s
cu & L Fo ES A al L N eci EL IO Sp CH AT Y N SE TER IN
Property
Est. 2004, Issue 223
KWAZULU-NATAL
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011
Winner of 10 publishing awards
decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate
TH THE FIFN E TG ELEM OR LIVIN
OUTDO WATER, Y B D E IR P INS , FIRE EARTH, AIRAN … AND M
NEW DINING TREATS
Frank Berkeley, Managing Executive, Nedbank Corporate Property Finance, on why commercial property is holding up well
9 771811 700007
A FRENCH SUCCESS STORY
11 0 0 9
Le Domaine
BENGUELA’S COVETABLE COVE
RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Le Domaine, Hillcrest, KZN. Sales Office: +27 (0)31 716 8008. ledom.co.za
ARCHITECTURE, NATURALLY DESIGN MARVELS THAT MELT INTO THE LANDSCAPE
AL FRESCO ENTERTAINMENT TRENDS
12
16
Contents
22
DECOR
10
HOT DECOR & DESIGN Landscaper Clinton
22
7
56
design treasures.
with equal flair.
IN YOUR ELEMENT The latest in modern
12
earth, air, fire … and Man.
A TRUSTED SIGNATURE
Mediterranean-inspired restaurant opens its doors amid the hustle and bustle of
Celeb chef Reuben Riffel, a health-focused café, a designer noodle bar,
page 28 for details.
28
36
View the lifestyle estate’s
43
genuine celeb fashion for the
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY HOLDING UP WELL
taking, sea bling, and Pieter
Nedbank’s Frank Berkeley
Scholtz’s new book.
shares his insight.
Our hot new section looks
WIN! A luxury breakaway worth
44
over R28 000!.
48
RESIDENTIAL The relaunch of Far Horizons, and a new, exclusive residential
SOCIETY Out and about with KZN’s A-listers.
estate on La Lucia Ridge.
45
DESIGN 16
LE DOMAINE – A FRENCH SUCCESS STORY crowning achievement.
HOT INDULGENCE at grooming for gentlemen,
Long Street.
HOT PLATE
REAL ESTATE
LUXURY
De Carvalho’s homely
for the active over-50s. See
Our favourite home used indoors and outdoors
Executive Chef Roberto
ON THE COVER
inspired by nature.
TREND WATCH
fabric range and a trove of
TRENDS
Le Domaine lifestyle village
their distinctive homes
accessories that can be
by the five elements – wind,
8
firm VDMMA and four of
developments around SA.
Potgieter, an eco-friendly
outdoor furniture inspired
7
course, and six of the best
COMMERCIAL A new shopping mall for Harding, and a long-overdue upgrade for Overport City.
A COVETABLE COVE
50
INTERNATIONAL
and a new restaurant by
A masterpiece of
Penny Hatting.
contemporary architecture
and help with investing
that blends in perfectly with
Down Under.
14
WHAT’S ON
the landscape at Benguela
This month’s hot events.
Cove Lagoon Wine Estate.
40
A SLICE ABOVE Why golf estate living is becoming par for the
32
52
Vietnam’s four-star resort,
SEYCHELLES Creole elegance at Four
ARCHITECTURE, NATURALLY
Seasons Seychelles, and
Discover architectural
nears completion.
Phase 1 of Eden Island
September/October 2011 | 1
ED’S LETTER
THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE ONLINE VISIT Browse thepropertymag.co.za
Photograph Grant Difford
‘Be like the flower – turn your face to the sun.’
for the latest features. FOLLOW US on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/thepropertymagazine twitter.com/thepropertymag SUBSCRIBE Call 0860 100 203 to learn more about our special subscription offer. 0861 765 833
– Kahlil Gibran
Entertaining outdoors is a luxury not many countries can boast about, but South Africa’s climate makes al fresco dining simply a must. This month The Property Magazine delves into outdoor living and entertainment by inviting Mother Nature’s four elements, Water, Earth, Air and Fire, with a helping hand from Man, to reveal their hot products and trends for the warmer months. Even if you don’t have an outside living area, you can still join in the fun. I love entertaining, but I’m constrained by apartment living. Instead, my family and I opt for days in the park. We hold birthday parties, brunches and other gettogethers against a lush landscape of trees, flowerbeds and the occasional duck. There is something quite delicious about long, lavish Sunday picnics, basking in the sun with good food, good wine and good company; in fact my favourite kind of day. The type where the kids play on the grass and laugh under the sprinklers; ants unobtrusively invade the picnic blanket;
and we grown-ups (and I use that term loosely) while away the daylight hours lazily catching up. Even as the hour passes and the shadows tentatively appear, one can still find that last ray of sunlight to sit under and enjoy its lingering touch on the cheek. And once the Sun has stretched its arms to full length in a sleepy yawn and finally gone to bed and the Sky has thrown on its indigo dusk coat, you linger longer because the air is still warm and the gentle breeze is laced with the faint scent of honeysuckle and jasmine. Simply perfect – simply spring.
Nicky Manson, Editor
This month you really must …
Continue supporting the Boks. And what better way
Get to a park! And lap up nature’s bounty and plenty
Fly … Forest canopy tours are the perfect way to
to enjoy them in action at the World Cup than with a
of sunshine. Spread out a picnic blanket at Walter
spend a spring day. Glide over the treetops and get a
glass of fellow sportsman Ernie Els’s specially released
Sisulu or Kirstenbosch national botanical gardens. Plus,
bird’s-eye view of nature at Karkloof, the Drakensberg,
SA Rugby wines. Available from major retailers, there
gear up for Kirstenbosch’s and Emmarentia Dam’s Old
Magaliesberg or Tsitsikamma. canopytour.co.za
is an SA Rugby White (Sauvignon Blanc) and an SA
Mutual Encounters Summer Concerts – coming soon.
Rugby Red (Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon blend).
And on 18 September, Old Mutual’s Spring Spectacular Concert will be on at the Durban Botanic Gardens. oldmutual.co.za; sanbi.org
2 | September/October 2011
Selling? Earn FREE Voyager Miles Our exclusive partnership with SAA Voyager means that when you sell your property on sole mandate through Seeff, you will earn free Voyager Miles. Use your Voyager Miles for upgrades on SAA flights or perhaps domestic or even international flights on SAA or any Star Alliance airline partner. You may also qualify for Voyager Miles when renting through us. Contact 08600 SEEFF (73333) or your nearest Seeff branch for more information on how you can earn SAA Voyager Miles, or visit seeff.com.
It’s the smartest move you can make.
Property
thepropertymag.co.za
DISTRIBUTION ABC Audited National Circulation – Total Circulation, Apr.–Jun. 2011: 67 260 AMPS (2011A) Audited Readership: 287 815 THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE KWAZULU-NATAL DISTRIBUTION 3 237 copies to luxury outlets: 14 187 copies free-to-home in The Boat House the following areas (including The Vineyard on Ballito residential estates): Zimbali Lodge Berea Fairways Lodge Musgrave Teremok Marine Morningside La Bordello Windermere Madeline Grove B & B Beverly Hills The Palms Guest House Cowies Hill Essenwood House Waterfall/Kloof The Balmoral Hillcrest Phezulu Game Estate Maytime The Royal Hotel Upper Umhlanga Riverside Hotel & Spa Lower Umhlanga Sica’s Guest House Upper La Lucia The Westville Hotel Lower La Lucia Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel Prestondale Quarters Hotel Broadway The Manor House Mount Edgecombe Fairway Guest House Hilton Docklands Hotel Wembley Ballito Umdloti
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s
Est. 2004, Issue 223
KWAZULU-NATAL
SEPTEM decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate BER/OC TOBER 2011
Winner of 10 publishing awards
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Winner of
awards lishing 10 pub
2011 TOBER BER/OC SEPTEM
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Est. 200 WESTE 4, Issue 223 decor, trends, RN CA luxury, PE design & real estate
AL ENTE FRESCO RTAI NMEN TREN T DS
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PUBLISHED BY MEDIA NOVA (PTY) LTD Managing Director Tony Vaughan tony@medianova.co.za PA to Managing Director Veronica Stevens General Manager Mark Pettipher markp@medianova.co.za Associate Publisher (Namibia) Mynard Slabbert mynards@mweb.co.z Circulation Director Vanessa Marks Finance Manager Leanne Cox leanne@medianova.co.za Finance Assistant Samantha Reinke Online Assistant Catherine Riley Receptionist Kashiefa Jacobs Drivers Willem September, Themba Gumede, Josef Khoza
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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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Published monthly in three regional issues: Western Cape, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Current ABC Audited Circulation (Q2 2011, April–June): Western Cape – 25 507, Gauteng – 24 830, KwaZulu-Natal – 16 923, Total Nationally – 67 260 Web Stats: over half a million hits (548 668); Property Club Members – 24 884 AMPS Audited National Readership (2011A): 287 815
Property
WESTERN CAPE
LONG BENGUELA’S NEW STREET ’S DINING COVETABLE COVE GEM
A FRENCH SUCCESS wan STORY
N s DE AL Focu AR N ial , G TIO Spec IQUERNA MB TE ZA & IN MOUTE RO
G UTEN
ART Art Director Warren Uytenbogaardt warren@medianova.co.za Senior Designer Trudine Scannell Senior Retoucher Tim Lake Junior Designer Madeleine Dreyfuss
EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES General editorial@medianova.co.za Society Western Cape socials@thepropertymag.co.za Society Gauteng socials@thepropertymag.co.za Society KwaZulu-Natal socialskzn@medianova.co.za Hot Property hotproperty@medianova.co.za
& ocu S L l F LE NA ecia EL IO Sp CH AT Y N SE TER IN
Est.
GA SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011 te real esta
& design luxury, trends, decor,
Western Cape Sales Tharien Nel, Michèle Jones, Justin Lyons KwaZulu-Natal Regional Sales & Marketing Director Jenni McCallum Gauteng Sales Anine Ehlers, Samantha Freese, Damion van Alphen, Wilhelm Odendaal Directory Sales Amanda Faas Namibia Sales Mynard Slabbert Media Coordinator Cindy Comer
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PropertyPrope y t r rty e Prop MA INT Spec UR ERN ial Fo ITIU A cus T S & ION NA AL , M e 223 IssuIB IA 2004,
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)
Frank Frank Berkeley, Managing Executive, Nedbank Be Corporate Property rke , Mana Finan ley perty Finance, well ce, up rate Pro on why commercial property is holding on wh ging Execu y comm tiv k Corpo up well dban ng ercial e, Nedban k tive, Ne prope is holdi rty is Corporate g Execuial property gin holdi na ng up Property mmerc ley, Ma well Berke on why co nk Fra ce, Finan
TH ELEE FIFT OUTD MEN H IN T
ARCHITECTURE, NATURALLY DESIGN MARVELS THAT MELT INTO THE LANDSCAPE
Benguela’s COVETABLE COVE
AL FRESCO ENTERTAINMENT TRENDS
AMPS (2011A) Audited Readership
REGIONAL CIRCULATION ABC Audited National Circulation (Jan.–Mar. 2011) The Property Magazine – KwaZulu-Natal 16 923 The Property Magazine – Gauteng 24 830 The Property Magazine – Western Cape 25 507 The Property Magazine – Combined 67 260
GAUTENG
Property
KWAZULU-NATAL
THE FIFTH ELEMENT
THE FIFTH ELEME
KING OF THE WORLD AT THE RADISSON BLU HOTEL SANDTON
OUTDOO NT INSPIRED R LIVING BY EARTH AIR,WATER, FIRE … AND MAN.
LIVING OUTDOOR WATER, BY INSPIRED AIR, FIRE EARTH, … AND MAN
THE FIFTH ELEMENT
OUTDOO INSPIRED R LIVING BY EARTH, AIR,WATER, FIRE … AND MAN
SPIR OOR EARTED BY LIVING H, AI WAT … AN ER R, D M FIRE , AN
287 815
Property
BRAAMIES’ HOT NEW DINING SPOTS ARCHITECTURE, NATURALLY DESIGN MARVELS THAT SHIVER OUR TIMBERS
LONG STREET’S NEW DINING GEM
AL FRESCO ENTERTAINMENT TRENDS
The Reeds at Balgowan Frank Berkeley, Managing Executive, Nedbank Corporate Property Finance, on why commercial property is holding up well
NEW DINING TREATS ARCHITECTURE, NATURALLY DESIGN MARVELS THAT MELT INTO THE LANDSCAPE
MODERN ECO LIVING IN THE MIDLANDS OF KWAZULU-NATAL
Frank Berkeley, Managing Executive, Nedbank Corporate Property Finance, on why commercial property is holding up well
Le Domaine
AL FRESCO ENTERTAINMENT TRENDS BENGUELA’S COVETABLE COVE
A FRENCH SUCCESS STORY Frank Berkeley, Managing Executive, Nedbank Corporate Property Finance, on why commercial property is holding up well
ON THIS MONTH’S COVERS Western Cape: Contemporary home on Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate. Gauteng: The Reeds at Balgowan, KZN Midlands, +27 (0)79 527 1344, reedsenviroliving.com KwaZulu-Natal: Le Domaine, Hillcrest.. Sales Office: +27 (0)31 716 8008, ledom.co.za Disclaimer The publisher and editor of this magazine give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised within this edition. Copyright Media Nova (Pty) Limited. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from Media Nova (Pty) Limited. The publishers are not responsible for any unsolicited material.
