with a grin. He describes his first impressions of this Durban apartment: ‘Developer specs. You know the story: choose this tile or that, and if you don’t like either, choose the one you dislike the least.’ Grant was to implement a modest renovation. But one thing led to another, and once he’d persuaded them the floor tiles had to go, it was a few steps away from everything else going, too. As Grant says, ‘You could tell exactly where everything in the apartment came from, and when.’ As he ambled about with his mental clipboard, it was a tick for the blue star granite kitchen with beechwood doors, and over there … The clincher was the ceiling: ‘We didn’t want to change it, so we planned the new layout according

20 | December 2011

to the existing lighting in the apartment.’ But the electrician felt differently. He had his own clipboard of not-doable issues and eventually a ceiling was installed. ‘As a penthouse, it has a slab on top, so it wasn’t a ceiling. We tore off the cornices, installed a ceiling of just 10cm, created a shadow line so you don’t lose any of the visual height, and by doing this, gained enough to hide our cabling and fit downlighters wherever we needed them.’ Fahrenheit Design effectively created a new shell, and the design renaissance began from the floor up. ‘I chose a grey-white tile, unusual because it’s shiny, but not flat, and has a watery kind of thing happening,’ says Grant, who brought them back from China. It was the perfect base from which to launch the new design. Previously, the apartment had been shades of light grey and blue, a sky palette, and although the apartment is filled with light north, east and west, Grant still chose to renovate with quieter, lighter hues than he’s renowned for. ‘I wanted to mesh it all

together, so you’ll find loads of white appliances, tiles, lighter walls and mirrors. Not mirrors to look into, but rather to reflect the view – they’re strategically placed so that you see something else in the house. That’s the whole principle behind it.’ For Grant, the use of strip LED lighting was a first in this project as, previously, it hadn’t been available for commercial use. He brought it in from Dubai, and that changed everything: ‘Because it’s 12V, there’s no fire hazard. It’s safe, won’t electrocute anyone, and it’s accessible, price-wise. Today, it’s replacing rope light, which was dim and had one little globe every 3cm or 4cm. Now you get one globe every centimetre, and the quality of light emanating from there is about 10 times brighter. We used it extensively in this apartment. Suddenly those big wooden arches weren’t just flat on the roof; we popped them off because we wanted to have a 16mm gap and put the lights behind there. We put lighting under the kitchen cupboards, we erected pelmets, and had lighting behind the curtains. Safe as houses.’

prime property

Opening page This fascinating matt and gloss pendant light fitting, called Alien, is not simply for light, but also acts effectively as a work of art. This spread, clockwise from top left Open plan, from dining to formal lounge â&#x20AC;&#x201C; focal points, such as the yellow light boxes and the vast ornate mirror reflecting the view, draw the eye; mosaics, metals and a rare, bold use of colour work to create extraordinary scenes within the apartment; originally an open veranda, this enclosed informal lounge has breathtaking views by day and night; reflective and intriguing light fittings are used as artworks.

December 2011 | 21

prime property

Above, clockwise from top left A cool, calm, white dining space with compelling mosaic accents; a sleek and highly functional kitchen, where everything is tucked away; a decorative wall at the entrance to the apartment features stylish mosaics and a large abstract panel of both clear and frosted glass organic shapes standing proud on brass pins. Opposite, clockwise from top left All glitz is in the accessories, not in the fixtures; high glam and sophistication in this bathroom, and always, the unexpected, such as the mirror; imaginative, immaculate joinery creates panels of interest in this light-filled bedroom; layers upon layers of fabrics and textures create a sensation of luxury; with a mosaic backdrop, the Water Drop faucet, for washing hands, is all about the concept of purity.

The apartment is deceptively simple and uncluttered. But there are complex layers upon layers, and together they create that undoubted sophistication. Grant says, ‘Look at the levels of design. It’s a square space, very linear, and we designed it so that most lines don’t stop at the door.You’ll find something that runs on the ceiling appears at the other side and continues into the room.’ Fahrenheit Design chose few patterned tiles but created their own unique patterns with the plains. In some areas they cut up pale tiles and fitted them into dark grouted panels or cut up a tile into smaller sections or, elsewhere, created mosaic effects with different, plain tiles. The fine detail is less seen than felt, but it’s that which creates the depth of experience. Grant points out the pixelation on the sandblasted vinyl: ‘Same proportion as everything else, just smaller scale. Look at the doors: same thing. The mother of pearl inlay was designed and made. I brought it into

22 | December 2011

the country in my bag before we designed the door. Everything in this apartment was like that – little layers, little layers, little layers, all linear. I haven’t added circles and rounds – I wanted to keep it as simple as I could.’ Grant admits this was a tough project, and – he laughs about it now – it became a whole lot worse before it got better: a terrifying vision of designed chaos which was nerve-racking for the clients even though they’d moved out for the renovation. But once the dust cleared, two of Grant’s staff were sent to Dubai to source the remaining furniture, lighting, a basin and even a tap. But this is no ordinary faucet: it’s an exquisite work of art that resembles a single water droplet. From it, water simply falls and disappears into a hole. No plug, no high pressure (a

restrictor limits the flow), just water to wash hands. It’s about purity. Grant has avoided gaudiness in this apartment. If you want it, be his guest, but only for accessories. ‘It started with a handbag, and now crystals are embedded in fridges and downlighters, inlaid in patterns on doors, and woven into carpets,’ he groans. ‘At the end of the day, when bling goes – and it will – you’ll be digging it out of your carpets and furniture.’ He grins. ‘Remember: the only thing which isn’t cool is the last thing that was cool. When ’80s fashion leaves the building and you rock up in your new ’80s outfit, you’re going to look like such a clot. But how much worse if it’s in expensive fixtures in your home? I say, when it arrives at Mr Price, you’re in trouble. And it’s there.’

With thanks to … Fahrenheit Design, +27 (0)31 312 3335, fahrenheitdesign.co.za

prime property

‘Remember: the only thing which isn’t cool is the last thing that was cool’

December 2011 | 23

Cube/33169/Property/Generic

LOCATE YOUR BUSINESS IN THE FUTURE IN THE NEW ECONOMY OF SPEED – AGILITY AND CONNECTIVITY ARE KEY. Dube TradePort is the first purpose-built aerotropolis in Africa connecting an airport (King Shaka International Airport), cargo terminal, trade zone, agricultural zone and Africa’s first green precinct … all in one place.

For more information: Tel: +27 32 814 0000 www.dubetradeport.co.za

It’s the way business will work in the future. Which is why – with a 60-year master plan in place and R8 billion already invested in this 2040 hectare Greenfield site – forward-thinking businesspeople, manufacturers, traders and retailers need to be at Dube TradePort.

ON SHOW

MEET THE Welcome to a superbly stylish home which answers its owners’ every stated – and unstated – needs Words Anne Schauffer Photographs Grant Pitcher

Sphere Design & Architecture, +27 (0)31 312 5133

December 2011 | 25

ON SHOW

Sphere Construction & Development, +27 (0)31 573 2143

or an architect, every home inevitably begins with a deep understanding of the owner’s lifestyle, for that’s the catalyst which drives the design. ‘Active, high powered and varied’ was how Rupert Spence from Sphere Design & Architecture interpreted his client’s lifestyle, so the home demanded extremely private areas as well as others that allowed expansive entertainment for both business and pleasure. The home also needed to relate to the mild climate and take advantage of the exquisite uninterrupted views while embracing the rural setting. Rupert says the homeowners were specific: nothing ostentatious, but rather a home that provided maximum quality of lifestyle and flexibility. This allowed for a structure with exquisite appointment, a very clear palette and uncluttered simplicity. Detail was achieved through the use of texture, volume and tactile experience.

Drive up the avenue of trees flanking the meadow-like plot and you arrive at the home parking in a plaza defined by natural stone walls, a trellis and an impressive collection of cycads. All this is centred on the sculptural, natural element of a paperbark tree. Rupert describes the transition into the home as being ‘across a still reflection pond which enhances that sense of calm and serenity. The water also provides that age-old sensation of a moat separating one from the turmoil of the outside world.’ Step through the oversized glass front door and experience the soaring double-volume entrance hall with its lightweight glass balustrade stair and bridge linking the main pavilion of the home, vertically. Here the lighting is expressed as an artwork, and the room is quiet; in other areas, the lighting is mostly indirect, and the planes of the rooms are used for expression. For the architects, the main design concept was to create a series of pavilions radiating off the central

circulation spine. Rupert says, ‘Each pavilion has a separate function and allows for great garden spaces and courtyards that form outdoor rooms and vistas. This also helps to scale the structure so that it relates to the landscape and meets the horizon. A glassroofed transparent circulation spine pulls light right through the home and provides a wonderful gallery for collected artworks. Off this spine the home reveals itself in a multitude of ways, opening onto rooms, courtyards and private gardens.’ Each room was considered individually, to ensure a feature view or framed courtyard vista, with large indigenous trees and cycads as focal points. Bathrooms open up onto the stone-framed courtyards for showering under the stars. Environmentally, the home was orientated to have snug north-facing decks and courtyards for chilly winter days and cool view-facing entertainment zones for large-scale summer entertaining. The 25m

Above Sphere Construction & Development managed the building and finishing process for this magnificent home. Mike Harris, the owner of the business, takes pride in a very personal and practical approach to all his projects. He not only enjoys the challenges and demands of bulk construction, but also the finer aspects of detailing and finishes. Mike’s company is responsible for the successful completion of large- and small-scale residential projects as well as larger commercial projects. Opposite, top Afsan Projects is a company specialising in ceilings and partitioning, shopfitting, built-in cupboards and building works. Afsan Projects was involved in two of Durban’s iconic projects: King Shaka International Airport and Moses Mabhida Stadium. Bottom left Afrigran’s superior machinery makes it your leading fabricator of CaesarStone and natural stone products. Afrigran did all the stonework for this project. Featured here is a grey CaesarStone bath and vanity top. Bottom right Roux Airconditioning specialises in the domestic and commercial air conditioning markets, offering full design, supply and service in-house. It has branches in Ballito and Durban. This home has been air-conditioned using the Daikin VRV system, with individual thermostat control in all bedrooms and separate living areas.

