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Plant a garden THAT LOOKS AFTER ITSELF

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Kitchen SPECIAL

19 + PAGE

NEW TRENDS INSPIRING MAKEOVERS DESIGN YOUR DREAM KITCHEN LIGHTING SOLUTIONS

Expert gardening tips PLECTRANTHUS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FIND THE RIGHT ONE FOR YOUR GARDEN KITCHEN GARDENS INDIGENOUS CONTAINER PLANTS

40 90

22 48

contents MAY 2018 decorating 10 14

HIGH SOCIETY Get social

HOME FRONT What’s

APPROACH Update rooms

in the kitchen with the

happening on the decor scene?

with splashes of white

latest bar stools

ARCHITECT’S PLAN: BEST OF

BOTH WORLDS Contemporary TREND SPOTTING: A STATE OF

INDUSTRIAL LUXE This

Bryanston new build is chic

meets farmhouse on this estate

INSPIRATIONS: A FRESH

and inviting

EASTERN PROMISE A waterwise Japanese garden

THE LIGHT STUFF Kitchen lighting advice

A FAMILY HEIRLOOM A 60-year-old KZN garden

THE MAIN ATTRACTION

SPUR OF THE MOMENT Gardening with plectranthus

SUNSET SERENADE

Headboards that’ll add the

CALM Create a Zen moment

A gorgeous seaside

wow-factor

GARDEN Low-maintenance

with these accessories

apartment in Cape Town

LUXE APPEAL A glamorous

gardening ideas

DOWN ON THE FARM A light-ﬁlled family getaway

bedroom makeover

in the Kamberg

GOOD IDEA Make a

DESIGN YOUR DREAM

workspace in the kitchen

KITCHEN Expert tips for the

perfect layout

52 56

60 Cover photograph: Clever Kitchen Makeovers, pg 56 Photograph: Christoph hoffmann

TREND ALERT Eight kitchen

CREATURE COMFORTS

gardening

CLEVER KITCHEN

THE GREEN ROOM:

MAKEOVERS Two cramped

EVERYDAY ESCAPE Create

spaces transformed

a garden sanctuary

GEOMETRY RULES

boxy rooms into an open-

A formal yet family-friendly

plan living hub

Cape garden

HOME GROWN Indigenous container plants

104

GARDEN NOTES Garden news and debuts

107

Stylish pet accessories

trends to inspire you

A MODERN TWIST Turning

101

THIS MONTH’S

THE SELF-SUFFICIENT

YOU’RE GETTING WARM Fire baskets and outdoor heaters

108

EASY ELEGANCE GH’s romantic show garden

110

GARDEN FRESH Kitchen gardens for all spaces

113

EAT YOUR GREENS Healthy, leafy veggies

ON THE COVER

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

124

80 107

116 promotions & offers

regulars

COMPETITION Win a two-night bush getaway for 10 worth R97 000

WRITE NOW Keep in

food & travel

touch with us

NATURE’S GARDEN

116

Artist Wilna May on

collecting antiques 128

130

DIRECTORY AND

entertain with ease

121

WORKSHOPS Good

COLLECTING WITH…

shopping guide and

Luke Comins shares his

short courses

love of Lego

Ilze and Hanlie Volman

local botanical gems

132

136

FOOD FOR FRIENDS

food and wine

LAST WORD ON

MIDWEEK MAGIC Quick and delicious recipes

124

TREASURE CHEST

STYLE Author and

How much are your

chef Nompumelelo

SOUTH Judy Bryant

collectibles worth?

Mqwebu’s favourites

explores Sicily

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

GENERAL MANAGER Anton Botes FINANCIAL MANAGER Rohan French COMMERCIAL MANAGERS Rickardt de Beer (Johannesburg and Cape Town) Eugene Marais (Durban) HEAD OF RETAIL MARKETING AND INNOVATION Dejane Poil MARKETING MANAGER Reinhard Lotz PRODUCTION MANAGER Sada Reddhi HEAD OF DIGITAL Jana Kleinloog EDITORIAL HEAD OFFICE Caxton House 368 Jan Smuts Avenue, Craighall Park, 2196. P.O. Box 1558, Saxonwold, 2132. Tel 011 449 1010

BON APPETIT What’s new in the world of

122

READERS’ QUERIES 011 449 1010 or e-mail gardenhome@caxton.co.za EDITOR Mary Jane Harris EDITOR’S PA Mandy Buchholz 011 449 1010 KZN CONTRIBUTING EDITOR, DECOR Candice Botha candicebotha@gmail.com CAPE CONTRIBUTING EDITOR, GARDENING Marianne Alexander gandhgardenguru@gmail.com SENIOR DESIGNER Kyle Shoesmith kyles@caxton.co.za PRODUCTION MANAGER Tracy-Lee Nicol tracyn@caxton.co.za CHIEF SUB-EDITOR, GARDENING Diane Peacock dianep@caxton.co.za DIGITAL EDITOR Khanyi Mlaba khanyim@caxton.co.za REPRO AND RETOUCHING Caxton Repro Department 011 449 1050 neville@caxton.co.za EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Juliette Arrighi de Casanova, Judy Bryant, Jane Griffiths, Lizette Jonker, Patricia McCracken, Tess Paterson, Deborah Rudman, Jo Sharp, Loren Shirley-Carr, Dina Venter, Diana Wemyss, Lyn Woodward, Lynne Yates MARKETING AND PROMOTIONS Roline Haine 011 293 6015 rolineh@caxton.co.za ADVERTISING JOHANNESBURG 368 Jan Smuts Ave, Craighall, 2196, 010 492 8390/1, bookings 010 492 8356 CAPE TOWN Caxton Magazines, 36 Old Mill Rd, Ndabeni, Maitland, 7405, 021 001 2401 DURBAN 115 Escom Road, New Germany, Pinetown, 3610, 031 716 4444 SUBSCRIPTIONS 087 405 2003, +27 21 045 1809 (international), subscribe online at gardenandhome.co.za or e-mail subs@magsathome.co.za BACK ISSUES 087 405 2003 or 021 045 1809 CLASSIFIEDS Charmaine Pillai 011 449 1064 cp@caxton.co.za Shantal Pillay 011 293 6104 shantalp@caxton.co.za DISTRIBUTION RNA Distributors 12 Nobel Street, Industria, 2093, 011 248 3500, rna@RNAD.co.za PRINTING by CTP Gravure, 19-21 Joyner Rd, Prospecton, and published by the proprietors, Caxton/RP Magazines (Reg No. 68/12588/06), 368 Jan Smuts Ave, Craighall. Box 1610, Parklands 2121

THE LURE OF THE

© All material published is copyrighted and may not be reproduced. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be accepted. Please note: Variations in actual paint colours may occur. Due to the effect of light, colours are reflected as accurately as the print process allows. While due care is taken to ensure accuracy, SA Garden and Home is not liable for any errors in product listings or availability, pricing or any other information that was checked and has changed since the time of going to print.

I M A G I N E

M O R E

FLAUNTING YOUR INNER FOODIE BREVILLE YOUR KITCHEN High performance Breville appliances give you the freedom to tackle all kinds of recipes like a pro. Breville’s good looks just add to your natural flair in the kitchen. Don’t be shy, flaunt it.