P. LE GRANGE & SEUNS/SONS
medianova.co.za
You tell us
Property involves us all. What’s your view? Email readers@thepropertymag.co.za. BILL & BEDLAM Well done to you and the staff for a well-rounded, informative and well-presented magazine. I would be interested to read from informed parties on the proposed changes to legislation covering rates billing on a second property owned. The government aims to bill B & B establishments as commercial properties, but the vague wording proposed, if legislated, could affect every property owner who owns a second property.The government states that this would not be the case, but if legislation does not define B & Bs specifically, then property owners who rent out homes could in future be rated as commercial establishments. Many people invest in property for retirement income, venture capital and so on, and this could have a material effect on their income, rentals and the property market. Christine Smit, Cowies Hill, KZN
LETTER o f the Month
Indoor/Outdoor Suite
Indoor/Outdoor Suite Suite Indoor/Outdoor Suppliers ofIndoor/Outdoor Outdoor Furniture Suite
Suppliers of Outdoor Furniture Suppliers of Outdoor Furniture Suppliers of Outdoor Furniture
We asked Ted Frazer, national marketing manager at Seeff Properties, to respond: Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs,Yunus Carrim, www.canetime.com | cane@canetime.com has made it clear that the bill would not be applicable to second and third residential 12 Kramer Roadwww.canetime.com Kramerville Johannesburg | Tel: 011 2622752 | cane@canetime.com Cell (Durban): 0824104969 properties (even if for investment or rental purposes), but rather to properties that 12 Kramer Road Kramerville Johannesburg | Tel: 011 2622752 www.canetime.com | cane@canetime.com are being operated as businesses, such as guest houses, B & Bs and small hotels, Cell (Durban): 0824104969 www.canetime.com | cane@canetime.com 12 Kramer Road Kramerville Johannesburg | Tel: 011 2622752 and as such must be subject to business rates. The amended Rates Bill has created 12 Kramer Road Kramerville Johannesburg | Tel: 011 2622752 Cell (Durban): 0824104969 strong but mixed reactions from guest house and B & B owners across the country. Cell (Durban): 0824104969 Because of tough trading conditions, many B & Bs, particularly in areas such as Plett, Knysna and other popular coastal holiday areas, have had to reduce their rates just to stay open. The prospect of paying higher rates in addition to the standard operating costs is understandably concerning. But many such establishments have been paying commercial rates since 2005 and see this bill as simply levelling the playing field. The bill is a first draft gazetted for public comment. But, based on Deputy Minister Carrim’s position, it seems clear that the bill will only be applicable to B & Bs and similar establishments that are effectively running as a business and therefore need to be taxed as such. It is important that the public ensures that when the bill is published, it reflects the sentiments expressed by the deputy minister.
WINNING LETTER Write to us and you could win six bottles of Clos Malverne Le Café Pinotage 2010, valued at R480! Clos Malverne, known for its award-winning Pinotage Reserve, has joined the coffee culture fashionistas with the debut of its Le Café Pinotage 2010. A particular oak treatment gives this voluptuous red its arrestingly vivid, coffee-like character, without camouflaging the primary fruit and natural characteristics of the pinotage. Seductive java, mocha and chocolate aromas, with spicy undertones of cinnamon and roasted coffee beans, linger to a smooth aftertaste. +27 (0)21 865 2022, closmalverne.co.za
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HOT PROPERTY
A trusted
HOT SPACE
signature
1
2
Roberto’s Signature Restaurant in Cape Town’s bustling Long Street is a Mediterranean gem where the focus is on honest, traditional fare.
L
member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs as Maître
Long and Hout streets, in the
Grillardin and his joining the South African
running a restaurant, Roberto says his dream
heart of Cape Town, Executive
Culinary Olympic Team. But, he says, the
guests would be none other than his own
Chef Roberto De Carvalho’s new
highlight of his career was when he became
family. ‘I’ve cooked for Bono, Meg Ryan and
restaurant is a calm oasis of flowing fabric,
executive chef of Azure Restaurant at the five-
Sean Connery, to name-drop a few celebrities,
streaming light and floor-to-ceiling glass
star Twelve Apostles Hotel at only 24 years
and up until we opened I would’ve said my
windows. It is a welcome respite from the
old. ‘I’m 33 now, and I can say that I did most
dream dinner guest would’ve been chef Rudi
frenetic pace of the busiest and hippest of
of my growing up in my previous position at
Liebenberg, but since opening he’s been here
Cape Town’s central arteries. ‘I had seen a
Azure. It’s every chef’s dream to open their
five times already! So now I would say that
couple of venues before I decided on this one,’
own restaurant and, after years of working for
cooking for my family is a dream, as I’m here
says Roberto. ‘I wanted a place on Long Street
others and making them money, I felt it was my
for 16 hours every day and don’t get to spend
that was on the ground level, to capture the
turn to be a restauranteur.’
much time with them, except on Sundays.’
Being Portuguese, Roberto has created
vibrant energy of the city.’ Words Genevieve Fisher Photographs courtesy Peter Unsworth
With the hectic schedule that comes with
ocated on the busy corner of
Every week Roberto’s dream comes true
a menu that is heavily influenced by
because, unlike most restaurants in the CBD,
building once housed the YMCA, and to
Mediterranean cuisine, including a wide
Roberto’s Signature Restaurant is open on
complement the history, the layout has
selection of main courses, from seafood to
Sundays. ‘Every Sunday my wife brings the kids
remained the same, with the high ceilings
meat and pasta.
and I cook for them. It’s a special treat for all
Built in 1883 by Charles Freeman, the
The presentation of the food is reminiscent
contrasting with the contemporary white
of us. I hope this new restaurant will encourage
interiors. Upstairs from Roberto’s Signature
of homely, rustic fare, and each item is plated
people to relax and truly enjoy a meal with
Restaurant is the popular theatre, On
on authentic Portuguese terracotta ceramic
friends and family without unnecessary
Broadway, and Roberto plans to service this
dishes. ‘This isn’t a gourmet restaurant; it is a
formalities, and in doing so, bring back the
trade with a specially designed menu.
family restaurant where I wanted to go back
culture of simply sharing a meal together.’ We
to basics – trusted, hearty food where the
believe it will. +27 (0)21 424 1195, robertodecarvalho.co.za
Roberto has numerous accolades under his chef’s hat, including his appointment as a
ingredients speak for themselves,’ he says.
The sophisticated interiors of Roberto’s Signature Restaurant were a joint effort between
1
Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more new
Roberto and his good friend Peter Unsworth. 2The floor-to-ceiling glass windows allow patrons to
hotspots in your area.
look out onto bustling Long Street while enjoying the serene ambience inside.
September/October 2011 | 7
HOT PROPERTY
HOT PLATE
Try out some delectable treats and bold new eateries.
Eat your heart out
Go on, say it! We love these cute little Nicoletta Love Notes – only just available in KZN, at a Spar or Pick n Pay near you. Grabbing a pack of these heart-shaped wafers, complete with markers with 1 000m worth of edible ink, means you can have your cake and eat it. Use them for popping a message into a lunch box, stand them on a cupcake or serve them
REUBEN RIFFEL, the celebrity chef with a restaurant in South Africa’s
beside a special cuppa. Also look out for Nicoletta’s new Bling Balls – fresh, crispy, meltin-your-mouth mini balls with a soft centre and raspberry flavour for gorgeous, fun cake decor. +27 (0)21 932 6092, nicoletta.co.za
gourmet capital, Franschhoek, and at the world-class One&Only Cape Town, ingredients and gives us the heads-up on entertaining when the mercury rises.
Q What prompted you to open a Reuben’s restaurant at One&Only Cape Town?
Vital stats
Clean-cut, fresh and just a few months old, Red Lime Café, next to Muscle and Fitness Gym at Musgrave Centre, sports a healthy focus, serving up omelettes, wraps, tramezzini, salads, bagels, pasta and, thanks to its fab
I needed a new challenge. I was offered
sushi chef, the best-priced sushi on the Berea,
the space and, after consulting a lot
they say. Grab a couch and a cappuccino, or
of people, I decided the challenge had
treat your system to an after-workout Power
found me and I went with it.
Bomb. Enticing, ongoing specials include
Q What ingredients are you looking forward to using this spring, and why?
pensioners’ prices on Wednesdays, half-price sushi on Tuesdays, Morning Madness breakfasts and more. +27 (0)31 201 2084, mfgym.co.za
new, and spring vegetables and fruit are
Designer noodle
actually most chefs’ favourite ingredients
opened Mooki Noodle Bar, in Brand
to cook with.
Road, simple, different and appealing. A
Broad beans, fresh peas and spring lamb. All spring ingredients feel and taste
Q Where do you draw inspiration from?
Fun decor and fresh choices make newly
selection of starters – spring rolls, fishcakes, Vietnamese rice balls, wonton wrappers – lead on to a choice of mains – curry, fish, rice, noodles, such as ramen, udon and mai fun,
From other chefs, people, books and
and a scattering of tasty toppings. Dessert
ingredients.
highlights include frozen goji berry and
Q What is your favourite dish to cook at home?
lemon yoghurt served with a chilli-chocolatesake shot. Mooki Noodle Bar caters for both take-away and in situ dining, so there’s plenty of reasons for you to pull up a table and chair
Fresh pasta with prawns, chilli, tomato
and enjoy the casually recreated Japanese
and ginger – it’s always a winner.
ramen bar feel. +27 (0)31 811 9199,
Q Your top tips for entertaining in the warmer months?
Use seasonal produce, especially fruit in summer cocktails. In fact, seasonal
mookinoodles.wordpress.com
The real deal
One of our very favourite local cheese-makers, La Petite
produce should always be used for
France, has just done it again, with a proper ricotta!
cooking and drinks-making. Make sure
Good enough for decadent Italian breakfasts drizzled
your ingredients are at their freshest. The
with honey and nuts or a sensual pasta dressed only in
best tips are to be well prepared and, of
olive oil and a lacing of salt and pepper, this is a hand-
course, to keep things simple. +27 (0)21 431 5222, capetown.oneandonlyresorts.com
made ricotta made with fresh, organic Jersey milk, and it contains no preservatives, flavourings, colourants or stabilisers. Use it in a thousand heavenly combinations. We’re thrilled and hope you are, too! +27 (0)33 343 3487
8 | September/October 2011
Compiled by André Fiore. Reuben Riffle interview Genevieve Fisher.
talks to us about his favourite spring
HOT PROPERTY
HOT PLATE
Cat’s out of the bag A joint venture between Laskas and
NatureFlexä Films sees the creation of the first home-compostable packaging solution. This range of compostable material is being introduced with Caturra’s African Renaissance Coffee, a new, premium, export brand of espresso beans and ground coffee that are 100% of African origin. Now you can enjoy a cup of superior African coffee blend products and be safe in the knowledge that once your empty pouch is thrown onto the garden compost heap, it will start decomposing almost immediately. +27 (0)21 593 1199, caturra.co.za
Back in time
Due to open in October, Trafford’s Restaurant in the Pietermaritzburg CBD will offer a fine-dining experience for the business and leisure markets, complete with grace and old-world charm. Decorated in the style of the 1940s and ’50s, the restaurant will offer an exclusive menu of select dishes which will be changed regularly, as well as a selection of fine wines and BYO options. Situated in an extensively renovated Victorian home flanking the historical Heritage Guest House, Trafford’s is owned by Penny Hatting, a well-known figure in Pietermaritzburg’s culinary circles. +27 (0)33 394 4364, traffords.co.za
Tea with Toni
Tea is no longer just for grandmothers sipping it out of their best Sunday china. Thanks to the Toni Glass Collection of gourmet loose-leaf tea, the beverage’s hot new image has been stamped and sealed for a new generation. Using only the finest leaves from around the world, the Toni Glass Collection makes tea available in 18 categories, including an African range and a chai variety. It comes in stylish designer tubes, which make the tea a super-trendy gift idea, too. 0861 11 15 54, toniglasscollection.co.za
SPEC OFFEIAL First R: 10 bo receiv okings Arome a Miele a boo k!
HOT PROPERTY
HOT DECOR & DESIGN Landscaper
CLINTON POTGIETER
Make your home your canvas this season.
of Bent Tree enjoys injecting a little humour
NEED PHOTO
into his garden designs. And if you were wondering about the business’s name, Clinton found himself with a T-shirt of his grandfather’s, with ‘Bent Tree Texas’ printed on it.
Q Tell us about your career. I stumbled across it by chance, and soon after I graduated, I knew I wanted to run my own show. It’s offered me a wonderful balance between continuous challenges and being around so many talented people.
Eco style
Home Fabrics has launched six new collections, Alchemy, Breeze, Hardrock, Kyoto, Taffy and Velvet Fever, which are certified under the Oeko-Tex Standard 100. This green standard guarantees that the fabrics don’t contain prohibited or regulated substances or harmful chemicals and that all production processes meet environmental standards. The collections are decidedly gorgeous, too. +27 (0)31 303 1202, homefabrics.co.za
International landscaping trends are environmentally driven, focusing on concepts such as ‘edible gardening’ and ‘eco gardening’. As South Africans, we’re certainly on-trend design-wise, but we lack affordable technologies. Urban farming is a huge movement worldwide, and it’s gathering steam here, too. It’s less about aesthetics and more about small-scale farming – a conscious commitment to doing the right thing. Given the rising costs of food, it makes perfect sense. It’s also a great way for the family to connect.
Q When designing a residential garden, what important things do you take into consideration? Without compromising our own sense of style, we endeavour to deliver an end-product which improves our clients’ lives. I believe people today are in a better position to know what they want and like, and are less afraid to take risks, so the most important things would be to listen, listen and listen some more – the client has to live with your design, so creating something ‘different’ isn’t an issue. Although we do like to inject a little humour into our installations!
Q Your dream project?
To design Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s garden – I bet he’d roll up his sleeves and get planting with us!