26 | December 2011

ON SHOW

Afsan Projects, +27 (0)31 507 2456

Afrigran, +27 (0)31 577 8090

Roux Airconditioning, +27 (0)31 579 1335

December 2011 | 27

ON SHOW

Kitchen Classics, +27 (0)31 539 3351

About Sphere Sphere Design & Architecture has an approach to building design where the living environment and the creation of great spaces to live in are the primary concerns, from concept to completion. ‘Classic, contemporary, clean-lined living’ are the words that define many of its projects. Its experience in the local and international markets in the past 11 years ensures that it adds value to any project. Its projects range from interior design to residential homes and large-scale commercial projects. Rupert Spence, the founder member of Sphere Design & Architecture, takes pride in providing a full service where the design runs as a coherent language from the exterior through to the interior detailing. Rupert has built up the company by taking a personal and professional approach to every project and providing sound solutions and advice, ensuring that clients’ investments and expectations are completely satisfied. Rupert’s business partners, Gina Walker and Wendy Green, head up a team of talented staff who share the vision and work ethos, so that Sphere Design & Architecture will continue to supply excellent service for years to come.

28 | December 2011

rim-flow pool is great for laps or for just soaking while appreciating the spectacular views. Being heated and fitted with an automated pool cover, it can be appreciated virtually all year round. Built-in gas heaters and considerate external lighting allow for long evenings and memorable sundowners. ‘Rainwater is harvested, electrical management systems, insulation and natural ventilation all play a part in greening the building,’ explains Rupert. ‘We used local stone and materials wherever possible, and soft, permeable surfaces with gravel and groundcovers allow the rainwater to soak into the soil.’ The clients’ love of animals resulted in a full ‘dog’ suite, complete with hot and cold dog shower, which doubles as a great place to clean a bicycle, the client being an avid cyclist. The plot had to accommodate the dogs, and careful use of paddock fencing and natural stone allowed for a safe environment in which they can run. A significant aspect of the landscaping project was the creation of a duck pond surrounded by wetland grasses, which quickly attracted wild ducks and geese. The landscape is exclusively indigenous, resulting in a growing bird population, plus there are the advantages of low maintenance. Stone-filled gabions have been used as sculptural elements in the private courtyards. A furrow water feature connects a series of formal pools, circulating water between the main water fountain, outside the lounge, and the pond. The kitchen forms a central hub to the entertainment area, with pocket doors for separating it from, or linking it to, the drinks bar at will. A family casual lounge adjoins this area, where you can kick off

your shoes and chat to the appointed chef. Here the appliances and layout allow for ample creativity, and there is also a full kitchen staff complement to provide facilities for large-scale catering. The two well-appointed guest suites are separate private pavilions, offering seclusion from the main home. Outside showers, spacious en suites, walk-in dressing rooms, coffee bars and study areas provide a home away from home for family, friends and business acquaintances. Upstairs are three en-suite bedrooms, all with private balconies, accessed via a private reading room and library space that also opens onto a private balcony perfectly positioned to catch the afternoon sun. The home gym is complete with private massage room, steam shower, open trusses and stack-away doors to provide maximum natural ventilation and pull the environment into the workout. Decks allow for complete outdoor stretching. The architectural finishes are pared down where simplicity is the key but detail is the essence. The decking has a specific design patina, applied to give a more textured relationship in varied plank sizes while the plane remains stark. The balustrades are a combination of steel and timber, yet have a very linear form. The natural dry-packed stone walls are substantially proportioned, and timber sunscreens provide layering to the facade treatment. For all concerned, the result is a superbly liveable and handsome home where every detail has been carefully considered and purposefully applied. It truly answers the starting point – satisfying a family who lives an active, high-powered and varied lifestyle.

ON SHOW

Alaturca Natural Stone, +27 (0)31 539 3251 Opposite, top The design team at Kitchen Classics always create something extra-special for their clients, complementing a homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique characteristics by combining functionality with the latest in design aesthetics. Kitchen Classics is the company of choice for astute investors looking to turn their dream kitchens into reality. This page, above Alaturca Natural Stone sources travertine and marble from the finest quarries in the world. Its product is easily integrated with other premium building materials and imaginatively laid out in exquisite patterns and colour combinations. Its exclusive product range, professional service, competitive prices and unlimited resources have made it one of the leading companies in the industry. Left Decor Decks has been in the industry for many years, specialising in external timberwork. Its carpenters and staff pride themselves on their high-â&#x20AC;&#x160;quality service, skills and vast experience, and bring these qualities to bear on each individual project managed. Next page, top Metzler Associates is a long-established, small design company. Its brief with each client is very individual. Its work incorporates varying styles for discerning clients who care about product quality and lifestyle aesthetics. Also shown here is work by Audio Excellence. Audo Excellence will provide you with a reason to enjoy your home and not just live in it. With over 20 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in the industry, its experienced sales and installation team are on hand to assist you with all your requirements, from home automation to audiovisual perfection. Bottom left Cobin Lighting is a small and exclusive lighting company with a focus on providing a personalised service with dynamic lighting solutions. Cobin also has the Cobinmeubilair brand, which offers a wide range of designer furniture to complete the home.

Decor Decks, +27 (0)83 775 5031

December 2011 | 29

ON SHOW

Metzler Associates, +27 (0)31 764 4733

Audio Excellence, +27 (0)31 566 5931

Professionals List Afrigran Designs – Granite and Marble Tops +27 (0)31 577 8090, info@afrigran.co.za, graniteandmarble.co.za Afsan Projects – Shopfitters +27 (0)31 507 2456, afsan@iafrica.com, afsan.co.za Alaturca Stones – Natural Stone +27 (0)31 539 3251, durban@alaturcastones.com, alaturcastones.com Audio Excellence – Audiovisual Equipment and Installation +27 (0)31 566 5931, sales@audioexcellence.co.za, audioexcellence.co.za Cobin Lighting – Lighting +27 (0)31 312 1460, guy@cobin.co.za, cobinlight.com Decor Decks – Decking +27 (0)83 775 5031, fryer@netactive.co.za Kitchen Classics – Kitchen +27 (0)31 539 3351, +27 (0)83 641 8351, rob@kitchenclassics.co.za Metzler Associates – Interior Decorating +27 (0)31 764 4733, +27 (0)82 442 3096, smetzler@worldonline.co.za Roux Airconditioning – Air Conditioning +27 (0)31 579 1335, roux@rouxair.co.za, rouxair.co.za Sphere Construction & Development – Construction and Development +27 (0)31 573 2143, +27 (0)82 780 6849, mikeharris@absamail.co.za Sphere Design & Architecture – Architects Cobin Lighting, +27 (0)31 312 1460

30 | December 2011

+27 (0)31 312 5133, rupert@spheredesign.co.za, spheredesign.co.za

SPLURGE IN DESIGN

splurge Words Genevieve Fisher

The urge to

If budget werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t an option, what would you do to take your home from drab to fab? We posed this question to well-known architects, an interior designer and a celebrity

STRUCTURAL SPLURGING

SUPERIOR INTERIORS

CELEB CRED

December 2011 | 31

SPLURGE IN DESIGN

Structural splurging

SAOTA – Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects is synonymous with luxuriously designed homes locally and beyond our borders. Partners Stefan Antoni, Philip Olmesdahl and Greg Truen (pictured left to right) tell us about some of the most outrageous requests they’ve had from their clients and give you tips on how you can add the wow factor to your home.

An 8 500m2 villa on the tip of the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai. 2The interior of this villa blends contemporary and classical styles, a trademark of Antoni Associates, the interior design branch of SAOTA. 3A development of two houses and a shared pavilion overlooking the Tapti River in Surat, India. 4A home situated on the tropical slopes of the Mahé Mountain, overlooking the Beau Vallon in Seychelles.. 1

What are some of the most over-the-top

How should people spend their money on

an entire hidden network of support staff

requests you’ve had from clients, and what

cutting-edge architecture and design?

circulation so that the entire home gets

was the outcome?