SHOP IN-STORE OR ONLINE WWW.HOME.CO.ZA

cooking? W WHAT’S

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

I like the idea of furnishing your kitchen with art and accessories as Tanja Beyers di d. See the rest of the kitchen on page 56. If you want your kitchen to be a social hub, then include a couple of bar stools. You’ll love our selection on page 64.

Plectranthus are blooming in many parts of the country right now. Find one to suit your garden on page 94.

As evenings get cooler, it’s time to think about outdoor heaters and fire baskets. Take your pick from the roundup on page 107.

Decorating your garden with accessories is a lovely way to create interest. Glean more ideas from this Noordhoek garden on page 82.

PHOTOGRAPHS CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN, MARIANNE ALEXANDER AND SUPPLIED

hile interviewing designer Angela Saffy, whose house is featured on page 24, I asked her about her kitchen. Her response was immediate. “This is where everything happens. We have breakfast here, chat and catch up.” I think this is true of a lot of kitchens today. With dining areas, islands with bar stools and flat screen TVs, they’re a natural gathering point encouraging visitors and family members to assist the cook or at least keep them company. As no two people are alike, there’s no prescribed kitchen layout. They should be designed to suit you and the way you cook and entertain. If you’re planning a new kitchen or renovating an existing one, this issue is crammed with expert advice including creating the perfect layout (on page 48) and going open plan (on page 60). A leading light (sorry, couldn’t resist) in the kitchen industry once told me that good lighting can make an inexpensive kitchen look like a million dollars, and conversely, bad lighting can kill a costly one. So turn to page 66 to find out how to make your kitchen shine. A well-planned, organised kitchen can also make your life much easier. I was fortunate enough to see Tanja and Bruce Beyers’ newly renovated kitchen (featured on our cover) in action when they hosted a lunch for 20. Fillet cooked on the braai in the covered patio was quickly plated at the large island and served to the guests at the table under the vines; and empty plates were swiftly removed and stacked in the scullery, out of sight. And even though there were three cooks in the kitchen, there was plenty of space for everyone. As indigenous plants are top of mind lately, our Cape gardening editor Marianne Alexander put together a selection of one of our undervalued plants, plectranthus, on page 94. She says there’s such a fantastic variety that there’s one for your garden no matter where you live. And if you’re gardening on a small scale, turn to page 101 where there are three gorgeous container recipes all featuring local plants. To all the amazing mothers out there, happy Mother’s Day from the Garden and Home team.

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Send us a letter or get in touch on e-mail, Facebook or Twitter

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winning letter

MEMORIES for a lifetime

I’m a gardening enthusiast from Park Rynie, KZN, and I believe gardening is food for the soul. I started my garden from scratch four years ago with just a huge African mahogany tree. I worked hard to bring in a splash of colour, which is a challenge living so close to the ocean, but with time and patience everything came together. My garden is where I’m most happy, among the shadows of the trees, enjoying fragrant flowers and chirping birds. Nothing in the world can compare to this joy. Debbie Virasamy

Marvels in March

I was totally blown away by the amazing articles in the March issue. The KZN house had an abundance of light and space. Simplicity is the key ingredient in the house in water-scarce Green Point and the garden reflects its low maintenance nature. I could go on and on about the beautiful Gauteng garden or the food fiesta created by Yolandi North or the exotic island holiday, but I wouldn’t want to spoil the surprise for other readers. Thank you for an informative and wonderfully put together magazine. Donavon Christians

Magazine SURPRISE My ‘can’t wait for it’ item every month is the new Garden and Home, which I read from cover to cover and then pass on to the old age home residents, who love it as much as I do. Imagine my joy to find the March issue in the goodie bag of KAMERS/ Makers 2018 at St Joseph’s Marist College in Rondebosch. It was wonderful to sit in the tent with a coffee and see so many people enjoying your magazine. Paula Joubert

WRITE IN AND WIN Debbie Virasamy has won a Coverderm hamper worth R2 000. The hamper includes a vanity bag, Maxydrat Serum, Maxydrat Visage for Normal Skin, Maxydrat Yeux, and Filteray Face Plus Normal SPF 50+ Untinted sunscreen. Coverderm products have been scientifically formulated to effectively hydrate all three layers of your skin, keeping you radiant in the dry winter months. You shouldn’t skip the sunscreen in winter either and Coverderm Filteray Face Plus 50+ for normal skin is an ideal choice for daily use. For more info, visit coverderm.co.za

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

How to get hold of us: gardenhome@caxton.co.za PO Box 3124, Parklands 2121 SA Garden and Home magazine @SAGardenandHome sagardenandhome sagardenandhome

PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT LETTERS AND FACEBOOK AND TWITTER POSTS.

Garden AND SOUL

I was fortunate to have won the Gondwana Game Reserve getaway in the December issue. Thank you so much for the most amazing experience, I had to pinch myself as our stay was unbelievable. I took my daughter-in-law with me and we loved every moment. Our accommodation blended in so well with the beautiful landscape, the food was out of this world, as were drinks around the ﬁrepit. Thank you! I hope I’m lucky enough to return one day and relive the experience. Sue Gaskin

Artevia 1

www.lafarge.co.za 0860 LAFARG (523274)

Home FRONT

Designer’s CHOICE Interior designer Nelson Kubheka of Ommni Design is coveting the Derring basin from Kohler’s Artist Editions range. “I’d love it in my own home – I’m drawn to the graphic pattern and the level of craftsmanship and detail.” Available from africa.kohler.com

Stylish SHIBORI KZN fabric design studio Cottonberry has teamed up with Robin Sprong to create a range of Japanese Shibori-style wallpapers, inspired by their Indigo Bay fabric range. The soft, watercolour feel of the patterns make them ideal for adding interest without being overwhelming. cottonberry.co.za and robinsprong.com

TAKE TO THE FLOOR As winter approaches, cosy up your space by adding a rug. We love Homestead Décor’s new range of Tiger’s Eye sisal rugs available in black or natural. They’re the perfect way to layer things up in style before the cold arrives. From R4 695, homestead-decor.co.za

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

Natural selection

Cape-based textile designer Isobel Sippel has developed a new range of softs celebrating all that’s water wise and indigenous. The new collection includes cushions, tea towels and table linen with designs and materials honouring local plant life and resources. Working with pure linen, wool and mohair, all dyeing and stitching is done by hand. isobelsippel.com

TEXT TESS PATERSON, CANDICE BOTHA AND JULIETTE ARRIGHI DE CASANOVA PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

Our pick of this month’s highlights, from things to do and buy, to the latest decor news and the best places to visit

EASY DOES IT The Heritage collection from Clarke & Clarke features five hand-drawn designs in woven linen. From rustic chevrons to trailing florals, this is English country manor at its relaxed best. See the range at Home Fabrics. hf.co.za

Future CLASSICS Scagliola is an ancient Italian application creating a marbled or inlaid-chip effect. In a modern twist on a classic, the new Goldbottom Pots of the same name are at home in any setting. Custom colours can be produced on request. goldbottompots.co.za

Step outside

Gralan Fabrics has launched Equator Home, a range of outdoor rugs. The three collections in various sizes are made from polypropylene or polyester. Choose from bold geometrics and tropicals or traditional ikats and Moroccan tilework patterns. From R895 to R11 895. gralan.co.za

Blog in COLOUR

Turn up the TILE

Douglas Jones Origin8 is a sourcebook of out-of-the-box designs and materials manufactured in Europe. Look out for brands like KAZA Concrete – the innovative Hungarian designs are perfect for edgy, bespoke surfaces. o8.co.za