Picture perfect
Durban-based Kangoprints has just launched an exciting new option for the office, hospitality and domestic design markets. Printed on coated aluminium sheets and available in sizes of up to 1,5m x 1m, Kangoprint pictures can go … anywhere. Indoors or outdoors, this is an all-weather solution that, lacking frames and glass, is deliciously contemporary, too. Kangoprints has a selection of images in its online gallery, but many clients choose to supply their own digital images to fill prime positions in their homes or business premises. +27 (0)83 622 3000, kangoprints.co.za
Scatter brains
Recently shown at this year’s SA Handmade Collection at Decorex Johannesburg is a selection of new products by the Western Cape’s leading craft producers and designers associated with the Cape Craft and Design Institute (CCDI). The CCDI was set up in 2001 to assist creatives in building profitable enterprises with quality-crafted products for global markets. We are particularly fond of these scatter cushions by Fabricnation
+27 (0)82 328 2238,
(below) and Veldt (above),
benttree.co.za
respectively. +27 (0)21 461 1488, capecraftanddesign.org.za
10 | September/October 2011
Compiled by André Fiore and Genevieve Fisher
Q Describe the trends in gardening today.
HOT PROPERTY
HOT DECOR & DESIGN
Gardens and nature are inspiring designers from all quarters.
The walls are alive
Our love affair with wall decals continues as the flora and fauna of our outdoor spaces come inside. The Blooming range from De Waal Art (centre) features vases of roses, while the spring/summer range from My Wall Tattoos (left, right and inset) features everything from bees to birds to cherry blossom trees. +27 (0)21 790 9120, dewaalart.com; +27 (0)21 802 4215, mywalltattoos.com
Spring is in the air
Terrence Bray’s new collection, Cambodia in my Backyard, promises warm weather and exotic locations, just in time for spring/summer 2011/2012. Inspired by the exotic, jungle-like quality of his Durban garden – the large leaves, the kaleidoscopic colours and his cats lurking in the plants like miniature jungle beasts – this is a collection that brings us palm-print dresses and soft feminine lines. ‘The result,’ he says, ‘is a home-grown, fun and witty, yet ever-so-glamorous summer collection destined for far-off places.’ We’re ready; are you? +27 (0)31 209 4925, terrencebray.co.za
September/October 2011 | 11
HOT PROPERTY
HOT INDULGENCE
Grooming for him, glam for her, and goodies for the young ’uns. INSPIRE THEM Children of the Sands is the latest novel by Durban’s legendary playwright, director and writer, Pieter Scholtz, and it promises to enchant and inspire young readers with its imaginative tale, set in the Kalahari. Besides a great storyline and super-cool characterisation, the creatures and predators that appear in the book are identified in a fact-file at the back. Available from Adams Books.
SEA BLING
adamsbooks.co.za
New jewellery line, African Urchin, uses sea urchin shells found on the beaches of South Africa and turns them into designer pendants and bespoke rings and earrings. The shells are plated in a range of precious metals, such as 24ct gold, silver, rose gold and white gold. +27 (0)87 808 7064; africanurchin.com
CLOSE SHAVE A little TLC goes a long way, and for local – and visiting – businessmen, a stop at the Fine Gentlemen’s Grooming Club can only be a very good move. Tempting treatments include haircuts, hot-towel shaves, facials, threading, manicures, pedicures, foot spas and a variety of massages, including a full-body dry-water massage, all administered by gents, for gents. And if the grooming works up an appetite, there’s the fresh little Alicafé on the side, serving great coffee, gent-style burgers and a pleasant selection of other tasty bites. Situated at the newly opened Andaluz Boutique Hotel, in Overport Drive, the Fine Gentlemen’s Grooming Club is open until 10p.m., so even those with full work schedules can squeeze in a pre- or post-business preen. +27 (0)31 207 8030, andaluz.co.za
MOUNTAINS OF PRAISE Montblanc introduces its Tribute to Mont Blanc collection, in honour of the highest mountain in Europe, from which the iconic luxury brand takes its name. Excellence, exclusivity and enduring
GOLDEN OLDIES Get your very own Kate Moss, Joanna Lumley or Lily Allen originals at I Love Vintage, in Salt Rock. Or settle for Chanel. Stocking a great collection of previously loved designer clothing and accessories from the 1930s through to the ’80s, I Love Vintage brings to shoppers in KZN wardrobes that are bursting with clothes they’d never normally have access to. For younger shoppers, there’s a range of ‘new vintage’ pieces made from imported fabrics. For those who’d like to add a touch of ‘V’ to their wardrobes, this is a get-there-quick. By appointment. +27 (0)82 954 2195
12 | September/October 2011
Available from the Montblanc Boutique at Gateway shopping mall. +27 (0)31 566 3014, montblanc.co.za
Compiled by André Fiore, Genevieve Fisher and Nicky Manson
quality are the hallmark of all Montblanc products.
Safe Heaven. Luxury Freehold Villas Available From Under $1 million Buying a property at Villas Valriche, the double award-winning Mauritian estate, epitomises luxury tropical living. You will own a home in a country: U That boasts 40 years of political stability, with a strong and thriving
US$ based economy and one of the world’s best performing property markets.
U That welcomes and incentivises investment from South Africans, with
no foreign exchange controls, capital gains or inheritance taxes.
U With a world-class infrastructure, that offers a safe environment for
your family and a secure home for your assets.
Thousands of South Africans already invest, work and live in Mauritius. To find out why, send today for our villa information pack with a free copy of the 16-page report “IRS: Why You Want to Invest in Mauritius”.
+2711 234 2180 0861 113 985 info@villasvalriche.com www.villasvalriche.com
VV_PropertyMag_July11.indd 1
02/08/2011 15:23
HOT PROPERTY
HOT STUFF
CLIFFHANGER HANGER
Words Candace King
Gareth Cliff, the 5FM DJ and M-Net Idols judge, has launched his own iTunes application. The Gareth Cliff app is the first South African ‘personality’ application to be launched, and it features five tabs that include exclusive video content, a Gareth Cliff alarm clock, Twitter, Facebook, and an image viewer. The comical and entertaining app allows you to watch streaming videos that Gareth records daily and also gives you the opportunity to email, share to Facebook and Twitter and comment on and ‘like’ the videos. Wake up to the voice of Gareth with the GC alarm clock, which features tones such as ‘Jacob Zuma’, ‘Phuza Thursday’, ‘Archbishop Desmond Tutu’, ‘It’s the Weekend, Baby’, and many others. Check out what Gareth has to say on his Twitter and Facebook accounts, and view images on a larger scale with the Image tab. The free app will be downloadable from the Apple app store. It is currently only available for the iPhone and iPod Touch.
apple.com/za
Casual Sax, 9–10 September Acclaimed writer/performer Barbara-Anne Puren presents this don’t-miss take on love, relationships and romance, with a little help from her sassy sax, at the iZulu Theatre at Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom. Tickets: R120. computicket.com
Durban International Blues Festival, 28 September – 2 October For the seventh year running, the Durban International Blues Festival brings you bigger, more exciting blues artists from local, national and international stages. It’s on at Wilson’s Wharf. Entry on weekdays is free; the Saturday and Sunday gala performances require tickets. +27 (0)31 305 7612, durbanbluesfestival.co.za
the premier arts festival in KZN and consistently produces a sterling programme of
Sunday Tribune Garden & Leisure Show, 30 September – 2 October
cutting-edge drama, comedy, music and cabaret gleaned from stages around the
Orchids, bonsai, eco-friendly displays and garden
country, including the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, as well as an impressive
and school club offerings combine at the Royal
array of arts and crafts. This year’s line-up includes the highly acclaimed shows, God
Showgrounds, in Pietermaritzburg, to make this a
of Carnage, London Road and The Slap Koejawel. Running concurrently will be a series
show with something for everyone. Encompassing
of Think Fest presentations and workshops on a variety of topics, and between shows,
12 000m2 of open exhibition space and a further
visitors will be able to view the myriad art exhibitions at venues around the Hilton
4 000m2 under cover, this is a chance to pick up
College campus, where the festival is taking place. Advance booking for performances
gardening products, plants, accessories and ideas.
and accommodation is recommended. +27 (0)33 383 0126, hiltonfestival.co.za
+27 (0)33 345 6274, royalshow.co.za
Now entering its 19th year, the Witness Hilton Arts Festival is largely regarded as
14 | September/October 2011
Complied by André Fiore
The Witness Hilton Arts Festival, 16–18 September
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This exceptional home on the banks of the Botrivier Lagoon exceeds all expectations of the architectural design codes at Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate.
16 | September/October 2011
ON SHOW
A COVETABLE
COVE Words Genevieve Fisher Photographs David Southwood Styling Genneth Lyn
September/October 2011 | 17
ON SHOW
‘The house has been carved to fit well into the landscape and takes advantage of the lagoon, sea and mountain views.’
Opening page This expansive home interprets the residential estate’s guidelines to create a contemporary look all its own. This page, top left The striking, honey-hued, larch-wood cladding of the exterior public edge greets you as you approach the site. Bottom right Details of a concrete wall that has been moulded to match the texture of the wood, adding to the crafted and tactile quality of the home. Opposite, top right The walkway leading to the front door is designed to protect against the wind through the use of a wall of concrete and local shale. It also draws the eye to the lagoon. Centre Rheinzink (South Africa) supplied its German-manufactured pure zinc roofing material for this project. The double-standing, seamed roofing system was applied by Rheinzink’s recommended subcontractor, Rohde Roofing.
W
hat defines ‘contemporary form’ within a broader context of ‘traditional wall-dominated Cape architecture’? On the 90-minute drive from Cape Town to Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate, just outside Hermanus, the answer begins to present itself in the form of the inspiring landscape – vast expanses of undulating green hills and blue sky, multicoloured fynbos and winding mountain passes. Stopping at Site 139 on the estate, you’ll find the eyepopping answer staring you in the face – a functional, yet breathtaking, home whose design is informed by, and blends into, the unique natural surroundings. The house is the holiday home of a young Johannesburg-based family, whose brief to Michele Sandilands Architects (MSa) was to create a contemporary home that is fit for entertaining and reflects the natural surroundings. ‘The clients were the most non-prescriptive we’ve ever had, and they really trusted us,’ says MSa Director and Principal
18 | September/October 2011
Architect, Michele Sandilands. She and her colleague, Project Architect Helen Joy Clark, attribute this trust to the client’s understanding of the architecture and design processes. Helen says, ‘The dynamic couple are a husbandand-wife team, with the former being a trained architect and the latter a quantity surveyor. They allowed us the creative freedom to interpret the brief the way we saw fit and, along with the expertise of Lloyd Horton, the project manager, let us get on with building the house to the best of our abilities.’ This wasn’t the first time the client and Michele had worked together. ‘Many years ago, I was working at another firm and he was the young intern studying architecture at UCT, where he graduated cum laude,’ says Michele. The client went on to complete his Masters in Building and Urban Design in London. Fast-forward a decade or so and a mutual colleague recommended MSa to the client to fulfil his and his wife’s vision of the ideal holiday home.
prime property
Rheinzink (South Africa), +27 (0)21 671 2600; Rohde Roofing, +27 (0)82 395 0095
‘The couple had a unique insight into our creative and aesthetic values. They completely bought into our vision for the house, which made the process successful from the get-go,’ says Helen. So, how do you interpret a fairly open-ended design brief? Conforming to the architectural guidelines of Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate, Michele and Helen have also incorporated the landscape and inspirational views of the lagoon and the Kogelberg mountains into the design of the house. The house is tucked into the ridge, with only the Rheinzink roof visible from the main road. The client says, ‘The architect listened to our needs and wrapped a serene, delicate plan around them. The house has been carved to fit well into the landscape, and takes advantage of the lagoon, sea and mountain views.’ The notion of blending the home into the landscape became all the more crucial when, prior to construction, a botanical survey conducted by Nick
Helme revealed the presence of some rare fynbos species. The client agreed to move the house back in an attempt to conserve part of it.The remainder of the plants were conserved through a process of search and rescue by a local NGO, Grootbos Foundation, who nurtured them so that they could be replanted on the site by landscape architect Franchesca Watson once the house was completed. The upper entrance level is the entertainment area, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding doors to maximise the views. Close to the entrance, the dropped lounge allows a sense of enclosure and privacy for the occasional business meeting, while still maintaining a visual connection with the kitchen, dining and lounge area, which all look out onto the panorama of water, mountains and fynbos. The seamless joining of landscape to home is reflected in the use of textured, muted materials, the dominant ones being concrete and timber, which have been fused using an unusual technique.
September/October 2011 | 19
ON SHOW
Zimbo’s Trading Co., +27 (0)31 303 7964
Wiehahn Formwork & Scaffolding, 0861 70 80 70
20 | September/October 2011
Opposite, top left Zimbo’s Trading Co., a supplier and installer of a wide range of solid and engineered timber flooring, provided the wide-board French Oak Design floorboards (190mm x 15mm x 1 900mm) that were used for cladding and flooring throughout the house. Zimbo’s trading also represents leading suppliers of coatings and adhesives, such as Wakol and Loba. Top right All the bathrooms are incorporated into the broader design of the bedrooms. Bottom Architectural concrete is an extremely important means of design. With PERI formwork, almost all forms and surface qualities can be realised, such as the concrete’s timber-like texturing in the facing wall in the dining room and elsewhere in this holiday home. (A print of Mary Sibande’s Her Majesty Queen Sophie hangs on the adjacent wall.) Wiehahn Formwork & Scaffolding provides its customers with practical assistance for the execution of architectural concrete, planning and supply of formwork systems, perfectly matched to the individual construction project and architectural specifications. This page, top right The seamless line between timber and concrete is once again evident in one of the upstairs lounges, which opens onto a deck overlooking the lagoon and the surrounding hills.