Wild and wacky design dates so quickly

serviced and cleaned without the owners’

One of the strangest requests we’ve had was

that it is important not to design something

constantly having to bump into the staff.

to place two toilets facing each other, with

that will look old and tired in a short space

Those kinds of client do not want to be

a little library shelf between them. We’re not

of time. Rather choose excellent materials,

irritated and reminded that they are actually

really sure why they wanted this, but once

functional and ergonomic joinery, a mind-

high maintenance – it must feel effortless.

it was complete the clients had to skip the

blowing sound system and perhaps even a

People have also come to realise that the

country after the CIA caught up with them!

spa. Spend money on a great structure that

ultimate luxury is space, and we’re seeing

We’ve also had a client who refused to have

gives you amazing spaces – and buy a great

more requests for spaces with ceilings

a single opening window in his house, so

site to begin with!

of 4m-plus.

the whole place had to be air-conditioned.

Have you ever been instructed by a client to

Your favourite example of OTT

Funnily enough, he also skipped the country.

splurge on a task?

architectural design?

Another strange request came from a client

There have been certain overseas projects

The Taal Monument in Paarl is an incredible

who wanted a bachelor pad for himself

where clients have their own personal

piece of architecture because it is totally

on the Atlantic Seaboard, with an elevator

‘dressers’ – hairdressers, beauticians and

futuristic. And Antonio Gaudi’s work in

directly from the garage to the main

masseurs. They prefer not to go to resorts,

Barcelona is incredible – totally wacky, but

bedroom. His wife never knew about it in

creating all those amazing amenities in their

deeply intelligent.

the beginning, but eventually she found out.

homes instead. We have developed a wide

If given the chance, what building would

They’re still happily married, but the house

range of experiences in some of these homes

you love to redo?

was sold and never used for its purpose.

so that the owners do not get bored or

The ‘Three Pepper Pots’ or ‘Tampon

One of the most exciting and challenging

tired of their sanctuaries. We’ve also started

Towers’, call them what you like, in Cape

projects we’ve recently done is a new

getting requests for car lifts in houses – not

Town. We’d like to implode them. The Civic

contemporary house in Senegal, built against

always easy to accommodate!

Centre and Artscape is also a disaster, as

a World War Two bunker. We used a portion

What is the premise of luxury home design?

the buildings are isolated from the city and

of the bunker for a cinema and the moat as a

True comfort and a reﬁned living experience,

the people who engage with them. We’d

dramatic water feature. This was successfully

where everything has been considered.

completely rebuild the streetscape and push

completed, and the client was thrilled.

For example, in our larger homes, we have

cars underground!

32 | December 2011

SPLURGE IN DESIGN

Superior interiors

Stephen Falcke of Stephen Falcke Interior Design has created spaces in homes, boutique hotels and lodges all over the world. Inspired by nature and the various places to which he’s travelled, Stephen’s work has earned him numerous awards. He shares some of his memorable projects and tells us about his personal preferences when it comes to creating that luxurious effect.

What have been some of the most opulent

What should people be spending on, in

relax – perhaps even to read – and to totally

and over-the-top requests that you’ve

terms of interiors?

indulge yourself.

received from clients with regards to

Anyone can go and buy the most expensive

Whose home would you love to transform,

interior design?

things – there is no art to that. Making the

and why?

There are two that come to mind: a 500m2

most of the least is where the art lies.

It’s been a fantasy of mine to have been able

double-volume private library, and a walk- in

If budget weren’t an option, how would you

to do Mozart’s home.

felt-lined jewellery room and a felt-lined

splurge on your dream home?

What is the one item of furniture you are

silver vault in the dining room. The latter

I would buy beautiful books, especially art

lusting after at the moment?

was for the purpose of storing solid silver

architecture and gardening books. I’d also

I have a great love of chairs, particularly a

soup tureens, under-plates and all dining

splurge on art. If budget weren’t an option,

mid-19th-century carved mahogany desk

accessories. These projects, situated locally

this art would include pieces by Damien Hirst,

chair with a carved lion head that I recently

and abroad, required immense precision and

Georges Braque and Alberto Giacometti.

found. I have just put one in a client’s home,

attention to detail.

I’d also prioritise antiques, whether modern,

but would have loved to keep it for myself.

Have you worked on any projects recently

classic or old.

What are some of your favourite sources

where budget wasn’t an issue?

What is your favourite example of OTT

or brands of luxurious decor and

Most people say that they don’t have much

interior design?

interior items?

of a budget but then call in a professional to

A wonderful bathroom furnished like a living

Trade Roots, Strauss and Co. Auctioneers,

advise them on how to spend their money.

room, with a great view and a ﬁreplace and

Amatuli Fine Art, Goodman Gallery, Everard

I advise my clients to spend on investment

lots of books. Bathrooms are the ultimate

Read and Take It for Granted are my

furniture and investment art.

luxury, as they are wonderful places to

trusted favourites.

In a Palladian-style house, an Aubusson tapestry hangs behind an antique English circular table with a collection of blue and white china. In the middle of a marble entrance hall, a wooden-top stone table base stands laden with a personal collection of artefacts.

December 2011 | 33

SPLURGE IN DESIGN

Celeb cred

Nkhensani Nkosi, a well-known face on TV and the founder and owner of one of SA’s best-loved fashion labels, Stoned Cherrie, knows luxury. Veering towards a more authentic aesthetic, indicated in her recent ceramic and fabric ranges, as opposed to ostentatious design, Nkhensani tells us about some of her must-haves and shares her splurge fantasies.

2 An attractive monochrome teapot and cup set from Stoned Cherrie’s new hand-painted ceramics range. 2Stoned Cherrie fabrics, Afro Twins: Dark Olive on the wall and Big Daisy Robin Hood upholstering the chair. On the table, a set from the new ceramics range.

garment becomes luxurious by virtue of the fact that it has been lovingly crafted over time. If given the opportunity, whose home would you love to transform and why? I’m not sure whose home it would be, but I’d love to transform any home that has doilies and plastic coverings over their sofas. Although there are new ways to interpret a traditional aesthetic, doilies are a no-no.

What is the one item of furniture you are lusting after at the moment? At Southern Guild I saw a swing by architects

What sort of opulent and OTT interior and

How would you deﬁne luxury?

Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens that is made

architectural features appeal to you?

For me, luxury is a space that allows you to

out of handwoven recycled fabric cut-offs

Although I’m not really into overt opulence

be in water, surrounded by light, incense,

on an upholstered frame. I would keep it far

or anything OTT, I must admit to liking

crystals and silence. There is nothing more

from the little ones and rock on it with my

the idea of having a giant aquarium in

rewarding than a soak on a balmy moonlit

hubby in our old age and watch the sunset

my bedroom.

night when all the kids are in bed.

from our veranda.

If budget weren’t an option, how would you

As a fashion and fabric designer, how do

What are some of your favourite sources

splurge on your dream home?

you translate luxury into the work you do?

or brands of luxurious decor and

I am all about fabulous vistas. In a

I think bespoke fashion is an art form and as

interior items?

fast- growing world, space is a real luxury.

such permeates all aspects of art, whether

We recently brought out a ceramic range,

I wouldn’t mind strawberry ﬁelds that

it is architecture, decor or craft. Time is also

which I love for entertaining. I think it tells a

go on forever, an orchard from Eden as

a luxury, and so to take the time to craft

story every time I use it. Apart from that, I

well as a herb garden. My kids would be

an object by hand immediately transforms

am crazy about Haldane Martin’s work, and

beside themselves!

it into a luxury item. Similarly, a couture

Richard Stretton’s marquetry sideboard.

With thanks to … SAOTA – Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects, +27 (0)21 468 4400, saota.com Stephen Falcke Interior Design, +27 (0)11 327 5368, stephenfalckeinteriors.com Stoned Cherrie, +27 (0)11 784 7648, stonedcherrie.co.za

34 | December 2011

ASK THE EXPERTS

Hotshots The polished ambassadors of some of South Africa’s best hotels explain why you should be staying with them when you’re in town for business or pleasure amson

Photographs Val Ad

THE SQUARE BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA

BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL

THE OYSTER BOX HOTEL

John De Canha, General Manager

Wayne Coetzer, General Manager

Leean Murugan, General Manager

What market do you cater for? We are in the luxury leisure and corporate market, offering gracious hospitality, sheer indulgence and pampering. What differentiates your hotel from similar establishments? Our sincere and intuitive service, as well as our magniﬁcent location, with all rooms having dramatic sea views. Describe the latest service or product innovations offered by your hotel. We make sure to offer the very best hospitality standards. What is your favourite room or section in your hotel? The majestic pool and lawn terrace, with its superb sea view. Now in her 48th year, the Beverly Hills is an iconic KZN landmark with a ﬁne reputation for gracious hospitality and unobtrusive service. From the moment you step inside, you sense this is a special address. A scenic 15-minute drive from the airport, all 89 rooms have private balconies and uninterrupted ocean views. Luxury rooms and suites are spacious, each with a separate dressing room and lounge. The signature restaurant, The Sugar Club, is rated amongst the best in the country. Elements Café Bar, located on the pool terrace, is trendy and chic. The hotel has direct beach access and is close to Gateway Theatre of Shopping and championship golf courses.