Side line To add some contemporary style to your living room, look no further than Dark Horse’s new Solar Side Table. A blend of strong lines and authentic materials, with a hint of brass detailing, it’s a piece you’ll treasure for years. R1 990, dark-horse.co.za

Coloristas will love Anne Roselt’s eponymous new blog. With the tagline ‘A beautiful life and home with colour’, it features gorgeous interiors, plus useful info on colour choices and how they impact our mood. anneroselt.com

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

Neutral

AND NATURAL WOMAG’s latest collection includes these large format Bianco Magnifico tiles. Featuring elegant grey veining on a white background, they come in a matt finish that’s suitable for all applications. womag.co.za

ADD to CART

Kitchen Aid

We love new online store Branscombe’s commitment to local design and manufacture. The fact that their furniture and accessories are uber stylish is a bonus. branscombe.co.za

Milestone Kitchens has launched its first showroom at 44 Stanley in Milpark, Jo’burg. The inviting space showcases their full range of free-standing kitchen concepts as well as furniture and accessories. Purchase one of the handcrafted pieces in store, or simply order online. milestonekitchens.co.za

ABSOLUTE LINEN Larsen’s 2018 collection focuses on the elegance and tactile quality of pure linen. Combining matt and shine, dry yarns and velvets, it’s quiet and beautifully simple. See the range at Mavromac. mavromacandthegatehouse.co.za

Time out The Cavalli sofa from JVB Furniture Collection, R14 999, gets our thumbs up for its clean lines and gentle metallic hue. Perfect for that Sunday afternoon with a good book. j-v-b.co.za

WHAT’S ON 25 – 27 MAY Design Jo’burg, Sandton Convention Centre This highly anticipated event, featuring Rooms on View, brings together SA’s leading interior designers and architects with top brands and local artisans. A mentorship programme will also pair undiscovered talent with established designers. Don’t miss Marble’s pop-up restaurant tagged CoLab. designjoburg.com

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

ARCHITECT’S PLAN

AT A GLANCE THE ARCHITECT: Donovan Gottsmann of Gottsmann Architects.

THE HOMEOWNER: Gary Austin.

Best of both

WORLDS Set in a lakeside estate near Benoni, this home combines contemporary elements with farmhouse style to work within a South African context 14

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

anting to build more than just a spec house on the stand he’d bought at Ebotse Golf and Country Estate in Benoni, the developer approached Jo’burg-based architect Donovan Gottsmann. “He asked me to design a simple, practical home with interesting textures that would showcase the estate’s potential,” explains Donovan. The design had to be eye-catching and contemporary, but still appropriate for South Africa.

TEXT DINA VENTER PHOTOGRAPHS HEMA PATEL AND ANDREA CALDWELL

THE BRIEF: A simple, yet inviting design with a practical layout in a style appropriate to the surrounding estate. THE HOUSE: A modern farmhouse with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, an open-plan TV room, living room and dining area, and a deck and swimming pool. The compact kitchen has a separate scullery.

ON THE WEB

bedroom bedroom bedroom dressing TV room master room entrance suite

GET THIS PLAN ONLINE Visit gardenandhome.co.za and click on Architect’s Plans to download the plan.

dining area garage

Ground floor

kitchen living area covered patio pool

utility room

store room

Loft

In a nod to the setting, Donovan opted for a farmhouse vernacular incorporating contemporary elements. The floor plan is based on two rectangles placed on converging axes. “The northern axis, comprising mainly bedrooms, runs along the street frontage, while the second axis, along the back of the stand, is made up of living and entertaining areas,” explains Donovan. The result is a large, private space for hosting guests, and airy bedrooms, which take advantage of the natural light through north-facing clerestory windows. Forming an extension of the house

and overlooking the private garden is an undercover patio, and a pool surrounded by timber decking. Although there’s plenty of space, the 430m2 home is compact and there’s a natural flow between social areas – an aspect that appealed to owner Gary Austin. “I love the fact that both the dining and living rooms open onto the patio with stacking doors. The rooms almost wrap around the garden, and because of the positioning, the entertaining area feels very private,” he says. To strike a balance between the

comfort of farmhouse style and contemporary living, Donovan combined steel and concrete features with natural materials such as wood, plaster and face brick. Sliding timber screens on the exterior give the streetfacing rooms privacy and security and create visual interest. “Because I travel a lot for work, I wanted a practical, compact home that could function as a lock-up-and-go, and this house meets my needs perfectly. Donovan did a brilliant job creating spaces conducive to relaxing and entertaining on weekends,” says Gary.

SOURCES Ebotse Estate ebotse.com Gottsmann Architects gottsmann.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

Nature’s

GARDEN

Botanical artist Wilna Eloff showcases local beauties Where did your interest in art and botany begin? In 1989, I took up botanical art as a hobby and it developed into a full-time pursuit. I gained more experience by attending various botanical art workshops and master classes. Why did you concentrate on flora and fauna? I love our local fauna and flora and see my work as contributing to conservation. It’s a challenge to portray the real beauty of species as it involves the fundamentals of visual representation and minute observational skills. What are you working on at the moment? I’m focussing on book illustrations and small South African gems, particularly the succulents of the Karoo, which I feel are unappreciated. We have a richness of flora and fauna and

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

many minute fynbos that appear in the most unusual places are overlooked. How would you describe your artistic style? Vibrant and bold. Finding the unusual excites my creativity and pushes my boundaries. I use all mediums, but my preference is for watercolour and graphite pencils. Which artists do you admire? I greatly admire Cathna Letty and Katharine Saunders for their book illustrations and their ability to draw accurately from real life, to capture and to understand the laws of proportions. They’ve had a huge influence on my work.

What would you describe as highlights of your career? Recognition by the Hunt Institute in the USA for illustrations based on research and archival material. My work is also represented at the Shirley Sherwood botanical collection in the UK and I’ve received silver and gold medals at Kirstenbosch Biennale Exhibitions. It’s World Botanical Month. How do you think art creates environmental awareness? Art gives people the chance to stop and appreciate the subject in front of them. It helps us realise that nature is precious and easily damaged. Do you have any exhibitions coming up? I’m exhibiting at the Everard Read Gallery for the Botanical Art Worldwide exhibition.

BOTANICAL ART WORLDWIDE EXHIBITION See works by Wilna Eloff and other local and international artists at Everard Read Gallery, Jo’burg, 17 May – 9 June. everard-read.co.za SOURCE Wilna Eloff wilnaeloff@mweb.co.za

TEXT CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPHS HENRIQUE WILDING

CREATIVE SPIRIT

TRENDS 1 3

A state of

CALM With simple, clean lines in soothing neutral shades, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find your Zen

1. Faux stem protea, R129,99, @home. 2. Black Ming sideboard, R24 500, SHF. 3. Lotus hemp cushion cover, R550, Esque. 4. Clarke floor lamp, R1 930, KNUS. 5. Square lounge chair, R4 995, Weylandts. 6. Black cast iron teapot, R525, Woolworths. 7. Brass round mirror, R2 995, Weylandts. 8. Honey brown wash Puka basket tray, R395, Block & Chisel. 9. Bindi stool, R1 495, Coricraft. 10. Polycotton Mingle throw, R99,99, Mr Price Home. SOURCES @home home.co.za Block & Chisel blockandchisel.co.za Coricraft coricraft.co.za Esque esque.co.za KNUS knus.co Mr Price Home mrphome.com SHF shf.co.za Weylandts weylandts.co.za Woolworths woolworths.co.za

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

COMPILED BY JO SHARP PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

TEXT MARY JANE HARRIS SHOPPING MANDY BUCHHOLZ MAIN PHOTOGRAPH ANTHEA POKROY PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

A FRESH approach Mellow wood and natural textures offset with a splash of white make this the perfect setting for an autumn lunch

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

INSPIRATIONS

EXPERT TIPS A new look can be as simple as a new pendant light. Malabar white pendant, R3 995, Weylandts.