‘It was the first house we’d done with so much concrete, and we had to do a lot of research with the help of Andrew Rohe of Wiehahn into the construction methods within a South African context in order to achieve the desired finish,’ says Helen. ‘The beauty of using concrete in this way is that, whilst being the structure of the building, it also forms the finish, which then takes on a luminescent quality in the African afternoon sun.’ The look was achieved by lining concrete moulds with sandblasted timber boarding that, when removed, left behind wood-grain markings on the slabs. ‘Test panels were cast on the site to ensure the desired finish could be achieved as well as to act as a control.We had only one chance to get it just right.’ And they certainly did, softening the line between concrete and wood. ‘Modern architecture, particularly the use of concrete, can be quite cold and lifeless. The
timber-clad walls and floors softened and warmed the spaces and complemented this unusual effect of the concrete,’ says Helen. The lower level, reached by a floating timber staircase, is comprised of three en-suite bedrooms and the main en-suite bedroom. All the bathrooms have been incorporated into the broader design of the bedrooms in another example of blurring boundaries to create the ultimate zones of relaxation – a big trend in luxury home design today.The main bedroom leads onto the pool and Jacuzzi deck, and you can imagine just how comfortable it must be to entertain here in summer. Head Interiors did the decor, and its use of natural tones provides the perfect backdrop to the vibrant local artwork sourced by the client, including pieces by Mary Sibande and Velaphi Mzimba. But it is the exterior of the house and its incorporation into the landscape that is so beautifully
executed. Crowning the building is a series of roof gardens that insulate the home and allow natural flora, (the original rescued plants) to grow and extend over the roof edges, further camouflaging the house into the ridge.The exterior back wall is clad in larch wood, with small, elongated windows allowing just enough natural light onto the kitchen work surfaces. The wall leading to the front door is made from local shale and concrete and is positioned to protect the home against wind. Helen believes that the success of the project is a result of not only the passion and expertise that each team of building professionals brought to it, but also how they employed these attributes to complement the aesthetics of the house without its sacrificing functionality: ‘The contractors were completely engrossed by our vision for this project, and they all worked tirelessly to make it work.’
Professionals List … Michele Sandilands Architects (MSa) – Architect +27 (0)21 686 5472, info@msarchitects.co.za, msarchitects.co.za Rheinzink (South Africa) – Roofing Material +27 (0)21 671 2600, info@rheinzink.co.za, rheinzink.co.za Rohde Roofing – Roofing Contractor +27 (0)82 395 0095, roofmaster@rohderoofing.co.za, rohderoofing.co.za Wiehahn Formwork & Scaffolding – Authorised PERI Distributor 0861 70 80 70, wiehahn.co.za Zimbo’s Trading Co. – Timber Flooring and Cladding +27 (0)31 303 7964, info@zimbostrading.co.za, zimbostrading.co.za
September/October 2011 | 21
OUTDOOR LIVING
Words Genevieve Fisher
It’s modern outdoor living inspired by ancient wisdom as we uncover the hottest new items relating to the five elements: water, earth, air, fire … and Man.
W
hen the mercury rises, so too does the cool factor of living, eating, cooking and relaxing outdoors. Taking our cue from nature’s four elements, water, earth, air and fire, we bring you the latest trends informed by each of these. We’ve also added a fifth element, Man’s technological advances, to give that extra something to outdoor living spaces.
Suppliers list … Aqua-Design, +27 (0)21 761 3759, naturalswimmingpools.co.za; Beauty Fires, +27 (0)21 461 9821, beautyfires.com; Belgotex Floorcoverings, +27 (0)33 897 7500, belgotexfloorcoverings.co.za; Blok Landscaping, +27 (0)31 764 6421, janblok.co.za; Box Living, +27 (0)21 465 6480, boxliving.co.za; Cane Time, +27 (0)21 5101072, canetime.com; Créma Design, +27 (0)21 434 0661, cremadesign.co.za; Hadeda, +27 (0)11 788 9859, hadeda.net; Italcotto, +27 (0)21 425 4192, italcotto.co.za; Limeline, +27 (0)21 424 8682, limeline.co.za; Marlanteak, +27 (0)21 425 3817, marlaneak.com; Mobelli Outdoor Furniture, +27 (0)11 268 6956, mobelli.co.za; Obbligato Décor, +27 (0)31 701 6565, obbligato.co.za; Plantation Shutter Co. +27 (0)11 708 7222, plantation.co.za; Robert Thomson, +27 (0)87 150 4749, robert- thomson.com; The Modern Garden Company, +27 (0)21 434 0611, moderngarden.co.za; Vertical Landscapes, +27 (0)73 486 6288, verticallandscapes.co.za; Weylandts, +27 (0)11 262 4747, weylandts.co.za; Yuppiechef, +27 (0)21 702 4969, yuppiechef.co.za
22 | September/October 2011
OUTDOOR LIVING
Au natural Natural swimming pools and ponds are the next big thing in residential landscape design. As people become more conscious of the environment and the impact of toxic chemicals, the natural pool or pond will provide the answer. This pond, by Aqua-designs and Beyer-Honig Landscapers, imitates nature’s own. The water is cleaned by means of its own ecosystem of water plants. The result is a lush aquatic garden that flows under the house to form a reflective pond that benefits the indigenous flora and fauna that thrive on the resulting wetlands.
Around the block Splish-no-splash
Nothing makes a statement in landscape design as effectively as an attractive water feature. This oversized, raised rectangular
This stainless steel water feature from
pond by Blok Landscaping was designed to create a sense of
Obbligato Decor has a satin finish, providing
drama for guests arriving at this home and draw their eye to
a dreamy, reflective effect when the
the front door. Raising up the water feature closer to eye level
water drains down the structure into the
and adding focal points, such as the cast iron urns, enhances
concealed pond. The streamlined design
the effect.
also allows for minimal water splash.
A green clean In the warmer months there is nothing more luxurious than taking a shower outside. Available from Créma Design, the Serpentine outdoor shower by Belgian designer, Tom de Vrieze, for Extremis, is a stainless steel garden shower with an attractive and practical design. It connects directly to a hosepipe, allowing for the water to be heated by the sun. Its design and light construction let you move it around the garden with ease.
‘Trends in pool and water features design are moving towards a truly green solution without compromising architectural or landscape design. This translates into lowerenergy pumps, local and recycled lightweight materials and completely indigenous planting which reflects and enhances regional eco systems.’ – Dr Jerome Davis, Aqua-Designs September/October 2011 | 23
OUTDOOR LIVING
A new earth A big trend in gardening is the rise of the vertical garden. With irrigation technology becoming more advanced, vertical gardens are not only attractive features for outdoor and indoor spaces, but also easy to maintain, because they take care of themselves. This one by Vertical Landscapes has a stainless steel gutter that catches water from the garden.
Groundwork
Going up For city slickers who live in apartment blocks and
When you’re selecting tiles for outdoor
don’t have the luxury of a sprawling lawn or outdoor
areas, particularly those near pools or
entertainment area, a roof garden is the answer. This
water features, make sure they have
one, designed by Blok Landscaping, is perched aloft an
a non-slip rating. Porcelain tiles are
eleven-storey apartment block overlooking Durban’s
good because they are grippy and low
Gold Coast. The design concept behind this garden has a
maintenance. New to Italcotta is the porcelain Walks Series, which simulates
series of overlapping and layered geometric shapes set at
quartz and comes in four natural shades to suit any design aesthetic. We
different levels, adding interest to what was previously a
also adore these Mexican ceramic hand-painted tiles from Hadeda.
completely flat roof garden.
Boxed out Nothing represents outdoor living more than a pergola – a place where you can do all the things you enjoy doing indoors, but where, technically, you’re outdoors. Taking outdoor pergola systems to a whole new level is Spanish outdoor furniture designer Gandia Blasco’s Cristal Box, available from Limeline. This design-savvy structure is made of anodised or thermolacquered aluminium. The flooring is made from ‘technical wood’, a material that uses plant and plastic fibres, which require
Well wooded
little or no maintenance. The
When it comes to outdoor
ceiling is made from a phenolic
enclaves, timber is, and always
plate, and the outer roof is
will be, a popular choice,
galvanised sheeting.
because it makes people feel even closer to nature. Added to this is the decor and design trend towards using organic shapes and textures, as demonstrated here by Weylandts’ organic Munggur Stool.
‘We design gardens that relate strongly to the home’s predominant architecture and interiors. Being conscious of the green movement and incorporating this into the work we do, such as rainwater harvesting, and herb and veggie gardens and prioritising indigenous trees to conserve water and attract wildlife, is very important.’ – Jan Blok, Blok Landscaping 24 | September/October 2011
OUTDOOR LIVING
Divine vessels
Shutter chic
Available from the Modern Garden
The wind can wreck any outdoor cocktail or dinner
Company, these unusual planters, known
party, which is why many homes today have an outdoor
as Heaven Vases, have been designed by
space that is protected or has a sense of being enclosed.
Jean-Marie Massaud for Italian furniture
These timber adjustable outdoor shutter systems, by the
brand Emu. They make it seem as if the
Plantation Shutter Co., protect against summer breezes,
plant or shrub are suspended in space.
control light, provide privacy and insulate against cold and noise.
Natural integration
Hanging out This hanging pod chair from Weylandts is not only retro in its look, but also, as the name
Cabanne is a collection of modular
suggests, takes inspiration from the organic shape of a tree pod. Made from Viro wicker, the
structures, screens, shading sails, braziers,
chair is designed to be suspended from a suitably strong support beam or slab with a sturdy
benches and lamps designed by Bestetti
metal chain and can support a body weight of up to 150kg.
Associati for Paola Lenti. It’s a flexible and articulated system designed to give you protection against the elements. The items are suited to different times of the day and can be used in various environments, from garden to beach. The materials used have been selected to endure and integrate with nature and, besides from steel and wood, we love the airy feel of this abode, which is accentuated by Paola Lenti signature fabrics. Available from the Modern Garden Company.
Go with the flow The Wind Light by Spanish company Vibia Design is inspired by an umbrella, but rather than blocking out light, it illuminates the space. The unusual design incorporates a pivot system that allows the lamp to be moved by the wind. Or you can fix it at any angle you wish. The woven shade gives an airy feel. Available from Robert Thompson, the lamp comes in a fixed or portable option.
‘We are surrounded by white noise. Finding a tranquil space is like searching for a comet in an African night sky. Creating a sacred space in which you can simply be still, free from chaos, is an all-important quest.’ – Chris Weylandt, Weylandts September/October 2011 | 25
OUTDOOR LIVING
Mexican glow These handcrafted brass lanterns from Mexico will provide a bohemian feel to any outdoor space. Emanating a soft glow, lanterns are always a classic outdoor accessory, and in our eyes, they will never go out of style. Available from Hadeda.
Hot design
What’s cooking?
Bio-ethanol fires are taking the top spot on eco-fundis’ and design
A South African summer wouldn’t be the same without
aficionados’ most-wanted lists.
the perfect braai. This pretty
It’s quite obvious why, really:
Weber Smokey Joe Braai
not only are they beautiful, but they’re also easy on the
from Yuppichef, available in
environment, thanks to the use
pop colours, is the perfect addition to a designer outdoor
of biofuels, which are derived from
space. Taking outdoor cooking
plant mass and are non-toxic. Two of
a step further is Euro Appliances’
our favourite bio-ethanol outdoor fire
Viking range of facilities for
and lighting products are the Rubik
gourmet outdoor kitchens.
Fires from Beauty Fires (below), and Torches from Marlanteak (above), both of which have an other-worldly
Designer heat
look and provide a focal and talking point to any outdoor space.
On those fresh summer evenings there is no reason to go indoors if you have the Dolce Vita Falo Heater from Mobelli Outdoor Furniture. Made from stainless steel, this sleek portable heater ensures that optimal heat is spread efficiently and, even in windy conditions, it is guaranteed to light up and continue burning.
Contemporary camping The Qrater dish by Belgian furniture design company Extremis makes campfires suitable for any outdoor living space. Resembling a crater, it is an open fire dish made from weathering steel. It’s designed to be left outside and will not corrode. Available from Créma Design.
‘Bio-ethanol fireplaces create ambience and focal points for any area, even the outdoors. These fires are mobile, which makes them perfect mood-setters for any environment.’ – Charles Scott, Beauty Fires 26 | September/October 2011
OUTDOOR LIVING
A retro set The Salone lounge set from Mobelli Outdoor Furniture has a retro look. The range comprises a three-seat lounger, an armchair, a drinks trolley and a coffee table. The frames are made from powder-coated aluminium, which is scratch, stain and peel resistant, and the cushions are made from an innovative polyurethane foam filling that allows the centre of the cushion to remain 100% resistant to water. This ensures that the cushion remains resilient to decay from mould and mildew, and that it lasts a lot longer than ordinary foam cushions.
The poster kid The Jaada Poster Sofa from Box Living’s Nipis Outdoor Range is a striking and elegant couch or daybed. Made from weather-resistant materials, including supple teak hardwoods, premium synthetics, durable fabrics and quick-drying foam, it’s not only easy on the eyes and luxuriously comfortable, but it’s hardy, too, and can withstand all weather conditions.
Plastic fantastic For many people, the thought of having fake grass in their garden kind of defeats the point of having a garden at all. But the appeal of Duraturf, made from durable, tufted polyethylene yarn, is substantial, specifically for those gardens that are shaded and where nothing can grow properly. What’s more, it is low maintenance, and you can have a well- manicured garden all year round with little more than a brush every few weeks. Available from Belgotex Floorcoverings.
Seating arrangement The basic, modular design of the Dedon Lounge range, available from Canetime, is accented by clean lines and allows individual units to be configured to form unlimited shapes and variations. By combining or separating units you can create endless seating options that cleverly emerge as generous islands, niches and corner sections.
Man
A patterned perch The Organic Bench by Obbligato Decor is made from durable powder-coated stainless steel and has an attractive leaf design cutout. The allure of stainless steel is that it not only gives a contemporary slick finish, but also that, in terms of eco-sensitivity, it’s one of the most recyclable materials on the planet.
‘Alongside the increasing sophistication of frame and fabric technologies in the realm of outdoor furniture, quality really does matter. Plastic weave is on the wane. With the large sums of money being ploughed into new production techniques, we are seeing fully fabric-covered furniture for the outdoors alongside new and surprising ways of using plastics and polymers.’ – Susan Perry, The Modern Garden Company September/October 2011 | 27
PROMOTION
Le Domaine
A French Success Story in KZN Village Versailles proudly crowns Le Domaine lifestyle estate for the over-50s.