What market do you cater for? The Oyster Box Hotel caters for the leisure and corporate markets, including local and international guests. What differentiates your hotel from similar establishments? Understanding the distinction between service and hospitality is the cornerstone of our success. Service is the technical delivery of a product; hospitality is how the delivery of that product makes the recipient feel. It is a dialogue which requires our listening – in every sense – to the client and following up with a gracious, appropriate response. It takes great service and great hospitality to rise to the top. Another priority is the way we treat, train, remunerate and love our fellow staff. This, without a doubt, sets us apart from many hotels. Our owners respect and value our staff ﬁrst and foremost and, in turn, our staff treat our guests with the same respect. Describe the latest service or product innovations offered by your hotel. We offer our guests a number of innovative and exciting services: MP3s with your favourite music, home-made ice cream served around the pools and our exclusive range of B-Africa products in our world-class spa. We also host a curry buffet with the largest selection of the ﬁnest curries in South Africa.

What market do you cater for? The Square Boutique Hotel & Spa caters mainly for the corporate and leisure markets. What differentiates your hotel from similar establishments? Our property is a boutique hotel, which means clients receive personalised service. It is situated in the heart of the Umhlanga Business Park, which makes business travel an absolute pleasure for the corporate traveller, as travelling time is reduced. The pool deck, situated on the roof of the building, has a 180º view of the Indian Ocean. Aqua Spa, also situated on the top ﬂoor, allows for tranquil relaxation. Award-winning therapists pamper their clients, so much so that guests leave wanting more. We offer our guests complimentary access to Aqua Spa’s gym, sauna and steam room, and should you wish to be spoilt a bit more, you can pop in at the boutique store next door and purchase one of their unique designer garments and, at the same time, get your hair done. Describe the latest service or product innovations offered by your hotel. We are constantly changing to keep up with the current trends. No request is too large or too small – we always go the extra mile to ensure excellent customer satisfaction. We are in the process of organising a hotel shuttle to and from surrounding areas, which will be complimentary for our guests.

+27 (0)31 561 2211,

+27 (0)31 514 5000,

+27 (0)31 566 1814,

thebeverlyhillshotel.co.za

oysterboxhotel.com

thesquare.co.za

December 2011 | 35

LIVING ON THE WATER

The lap of luxury Water, water everywhere – and it’s full of South Africans being turned on to the boating lifestyle

Words Dave Mullany Photographs courtesy Boating World and The Last Word

36 | December 2011

LIVING ON THE WATER

Opposite The Princess Emma chartered power cruiser in Cape Town is operated by the Last Word group of ‘intimate’ hotels. Above left to right The Fairline Targa 58 Gran Turismo, available from Boating World.

e all like to dream. Win the Lotto, drive an Aston Martin, own a sea-facing penthouse in Clifton, or spend the rest of our lives travelling the world on permanent vacation. For many people, such fantasies often focus on the notion of a lazy, idyllic life aboard a boat – not on some hard-graft, ocean-going, keelhaul-themizzenmast racing yacht, but aboard one of those super-luxury cruisers you see bobbing at anchor in the Caribbean, Monte Carlo, the French Riviera and, indeed, right here at Cape Town’s V & A Waterfront or the Durban Yacht Mole. Not long ago, I strolled around Monte Carlo’s yacht basin to gawk at the water chariots of the extremely rich and famous. One of the vessels there was the 126m mega-yacht, Octopus, property of Microsoft co-founder, Paul Allen. The boat is an occasional visitor to South African waters and sports two helicopters and even two mini submarines. It’s a sobering vessel: the wood panelling on her poop deck probably cost four times the price of your house – even if you do live in Clifton. Back here in South Africa, boats are a tad more modest, but, at the top end, still very much in the luxury class. Even so, a growing number of South Africans obviously agree with old Ratty of The Wind in the Willows fame that ‘there’s absolutely nothing half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats’, and are going sailing in larger numbers than ever before. This may sound odd in the middle of a recession, but experienced yachtie, Hazel Holtzhausen, says that while SA’s boating fraternity is small compared with those overseas, the numbers of casual day and weekend sailors are growing: ‘The lifestyle attracts people with a zest for the outdoors and adventure, but it also caters for your day sailor who simply enjoys the serenity of the ocean. We’re also blessed with fabulous weather, which makes sailing an all-year opportunity.’ Hazel has 10 years of sailing experience and handles reservations at Durban’s Offshore Sailing Academy, founded 33 years ago (under another name) by yachting legends, Chris and Libby Bonnet. Chris is gone now, but his feisty wife maintains the academy’s ground-breaking traditions (the Bonnets introduced

sail training to South Africa), which have seen more than 30 000 South Africans turned from landlubbers into fully qualified sailors and skippers. Derrick Levy owns Durban’s Boating World. The company is a well-respected dealership with offices in Durban and Cape Town and specialises in luxury motor yachts from British manufacturer Fairline and Australia’s Riviera. Derrick paints an evocative picture of the boating life: ‘Getting up on a glorious sunny morning to the lapping of the water against the hull is what life is all about on a motor yacht. For some, it’s the sizzle of freshly caught crayfish cooking in wine; for others, it’s the scream of the marlin reel out on the deep-sea fishing zone.’ Derrick learned his trade as a youngster growing up beside the Vaal River, where his father ran a boatel for local leisure craft. The good news for Gauteng’s land-locked mariners is that there’s plenty of current boating activity on the Vaal, one of the few South African rivers suitable for pleasuring boating. Many of those who own properties on the riverbanks have their own craft, while local outfits offer a variety of river cruises. So, what’s not to like about the lifestyle? Well, cyclones, tsunamis, Somali pirates and submerged containers, for starters. But, hey, if that bothers you, do what a lot of local sailors do: stick close to land and enjoy the experience without any of the deep-sea dangers. Derrick says the key to sailing success is for buyers to get a vessel that’s right for their needs. ‘Cape Town buyers tend to invest in luxury cruising motor yachts so that they can enjoy the beautiful Cape coast. Sports fishing yachts, such as the company’s Riviera boats, are popular for tuna fishing and catching crayfish.They’re also popular in Durban and Richard’s Bay, where owners relish the thrill of deep-sea fishing. Cruising to the beautiful Mozambique island archipelago at Bazaruto has also become popular.’ If you’re keen to get out on the water but your money is locked up in property or stock market dealings, then you may want to join a syndicate and share the costs. Derrick says, ‘South Africa has a good number of vessels owned by syndicates. The process puts more people on board boats. For example, a 12m yacht with 10 owners works out at about R500 000 each. Step up to a 20m luxury brand and you’re looking at around

December 2011 | 37

Living on the water

Above left and inset The Riviera Flybridge Enclosed 53 IPS at anchor; hardwood floors multiply the feeling of luxury. Above right and inset The Fairline Squadron 58 makes waves; the Squadron 58’s roomy interiors.

R2,5 million each. With running and maintenance costs split 10 ways, it suddenly becomes a more viable option, and as larger vessels include a skipper, all you have to do is walk on board, have fun and then walk off.’ Does a motor yacht make a good investment? Derrick says,‘Boats can be an investment, as they don’t devalue at the rate of, say, a motor car. International brand names are linked to offshore currencies, so they can increase in value. Also, boat ownership means you can entertain clients and perhaps charter the vessel to recoup costs. But never forget the sheer personal enjoyment aspect.’ Hazel takes a slightly different, um, tack: ‘You’re investing in a lifestyle. Your vessel is an asset that will enhance your life. But if you’re looking at pure assetbased return, I can only repeat what Chris Bonnet used to say: “Invest in containers, not yachts!”’ South Africa has a well-respected boat-building industry and is renowned for its sail- or motorpowered catamarans. The average local cat is about 15m and has the advantage of spaciousness and extra accommodation. Last year, R2,5 billion in locally built boats was exported from the Western Cape alone. Meanwhile, in spite of great tracts of unsuitable coastline, marina development in South Africa is growing apace. Apart from the obvious Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth and East London yacht havens, there are also excellent marinas at Knysna, Richard’s Bay, St Francis Bay and Port Alfred, and inland at Hartbeespoort Dam. There’s also the possibility that the on-off-on, hotly contested, small-craft harbour planned for Durban’s Point Waterfront might actually be built some time this century. Another story … As for interior decor and equipment on modern motor yachts, the sky is the limit. Derrick says, ‘You can have a top-of-the-range sound system, DVD, TV with DSTV, fully equipped galleys with ice-maker,

coffee machine, fridges and freezers. Luxury finishes are more or less standard: plush carpets, teak flooring and granite tops.’ Mooring costs vary according to location and size of the vessel. At the V & A Waterfront, berths cost around R6 000/month, while Durban asks a mere R1 500/month. If you don’t want the hassles of berthing, maintaining and provisioning your own vessel, then there’s always the charter option – popular with corporate groups or even a group of friends planning some celebratory blowout. One of the most desirable vessels in this regard is the V & A-based Nautilus, a 35m yacht with six cabins, a Jacuzzi on deck and cocktail and champagne bars. She can take 58 people out to sea and can host 110 guests when she’s tied up. Nautilus Media Manager Mandi Jarman says the recession has had little effect on business: ‘We’re busy hosting a mostly corporate market for sunset charters and cocktail evenings. Especially popular are the crayfish barbecue and champagne cruise to Clifton. Nautilus is clearly a class act – international guests have included US rapper MC Hammer and singer Kylie Minogue.’ Interested? A three-hour cruise for up to 25 people costs R20 000, or R800/head. Another charter option in the Cape is V & A habitué, Princess Emma, operated by the Last Word hospitality group. She is a 25m luxury cruiser that offers Monte Carlo-style opulence and al fresco dining for up to eight guests. Daily rates include all meals and an overnight stay in one of her four en-suite cabins. There are, of course, dozens of charter options in all of our port cities, from five-star, push-out-the-boat sunset spectaculars to raucous, knees-up Mother Sarie Marais booze cruises for the nine-to-five set. The choice is yours …