Interior designer Kelly Adami of Copperleaf Studio, who updated the dining room pictured left, has the following advice for refreshing existing rooms Touches of white add a feeling of freshness and vibrancy to this already lovely dining space, which featured a number of wooden items. I introduced large white pendants from Weylandts as their subtle texture echoes the other natural textures in the room. To make the space look more contemporary, I added a set of white wishbone dining chairs with woven seats. They look natural and relaxed and complement the soft green of the stained dining room table.

Reflect light and enhance space with a mirror. Homer mirror, R11 900, La Grange Interiors. Store and display objet in the Vita sideboard, R22 995, from Block & Chisel.

Natural textures lend a laidback feel. Seagrass basket in natural and black, R295, Weylandts.

Add pops of colour with ginger jars. Daisy ginger jar, R1 035, NetDécor.

Display blue and white bowls on open shelves. Kerala delft bowl, R599,99, Mr Price Home.

Add modern elements with dining chairs, like this white wishbone chair, R2 500, from SHF.

Establish a relaxed atmosphere with a rustic table. Eton dining table in white oak, R25 999, JVB Furniture Collection. Bring in greenery with a faux gum leaf potted plant, R99,99, from Mr Price Home.

SOURCES Block & Chisel blockandchisel.co.za Copperleaf Studio copperleafstudio.co.za JVB Furniture Collection j-v-b.co.za La Grange Interiors lagrangeinteriors.co.za Mr Price Home mrphome.com NetDécor netdecor.co.za SHF shf.co.za Weylandts weylandts.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

JOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;BURG NEW BUILD

Industrial LUXE

TEXT MARY JANE HARRIS STYLING JO SHARP PHOTOGRAPHS CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN

Although they built this house as a project, Alex and Angela Saffy fell in love with it and decided it was perfect for their family

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

WHO LIVES HERE Angela (pictured) and Alex Saffy, their children Daniella (21) and Luke (10), and Zara, the German shepherd. Mikhaela, their eldest, has already left home.

THE HOUSE A modern Georgian double storey built around a central courtyard with all the downstairs living areas opening onto the pool terrace. Upstairs are four bedrooms and bathrooms and a pyjama lounge.

THIS SPREAD, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

As it faced the courtyard, the dramatic black-framed, double-height window was permissable. The landscaping was done by Indigo Landscapes. Angela wanted a combination of soft industrial and tribal in the entrance hall. The cabinet is from SHF and the rug from Gralan Fabrics.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

ndustrial elegance was the look I was going for,” explains Jo’burg designer and project manager Angela Saffy of Versatile Interiors, indicating the large black-framed, double-height window in her entrance hall. The house, which is part of a complex in a secluded close in Bryanston, Jo’burg, was subject to certain design regulations, but fortunately as this window faces into the courtyard, the black frame was allowed. Angela and her husband, Alex, bought the stand and built the house as an investment with Angela as project manager and designer. They had no intention of living there, but as it took shape, Alex could see what a great house it would be to live in. They changed their minds, put their house on the market and moved in with their children as soon as the building was complete. “We sold our old house with all the furniture except for a few special pieces and paintings so we could start

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

completely fresh here,” explains Angela who worked closely with the architect, Gavin Warburton, and builder, Justin Lobban of Millennium Construction, on the design. “At our previous house, we lived on the patio, which was large and wrapped around the house. But we ended up duplicating spaces and furniture. There

was a large dining table outside and a large dining table inside. There were sitting areas inside and sitting areas outside. With this house, I wanted all the rooms to open onto the pool and outdoor areas so that there is an indoor-outdoor feel to the whole house.” The double-storey house is U-shaped and all the rooms, including the

covered patio

bar

bedroom

living area balcony dining area

The sleek bar is often the setting for watching sport on TV, especially rugby, a passion of Alexâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. The patio features black aluminium shutters from Plantation Shutters on both sides, which can be opened or closed depending on the weather. The braai was placed so that it makes a focal point and is flanked by mirrors to bring in the light and reflect the garden. The cushions are in fabrics by Hertex.

bedroom

THIS SPREAD, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

kitchen

pool

scullery pyjama lounge entrance hall

study

bedroom

master suite

TV lounge

staff quarters garage

Ground floor

First gardenandhome.co.za floor| MAY 2018

children’s TV room, the kitchen, dining, living room and bar have stacking framed glass doors that open completely but can be closed should it be rainy or windy. “When they’re closed, some of them resemble sash windows, in keeping with the modern Georgian style,” explains Angela. The braai room at the far end of the house has aluminium security shutters on opposite sides of the room so it can be almost completely opened up. “It’s a lovely cool spot in summer and, with one set closed and

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

“When I bought this, I was totally out of my comfort zone,” says Angela of the large aqua sofa that dominates the living area. The armchairs were covered in a Hertex fabric to pick up the blue of the sofa. Two overscaled mirrors from SHF add to the drama. “I had to have this black Smeg range,” says Angela who designed the kitchen around it. To ensure sufficient work space, she included an island in the centre and a bar counter separating the kitchen from the passage. “We have breakfast here, chat and catch up, it’s where everything happens.” THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

“There was no need to have a separate outdoor dining table as the dining room opens onto the pool terrace,” says Angela. The painting is by Alex’s aunt Corrie Scribante. The engineered wooden flooring throughout the house is by Oggie.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

the fire burning, a cosy comfortable space in winter.” Angela carried the industrial luxe look throughout the house with sections of exposed brick, lots of raw wood, including beautiful engineered wood flooring, and added a contemporary edge with black accents. Contributing to the richness and glamour are textured baskets juxtaposed with velvet and fur throws, all reflected in striking mirrors. “As you can see, I adore mirrors,” says Angela who admits that once they’d moved in and hung the mirrors, she realised that she had two left over. “But they worked beautifully on either side of the door onto the pool, giving the right finish to two planter boxes.”

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Angela turned the upstairs landing into a pyjama lounge, furnishing it with an irresistible deep-buttoned sofa and ottomans. “It’s become Luke’s PlayStation room.” The mirrors are from SHF. The epitome of industrial luxe, the main bedroom was designed around the French-style mirrors, which soften the brick wall. “I fell in love with the Nguni chair and fortunately it fitted in here,” says Angela. Luke chose the floating bed for his bedroom and as space was tight, selected the ladder shelving, which doubles as a desk. THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Bamboo Venetian in Beige

TAYLOR VENETIAN BLIND COLLECTION MADE FROM NATURAL MATERIALS*

SPECIAL UV PROTECTIVE COATING*

Contact us on 0861-1-TAYLOR (829567) for an obligation-free quote and expert advice. *APPLICABLE TO BAMBOO VENETIAN BLINDS ONLY

EASY TO CLEAN

CORDS, TAPES, HEAD & BOTTOM RAILS COLOUR CO-ORDINATED

www.taylorblinds.co.za @TaylorShutters

BLINDS & SHUTTERS

Est.1959

Helena pendant, R1 950, SHF.