Verdant lawns, wetlands, water features and French-inspired architecture set the scene for vibrant community living at Le Domaine.
L
e Domaine, South Africa’s first active adult community situated on 35ha in the picturesque green belt of KwaZuluNatal’s Hillcrest region is in its final phase of development.Village Versailles is the 17th village to be launched in this thriving estate which, with its French country atmosphere, has set the benchmark for estate living for active over-50s in South Africa. It is thanks to the property developers’ delivery on promises and high standards over the past 10 years that the previous 16 villages of Le Domaine all sold successfully and that the completion of the estate is now possible through Village Versailles.
Under development
The new Village Versailles is situated in the southern part of the development and comprises 42 units.The six free-standing units have already sold out. The remaining 36 are two-bedroom, two-bathroom or three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments, many of which offer views of Everton Conservancy, Clifton Hills and the waterway of Alsace Village. It is anticipated that construction will be completed in June 2012, with occupation taking place from October 2011 through to June 2012.
28 | September/October 2011
Visionary
It was the vision of local property developer John Bezuidenhout that saw Le Domaine establishing itself as one of the leading community developments in South Africa, garnering awards for lifestyle, landscaping, and design and construction. John undertook extensive research in the United States and Australia, where active adult communities had already taken off , to uncover what facilities were offered and how they were designed. The initial three core elements were: an active and varied lifestyle; a natural, primarily indigenous environment; and a five–star care centre. A fourth core element has since presented itself in the form of a Levy Stabilisation Fund, thanks to the financial health of the investment capital. Ensuring that these four key ingredients are continually maintained and updated is integral to the long-term success of Le Domaine, and they have made Le Domaine stand out from amongst the many similar estates that have followed suit. • Lifestyle – There’s never a dull moment at Le Domaine, with the multitude of leisure facilities available here.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 activities that will keep you fit and able. For your leisure and convenience, the central Club de Vie offers a restaurant, a bar with a large screen for viewing sports events, a library, several lounges, an internet café, a cinema, a well-equipped gym, a heated swimming pool and a Jacuzzi. There’s even a hairdresser, beauty salon, health hydro and travel agent. Club de Vie is a veritable one-stop solution to all your everyday needs. Environment – Creating an indigenous environment was one of John’s primary goals, as his vision for Le Domaine incorporated an amalgam of waterways, plant life and birdlife that would enhance the appearance of the development and provide a natural setting for residents to enjoy. Original landscaper Lucas Uys introduced a variety of indigenous flora and fauna to the area, using monocultures of indigenous plants to create a continuous theme throughout the development and act as boundary markers and screening between homes.
PROMOTION
N
•
•
Care Centre – Soins de Vie, or ‘care of life’, is an independent care centre located at the hub of Le Domaine’s community buildings, allowing easy access from all 17 villages as well as from the main access gate for visitors. The centre provides two types of care level: assisted-living rooms are on the ground floor, and high-care rooms are on the first floor. Soins de Vie is a world-class health care facility that prides itself on its holistic, professional and compassionate service and offers complete, tranquil care. Levy Stabilisation Fund – Stable levies provide financial peace of mind to residents, many of whom no longer draw an income and would not welcome the prospect of extra hidden costs. This healthy situation is a result of the developers’ foresight in creating the Levy Stabilisation Fund.This fund is supported solely from resales of properties and the growth of the fund continues to outstrip the annual inflation on the levy budget. Projections indicate that there will be sufficient income from the Levy Stabilisation Fund to maintain the residents’ monthly levy at a constant value.
Village Versailles
As the last village to be built, Village Versailles presents the final opportunity to purchase into the Le Domaine community at an affordable price, starting from R978 500. New buyers are given 25% discount off the sectional title price, allowing them the extra capital to spend during their lifetime while still maintaining a comfortable, secure and healthy lifestyle. This life rights/reversionary scheme means you always get paid out what you paid for your property, but without capital appreciation, while the property reverts to the developer. Plus: • Levies are lower at Village Versailles because of the exclusive use of carports as opposed to lock-up garages. • An exclusive laundromat at Village Versailles makes the need for washing machines and tumble dryers redundant. • A games room at Village Versailles provides a pool table, dartboard and bar with a braai area outside, and it is the only village with such a facility. • The kitchens and bathrooms have a choice of modern finishes.
‘Harry meets Sally’ in healthy Hillcrest Life-changing opportunities abound at Le Domaine, a result of the lively social life here, with lifelong friendships forming and new romances blossoming. Singles especially benefit from the regular social events held at Club de Vie or at one of the established sports or leisure clubs. The success of Le Domaine is due not only to its financial stability and secure environment, but can also largely be attributed to the community spirit that exists in the villages and manifests in the central meeting places. With one of the healthiest climates in South Africa, Hillcrest is also a hubbub of healthy activity, with new shopping centres, restaurants and theatres and nearby getaway spots, such as PheZulu and the Valley of a Thousand Hills, providing plenty of stimulation for lively residents.
Contact Le Domaine 100 Acutts Drive, Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal Sales Office: +27 (0)31 716 8008 ledom.co.za
September/October 2011 | 29
Largest stock of period antique furniture in South Africa. Suppliers to the public, the trade and decorators.
DURBAN FACTORY AND SHOWROOM 46 Buro Crescent, Mayville, 4091 Tel: +27 31 208 4418 / +27 31 207 2868 Fax: +27 31 207 2869 E-mail: leisure@eastcoast.co.za
124 Argyle Road, Durban. Tel 031-3031626 | Cell 082 456 2575 | email roger@1800.co.za
PIETERMARITZBURG SHOWROOM Cnr. Victoria & West Street, Pietermaritzburg Tel: +27 33 345 9805 Fax: +27 33 345 9901
www.rogerenglandantiques.co.za
www.leisurelounge.co.za
The Most Versatile Cooking Device Ever… Is it a Braai, a Grill, an Oven or a Smoker? A: YES!
Matthew Draper The Marketing and Sales Manager of SA’s hottest new braai, gives his favourite braai recipe in honour of National Braai Day and the upcoming Rugby World Cup. Seared Tuna Steaks Ingredients 50 ml soy sauce 3 tablespoons soft brown sugar 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 2 teaspoon sesame oil 2 large limes, juiced 2 spring onions, thinly sliced, diagonally 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted 4 Tuna Steaks 2 heads bok choy, halved
Preparation Put the soy sauce and brown sugar in a small saucepan over a medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Add the garlic and sesame oil, remove from the heat and cool. Cover the tuna steaks with the marinade and leave for 1 hour. Cook the tuna steaks on the Cast Iron Griddle for 1 minute each side for rare, 2 for medium, basting constantly with the marinade, until charred and sticky on the outside. Grill the bok choy on the Cast Iron Searing Grate, halves cut-side down for 2 minutes. Put in a bowl and squeeze over lime juice and a little oil and scatter with spring onions and sesame seeds. Serve with the tuna.
Q&A What makes your product so unique? The Big Green Egg stands alone as the most versatile barbecue or outdoor cooking product on the market, with more capabilities than all other conventional cookers combined. From pizza to ribs, or Christmas dinner to desserts, the Big Green Egg will exceed all your expectations for culinary perfection! With five convenient sizes to choose from, there is a Big Green Egg to fit every lifestyle! What is your must have braai Item? The Large Big Green Egg With all the EGGsessories is all you will ever need for the rest of your life,. The grill size is perfect and the firebox is big enough to cook with one bag or lump wood charcoal for over 14hrs. The Ceramic shell means no rust...EVER... it will be the last braai you ever buy. In your opinion, What is a must for any braai? A gathering of your best mates, cold beers or wine, sunny skies and the promise of watching the Boks thrash the opposition. What other products do you have on offer? You can order just about anything for your Big Green Egg, the list of Eggcessories is nearly endless. From Electric fire starters to tables to hold your Egg to Vertical Chicken Roasters even to Pizza Plate Setters. You can really have fun with your Egg! If you could send a message to the Springbok team, what would it be? You guys can barbecue all you want over there, throw as many “shrimp on the bar-b” as you like. But when you come home for a real braai, be sure you bring the TROPHY!!!
Marketing and Sales by: Rockwood Leisure matthew@rockwood.co.za t. 031 502 4043 m. 078 209 9592
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Words Anne Schaffer Portrait photograph Tim Lake Projects photographs courtesy VDMMA
Architecture,
naturally A
nya van der Merwe and Macio Miszewski were contemporaries at the School of Architecture at the University of Cape Town, and, soon after graduating – ‘when the moonlighting became unbearable’, they say, wryly – created a partnership and began VDMMA. Their first project was a house: ‘The client invited proposals from three practices, in effect a mini private competition, and we won! That was the start of the practice, and it led to other residential commissions, which led to others. And so the practice survived birth.’ That was 1991. Within five years, they identified a Grade 1 listed building in Bree Street and renovated and restored it with great sensitivity, to
32 | September/October 2011
accommodate the burgeoning practice. Today, there are 10 architects on VDMMA’s staff , including the three directors – Lloyd Rubidge joined Anya and Macio in 2000 – and two associates, Karien Trengove and Michelle Claassens. Over the past two decades, the projects undertaken by VDMMA have ranged from the celebrated Cape Town International Convention Centre (voted the city’s favourite building by KFM radio listeners), where they were the lead designers with FA, and the emotive Desmond Tutu Peace Centre, where they were lead designers with DSA, to the chic retail interiors of niche brands, such as Hilton Weiner, Urban Degree and Jenni Button. As a practice,VDMMA employs a holistic approach
which addresses all aspects of their projects, including interiors and landscaping, from start to finish: ‘The interiors of our projects are the architecture of the building. We design the projects at all scales and from all aspects, simultaneously.’ The architects have always put themselves forward as contemporary, or in some instances, modernist, but, generally, they avoid stylistic bracketing. ‘But what we’re not is revisionist or derivative.’ They describe their core philosophy as ‘striving for architecture which suggests timeless simplicity and elegance’. Clearly they’ve achieved that, and the world loves it.VDMMA has received numerous accolades and worldwide media coverage, won prestigious national and international awards
DESIGN PROFILE
Cape-based practice Van der Merwe Miszewski Architects is lauded as visionary in most sectors of the built environment. But for some of us, it’s these four iconic residential projects, integrated into extraordinary landscapes, that shiver our timbers. From left Anya van der Merwe, Macio Miszewski, Lloyd Rubidge
and continually contributes to academia. As members of the Green Building Council, the architects’ involvement in sustainable projects includes the design of two of the first projects in South Africa to seek Green Star rating, and they’re currently involved in the development of the new Public Building Rating Tool. Every now and again, between design briefs for projects as diverse as boutique hotels, wine cellars, luxury game lodges and schools, comes one for an extraordinary home. Or rather, a home in an extraordinary landscape. Four residential projects in particular stand out as showcase buildings designed for unique landscapes, structures which demonstrate so exquisitely how each landscape inspired a very
different, yet site-specific, intervention. They were designed and built for individual owners, unrelated, over a period of years.VDMMA named the projects ‘Tree House’, ‘Forest House’ (pictured above), ‘Mountain House’ and ‘Bridge House’. Certainly, all structures relate closely to site, but it’s often seemingly more about functionality than aesthetics. For a residential project in a wholly natural, even protected, environment, the reason why that home should relate to the setting is obvious; the ‘how’, less so. Balancing the sensitive integration of home into place (capitalising on the natural attributes of view or indigenous landscape) with creating an extraordinary home which meets the client’s criteria is the sort of dizzying, creative challenge relished by VDMMA:
‘We place a great deal of emphasis on the site and context of each project. We seek always to find the gees of the site and to “listen” to the site.’ The architects share their thoughts, processes and insights into each of the four projects, from the inspiration and direction gleaned from the sites and surrounds to the complex narratives which wove their way through the creative journey and, ultimately, drove the designs. As to who designed which home, they respond, ‘As a practice, we generally design together. The practice is a “studio’, and there’s much interaction. We’ve always adhered to the principle of not releasing a design before it is ready. Ultimately, ownership devolves to VDMMA – the practice.’
September/October 2011 | 33
DESIGN PROFILE
Tree House ‘Trees are precious in Africa. They provide shelter for the elders at meeting time, for schoolchildren in the midday heat, for all, to shield against the unrelenting elements. In a sense, the tree has become iconic, almost mythical,’ says VDMMA by way of introduction to the inspiration for, and design of, Tree House. ‘The site is on the slopes of Table Mountain, adjacent to a valley and stream, with a canopy of spreading umbrella pines. The trees provided the primary reference and structural concept for the house. Five tree- like structures anchor the roof to the ground and provide shelter for the functions gathered underneath. These trees are surrounded by a separate, lightweight, transparent steel-and-glass enclosure supported on a rusticated stone base. The visitor is invited to take part in a journey of discovery, requested to participate in the unlocking of experiences within the house, the peeling off of layers. We tried to heighten the experience of unveiling and of delicate exposure, to create within the house sensuality and moments of intense intimacy, a folly immersed in, and closely linked with, the majestic beauty of the African landscape, a simultaneous dialogue between inside and outside, neither taking precedence over the other.’
Forest House Forest House is set at the edge of Table Mountain National Park, at the highest permissible contour level for development.VDMMA describes the structure: ‘Essentially configured as an L-shaped building, the middle portion is a double-volume, fully glazed entrance lobby containing the vertical circulation and separating the two lengths of the L. This visual gap allows for the site to truncate the building, linking the terraced and landscaped foreground of the house to the forest beyond, which sprawls behind the house and up the hills to the rock face of Table Mountain itself. The site has magnificent views and is dotted with tall, vertical pines. The footprint of the house preserved the existing pines and sidestepped a variety of granite boulders, which were incorporated into the structure and design of the building. Full-height glazing took advantage of the views, and the resultant sun gain was tempered with deeply overhanging canopies and sliding shutters in timber, in continuity with the external timber cladding of the building.’