With thanks to … Boating World, +27 (0)31 301 1115, +27 (0)21 418 0840, boatingworld.co.za Nautilus Charters, +27 (0)21 431 8400, thenautilus.co.za Offshore Sailing Academy, +27 (0)31 307 7944, yachtsman.co.za The Last Word, +27 (0)21 794 2036, thelastword.co.za

38 | December 2011

your ports of call Gauteng: Old Willow No. 7 Houseboat Charters (Vaal River), +27 (0)16 973 1729, oldwillow.co.za Party Boat Cruises (Vaal River and Hartbeespoort Dam), +27 (0)83 251 8784, partyboat.co.za Stonehaven on Vaal River Cruises, +27 (0)16 982 2951, stonehaven.co.za Transvaal Yacht Club (lessons, cruises, moorings), +27 (0)12 253 1108, tyc.co.za KwaZulu-Natal: African Queen (yacht charters), +27 (0)31 464 1880, african-queen.co.za Durban Boat Hire (sail/motor cats, yachts, fishing boats), +27 (0)74 149 0606, durbanboathire.co.za Hakuna Matata Charters (cat cruises), +27 (0)31 307 3782, hmcharters.co.za Royal Natal Yacht Club (membership, moorings), +27 (0)31 301 5425, rnyc.org.za Western Cape: Tigger2 Charters (tailored cruises), +27 (0)21 418 0241, tiggertoo.co.za Waterfront Boat Company (hop on, hop off cruises), +27 (0)21 418 5806, waterfrontboats.co.za Cape Town Yacht Charter, +27 (0)21 782 7346, yachtchartercapetown.co.za International Boat Charter, (bareboat or crewed), +27 (0)21 510 3686 Royal Cape Yacht Club (membership, moorings), +27 (0)21 421 1354, rcyc.co.za

Cube/33169/Property/City

CALL FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE LEASING AND OPERATION OF GROUND FLOOR COMMERCIAL PREMISES AT 29° SOUTH, DUBE TRADEPORT, KING SHAKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, DURBAN.

THE BEST RETAIL OPPORTUNITY IN KZN! Secure a prime location in Dube City adjacent to King Shaka International Airport now. DUBE CITY is Dube TradePort’s most exciting development and is geared for enormous growth – a secure, world-class, cosmopolitan, 24-hour business, trade and retail environment minutes away from King Shaka International Airport. Africa’s fi rst green city will also boast restaurants, cafés, galleries, independent boutiques and a fruit, vegetable and fl ower market. It will provide a unique environment to work in and will be accessible from two major road networks just north of Durban.

To receive a pdf of the submission details go to: http://city.dubetradeport.co.za/proposals To request further information, please contact: Mark Beckett or Tim Hudson Tel: +27 32 814 0000 Fax: +27 32 841 0103 Email: property@dubetradeport.co.za

29º SOUTH is the first building in Dube City. It spills out onto Dube Square and the Pedestrian Mall and has 7 commercial premises (ranging from 18m² to 320m²) available. Take advantage of this unique opportunity and fl exible commercial terms tailor-made to your specific operation. Proposals received by 5 January 2012 will be evaluated by 5 February 2012. Proposals received thereafter will be evaluated as and when received, subject to the availability of space.

Words Tony Vaughan Photographs courtesy The Green Leaf Niseko Village

Japan ... Sushi, sake and SNOW! Skiing isn’t typically associated with South Africa or Japan (unless you’re in the know). A visit to Niseko village in northern Japan put that myth to bed

inner party conversation at this time of year, post our well-earned December holiday, often turns to where we went and what we did during this period. More often than not, there’s always one couple shouting the loudest about their break, usually proud that they did something unique, that they did something outrageously expensive, or even that they resisted all temptation and did absolutely nothing! Maybe you spent too long in the Plett queues this year, spent too long with the relatives, or even spent too long with each other, during which time you became determined to never do that again: ‘Next year will be different; we’ve gotta break the mould!’ Japan? Skiing? ‘Are you mad?’

40 | December 2011

Yep, mad! In fact, absolutely crazy for the skiing in and around Japan’s premier, year-round mountain resort, located on the southern slopes of the world- famous Niseko Annupuri Mountain in Eastern Hokkaido, northern Japan. A flight via any major Asian city (synonym: ‘shopping’) directly into Sapporo, a short two-hour transfer, and you hit the very best powder snow in the world. (And if your skiing is as rusty as mine, you truly do hit it … You hit it hard and often!) Well, so long as you arrive between the ski season months of November and May each year, when you will find an annual snowfall of some 15m (a lot for the snow illiterate), of the most forgiving powder snow imaginable. The skiing, ski lifts and equipment hire are structured as you would find in the top resorts worldwide, with one huge difference: everything in

Japan is beyond organised. From the way the chairlifts are dusted down immediately before you sit, to the grooming and signposting of the slopes, the entire service infrastructure envelops you, to ensure that your holiday is exactly what you desired. Apart from the service, there are other differences that will bring a smile to your face, and specifically will ensure that you don’t order something unpalatable when relaxing over lunch. Some of the ski-in/skiout lunch stops have large display cases where every possible meal has been perfectly recreated as a plastic replica.You need merely take down the number, insert your cash into an accompanying machine, and you are presented with a voucher to hand in at the kitchen. It’s delicious food, at that. We were hosted at two resorts on the same mountain, each catering for different tastes and a different experience.

TRAVEL

Clockwise from top left The dreamy entrance to the Green Leaf Niseko Village hotel complex; buffet-style dining at Goshiki; there are slopes suited for all types, from beginners to advanced skiers; the outdoor onsen, natural hot mineral baths, in their fairy-tale setting; the modern conveniences of a plush Deluxe King room; detail of a charming lampshade in the lobby; the impressive lobby leading to a ski experience with a difference.

Set at the foot of the mountain, with ski-in/skiout access, the Hilton Niseko Village Hotel is a large hotel of 800 rooms (although that excellent Japanese service culture ensures personal service, so you always feel welcome) and is the perfect base from which to enjoy your holiday, with a number of excellent restaurants, a rustic après-ski bar and amazing views from the rooms, which are excellently appointed. The Green Leaf Niseko Village hotel is also a ski- in/ski-out, a newly refurbished hotel of choice for skiers looking for a quieter and smaller hotel environment. It offers guests 200 rooms, the buffetstyle Goshiki restaurant, Niseko’s first rooftop bar, Altitude, and Tomioka White, an après-ski bar of note. Both hotels offer a traditional Japanese onsen, a single-sex spa of natural hot springs, where guests immerse themselves naked in the mineral-rich hot

spring waters and relax after a day on the slopes. Upon entering the onsen, you take a small towel to cover your modesty and, as a true tourist, you watch the locals to find out the spa etiquette, with them shouting loudly at you if you step with shoes on into a barefoot-only area. Immersed, you see what appear to be a number of upturned buckets, upon which the locals sit following their dip and wash themselves vigorously. The more daring tourists follow the locals through the snow to the outside springs and sit among the snow-covered rocks while enjoying their soak. With an exciting range of ski slopes to properly cater for beginners, through to some amazing offpiste skiing for the advanced skiers, Niseko offers a comprehensive, well-planned and extremely wellorganised skiing holiday that caters for all. And before you chirp that the queues for a ski lift can be as frustrating as the queues for a luncheon table

in Plett, you can stop right there, since the Japanese skiers in the lift queues seem to know that you’re coming, and make way for you to ski ahead of them. Or was it just the uncontrollable speed at which my athletic bulk came flying towards them that made them move in fear for their lives? You can be the judge of that when you ski in Niseko, Japan. With thanks to Tony stayed courtesy of the Private Client listings of the Roving Ambassador/Tourism Corporation Africa. The Roving Ambassador, +27 (0)21 426 0991, the rovingambassador.co.za Hilton Niseko Village Hotel, +81 (0)136 44 1111, hilton.com The Green Leaf Niseko Village – A YTL Lifestyle Resort, +81 (0)136 44 3311, thegreenleafhotel.com

December 2011 | 41

SUPPLIERS TO THE PUBLIC, THE TRADE AND DECORATORS

Victorian Mahogany Military Chest Circa 1850 Victorian Mahogany 2pce. Bookcase Circa 1870

Victorian Mahogany 2pce. Bookcase Circa 1870

Victorian Walnut Sewing Table Circa 1860

124 Argyle Road, Durban. Tel 031-303 1626 | Cell 082 456 2575 | Email roger@1800.co.za

www.rogerenglandantiques.co.za

An exclusive invitation to own a piece of Africa icaâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s famous Big 5 fr A of y or it rr te e th de insi deep

Prices sta rting from R3m il

There are only 5 sites left within this Big 5 Game Reserve so why not claim your piece of Africa while you still have the chance. These are 16 bed lodge sites! This kind of opportunity only comes by once in a lifetime, dont be sorry that you missed out!

www nambitisites com

Rob Le Sueur | tel::+27 (0)82 450 9641 | e-mail:: rob@venturepartners.co.za Kate Watkin | tel::+27 (0)82 324 4929 | e-mail:: kate@venturepartners.co.za Wade Kerdachi | tel::+27 (0)83 652 7397 | e-mail:: wade@utopia.co.za

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28/10/2011 14:31:28

R O IT lsen ED ie T nN ES y U nw G Bro

Real estate

residential & commercial

’Tis the season to shop, but consumers are feeling the pinch. What does the year ahead hold for shopping centres?