Get the look Get this industrial-chic look for your kitchen

Raylen metal wall clock, R895, Coricraft.

Rebel Walls Red Brick Wall wallpaper, R1 124,04/m2, St Leger & Viney.

Daniella’s bedroom features a metal four-poster bed. “To soften the metal and the brick, I chose lots of soft pink for the throws and scatters,” she explains. To bring light into the main bathroom and dressing room, Angela insisted that instead of a window, the builders install doors onto the roof area outside. The shower doors and the mirrored doors on the cupboards were custom-made to Angela’s specifications. THIS PAGE, FROM TOP:

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Rhine Castle 54 paint, POR, Plascon.

Teak bowls, from R550 each, La Grange Interiors.

SOURCES Coricraft coricraft.co.za Esque esque.co.za Gavin Warburton 082 446 1281 Gralan Fabrics gralan.co.za Hertex hertex.co.za Indigo Landscapes 011 792 3933 Justin Lobban 082 607 0706 La Grange Interiors lagrangeinteriors.co.za Oggie oggieflooring.com Plantation Shutters plantation.co.za Plascon plascon.co.za SHF shf.co.za Smeg smeg.co.za St Leger & Viney stleger.co.za Versatile Interiors 083 321 3478

COMPILED BY JO SHARP PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

Grey hairpin stool, R889, Esque.

Sunset SERENADE This holiday apartment is both the epitome of elegant luxury and a family-friendly home 34

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TEXT DEBORAH RUDMAN PRODUCTION HEATHER WELHAM PHOTOGRAPHS KARL ROGERS

SEAFRONT APARTMENT

WHO LIVES HERE A Garden Route-based couple who enjoy getaways here, often with their children and grandchildren.

THE APARTMENT A three-bedroom, threebathroom apartment in a six-unit development in Bakoven, Cape Town, decorated by Heather Welham of Portfolio Interiors (pictured).

ocation is probably the most frequently used mantra in the property world for good reason: when a property is blessed with a singular location, possessing great potential and commanding exceptional views, its value is both economic and personal. And a prime location demands an appropriate architectural and interiordesign response. When the Infinity apartment development was proposed for Bakoven on the Atlantic Seaboard a couple of years ago, the challenge was to make the most of its setting. The impression of unbounded space is not an illusion: the development lies on the very edge of the urban zone, where the last buildable Bakoven plot meets the Table Mountain nature reserve. With no neighbours on the southern reach of coast as far as the distant Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, and the panoramic vista of the Atlantic directly in front, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the epitome of untrammelled space and light. The developers identified Arthur Quinton Darryl Croome as the architectural partnership best placed to do it justice

THIS SPREAD: The balcony furniture was sourced at Bloc Outdoor. The throw and scatters are from CĂŠcile & Boyd.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

pool

balcony terrace

bedroom suite

bedroom living area dining area

kitchen

bedroom

study scullery

Once the build had begun, the owners of this apartment brought in specialist interior designer Heather Welham of Portfolio Interiors, and a satisfying collaboration ensued. With

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

a background in furniture fabrics and extensive experience in creating stylish interiors throughout South Africa (and with a styling CV that includes Top Billing and DStv’s The Home Channel),

Heather brought her particular flair to the requirements of the property. Informed both by the owners’ taste and her own design ethos, she ensured harmony between the interior and exterior – designed to complement, not compete with, the natural beauty of the setting. It’s a holiday home, certainly, but this is no rough-and-ready beach house. It is an elegant space, where attention to detail is combined with supremely comfortable appointments. Yet it retains a sense of fuss-free ease. ABOVE: The sofas in the living area and TV room are from Wunders. The large round table in the living area is from La Grange Interiors. The carpet, from Zollanvari, makes a perfect partner.

A number of interior decor techniques enhance the feeling of spaciousness. One of these is the unbroken stretch of dark wide-plank oak flooring throughout. High ceilings and recessed lighting also contribute, as does the palette, which consists largely of tones of grey, from the deeper shade on the voile drapes to the paler hues on the sofas and chairs in the living area. Colour is introduced with restraint â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there are splashes of crimson and blue in the scatter cushions, on the upholstery on the ottoman and dining chairs and, eye-catchingly, in the artworks displayed on the walls. The 276m2 accommodation comprises three en suite bedrooms, a large openplan kitchen/living and dining area, and a guest loo, supplemented by a store THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

Custom-designed units were installed in the kitchen for neat storage, easy maintenance and a minimalist look. A portrait by Kim Mobey and an end table from CĂŠcile & Boyd lead the eye down the passage. In the dining area, the table and matching dresser were made by Meyer von Wielligh. The dining chairs are from South African designer Haldane Martin. An artwork by Nicole Pletts hangs above the dresser.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

room and underground parking. The mod cons are here, too, of course: there’s a scullery/laundry area (screened by a kitchen wall), and each en suite

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bathroom has a spacious shower and heated towel rail. Storage is not so much space-saving as space-creating: shelving units, drawers

and cupboards, all hidden behind sliding doors or behind bedroom panels, are plentiful and generous. The balcony is possibly the most view-friendly space of all, overlooking the rocks of Bakoven and the sweep of ocean. A barbeque and lap pool complete the outdoor living theme. As well as allowing unimpeded views of the sea, the glare-reducing, double-glazed doors filter the sounds when the northwest wind whips up the waves below. Although it’s designed to accommodate numerous visiting family and friends, the apartment is also private and self-contained enough for two. Gazing out to the horizon from this unparalleled vantage point, it’s hard to believe that the buzz of Camps Bay and the congestion of the CBD lie just kilometres away. On holiday, instantly.

Get the look Replicate the chic style of this living room with tones of mineral grey Cantilever gold standing lamp with a sand shade, R1 800, SHF.

SHOPPING MANDY BUCHHOLZ PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

White Norman relax chair with footstool, R13 999, @home.

Spanish Suzani cushion, R740, Cécile & Boyd.

Ultra Marmi Staturario Altissimo porcelain slab tile, R2 565/m2, WOMAG.

Delta coffee table, from R8 695, Mobelli Furniture + Living.

OPPOSITE PAGE, FROM TOP: The headboard in the master bedroom was custom-designed by Heather Welham and made by Wunders. The emphasis in this en suite bathroom is on sleek, uncluttered lines and a monochrome palette. It houses a separate loo, a walk-in shower (with a sea view) and a spa bath. THIS PAGE, FROM TOP: In this guest room, a custom-made headboard ties in with curtains in fabric from Hertex. For this bedroom, pops of soft blue add interest to the neutral scheme.

Red drop bottle vase, R79,99, Mr Price Home.

Indian iron tray, R395, Weylandts.

SOURCES @home home.co.za Arthur Quinton Darryl Croome Architects aquacor.co.za Bloc Outdoor blocoutdoor.co.za Cécile & Boyd cecileandboyds.com Haldane Martin haldanemartin.co.za Hertex hertex.co.za Kim Mobey kimmobey.com La Grange Interiors lagrangeinteriors.co.za Meyer von Wielligh meyervonwielligh.co.za Mobelli Furniture + Living mobelli.co.za Mr Price Home mrphome.com Nicole Pletts nicoleplettsfineart.com Portfolio Interiors 083 443 0339 SHF shf.co.za Weylandts weylandts.co.za WOMAG womag.co.za Wunders wunders.co.za Zollanvari zollanvari.com

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

BERG HOLIDAY HOME

DOWN on the farm

The views were the main attraction.