34 | September/October 2011
DESIGN PROFILE the lie of the land, and lie like leaves that have fallen down the mountain; they’re in sympathy with the surrounding context so as to achieve as little visual impact as possible on the existing natural landscape. ‘Habitable spaces have been created by using the age-old tradition of inserting stone walls into the landscape, thereby creating usable terraces and platforms. The colours of these walls emulate those of the cliffs of Table Mountain above, and its presence anchors the design into the landscape. The wavy roof is like a
Mountain House
Clockwise from top left Bright and airy spaces enable stylish living amid the foliage at Tree House; Mountain House, from concept to reality – the stone walls and curved concrete roof marry the structure to the landscape; VDMMA resurrected the dry riverbed with a swimming pool and other water features at Bridge House, which is split over three sites that are traversed by a donga; the natural features of the site are seamlessly integrated into the design of Forest House.
Mountain House is located on a steep, sloping site at the foot of Table Mountain, bordering Table Mountain National Park.VDMMA comments: ‘To achieve the least impact on the site, the house is comprised of five pavilions tucked into the sloping terrain, surrounded by the existing natural fynbos, which stretches from the mountain slopes above the site to the road below. The pavilions mimic
Bridge House Bridge House is built across three separate, adjacent sites in the heart of Higgovale, upslope from the Cape Town CBD and below Table Mountain.VDMMA explains: ‘All three sites are traversed by a donga. The site slopes, in places steeply. It also contains large, mature, exotic and indigenous trees, set among rocks and moss-covered boulders, which help to form the donga and its banks, which are covered by tangled undergrowth. Among the rocks lay fallen tree trunks and undergrowth, stone steps, pathways, platforms and broken-down stone walls. We reinvented this ancient garden in this “found valley” on the slopes of Table Mountain. We placed the structures along the perimeter of the three sites, allowing the inner areas to be landscaped in a manner that emphasises the donga, the inherent
piece of the site lifted off the ground, settling over the habitable spaces and platforms. The concrete roof curves in both directions and takes its cue from the curved nature of the cliff faces on Table Mountain above and the contouring slope of the site below. The roof therefore simulates the curve of the mountain face and the lie of the land. Glass encloses these platforms to create habitable spaces within the indigenous natural surroundings.’
beauty of the site and the views towards the mountains and sea. At the uppermost end of the site, a bridge was placed across the donga, allowing it to remain below. A pool and stream, flowing to a pond, were inserted into the dry riverbed. The flow of water is dammed by the pool, then runs freely in the stream and settles in the pond at the base of the site. Intensive planting will regenerate the garden. Found pathways and steps have been reinstated. The Bridge is the main house (Site 1), containing entry, living spaces and main bedrooms; adjacent to the Bridge are the garage and guest quarters (Site 2); at the base of the site, the Donga House – for guests – spans the pond (Site 3).’ +27 (0)21 423 5829, vdmma.com
September/October 2011 | 35
COMPETITION
Win a two-night stay for two in a luxury suite at Asara Wine Estate & Hotel, Stellenbosch. Prize includes bed and breakfast, and a private wine tasting.
PRIZE VALUED AT OVER
R28 000!
Luxury WIN! ASARA WINE ESTATE & HOTEL
Asara Wine Estate & Hotel is a five-star jewel
in the crown of the famous winelands of Stellenbosch, in the Western Cape. The estate features a 36-room boutique hotel with stunning views over the Stellenbosch Mountains and the tranquil lake. Asara offers guests a range of welcoming experiences, from fine dining at Raphael’s restaurant to luxuriating at Sansibar Cigar and Whisky Lounge and partaking in delectable, handcrafted delights at Asara Deli. The beautiful setting is ideal for brides looking for a scenic location for their special day, while the world-class business services and well-equipped venues make Asara the perfect choice for conference organisers. Asara’s
celebrated
wines
are
expertly
crafted from grapes grown on the rolling hills of its vineyards. Guests may enjoy a tasting of the always-rewarding range of Asara wines at the Wine Bar, where they can pair Asara wines with a selection of simple country fare. +27 (0)21 888 8000, asara.co.za
36 | September/October 2011
To stand a chance of winning a two-night stay at Asara Wine Estate & Hotel, simply answer the following question: Where is Asara situated? Email your answer, name, region and contact number to readers@medianova.co.za and quote ‘Asara’ in the subject line. Competition closes on 31 October 2011. The prize is valid for six months from date of publication. Prize is subject to availability. Prize excludes flights and all transport. Terms and Conditions apply.
PROMOTION
Simbithi
Splendour
Five industry heavyweights have joined forces to build a magnificent home in Simbithi Eco-Estate, in Ballito on the North Coast.
A
simple brief was given to Hans Coetzee Architect, yet the end result is anything but. Situated in the lush grounds of Simbithi Eco-Estate, a coastal paradise, the residence almost outshines its spectacular surrounds of dense, indigenous, riverine vegetation, lush valley wetlands, undulating hills and distant, breathtaking vistas. Built out of glass, stone and wood, the double-storey house is a feast of texture and contrasts. The design is sophisticated, yet clean and uncluttered, and a wonderful feeling of space has been created. The glass walls invite the spectacular views inside, and when lit up at night, the house’s reflection in the pool is a sight to behold. Architect Hans Coetzee runs his practice according to the motto,‘You fabricate the dream, we bring it to life’, and this certainly rings true for his latest architectural masterpiece.
Words Nicky Manson Photographs Grant Pitcher
Hans Coetzee Architect, +27 (0)31 566 5750
September/October 2011 | 37
PROMOTION
The Stone Specialist, +27 (0)78 302 6207
Pinnacle Homes, +27 (0)83 326 4697
Contemporary Inspirations, +27 (0)31 465 8652
38 | September/October 2011
Opening page and this spread, top right Hans Coetzee Architect designed this comfortable home for a Gauteng client on a steep site that provides magnificent sea views. It is split over two levels to afford ocean views from all the rooms. Dual living spaces call for dual-level entertainment – a rumpus room and rim-flow pool and Jacuzzi are on the lower level, while the upper living room is sheltered from the windy coastal conditions. All of the bedrooms are en suite and have good views and direct access to the exterior timber deck patio. The main living space is open plan, with open rafter ceilings enhancing the feeling of space. Natural materials were used to give texture to this coastal home. Sliding timber screens control east and west sun and provide privacy. Solar water heating and rainwater harvesting from the roof as well as properly insulated roof spaces and cross ventilation make the house ecofriendly. This spread, centre right Aluglass KZN custom-made all the showers, using stainless steel sliding gear and top-of-the-range hinges and fittings to optimise space, while at the same time ensuring a clean and seamless appearance. Toilet enclosures in the main en-suite and guest bathrooms have been retrofitted with a vinyl modesty screen for privacy. Aluglass is a leader in the manufacture and fitting of various quality products, such as shower enclosures, specialised glazing, and mobile acoustic walls for divisions in conference centres, boardrooms, schools and theatres. Aluglass prides itself on the quality of its workmanship, and for this reason it uses top-grade Hans Coetzee Architect, +27 (0)31 566 5750
anti-fungal silicone. Clients also have the option of ‘Clear Shielding’ the glass, which minimises the need for maintenance and cleaning. Bottom right Timber Trends did all the woodwork throughout the home, including this magnificent timber deck and pergola that leads off from, and expands, the dining room. Based in Umhlali, Timber Trends has three factories that are fully outfitted to manufacture the finest-quality timber products. Its on-site carpentry teams pride themselves on their craft, which can be seen in the high standards set for each project in which it has been involved. Timber Trends is associated with a number of exquisite homes along the North Coast as well as some exciting projects, including the John Platter Wine Cellar and the Sand Dune walkways in the new Durban 2010 beachfront upgrade. Bottom left Contemporary Inspirations manufactured and installed the bar, TV units and feature boxes between the columns and carried out the specialised joinery tasks. Based in Durban, Contemporary Inspirations prides itself on the high level of quality and service it offers. This, coupled with integrity and passion, makes Contemporary Inspirations an excellent choice for private homeowners or hospitality industry professionals in the market for superior finishes and furnishings. With a passion for innovation and design, the company aims to set the benchmark in the fields of furniture design and manufacture and the installation of specialist timber. Centre left Pinnacle Homes, owned by Rohan Eager, has set the benchmark in construction in KZN. Driven by offering homes that exceed clients’ expectations, Pinnacle Homes has built its reputation by delivering exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and value. The company believes in creating homes
Aluglass, +27 (0)31 702 3311
that reflect the individual needs of each homeowner and focuses on ensuring that the homeowners move into their dream home. Top left Creating a work of art does not always require an easel or a paintbrush. The Stone Specialist has mastered the means of transforming an area of plain plaster and brickwork into a canvas clad with natural stone from Mother Earth. With Anthony at the helm, and his extensive work being noticed at the new King Shaka International Airport, it is no wonder he was the first choice for this project. With his onhand influence and design suggestions, the Stone Specialist has placed the cherry on the top to complete this truly contemporary home.
Professionals list … Aluglass KZN – Showers +27 (0)31 702 3311, abzn@aluglass.co.za, aluglass.co.za Contemporary Inspirations – Interiors +27 (0)31 465 8652, admin@contemporaryinspirations.co.za, contemporaryinspirations.co.za Hans Coetzee Architect – Architect +27 (0)31 566 5750, hans@architectsche.co.za, hcarchitect.co.za Pinnacle Homes – Construction Company +27 (0)83 326 4697, rohan@pinh.co.za The Stone Specialist – Stone Cladding +27 (0)78 302 6207, anthonygco@gmail.com Timber Trends – Woodwork Timber Trends, +27 (0)32 947 1894
+27 (0)32 947 1894, office@timbertrends.co.za, timbertrends.co.za
A slice above Golf estate properties enjoy an instant cachet that comes from being associated with a sport that, let’s face it, is still the preserve of the wealthy. Words Genevieve Fisher
L
ife on a golf estate is idyllic. Having teed off in the 1990s, the trend towards golf estate living continues to rise, mainly because our climate encourages the sort of outdoor lifestyle that’s par for the course on these glam developments. And, of course, there are the comprehensive security benefits that come with living on an exclusive estate. Whether you play golf or not, you can’t help but love a sport that encourages the preservation of green belts within a city. Property developers pride themselves on placing golf estates on some of the loveliest real estate in the country. They also typically incorporate into the developments amenities that encourage residents to take up a healthy outdoor lifestyle, through activities such as hiking, biking, running and bird-watching. Other alluring perks include golf club memberships and access to on-site restaurants and spas. Lifestyle benefits aside, another feature that has buyers, particularly young families, queuing up to buy into golf estates is the security they offer, such as controlled access, electric fencing, 24-hour manned security patrols and CCTV surveillance. We look at six developments around South Africa that offer all of these advantages.
WESTERN CAPE The residents of Steenberg and Pearl V alley golf estates get to enjoy their own slices of the Cape Winelands. Steenberg Golf Estate is situated in the oldest wine farm in the Cape Peninsula, and it is only one within the Cape Metropole. ‘Homebuyers have been drawn here for the proven resale track record coupled with the unrivalled recreational way of life,’ says Steenberg Property Sales Director, Jacques Marais, explaining the reasons for Steenberg’s popularity. ‘Steenberg Golf Estate is part of Constantia Valley. It has state-of-theart, unobtrusive security, and there is a hotel, two restaurants, and a health spa on the grounds. Business
40 | September/October 2011
parks, private schools, gyms, shopping centres and a wide variety of restaurants are all within easy reach of the estate.’ There are freestanding homes available to buy, and short-, medium- and long-term rentals on hand, as well as holiday accommodation. The newest development on the estate is Nieuwe Steenberg, which is nestled under the Steenberg Mountain. There are 22 double-storey luxury homes within Nieuwe Steenberg, priced from R4,9-million. Unlike Steenberg, Pearl Valley Golf Estates is fairly new to the golf estate fraternity, having been launched in 2003. In addition to having an idyllic location, Pearl V alley has been voted Third-Best Golf Course in South Africa 2010/2011 by Golf Digest. Its
location, in the heart of the Cape Winelands, offers owners an experience that is close to nature, yet only a short distance from the city centre. These are the drawcards for a substantial number of foreign and local investors, says the estate’s Sales and Marketing Manager, Madali Groenewald: ‘Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch are all on the doorstep of Pearl Valley. Not only is the golfing experience exceptional, but the estate has many other amenities that attract investors who enjoy the outdoors, such as an equestrian centre, tennis courts, a spa, a boma on the banks of the Berg River, conferencing facilities and hiking and biking trails.’ Over 300 homes out of the eventual 500 have been built.
GOLF ESTATE LIVING
KWAZULUNATAL Many luxury residential golf estates take advantage of KwaZulu-Natal’s subtropical coastal region and its hilly inland terrain. Situated in Ballito, Simbithi is among the first of a new type of development that’s rapidly gaining in popularity: the eco-estate. Its developers took many precautions to minimise the environmental impact of the 430ha estate, creating a residential development and golf course that are in tune with their natural surroundings. You can choose between apartments, freehold homes or stand-alone sectional title units in the surrounds of grasslands, indigenous forests and dams. There is also beach access. The homes’ designs are based on the simple, yet effective, farm-style architecture of the area, with an emphasis on light. Facilities on the estate include a community centre, an equestrian centre and a pre-school to grade three. One of the most popular golf estates in KZN is the 700ha Zimbali Coastal Resort. IFA Hotels & Resorts President Wessel Witthuhn says, ‘Zimbali Coastal Resort is nationally and internationally recognised as providing all the elements that people look for in a premier mixed-use estate, with key emphasis on a championship 18-hole golf course and all the services and amenities of an internationally branded five-star resort. Zimbali Coastal Resort is a true mixed-use resort, as opposed to other estates in KwaZulu-Natal. With the development of Fairmont Zimbali Resort, the lore of Zimbali Coastal Resort is beyond compare. Add to this the recent launch of the new Zimbali Lakes Resort, and the Zimbali concept has expanded even further.’ Zimbali Lakes Resort includes condos, a full spectrum of property ownership, including Fairmont Heritage Place (Africa’s only internationally branded private residence club) and a five-star hotel managed by a global brand. ‘With the new product offering, a new opportunity exists to invest in South Africa’s premium resort brand, Zimbali,’ says Wessel.