Centre

of attention

Main photograph 123rf.com Proﬁle photograph CNBC Africa

ith Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to go shopping, so I thought it appropriate to focus this editorial on shopping centres. I recently went to explore the ‘new’ Sandton City and I was completely blown away – for a moment I thought I was in London. What a fabulous facelift! And, judging from the long queues, it’s clear that shoppers are voting with their feet. But what about the broader shopping centre environment? A number of property and retail experts are saying that Christmas sales should surprise on the upside. But with the negative international news flow, there is much concern about the sustainable health of the South African consumer. It’s against this backdrop that I thought I’d find out how the experts are feeling about the outlook for the country’s shopping centres and the trends they are noticing. First up, Keillen Ndlovu, head of Property Funds at Stanlib. I asked him what he expects on the shopping centre front come 2012. ‘The overriding trend that we will continue to see is the revamping of older shopping centres. Examples include the recently completed extension and refurbishment of Sandton City. Tyger Valley is currently undergoing a major refurbishment. The retail sector is a very competitive space. No shopping centre can afford to rest on its laurels. We are looking forward to a good Christmas for shopping centres, more so for the bigger ones.

Spend per head, dwell time, foot counts and car counts increase dramatically during this period.’ So with Keillen relatively upbeat about retailers over Christmas, I thought I’d corner FNB’s Household and Property Sector Strategist, John Loos. John has a relatively sobering view on the shopping centre environment for 2012. ‘I expect still slower returns on retail property in 2012. Global economic weakness is set to impact negatively on our economy and household sector disposable income. As a result, I believe that retailers are currently in a challenging period with regards to sharp operating cost increases.’ He is, of course, alluding to the extremely sharp increases in electricity and rates and taxes that we are all acutely aware of! John adds, ‘I expect to see the larger regional and super-regional shopping centres emerging with superior returns as compared to the smaller neighbourhood and community centres. The larger centres on average possess a financially more solid tenant.’ Finally, I sat down with Evan Jankelowitz of Sesfikile Capital, who appears to be in John’s somewhat depressing camp. ‘Most of our newer retail centres have been geared towards a bull market; however a bull market is not the status quo. Discretionary spend is under pressure, and the level of spend is not enough to keep everyone afloat. So, despite the ridiculous queuing at Sandton, and strong performance in dominant regional centres – Sandton, Canal Walk,

Menlyn and Gateway – with sub-5% vacancies, there are other centres with vacancies in low double digits who are foregoing those patrons and coming under significant pressure.’ Well, it’s clear from chatting to all three experts that the shopping centre environment is really a tale of two worlds: large, dominant shopping centres are likely to benefit, as they attract more feet, especially with the upgrades continuing, whereas smaller shopping centres may continue to lose feet to their more glamorous counterparts. But the success of our shopping centres ultimately rests with the South African consumer – on this front we must surely adopt a wait-and-see attitude. With all this in mind, take careful note of your shopping centre environment over the next couple of weeks, as it will have its very own story to tell. Happy shopping!

Bronwyn Nielsen, CNBC Africa’s Business Tonight

December 2011 | 43

Residential Real Estate

As the French would say …

C’est la vie! The Upper Highway offers much in the way of a healthy lifestyle, and Le Domaine, now in its final phase of construction, has enough leisure facilities to convince any youngster that there is life after wrinkles. Three outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a bowling club and walking or cycling paths that stretch for several kilometres along waterways and landscaped gardens are just some of the outdoor attractions, while the central Club de Vie includes a restaurant, a bar with large screen TV, a library, several lounges, an Internet café, a cinema, a wellequipped gym, a heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi, a hairdresser and beauty salon, a health hydro, and a travel agency. The development’s latest offering, Soins de Vie, is an independent care centre located at the hub of Le Domaine. The facility comprises assisted living quarters as well as high-care rooms, and it is available to residents from all 17 villages. Non-residents are also welcome at this world-class health-care facility, which prides itself on its holistic, professional and compassionate service. +27 (0)31 716 8457, ledom.co.za

Isn’t longevity the single biggest risk to the retirement industry? – Bronwyn Nielsen, CNBC Africa’s Business Tonight

Home. Work.

Buy to let Conveniently situated in Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal, and marketed through Lyn Forbes of Pam Golding Properties, two recently completed developments, Mariann Downs and Mariann Dales, are proving extremely popular in the buy-to-let market, thanks to to their affordability and exceptional value for money. Such is the demand that, following the rapid sale of 36 units at Mariann

Don’t we just love the concept? Five steps from work to home and back.

Downs, at prices ranging from R450 000 for two-bedroom units

It’s the old ‘corner café’ syndrome – live upstairs, work below – only

to R520 000 or R530 000 for three-bedroom units, the developer

better. It’s a fully fledged one-bedroom cottage, complete with pool and

has released a further 15 units onto the market. At Mariann Dales,

patio, tucked behind the stylish and artful renovation that has become

only 6 of the 36 recently launched units remain available for

Artisan Gallery on Florida Road. A short stroll from the vibe of Vida

purchase, at prices ranging from R470 000 for a two-bedroom

e Caffè corner and the calming green of Jamieson and Mitchell parks, this

garden duplex to R500 000 for a two-bedroom simplex, and

dual-purpose property (residential with special consent) is a dream for

from R510 000 to R560 000 for three-bedroom units. Each

the creative, spirited entrepreneur who’s alive to the possibilities of the

development is in a secure environment within easy reach of

Durban art scene. Or perhaps it’s for someone with another purpose in

shopping amenities, and buyers can move in directly on transfer.

mind for the space and place. ‘One property, two doors: home and work,’

+27 (0)31 701 3572, pamgolding.co.za

Words André Fiore

says the owner, Phil Greenberg. +27 (0)83 449 2898

44 | December 2011

COMMERCIAL Real Estate

Winging it Rawson Properties Commercial franchise in Kloof is launching a new office block wing in MRM Office Park. Situated near Woolwoorths, in the heart of Kloof, with excellent access to the M13, this upmarket office park consists of 2 000m2 of offices on a 4 000m2 plot, with ample parking for tenants. The new block offers 800m2 of office space, of which half has been let and the remainder, on the ground floor, is split up into two units of 180m2 each. This could easily be used for one or two tenants and offers uninterrupted views of Durban. ‘The four sections are for sale on a sectional title basis at R13 000/m2 or two sections for lease at R95/m2, and the minimum period for rentals is three years,’ says agent Marc Ardè. +27 (0)31 764 3833, rawson.co.za

Landmark sale Heidi’s Farm Stall and the accompanying 28ha property has come onto the market. Priced at R12 million, the existing infrastructure includes the farm stall at the crest of Botha’s Hill, the main homestead, a cottage, and various outbuildings with stables, horse arena and lunge ring. The electrical supply is three-phase. There is an abundant water supply in the two established dams, while a series of boreholes, wells, reservoirs and pumps ensure that some 17ha is kept fully irrigated. ‘It is ideally suited for horse breeders and plant propagation specialists, and the uniqueness of a property of this size so close to Hillcrest makes it very valuable,’ says Dave Jones from Seeff Hillcrest & Kloof. ‘The property has development potential, with preliminary investigations showing a likely yield of between 10 and 12 subdivisions of 2ha apiece.’ The property has environmentally sensitive areas that will require investigation, conservation and management. +27 (0)31 765 5326, seeff.com

Ballito’s Monte Carlo has to be a sure bet. – Bronwyn Nielsen, CNBC Africa’s Business Tonight

Bright idea Lighting consumes approximately 17% of the energy used in a supermarket. Lighting Innovations, an Eskom-registered energy services company, has helped Pick n Pay in its energyefficiency drive by assessing the lighting requirements in 97 of the supermarket group’s stores and installing energy-efficient alternatives. The stores’ 58W fluorescent fittings with magnetic ballasts have been replaced by 45 822 electronic ballast units, saving 568MWh/month. That translates into an average saving of 20% in monthly lighting costs, or R1,5 million a year. Greenhouse gas emissions for the average month have been reduced by 547t of CO2 and 715kl of water has been saved for the same period. Thanks to these energy savings, it has taken Pick n Pay just two years to recoup the costs of retrofitting its stores. 0860 037 566, eskomidm.co.za