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

TEXT CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPHS SALLY CHANCE

With a mix of old and new, this former warehouse in the Drakensberg was transformed into a welcoming holiday home

WHO LIVES HERE A Durban-based couple and their three young children.

THE HOUSE A single-storey house with an openplan kitchen, dining and living area, five bedrooms and two bathrooms.

The warehouse origins of the house are evident from the windows in the living and dining areas. A slipcover was made for an existing sofa and a custom-made bench doubles as a coffee table.

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his family retreat in the Kamberg didn’t have much to recommend it when the owners bought it. “Originally a warehouse, it had been converted into a house some years previously. It was very bland but it had a lot of bedrooms, which we wanted, and an open-plan lounge, dining and kitchen area and we knew we could make it work,” they recall. “The farm setting was really the main attraction. It’s so tranquil and with views of the mountains you feel very close to nature.”

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT: “We love to fill the house with guests so a large dining room table that could seat 20 was essential,” explain the owners. Locally sourced baskets form a focal point. The melamine cabinets in the kitchen were inexpensively updated with grey paint. Family collectables are displayed in a wall-mounted crate. Existing shelf units were painted teal and given a modern look by pairing them with a bench from Homewood and Ardmore scatters.

The clean-lined custom-made coffee table and contemporary fabrics establish a modern farmhouse look in the living room. An auction find, this riempie bench was sanded down and accessorised with cushions in contemporary fabrics. Child-friendly leather sofas from Leisure Lounge furnish the living room. The jute rugs are from Homestead Décor. OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

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To assist them with what was a mainly cosmetic renovation, they consulted interior designer Kirsten Wuth of The Design Group in Durban. Their aim was to make it comfortable, light and modern but also to give it a very personal feel. A gregarious couple who often have guests, the owners also wanted the biggest dining room table possible and bunk beds in the children’s rooms. Kirsten’s first step was to update the cherry-wood-look melamine cabinets in the kitchen by painting them a stylish shade of grey. “It instantly looked clean and contemporary, especially with new white blinds.” All the carpets in the bedrooms were pulled up and replaced with a natural colour to make them feel more modern. The whole house was brightened with a fresh coat of paint. When it came to the decor, practicality was very important, and child-friendly leather sofas and slipcovered furniture

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

were chosen for the living areas. The owners also wanted to incorporate some of their existing furniture and family pieces that had sentimental value. “For instance, in the long passageway, we painted two existing shelf units in teal and paired these with a contemporary bench.” A few striking scatter cushions and artwork turned what could have been dead space into an interesting feature. “The accessories on the shelves are all items that belonged to the clients’ parents. They were cluttering their Durban home and using them here has THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A shelf with hooks, an antique store find, provides a spot for hats and coats. To complement the rural surroundings, Kirsten chose a leather headboard and Nguni rug for the main bedroom. In the guest bedroom, carved animal heads were mounted above the bed. The pedestals are from Block & Chisel.

Get the look Natural textures and lots of layers create the modern farmhouse style of this living area Lattice throw, R599, Woolworths.

Eton bench, from R9 499, JVB Furniture.

SHOPPING CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

SHOPPING CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT SEE PAGE 2

Janco side table, R2 000, SHF.

given them a new lease on life,” says Kirsten. “Another piece we refurbished is the server in the dining room and Kirsten reframed some of my father’s artwork for the living room and dining room, which we combined with paintings by our children,” says one of the owners. To offset the antique shop and auction buys and achieve the contemporary look the owners wanted, Kirsten introduced geometric patterned fabrics and chunky raw wood furniture. She also incorporated lots of texture such as wood, linen and leather to reflect the rural surroundings and layered Nguni rugs on jute carpets. “I really wanted to include a traditional riempie bench as it’s so South African and quintessentially farmhouse,” says Kirsten. “I managed to find one at an auction, which we sanded down and placed in the passage.” It now adds the perfect finishing touch to this inviting weekend home.

Buhera gourd, from R501, Esque. Country Road cushion, R499, Woolworths.

Ollie two-seater sofa, R4 999, Coricraft.

ABOVE: New accessories revived the tired bathroom.

SOURCES Ardmore ardmore-design.com Block & Chisel blockandchisel.co.za Coricraft coricraft.co.za Esque esque.co.za Homestead Décor homestead-decor.co.za Homewood homewood.co.za JVB Furniture j-v-b.co.za Leisure Lounge leisurelounge.co.za SHF shf.co.za The Design Group thedesigngroupsa.com Woolworths woolworths.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

COMPETITION

WIN AN ALL-INCLUSIVE, TWO-NIGHT SAFARI GETAWAY FOR 10 WORTH R97 000

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

here’s no better way to make memories than to share an experience with friends and family. Tintswalo Safari Lodge is offering a unique opportunity to soak up the natural beauty of the African wilderness, indulge in top-notch dining and relax in luxurious surroundings with the people you love. Situated in the Manyeleti Game Reserve, Tintswalo Safari Lodge shares unfenced boundaries with the Kruger National Park and the Timbavati and Sabi Sand game reserves, giving you an amazing wildlife experience. Tintswalo’s guide and tracker teams will take you and your party on twice daily game viewing adventures deep into the bush where you’ll encounter the Big Five, spot over 300 species of birds and a plethora of creatures, large and small. When not enjoying the best of indigenous flora and fauna, familyfriendly luxury accommodation at The Manor House makes you feel worlds away from the rush of the city. With

five bedrooms and en suite bathrooms, spacious lounge and dining areas, as well as shaded patios for relaxing and entertaining, it’s the ideal location for spending quality time with your favourite people. The Manor House has a swimming pool and rolling lawns protected by game fencing so you can enjoy watching the waterhole beyond it whenever you please. Tintswalo Bushwillow Spa offers you and your guests a 15 minute back and shoulder massage to help you unwind. And to keep the kids entertained, there are activities including ranger tracking, paintball, jewellery making and baking with the chef.

WINNING IS EASY – ENTER NOW! To enter, SMS the word TINTSWALO, your name and postal and e-mail addresses to 48406. Each SMS costs R1,50. Free SMSes don’t apply.

All meals are prepared by a private chef, and service staff will ensure that your stay is comfortable and relaxed. Enter and you could stand a chance of winning a two-night stay for 10 people, children welcome, with all meals, house drinks and safari activities included. For more information, visit tintswalo.com/safari

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: 1. The first correctly completed entry to be drawn randomly will win the prize worth R97 000. 2. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 3. The prize isn’t transferable and can’t be exchanged for cash. 4. The prize is valid until 1 May 2019 (excl. 10 December 2018 to 15 February 2019). Accommodation is subject to availability and excludes public holidays and school holidays. It is for up to 10 people sharing five bedrooms in The Manor House. 5. The prize excludes transport costs to Tintswalo Safari Lodge, reserve entrance fees, meals, premium branded alcohol, additional spa treatments, activities and sundries not listed in the prize. 6. Employees of Tintswalo Safari Lodge, CTP Caxton, their advertising agencies and immediate families may not enter the competition. 7. Entries close on 31 May 2018. 8. The competition is only open to South African residents over the age of 18. 9. The winner will be notified telephonically. 10. To comply with the Consumer Protection Act, postal entries will no longer be allowed and the winner will be required to supply their ID number. 11. E-mail addresses are not mandatory. 12. By entering the competition, you give Caxton Magazines the right to present other Caxton offers to you.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

PLANNING A KITCHEN

Design your dream

KITCHEN

Angie designed a large central island, which serves as the cooking hub, with plenty of storage and easy access to the scullery and fridge.