Opposite, top The 18th hole and clubhouse at Ebotse Golf and Country Estate. This page, top left Designer home in Pearl Valley Golf Estates. Top right, above High-class finishes in the lounge of the Houghton on the 7th. Top right, below A home nestles in the greenery at Zimbali Coastal Resort.
GAUTENG As far as residential golf estates go in this part of the country, buyers’ key concern is security. Completed in 2008, a recent addition to the host of golf estates in Gauteng is Ebotse Golf and Country Estate, in Benoni, alongside the Rynfield Lake. MD Vince Cockbain says Ebotse has one of the best security records in the country, and this is attracting investors in large numbers. It is the first estate in the country with an SAPS equestrian platoon patrol; radar guns, license plate recognition and average speed determination technology add to residents’ safety within the estate by curbing speeding. In addition to freehold stands, houses and rental options, there are new sectional title units available in four separate, beautiful developments. Sectional title residences range from 152m2 to 470m2 in size and are priced from R1,3-million. The 18-hole Matkovich and Hayes links course is a huge perk, too and includes facilities such as a pro golf shop, a golf training academy and a unique floating driving range. Other activities on offer include water sports, boating, bird-watching, nature trails for walking or jogging, and squash and tennis.
Another Gauteng residential golf estate worthy of mention is the Houghton. The residential offering comprises apartment blocks clustered around the 7th and 12th holes of the Houghton Golf Course. Luxury apartments are currently on show at The Houghton on the 7th. A dam acts as a buffer to the golf course. These units also have a private entrance. The Houghton on the 12th is made up of fourbedroom ground-floor garden duplexes and threebedroom classic apartments.There are also penthouses and presidential penthouses available. The presidential penthouses are 1 236m2 in size, and have six bedrooms and a rooftop pool. CEO Lawrence Kreeve says, ‘Individuals have the opportunity to purchase prime residential apartments in the heart of Johannesburg, situated on 168 acres of private parkland with unhindered views over the Jack Nicklaus signature golf course and the Sandton skyline.’ Residents have access to the Houghton Golf Clubhouse and the private residents club, which offers a spa and wellness centre, swimming pool and sun deck, Jacuzzi, card and billiards room and wine lounge. The investment potential of the Houghton is positive, given its prime location in the upmarket suburb, which is experiencing a property upswing thanks to the development of the Gautrain.
With thanks to … Ebotse Golf and Country Estate, 086 070 0007, ebotsegolf.com Pearl Valley Golf Estate, +27 (0)21 867 8000, pearlvalley.co.za Simbithi Eco-Estate, simbithi.com Steenberg Golf Estate, +27 (0)21 713 2244, steenbergproperty.com The Houghton, +27 (0)11 467 5630, thehoughton.com Zimbali Resort Estate, +27 (0)32 538 1984, zimbali.co.za
September/October 2011 | 41
DISTRIBUTORS
T ES U G
Real estate
R O IT ED k an Fr y ele rk Be
residential, commercial & international
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
HOLDING UP WELL
SA, along with the rest of the world, was caught up in the global recession. Although officially out of the recession, economic recovery remains slow. Low GDP growth, high unemployment, great economic stresses in most of Europe and a stagnant US economy make the world a very uncertain place.
Main photograph 123rf.com ProďŹ le photograph Mike Taylor
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hile South Africa has largely escaped the turmoil experienced by international markets over the last three years, commercial property has not come through totally unscathed. Values of secondary properties in particular have been negatively impacted, but prime properties continue to gain value, although at a slower rate than in the years up to 2007. A key determinant in the value of properties is the interest rate, which at present is extremely difficult to predict. The consensus among economists is that rates will remain unchanged for the remainder of 2011. It is also generally expected that they will start to increase during the first quarter of 2012, and then continue to increase steadily until prime reaches about 12%. I do not necessarily agree with this, and my personal view is that I expect interest rates to remain flat for longer. My reasons for this are that the economy is very sluggish, the increase in inflation is largely being driven by cost-push factors, such as the oil price and increases in the cost of electricity, and we are experiencing slow demand for bank credit.
These indicators all contribute to the fact that the country simply cannot afford an increase in interest rates. If interest rates do increase, the very fragile recovery we are seeing would be strangled, and we could be plunged back into recession, resulting in a negative impact on property markets and values – amongst other factors. Although vacancies have increased somewhat over the last three years, they have not reached crisis levels. The fact that new developments have been relatively scarce has underpinned occupancy levels and, to a certain degree, rentals. I would expect this low level of development to continue for some time until economic growth and credit extension show sustained, meaningful increases. This may only occur in late 2012 or early 2013, as our economic destiny is greatly influenced by events in Europe and the USA. Recent events, such as the downgrading of the USA’s sovereign credit ratings and the plunge in share prices during the first week of August, show how resilient property stocks are, particularly those listed on the JSE. The most desirable sector of the market remains good quality retail property, which has been
consistent in the last 15 years. Industrial and office buildings have been more volatile while residential properties have been the most unpredictable and the riskiest. I remain convinced that commercial property is still a good investment destination in South Africa, provided that you understand the dynamics of the market and always remember that all property is local. If you succumb to the temptation of believing that there are common, generic rules that apply to all property investments, then you are bound to get burned sooner or later. I look forward to a very interesting period where, no doubt, new opportunities will arise.
Frank Berkeley Managing Executive: Nedbank Corporate Property Finance
September/October 2011 | 43
RESIDENTIAL Real Estate
Exclusive option
The Executive, an exclusive residential estate on La Lucia Ridge, has found its niche at the top end of the residential market. The vast estate, of which 60% has been set aside as a conservancy, epitomises today’s executive lifestyle. Security is concentrated on the perimeter, allowing for a safe family environment that is also pet-friendly and offers domestic accommodation. The homes’ contemporary designs take full advantage of the uninterrupted views of the reserve or the ocean and the city. The development has 56 free-standing residential homes and 44 apartments. The first residents took occupation in December 2010 and since then the estate has been a hive of activity. There are a small number of sites available, as well as a number of turnkey homes and apartments that are being released onto the market. ‘This affords the discerning family an opportunity to create their very own piece of paradise,’ says Mark White of Tyson Properties. +27 (0)31 561 6100, tysonprop.co.za; theexecutive.co.za
Town and country Last month’s relaunch of Far Horizons, in Hillcrest, has been met with keen interest. Comprising some already complete and occupied homes, this 18-unit, secure, gated estate offers complete land and house packages on large freehold sites averaging 1 200m2, from R1,6 million. The estate’s northfacing sites, with horses grazing in a nearby paddock, creates a great country vibe in a location close to all central Hillcrest shops, schools, hospital and other public facilities, while offering easy access to the freeways for a trouble-free commute to Durban and inland. ‘The fact that transfer duty is not applicable adds to the viability of building as a financial and personal option,’ say Vic Henry of Estate Realty, ‘and in my view, now is a good time to take advantage of this superb offer, rather than waiting for demand to overtake supply and for prices to start rising again.’ +27 (0)82 472 2507, estaterealty.co.za
Prudent residential investment is a good start to a property portfolio. – Frank Berkeley, Managing Executive: Nedbank Corporate Property Finance
Investor special In response to the high demand for rental accommodation in Richards Bay from workers from out of town who are involved in the numerous projects being undertaken by the major industries, the buy-to-let market in the area is affording investors prime opportunities. Pitched to fall within the R5 000/month to R8 000/month rental bracket, Summer Glades is a new development that offers 30 two-bedroom, two-bathroom semi-detached units of 58,63m2, priced at R630 000 each (all costs included). The units are spacious, with elegant, modern finishes and white melamine built-in cupboards in the bedrooms as well as in the granite-topped kitchen. The units are tiled throughout. The bathrooms have floor-to-ceiling wall tiles, include wooden window frames, solid meranti doors and a glass sliding door to allow in maximum natural light. ‘The levies are estimated at about R500/month and achievable rental for the units would be in the region of R5 000. The developer predicts that occupation can take place as soon as April 2012, making this a very attractive opportunity,’ says Silven Chetty of Seeff Richards Bay. +27 (0)35 789 0490, seeff.com
44 | September/October 2011
Compiled by André Fiore
white sanitaryware and clear glass shower doors. Additional features
COMMERCIAL Real Estate
Overport facelift
After 30 years, Overport City is heading for an extensive upgrade that will bring it in line with other premier shopping centres in the region and make it better suited to catering for the needs of the surrounding population. The R100-million refurbishment by Terrafirmanet Investments will see the centre renamed ‘the Atrium at Overport City’, and the design will showcase its contemporary architecture and high-volume ceilings. The use of natural light and cascading landscaping with hanging gardens, vertical wall gardens, full-grown trees, tranquil pond and water features with koi fish, and strategic lighting will add to a restful, conservatory-like ambience. Besides complete interior and exterior upgrades, including upmarket new finishes, a new food court, and office and parking upgrades, the retail component will be anchored by a much larger, 4 000m2 Checkers blue-line store, which will have been upgraded from a Shoprite store. Other major tenants include new tenancies for four national banks as well as a number of other significant new tenancies still under negotiation. +27 (0)31 534 2529, jhi.co.za
Refurbishments can be tricky, but also very lucrative. – Frank Berkeley, Managing Executive: Nedbank Corporate Property Finance
Cruise in Situated directly opposite the proposed new Durban Passenger Terminal, the recently restored 251 Mahatma Gandhi (Point) Road offers prime business space and a perfect location for operations involved in logistics or shipping. The carefully restored original Victorian facade fronts a four-storey building featuring spacious rooms, high ceilings, large windows, direct views over the harbour and modern facilities. Easy access from Mahatma Gandhi Road and 65 parking bays add to its functionality. +27 (0)31 335 3660, chalupskyproperties.com
Turning the corner Harding is in for a change, thanks to developer Amber Dawn’s new 9 000m2 shopping centre, Harding Corner, which is due for completion in August next year. Confirmed tenants include Shoprite Checkers and
‘The developmen t has aroused a gre a deal of interest a t all retail categorcross ies.’
Checkers Liquor, with a further 19 near-signed nationals, franchises and professionals representing 93% of Harding Corner’s total lettable space and 84% of rental value. The development has aroused a great deal of interest across all retail categories, including major banks, cell phone shops, fast-food franchises, restaurants, national clothing and furniture stores and hair salons. The mix may include a pharmacy, doctor’s rooms and an optometrist. There Compiled by André Fiore
will also be 400 parking bays. Harding Corner is set to boost the local community’s economy, both during and after construction. ‘Amber Dawn is currently negotiating the purchase of two sites adjacent to the Harding Corner site for further development to complement the centre’s offering,’ says Sue Hudson. +27 (0)82 655 9770, amberdawn.co.za
September/October 2011 | 45
networking
Society
Living the high life in KwaZulu-Natal.
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Simon Pitcher. Glenwood’s Corner Café hosted a community chest fundraiser: 4Kevin Hendrikse, Bruce Roberston 5Andre Finozzi, Roberto and Liana Paganelli. Night of 100 Stars Cansa fundraiser at Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World: 6Darren Rajbal, Bianca Le Grange 7Slu Msweli, Mark Hawkins, Louise Howell 8Aaron McIlroy, John Vlismas 9Sean and Marcelle Roberts. Garlicke & Bousfield’s Women’s Day breakfast: 10Elaine Butcher, Amelia Morgan, Helen McCarthy 11Shantelle Walters, Odette Geldenhuys, Tracey-Lee Keshwar 12Debby Kippen, Victoria Hodgon, Kirthi Ramkissoon.
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.
48 | September/October 2011
Compiled by Debbie Reynolds
Colours coffee shop opened in Kloof: 1Angela van Hezeel, Lucy Markewicz 2Don Seagreen, Ruben Thomas 3Pierre Langois, Dave and Nicky Rowles,
Land from R650 000
Brettenwood Lakes from R3 295 000
Homes from R3 250 000
When you choose Brettenwood Coastal Estate you choose to live in a home that is built in harmony with its natural surroundings. All homes on the Estate follow the ‘Wright Style’ of architecture, a modern interpretation of master architect Frank Lloyd Wright, whose vision it was to ‘build in nature’ and where the focus is on capturing light.
International
investment, real estate, news & leisure
Vietnam
Rural tradition meets luxury at the four-star Chen Sea Resort & Spa, in Vietnam.
I
n recent years, Vietnam has done much to improve its touristic infrastructure, which is attracting the interest of local and international investors. On the country’s largest island, Phu Quoc, you’ll find a new leisure retreat, Chen Sea Resort & Spa. It’s owned by Vietnamese interests but is run by Thailand’s Centara Hotels & Resorts and forms part of the group’s Boutique Collection. Chen Sea Resort & Spa comprises 36 luxury villas. Because the Vietnamese government is focusing on eco-tourism and is intent on maintaining Phu Quoc’s
rural charm, Chen Sea Resort’s design is sympathetic to its surroundings. Visitors get to experience the area’s natural heritage while still enjoying the modern conveniences of a four-star hotel. Chen Sea Resort includes twelve 78m2 beachfront villas, twelve 86m2 sea-view villas, six 150m2 villas with private Jacuzzi, and six 240m2 sea-view villas with private swimming pools. The Jacuzzi and Sea-view Pool villas have been created out of traditional timber houses that were moved from the ancient seaport of Hoi An, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, and rebuilt as luxury accommodation. Rates per night range from $240 to $660 (about R1 680 to R4 620), depending on the season and choice of villa. Chen Sea Resort lies on a sandy bay on the west side of the island and is just 15 minutes from the airport. Attractions include unspoilt beaches, water sports (diving, windsurfing, sailing and snorkelling), a wide range of local and international cuisine and plenty of organised tours to enjoy the wonders of centarahotelsresorts.com/cpv Vietnam.