At your service

Ballito’s first major business services park, Ballito Services Park North, was launched in November, further positioning the node as a serious option for light industrial and warehousing north of Durban. The complex comprises nine serviced platforms totalling 18,5ha and will cater for a cross section of facilities from 100m2 to 20 000/bulk square metres for distribution, warehousing, workshops, factory outlets, wholesalers, showrooms and mini factories. ‘Up until recently, the industrial focus in Durban has been south of King Shaka International Airport – particularly around the Riverhorse Valley and Springfield Park areas – but this park opens up the opportunities north of the airport,’ says John Hatfield of Robow Developments, one of the co-owners of the park. A shortage of serviced light industrial sites in Riverhorse, Gateway and Mount Edgecombe makes the area an obvious choice but there are only 112 serviced sites left, spread between Ballito Business Park, Ballito Services Park and Imbonini, which means proclaimed northern business land will soon be hard to obtain. Pricing ranges from R800/m2 to R1 200/m2, and land is available for ownership or long-term leases of 5 to 10 years. +27 (0)32 946 2727, comprop.co.za

December 2011 | 45

Perfect for the retired farmer! ●

● ●

● ● ● ● ●

56 farms covering 2500 hectares of elevated land with breathtaking views at the start of the Midlands Meander. Close to shopping centre and N3, commute easily into Pietermaritzburg. Live the life of th 5 golf courses and 5 schools in the area e Urban including Cowan House, St Anne’s College, Hilton College and Michaelhouse. Farm your 30 hectares or let the management company do the work for you. Well stocked game farm on remaining 850 hectares (incl large antelope, zebra and giraffe). CCTV, armed response, 24 hour patrols and full perimeter fencing. Owners have controlled traversing over the 2500 hectares - safe for kids to hike and camp. One of the healthiest climates in South Africa.

from: R2 750 000ex vat

Farmer...

www.mountverde.co.za

Rob le Sueur: +27 (0)82 450 9641 | rob@venturepartners.co.za Chris le Sueur: +27 (0)84 555 0982 | chris@venturepartners.co.za kate Watkin: +27 (0) 82 324 4929 | kate@venturepartners.co.za Andre Voigts:+27 (0)83 703 2242 | andre@voigts.co.za

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29/10/2011 11:27:19

The Meadows Country Estate

Sites From R375 000 Only 8 Sites left

try Situated on 11 hectares of prime n u o c y t i l a property near the pricturesque village of Underberg. u q a y o j The Meadows offers charming country homes for the discerning investor. En g r e b r e Overlooking pastoral farmlands, dams and the majestic mountains of the Southern nd U n i e f Drakensberg. These homes have direct access to the Underberg Golf course. li The Meadows offers a wide variety of recreational facilities including: 2 fully stocked trout

dams, ﬁshing, boating, bird watching, swimming pool, tennis court, jogging/cycle track, club house with recreational area, childrens play area, picnic and braai facilities along the river.

www.meadowsunderberg.co.za Rob Le Sueur | tel::+27 (0)82 450 9641 | e-mail:: rob@venturepartners.co.za Kate Watkin | tel::+27 (0)82 324 4929 | e-mail:: kate@venturepartners.co.za Wade Kerdachi | tel::+27 (0)83 652 7397 | e-mail:: wade@utopia.co.za

TheMeadows_HP_PropertyMagazine.indd 1

29/10/2011 09:40:52

International

investment, real estate, news & leisure

A real winner Ayana Resort and Spa, in Bali, has comes out tops as the leading holiday destination in Asia

Words Catherine Riley Photographs courtesy Ayana Resort and Spa

ore than 28 000 tourists have voted Bali’s Ayana Resort and Spa as the best resort in Asia, in the Condé Nast Traveller 2011 Reader’s Choice Awards. The resort, located just 15 minutes from Bali’s airport, scored an overall rating of 95,7, topping the list of the 20 best resorts in Asia and coming in at number 42 in the list of 100 best resorts in the world. Counting 8 million votes from travellers across the board, CNTraveller’s reader survey is the travel industry’s most comprehensive tally of the world’s best destinations.

Ayana offers 78 free-standing clifftop luxury villas, including Ocean View villas (one or two bedrooms), Ocean Front villas (one or two bedrooms), Cliff V illas (one bedroom) and the prestigious Ayana Villa (three bedrooms). Every villa has a private plunge pool, sunbeds and a Balinese-style thatch-roof pavilion housing the master bedroom, walk-in wardrobe, deluxe bathroom, soaking tub and rain shower, and spacious living and dining areas. Guests enjoy luxurious entertainment facilities, a personal butler service, a wide choice of restaurants, and treatments at the 22 000m2 Thermes Marins Bali Spa.

The resort was rebranded in April 2009 when it was brought under the management of West Paces Hotel Group, led by Horst Schulze. ‘This award reaffirms the vision and excellence of our owner and the leadership of West Paces Hotel Group, but most of all it reflects our guests’ recognition of the passion, care and dedication of our 900-plus staff,’ says Ayana General Manager, Charles de Foucault. In addition to the CNTraveller award, Ayana won the title of Indonesia’s Leading Spa Resort in the 2011 World Travel Awards. +62 361 702 222, ayanaresort.com

Anya Resort’s saltwater Ocean Beach Pool. 2The Rock Bar is one of the resorts 11

Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more

restaurants and bars. 3Relaxing by the River Pool at the Cliff Villa complex. 4Every villa

international luxury getaways.

comes with its own infinity pool.

December 2011 | 47

WITH OUR SOLID

LEVY STABILISATION FUND YOU WON’T BE IN FOR ANY SURPRISES

Living at Le Domaine means financial peace of mind. Due to the robust Levy Stabilisation Fund and its continued growth, future levy increases will be kept well below the rate of inflation. Village Versailles, the final phase of this active adult community is now under construction, presenting the last opportunity to purchase here at off plan prices starting from R969 000, or on the life rights scheme. Just two of the many good reasons to invest in your future at Le Domaine.

Sales Office: 031 716 8008 100 Acutts Drive, Hillcrest www.ledom.co

Introducing CoverBooster from Discovery Life – an amazing new ƉƌŽĚƵĐƚ ƚŚĂƚ ƐŝŐŶŝĮ ĐĂŶƚůǇ ďŽŽƐƚƐ ǇŽƵƌ ůŝĨĞ ĐŽǀĞƌ ĨŽƌ ĨƌĞĞ͊ If you take out a Discovery Life policy with CoverBooster ďĞĨŽƌĞ ϭ DĂƌĐŚ ϮϬϭϮ͕ ǇŽƵ͛ůů ŐĞƚ ƵƉ ƚŽ ĂŶ ĂĚĚŝƟ ŽŶĂů ϯϮй life cover absolutely free for three years. At the end of ƚŚĞ ƚŚƌĞĞ ǇĞĂƌ ƉĞƌŝŽĚ͕ ǇŽƵ ĐĂŶ ĐŽŶƟ ŶƵĞ ƚŽ ĞŶũŽǇ ƚŚŝƐ ĂĚĚŝƟ ŽŶĂů ůŝĨĞ ĐŽǀĞƌ Ăƚ Ă ĚŝƐĐŽƵŶƚĞĚ ƌĂƚĞ ĚĞƉĞŶĚŝŶŐ ŽŶ ǇŽƵƌ sŝƚĂůŝƚǇ ƐƚĂƚƵƐ ŽǀĞƌ ƚŚĞ ƚŚƌĞĞ ǇĞĂƌ ƉĞƌŝŽĚ͘ dŽ Į ŶĚ ŽƵƚ ŵŽƌĞ ĂďŽƵƚ ƚŚŝƐ ĂŵĂǌŝŶŐ Žī Ğƌ ^D^ Ks Z ƚŽ ϰϴϬϯϬ Žƌ ƐƉĞĂŬ ƚŽ ǇŽƵƌ Į ŶĂŶĐŝĂů ĂĚǀŝƐĞƌ͘ dŚŝƐ Žī Ğƌ ŝƐ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ŝŵŵĞĚŝĂƚĞůǇ ĨŽƌ ŶĞǁ ŝƐĐŽǀĞƌǇ >ŝĨĞ policies with a date of commencement from 1 November ϮϬϭϭ ƚŽ ϭ DĂƌĐŚ ϮϬϭϮ͘ ǆŝƐƟ ŶŐ ŝƐĐŽǀĞƌǇ >ŝĨĞ ĐůŝĞŶƚƐ ǁŝůů ďĞ ĂďůĞ ƚŽ ĂĚĚ Ă ƐŝŵŝůĂƌ ďĞŶĞĮ ƚ ƚŽ ƚŚĞŝƌ ƉŽůŝĐŝĞƐ ŝŶ ϮϬϭϮ͘ dĞƌŵƐ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŶĚŝƟ ŽŶƐ ĂƉƉůǇ͘ ŝƐĐŽǀĞƌǇ >ŝĨĞ ŝƐ ĂŶ ĂƵƚŚŽƌŝƐĞĚ Į ŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƌ͘ ZĞŐŝƐƚƌĂƟ ŽŶ ŶƵŵďĞƌ ϭϵϲϲͬϬϬϯϵϬϭͬϬϲ www.discovery.co.za

Seychelles

investment, real estate, news & leisure

Seductive Silhouette

Words Genevieve Fisher Photographs courtesy Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa

The new Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa is as sensual as resorts come on a tropical island

he Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa is ideally located on the thirdbiggest island in Seychelles, Silhouette, which not only tempts guests seeking a tropical getaway but also those with an appreciation for nature conservation. The second Hilton in Seychelles, the 11-villa resort is surrounded by an important biodiversity sanctuary of the Indian Ocean region. It lies on one of the palm-fringed beaches of Silhouette Island and can be accessed by a 20-minute drive from Seychelles International Airport, in Mahé, followed by a 35-minute boat ride.