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TEXT TESS PATERSON PHOTOGRAPHS CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN

Renovating or building from scratch? Kitchen designer Angie Hudson has these guidelines to help you plan a space that works for you

TALK TO THE PROFESSIONALS “For me, one of the most crucial steps in design is information,” says Jo’burg-based kitchen designer Angie Hudson. “By that I mean highly detailed input from clients on their lifestyle and needs. It makes the design process so much easier.” Angie suggests doing a lifestyle audit. “Ask yourself questions such as who does the cooking? Do you envisage an open-plan, eat-in kitchen with space for homework? Are you a serious cook who loves to entertain, or a busy professional who eats out a lot?” Another useful guide is your existing kitchen. “Your old kitchen will tell you how much equipment and crockery you’ll need to accommodate. It might also reveal shortcomings such as insufficient plug points or a layout that could be improved by a few minor changes.”

OPTIMISING THE LAYOUT storage

scullery fridge/ freezer

appliance garage

butler’s sink

stove

“A good flow is determined by how many people use the kitchen at one time.” To optimise flow, Angie advises creating various work centres. “Be systematic about all the different functions. Think of a prep station and plan the relevant storage nearby – things like knives, chopping boards, veggie baskets and a pull-out bin. The same goes for a tea and coffee station. Imagine you’re a guest in your own home and place the kettle and coffee machine in an easy-toreach spot. Then store the cups and condiments right there. Ditto for the cooking station, with pots and pans right near the stove.” First prize is a generous island – either including the stovetop or simply with a prep bowl. “Islands provide additional work space while adding under-counter storage and allowing for some casual seating.”

coffee station

THIS PAGE, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Casual seating allows for friends to chat to the cooks, and Angie included plenty of landing and work space on either side of the stove. A sunken butler’s sink is a useful addition to the central island. The kitchen connects seamlessly to the garden via folding sliding doors.

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such as space for colanders and salad spinners near the sink; deep pot drawers and spice cupboards near the stove. “I like to include shallow cupboards beneath the island for everyday crockery, with drawers on the opposite side for cutlery and kitchen tools.” She suggests having as many drawers as your plan and budget allow, including pull-out shelves for easy access.

SEATING

ESTABLISHING A WORK TRIANGLE “I think it’s more about the relationship between fridge, prep and cooking areas rather than a cast-in-stone triangle. Given that fridges are usually cumbersome and ideally belong at the end of a ‘run’ – at one end of the kitchen – they can exist just outside the working zones.” In this renovated Jo’burg kitchen, Angie positioned the fridge/freezer in the pantry, yet it’s still within easy reach of the cooking island and dining zone. “The most crucial thing to get right is the relationship between the stove and water/prep area.”

WHERE TO POSITION YOUR APPLIANCES For seldom-used items, Angie recommends appliance garages or drawers. “For your everyday items such as kettles, toasters or blenders, invest in the best quality and keep them on show. It’s a working environment and it’s acceptable to see the tools.” To save space, Angie likes to incorporate microwaves, convection ovens and coffee machines in a custom-designed vertical unit.

“Include a couple of stools at your central island so that friends can chat with the cook.” Where space allows, Angie believes that a separate dining area is the biggest asset. “For this kitchen, we created an airy conservatory space, which accommodates a 12-seater table and leads straight onto the garden. My clients are both accomplished cooks and love to entertain – it’s become a social hub for friends and family.”

WORK SURFACES “Right now the most popular surfaces are composite stone, with a smattering of granite as well.” The benefits of composites (such as the Caesarstone top used on this island) are a more uniform, non-porous finish and wide selection of colours. “Concrete- and marble-look finishes are huge right now, and go well with most styles. Another good option is solid timber with a clear natural sealant so that you see the grain.” THIS PAGE, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Appliance garages neatly conceal seldom-used items. The shallow drawers below serve as a charging station for phones and tablets. A combination of freestanding units and floating shelves serves as a coffee station and gives a relaxed elegance to the dining area. A durable Caesarstone top and stainless steel kick-plates will add longevity to this family kitchen.

SHELVING LAYOUT “The rule for placing shelves or cupboards is ‘put it where it’s most needed’.” Angie advises keeping to a logical system –

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

SOURCES Angie Hudson 011 482 6215 Caesarstone caesarstone.co.za

KITCHEN TRENDS

TREND 1 ALERT

LESS IS MORE

Think clutter-free countertops, concealed storage space, handle-free cabinetry (thanks to touch mechanisms), open-plan layouts and muted colour schemes.

Not sure what finishes and features to choose for your kitchen? Here are some of the latest trends to guide you 52

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

Silestone lagoon 30mm countertop, R10 944/m2, WOMAG.

COMPILED BY JO SHARP PHOTOGRAPHS CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN AND SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

Kitchen designed and installed by Easylife Kitchens.

PATTERNED 2TILES “Patterned tiles have been Marrakech Verde hexagonal tiles, R89/sheet, Italtile. around for centuries, and they’re enjoying a revival,” says Oren Sachs, managing director of WOMAG. “The designs are timeless and if used correctly, they can make a plain kitchen look magnificent.” Use patterned tiles on the floor or to clad a splashback. If you don’t want to commit to pattern, try some of the readily available decals that can be stuck onto plain tiles to give the same effect. Florita wall tile stickers, R499 for 20, Robin Sprong Wallpapers.

4003 Sleek concrete slab, from R2 451/m (excl. installation), Caesarstone.

Concrete tray, R380, Studio19.

CEMENT LOOK Although this isn’t new, the raw, industrial look of cement is still extremely popular. It looks stylish but is budget friendly at the same time. This look has been translated into tiles, wall finishes, countertops and accessories.

MINERAL AND STONE

Concetto collection 8141 white quartz stone, POR, Caesarstone.

Highly desirable these days are mineral and stone effects like marble, malachite and quartz. “This is Concetto Collection 8540 where organic and luxury cross Durmortierite stone effects, paths, and it’s a sophisticated way POR, Caesarstone. to introduce natural elements to your home,” says Megan Schuman, advertising and PR manager of Caesarstone. From polished countertops in soft or deep jewel tones to unique lighting and handles, these finishes feel organic, but look opulent and definitely make a statement.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

Natural black slate tile, R568,86/m2, WOMAG.

Tivoli Pella chrome spring mixer, R3 990, Italtile.

6 UNDERMOUNTED SINKS WITH MIXERS Undermounted sinks are installed and secured from below so there is no rim on the countertop. It’s often used for sinks in kitchen islands as spills can be cleared directly into the sink. The perfect partner for an undermounted sink is a statement mixer, which adds a design element to a practical feature.

Matt black and gold large pendant, R2 800, K. Light Import.

Black Montella sink mixer, R1 695, Bathroom Bizarre.

Franke Kubus undermount single sink, R6 290, Italtile.