Main A luxury Jacuzzi Villa, where rest and relaxation go hand in hand with tranquil
Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more fabulous
views. Insert Explore the beautiful beaches that stretch for kilometres.
getaway destinations.
50 | September/October 2011
Words Catherine Riley Photographs courtesy Chen Sea Resort & Spa
villa vacation
international
Bed down in Baines’
New to the Mantis Group’s portfolio is Baines’ River Camp. Named after the artist and explorer John Thomas Baines, this luxury safari camp is found on the northern bank of the Zambezi River, in the Eastern Chiawa Game Management Area, a protected wildlife zone that borders the Lower Zambezi National Park. Baines’ River Camp has eight Explorer Suites, each with a private veranda overlooking a river that’s frequented by elephant, buffalo, antelope and leopard. There are an additional 60 species of mammal and 370 species of bird in the area. Guest activities include game-viewing, catch-and-release
Zim zoom JHI Properties’ expansion into Africa
fishing, canoeing and nature walks. Baines’ River Camp is open from the beginning of March to mid December; peak season rates range from $470 (roughly R3 300) to $670 (around R4 700) per person, per night, sharing, and include all activities, meals and certain beverages, levies, airstrip transfers and wireless internet connectivity. +27 (0)33 342 7793, bainesrivercamp.com
has reached Zimbabwe, through its acquisition of East African Properties, an established company that manages a mix of retail and industrial properties. Capital value is in excess of $40 million (about R280 million), and the properties are located all over Zimbabwe, but mainly in Harare’s commercial hub. ‘Zimbabwe is an interesting market at present, being keenly observed by investors and commerce. Since their monetary system converted to US dollars, the economy has recovered to some extent,’ says JHI Properties CEO, Marna van der Walt. JHI has already secured contract renewals in Zimbabwe, and further retail and corporate developments are in the pipeline, she says. +27 (0)11 911 8000, jhi.co.za
Because most property in the country is sold via agents, it is essential to have professional assistance when investing in Australia. Aussie possie
Australia offers scope for reliable returns, says Prestige Property Advocates (PPA). Acting on behalf of foreign investors, PPA aids in the sourcing of Australian properties as well as in the bidding and negotiation processes. PPA also puts foreign investors in touch with banking institutions, accountants and solicitors. Because most property in the country is sold via agents, it is essential to have professional assistance when investing in Australia, says PPA. The advantages of investing in Australia include the country’s stable government, sound economic policies, low national debt and sustainable population growth. +61 3 9863 3180,
Compiled by Catherine Riley
prestigepropertyadvocates.com.au
Maltese breeze New to Crusader Rock International’s portfolio is a modern, semidetached, two-storey villa situated in the Tal-Fjuri area of St Paul’s Bay, in Malta. Set in a large garden, the 220m2 villa has three bedrooms, is air conditioned and has a surround sound system and an alarm system. St Pauls’ Bay is a historical town set against a picturesque seaside landscape. +27 (0)11 883 9028, crusaderrock.com
September/October 2011 | 51
Seychelles
investment, real estate, news & leisure
Words André Fiore. Photographs courtesy Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
Viewfinder
You don’t need any special lenses when you visit Four Seasons Seychelles – the views here come to you.
52 | September/October 2011
SEYCHELLES
S
et on cliffs, scented with frangipani and cinnamon and echoing with birdcall is a scattering of treehouses, secluded by the brushing vegetation, high on stilt legs. Each has its own infinity-edge pool, its own sun-soaked, moon-soaked, view-soaked daybed deck, its own outdoor shower concealed in the cliff side and smooth natural rosewood underfoot, each has windows agape with views, from the bath, from the bed, from the verandas – at every turn, down to the bay. Never-never land, and you’ve arrived! Four Seasons Resort Seychelles stretches around the Petite Anse beach and upwards though the leafy slopes and granite outcrops close to Baie Lazare on the southern peninsula of Mahé. Chill awhile. The villas beg you to. The spacious decks, netted beds, vast bathrooms – with rain showers and soaking tubs – papered walls, silk prints and simple Creole elegance let the inner peace start rolling in. Let it happen. Then stroll down hillsides thick with ylang-ylang, takamaka, mango, papaya, jackfruit, guava, banana, passion fruit, coconut, breadfruit, wild vanilla, lemon grass and chillies – and plunge into the sea. A silent dive or snorkel will disclose world-class underwater worlds showcasing granite cliff faces and teeming reefs. Enough of that? Laze on loungers on the powder-white sands or unwind around the pool. Tucked into the recesses of our minds are visions, snapped from a film, a storybook or a celebrity lifestyle read, of lavish banquets. Even the breakfast at Zez restaurant is unlike any of these. Decorated with swathes of foliage and flowers, this is one of those to-Mars-and-back equations, a spread that you could linger over all day, all week for that matter, and still not have tasted all. And that’s just for starters. In addition to Zez, named after the traditional Creole zither, there’s also the poolside Kannel restaurant and bar, romantic in-villa dining options, beach breakfasts, barbeques and picnics, not to mention spectacular starlit dinners in the old Creole ruin, Foumba.To help digest these choices, there’s a similarly captivating wine list: around 250 labels from the Old and New
worlds. A few samples and sips later, it’s no surprise to learn that the resort’s chef, Sherla Mathurin, spent a number of years at the royal palace in Bahrain. And if, by any chance, this is not yet paradise enough, there’s more. A simple buggy ride away – and you don’t even do the driving – just when you thought the views couldn’t get better, the Hilltop Spa caps the lot. Featured in Condé Nast Travellers ‘Hot List Spas 2010’, it’s not just its views that are beyond exceptional – treatments include massages that you’ll
remember for years as well as a heaven-sent menu of scrubs, wraps, facials, manis, pedis and must-have holiday hair care. With tempting packages and tailor-made choices for couples, families – full children’s programmes run all year – and special events, as well as private ownership options for those who know a very good thing, all that’s left to do is pack. And, on second thoughts, with views like these, do pack your lenses, or you’ll weep!
With thanks to … Air Seychelles, +27 (0)11 452 0244, airseychelles.com Creole Travel Services, +248 297 000, creoletravelservices.com Dei Gratia Marketing & Communications Management, +27 (0)21 554 3591, dei-gratia.co.za Four Seasons Seychelles, +248 439 3000, fourseasons.com Seychelles Tourism, +248 467 1300, seychelles.travel Seyunique, +27 (0)11 453 2933, seyunique.co.za Opposite, clockwise from top Villa bathrooms open onto plunge pools and
Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more fabulous
viewing decks; the beach awaits. This page, clockwise from top left One of five
getaway destinations.
therapy pavilions at Hilltop Spa; treetop seclusion; Creole decor; exotic cuisine.
September/October 2011 | 53
SEYCHELLES
Villa royale
Construction has started on the last three available villas in Phase 1 of Eden Island. ‘Eden Island sales have been excellent and demand for larger villas has increased,’ says Pam Golding Property Group CEO, Dr Andrew Golding. The beachfront villas have spectacular views of the neighbouring islands. Inspired by traditional Seychellois design, the villas have deep verandas, exquisite floors, and double volumes that let in the exotic views. The first villa, with four bedroom suites, has covered terraces running the full length of the facade. The second villa, with striking water feature and swimming pool, has five bedrooms and covered terraces leading off the living area and each bedroom. The third villa, with four bedrooms, has a plunge pool on its terrace. The finishes and fittings of all three villas are of the highest quality: the villas are air conditioned throughout, are fitted with Miele appliances, and come standard with their own private swimming pools. The villas are priced from $2,5 million (about R17 million). Brian Gradner, +27 (0)82 361 4381, edenisland.sc
‘Eden Island sa le have remained s steady and dem an for larger villas d has increased.’
Inspired by traditional Seychellois design, the villas have deep verandas, polished floors, and double volumes that let in the exotic views. Having just released its Master Plan for Tourism, the Seychelles Tourism Board isn’t resting on its laurels. Instead, it has presented iconic African adventurer, Kingsley Holgate, with a map of Seychelles, showing it as the centre of the world. The map will be published in Kingsley’s forthcoming book, Mama Africa. Kingsley and his family are on the last leg of a mammoth tour of Africa that has taken them over 30 years to complete. The book’s final chapter is titled, ‘Seychelles: Saving the Best Till Last’. Seychelles Tourism Board CEO Alain St Ange says, ‘This new map of the Seychelles Archipelago has been designed to fill an important information gap about Seychelles, as many people still do not seem to know exactly where on the world map the islands are located and what they represent as a tourism destination.’
Dining au natural Seychelles’ Frégate Island Private is renowned for its fine dining. Thanks to its variety of restaurants, every night of your stay can be different. The Frégate Garden Table Experience is certainly one not to be missed. With the chef as your guide, you begin the experience with an exclusive tour of the island’s plantation and hydroponics house to learn about the diverse vegetables, fruits and herbs that grow on the island. You then get to enjoy them
The private island of Grande Soeur lies some 6km north-east of La Digue.
for yourself as the chef cooks for you in the garden, using these special fresh ingredients. +27 (0)21 556 99 84, fregate.com
This lifestyle could be yours forever! www.edenisland.sc
Compiled by Nicky Manson. Grande Soeur photograph courtesy Seychelles Tourism Board.
Mama of all maps
Directory
Factory in KZN 082 254 1356 info@milestonekitchens.co.za www.milestonekitchens.co.za
The Bull Run Restaurant is famed for its prime cuts of exquisite South African beef – served via it’s own in-house butchery – and an extensive selection of the finest Cape wines. Situated near popular nightspots in the upmarket suburb of Sandton, the energy and vibe of the Bull Run caters for any occasion – be it a business lunch, dinner before a night on the town, or a corporate function.
To advertise in this space, please contact Amanda Faas on 0861 765 833 or email amanda@medianova.co.za.
Opposite the Johannesburg Stock Exchange Adjacent to the Protea Hotel Balalaika Sandton 20 Maude Street, Sandton
Tel + 27 (0)11 884 - 1400 | E-mail info@thebullrun.co.za Group Bookings reservations@thebullrun.co.za
Square Decking www.wooddeckSA.com mytimberdeck@gmail.com 079 089 9889
The Marine Building 22 Gardiner Street, Durban The Marine Building (031)Street, 374 8100 22 Tel: Gardiner Durban Tel: (031) 374 Fax: 374 8100 8135 Fax: (031) 374 8135 www.nhbrc.org.za www.nhbrc.org.za
TREND WATCH
Practical fabric With a waterproof fabric
As the line between indoor and outdoor spaces continues to blur, home accessories are doubling up in their functionality, too.
made from recycled polyester thread, the Practik Rug by Nanimarquina is perfect for the outdoors, and it makes a comfy addition to indoor living areas as well. Available from Créma Design. +27 (0)21 434 0661, cremadesign.co.za
Take-away glow We adore these Chinese-take-away-style candle bags from Yuppie Gadgets. By lighting a tea-light and popping it into the bag, you can create instant ambience that’s ideal for any garden, pool or dinner party. The bags are made from a flame retardant material, and they can be used repeatedly without looking shabby. +27 (0)83 641 7259, yuppiegadgets.co.za
Go with the throw Part of the Woolworths Summer Homeware Range, these nautically inspired outdoor throws make the perfect picnic blankets or attractive sofa coverings. 086 002 2002, woolworths.co.za
Safe sipping
Bread winner
The Bobble is a patented designer water bottle that filters water, removing chlorine and organic contaminants from municipal tap water while you drink, so you’ll have no need to buy bottled water. You’ll save on recycling, too. And did
New to Woolworths’ product range is Dutch kitchen accessory brand, Vacu Vin. This versatile bread-and-dip set contains a serving tray and bamboo cutting board, taking the fuss out of snacks at the beach, on the patio or even at the dining table. 086 002 2002, woolworths.co.za
we mention that the Bobble was designed by industrial design guru, Karim Rashid? +27 (0)21 917 2000,
Compiled by Genevieve Fisher
waterbobble.com
56 | September/October 2011
Life Grande Café
Furniture supplied by Sean Williams Contracts
Photograph credit: © VISI/Dook/www.lifestylefeatures.com
Sean Williams Contracts is passionate about conservation, raising awareness and taking action. The planet suffers under human selfishness and greed, which is affecting our wildlife and environment drastically. Buy furniture from Sean Williams Contracts during the month of October and stand a chance to win an all inclusive trip for 2 to Somkhanda Game Reserve in KZN to meet our adopted Rhino - Bella. The weekend is the 25th - 27th November 2011 and is valued at R10 000.00. SWC will donate 10% of profits generated from the October 2011 sales to Somkhanda Game Reserve to help save the Rhino from extinction. The winner will be announced on the 1st November 2011. For any queries regarding the competition please contact Faye on 011 262 3521 or faye@swcontracts.co.za. * TERMS AND CONDITIONS: The prize is non exchangeable for cash, the dates are fixed and can’t be changed, the person who has won the prize is the person who will attend - the prize cant be exchanged between people or sold. To qualify for the competition only paid orders will be applicable.
hino opted R d A C W Bella - S
Johannesburg Showroom
Cape Town Showroom
Block A, Georgian Place
Black River Park, South Park
18 Southway Road,
Old Warehouse Building, Ground Floor
Kelvin
Fir Street, Observatory
Tel:
Tel:
+27 11 262 3521
+27 21 448 2252
Fax: +27 11 262 6228
Fax: +27 21 448 2464
johannesburg@swcontracts.co.za
capetown@swcontracts.co.za
www.seanwilliamscontracts.co.za Service and Quality with a Distinct Difference
DD-2748_Sean Williams - Property magazine Advert - Bella.indd 1
06/09/2011 10:08:10