With their breathtaking views of the mountain peaks and the clear blue waters, the villas offer luxury amenities, wireless Internet access and spacious living areas. There are four types of villa – King Beachfront, King Garden, Deluxe Hillside Pool and Deluxe Beachfront Pool. But the most seductive option is the King Presidential Villa, which, at 1 090m2, is also the largest. This villas has two 150m2 bedrooms, each with en-suite bathroom, and sleeps six adults or four adults and four children. It also has private beach access, a butler service and a private swimming pool.

There are seven restaurants at the resort, each with its own speciality to tempt guests’ taste buds. Grann Kaz is worthy of special mention. Serving Creole cuisine, it’s located in a historic, refurbished plantation house that is redolent with English and French heritages. For those wanting to work off their dining excesses, there’s a fitness centre, a swimming pool and a nearby dive centre, as well as the Silhouette Spa, which offers a full menu of treatments for guests to round off their sensual stay. +248 429 3949, hilton.com

Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more fabulous

Private deck of a Deluxe Beachfront Pool Villa. 2Spacious bedroom of a King Garden

getaway destinations.

Villa. 3Palms fringe the magnificent swimming pool.

December 2011 | 49

SEYCHELLES

Salaam, Seychelles

In November, Etihad Airways touched down in Seychelles to open its Abu Dhabi–Seychelles route. The move by Abu Dhabi’s national carrier will strengthen ties between the two countries and create tourism opportunities for both of them. The biggest beneﬁt for Seychelles is that Etihad Airways offers links to other destinations around the world, such as Australia, the Middle East and Asia, making Seychelles more accessible to tourists from these places. Etihad Airways won the title of the World’s Leading Airline at last year’s World Travel Market Awards.

Photograph courtesy rewalls.com

0861 384 423, etihadairways.com

Aquatic allure

The biggest benefit for Seychelles is that Etihad Airways offers links to other destinations around the world

Le Méridien Fisherman’s Cove is situated on Beau Vallon Bay on the north side of Mahé Island, overlooking Silhouette and North islands. This luxurious resort is located only 30 minutes from the international airport and 10 minutes from the capital city of Victoria. Last year it was declared as Seychelles’ Leading Resort at the World Travel Awards. The management team is now busy rolling out the refurbishment of the beachfront Creole suites, which will be completed this month. The three- month transformation will see new fixtures, floors and furniture being added to the suites. The resort’s name reflects the vibrant

Asian exploration

marine life in the area, which has made it a destination of choice among snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. On-site representatives

At this year’s ITB Asia, held in Singapore in October, Seychelles

from the Destination Management Company will arrange expeditions

made its ﬁrst appearance. More than 750 exhibitors from over

to the surrounding islands for visitors who want to explore the natural

70 countries participated in the three-day convention, which is

wonders of this Indian Ocean island gem. +27 (0)21 493 0427,

now in its fourth year. Seychelles’ involvement at this year’s event

lemeridienﬁshermanscove.com

has reaffirmed the potential of the islands for the Asian travel market. Seychelles was represented by a small delegation headed by the deputy chief executive of the Seychelles Tourism Board, Elsia Grandcourt, the board’s marketing executives, Christine Vel, Stephanie Lablache and Maria Morel, Air Seychelles’ representative, Martin Suresh, and several other representatives of the local industry. The delegation met company representatives from all over Asia, including China, Hong Kong, and India, as well as representatives from a number of European companies, and all Seychelles delegates confirmed that their representation of the islands was a great success. Elsia says the success of Seychelles’ participation in this fair can be attributed to Asian travellers and tourists who are looking for something different and finding it in the Seychelles. The ITB Asia trade fair is a business-to-business trade show and convention focusing on the Asia-Pacific travel industry. It is now in its fifth year. +248 (0)4 671 300, seychelles.travel; itb-asia.com

This lifestyle could be yours forever! www.edenisland.sc

SEYCHELLES

Salaam, Seychelles

Photograph courtesy rewalls.com

0861 384 423, etihadairways.com

Aquatic allure

The biggest benefit for Seychelles is that Etihad Airways offers links to other destinations around the world

Le Méridien Fisherman's Cove is situated on Beau Vallon Bay, on the north side of Mahé Island, overlooking Silhouette and North islands. This luxurious resort is located only 30 minutes from the international airport and 10 minutes from the capital, Victoria. Having recently won the accolade of Seychelles Leading Resort at last year’s World Travel Awards, the management team has rolled out the refurbishment of the beachfront Creole suites, which will be completed in December. The three-month transformation will see new fixtures, floors and furniture being added to the suites. The resort’s name reflects the vibrant marine

Asian exploration

life in the area, which has made it a destination of choice among snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. On-site representatives from the Destination Management Company will arrange expeditions to the

At this year’s ITB Asia, held in Singapore in October, Seychelles

surrounding islands for visitors who want to explore the natural wonders

made its ﬁrst appearance. More than 750 exhibitors from over

of this Indian Ocean island gem. +27 (0)21 493 0427,

70 countries participated in the three-day convention, which is

lemeridienﬁshermanscove.com

now in its fourth year. Seychelles’ involvement at this year’s event has reaffirmed the potential of the islands for the Asian travel market. Seychelles was represented by a small delegation headed by the deputy chief executive of the Seychelles Tourism Board, Elsia Grandcourt, the board’s marketing executives, Christine Vel, Stephanie Lablache and Maria Morel, as well as Jessica Giroux from Mason’s Travel, Freddy Karkaria from Select Seychelles, Johnette Labiche from Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino, and Air Seychelles representative, Martin Suresh. The delegation met company representatives from all over Asia, including China, Hong Kong, and India, as well as representatives from a number of European companies, and all Seychelles delegates confirmed that their representation of the islands was a great success. Elsia says the success of Seychelles’ participation in this fair can be attributed to Asian travellers and tourists who are looking for something different. The ITB Asia trade fair is a B2B trade show and convention focusing on the Asia-Pacific travel industry. +248 (0)4 671 300, seychelles.travel; itb-asia.com

December 2011 | 52

NETWORKING

SOCIETY

Living the high life in KwaZulu-Natal

9 6

Willowton Group’s launch of the Sunfoil Dolphins’ new kit, Sahara Stadium: 1Shoaib Moosa, Bruce Jackson. 2Kyle Abott, Razak Moosa, Cameron Delport, David Miller. South African Breweries’ KickStart Awards, Moses Mabhida Stadium: 3Dave Cairns, Vincent Maphai 4Masibonge Mthethwa, Ntokozo Ntuli, Mzamo Mhlongo 5Mathini Masuku, Hlumela Jonas. Inaugural Regional Five-Star Reserve Classic Cocktail Mixology Competition, Oyster Box: 6Ivan Isaac, Seelan Naidoo, Liesl Gibson, Calvin Foyle, Tamara Quinn, Dean Staedter, Ryan Duvenage. KwaDabeka water- and energysaving programme launch 7James Nxumalo, Sandile Zungu, Derek Naidoo. Oyster Box’s 60th birthday, Umhlanga: 8Eric Botha, Hendry Pakiri, Wayne Coetzer, Kevin Joseph. Sunﬂower Fund’s Big Bandana Bash, Primi Polo: 9Alice and Ross Leah 10Ian and Zelda Ferguson.

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.

December 2011 | 51

Photographs Jen Ogilvie and Shirley Williams

Standard Bank Owned Development Priced from R1 410 000.00 Innovative financing solution available to qualifying individuals

Features • • • • • • • • • • •

Unobstructed sea views Fully air-conditioned Cool ceramic tiled floors Large private patios Low-maintenance aluminium window and patio door frames Elevator All units are 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms Prime position Basement parking Upmarket finishes Entertainment deck on the roof.

Scottburgh

Only a 5 min walk from the main swimming beach or Town and one of the South Coast’s most popular and beautiful holiday destinations. Centrally situated only 60 km away from both Durban and Port Shepstone.

Contact Harcourts: Seeff Properties: Tyson Properties: Wakefields:

039 976 1121 / 078 427 1388 039 978 2861 / 082 926 5420 039 978 1311 / 082 558 5404 039 978 9860 / 083 459 3574