BLACK IS BACK

Built-in banquettes are space-saving especially if they have storage inside. Randi bench, R4 999, Sofacompany.com

BANQUETTE SEATING

Dining areas in the kitchen have become essential and thanks to their space-saving quality, benches or built-in banquettes are ideal in small areas. Fitting neatly against the wall, out of the way of the cook, they can be dressed up or down to suit the style of the kitchen.

Brunch bench, R3 495, Block & Chisel.

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BOTTOM LEFT PHOTOGRAPH NICK WATT/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU/ MAGAZINEFEATURES.CO.ZA

“We can’t get enough of matt black, from taps to finishes,” says Nicole Russell, marketing manager of Italtile. Black is strong and bold with a clean-looking sophistication that adds contemporary style. Include it in the form of cabinetry, sleek taps, industrial pendant lighting, handles and flooring.

Photographer Christoph Hoffmann installed floating shelves for glassware and crockery in his kitchen.

Sawyer shelf, R299,99, Mr Price Home.

OPEN SHELVING Goodbye wall-mounted cabinets, hello open shelves. These days, floating shelves are back in favour not only displaying decorative items, but keeping everyday items close at hand.

SOURCES Bathroom Bizarre bathroom.co.za Block & Chisel blockandchisel.co.za Caesarstone caesarstone.co.za Easylife Kitchens easylifekitchens.co.za Italtile italtile.co.za K. Light Import klight.co.za Mr Price Home mrphome.com Robin Sprong Wallpapers robinsprong.com Sofacompany.com sofacompany.com Studio19 studio19.co WOMAG womag.co.za

KITCHEN RENOVATIONS BEFORE

Clever kitchen MAKEOVERS

pantry

dining area fridge

The island with oversized pendant lighting from SHF anchors the long open-plan room. It has space for homework, casual dining and, with a sink, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ideal for food preparation.

stove

island

covered patio

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freestanding cabinet

scullery

TEXT JO SHARP PHOTOGRAPHS CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN

Find out how two savvy designers turned less than ideal spaces into stylish, practical kitchens

STRAP HERE BEFORE

ONLINE EXTRA Find more amazing kitchen makeovers at gardenandhome.co.za

The taps and floor tiles are from Samano Ceramics.

The Big Picture By linking it to a covered patio on one side and a cosy dining area on the other, designer Tanja Beyers created the ideal kitchen for entertaining “With our growing teenagers, the kitchen was becoming really cramped,” explains Tanja Beyers of Profurn Contracts. “We were desperate for more space, plus we wanted a kitchen that was more entertaining friendly.” When her husband Bruce, who has a home refurbishment business, joined forces with Profurn, they decided it was the right time to renovate. WHAT THEY DID To create more space, they extended the kitchen into the garden by a couple of metres. They also moved the wall between the dining room and kitchen out a metre to provide more space for guests. The other wall that had to go was in the middle of the kitchen creating

Tanja decorated the kitchen in the same style as the rest of the house with art and accessories. Stacking doors open onto the patio.

dark corners and restricting traffic flow. “With this gone, we were left with a long spacious room,” explains Tanja who worked closely with kitchen designer Kim Broodryk of Three Sixty Degrees. Together they chose a combination of oak and ducoed cabinetry with Caesarstone tops. “It’s important to have guidance from a professional who knows how to design a functional space like a kitchen,” she adds. A large central island provides a place for homework and feeding their teenagers and their many friends. A scullery and utility area was added at the back to house appliances and screen the sinks. This freed up storage and counter space in the main kitchen.

The garden off the kitchen was turned into a covered outdoor living area connected to the kitchen by stacking glass doors. THE RESULT “Now we have all the space we need to cook, eat and entertain without feeling on top of each other,” say Bruce and Tanja. “Being able to open the doors from the kitchen onto the patio has made all the difference.” SOURCES Caesarstone caesarstone.co.za Profurn Contracts tanja@beyers.me Samano Ceramics samano@absamail.co.za SHF shf.co.za Three Sixty Degrees kim.broodryk@mwebbiz.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

The old bar was removed and the space converted into a stylish kitchen. Similar pendant lights are available from Eagle Lighting.

pantry

island

extra seating

stove

sink

fridge

living area

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

TEXT DIANA WEMYSS PHOTOGRAPHS KARL ROGERS

BEFORE

A barn door screens the former braai, now pantry.

Cottage Industry A collection of small, shabby spaces became a delightful live-in kitchen thanks to a serendipitous meeting with decorator Michelle Murray When they bought this Cape Town property, the owners’ intention was to let out the main house and turn the tatty single garage, bar and braai room into a pied-à-terre for themselves. As luck would have it, their new tenant turned out to be decorator Michelle Murray of Interiors Etc, well known for her ability to transform spaces, and they hired her instantly. WHAT THEY DID The openings into the main house were bricked up and the stipple effect on the walls was plastered over. The floors in the front section were brought up to the level in what was the bar. “We lost a bit of height in the living area but this makes it cosier,” says Michelle. “We then linked the two areas by covering the floor with a light grey screed.” As the owners love to entertain, the

A combination of white cabinetry and timber open shelves gives the kitchen character. Similar metro tiles are available at Union Tiles.

layout of the kitchen had to maximise the available space and work efficiently. “Michelle really got to know us and what we wanted, even when we weren’t always sure ourselves,” they recall. Keeping their budget in mind, Michelle chose off-white cabinets with sealed meranti countertops and clad the walls with white metro tiles. A butler’s sink was installed next to the door into the garden and she converted the braai into a pantry cupboard screened by a charming barn door. For entertaining, the large island was fitted with industrial castors so that it can be moved about depending on the occasion. Michelle carried through the duck egg and teal shades in the living room on the walls and the barn door.

A light grey screed floor links both areas.

THE RESULT Now the kitchen is the hub of the couple’s self-contained cottage. “It’s fresh, stylish and perfect for easy living and entertaining,” says Michelle. SOURCES Eagle Lighting eaglelighting.co.za Interiors Etc interiorsetc.co.za Union Tiles uniontiles.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

A MODERN

twist

y clients had bought a classic slate-roofed house with wooden cottage pane windows and parquet floors,” explains interior designer Tiggs Crozet. “There were big, generous spaces, but everything was very compartmentalised. A long dark passage divided the formal lounge from the kitchen, and the dining and TV rooms were completely separate.”

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

THE MAJOR CHANGES By opening up the passage, Tiggs created one generous openplan space, which now includes kitchen, dining and living areas. As the original kitchen was one long room, she built a wall with a door at one end to form a separate scullery. Flooding the space with light, a series of new sliding windows allow for rose-garden views from the kitchen, while new folding sliding doors connect

TEXT TESS PATERSON PHOTOGRAPHS CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN

By reworking a series of dark, separate rooms, interior designer Tiggs Crozet established a kitchen-living-dining hub

GOING OPEN PLAN

touch by linking the dining room and TV room with a steel and glass sliding door. “What we achieved with the layout is far more user-friendly – practical spaces that merge quite seamlessly.”

TO GET OPEN-PLAN LIVING TIPS AND IDEAS visit gardenandhome.co.za

the living room end to the outdoors. What looked at first to be a fairly simple renovation was not without its challenges, though. “We discovered that both passage walls were structural. It was quite an engineering feat to remove these and add supporting steel beams.” The next process was to gut the existing kitchen completely and redesign it from scratch. Tiggs also added an industrial

THIS SPREAD, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: An industrial-style steel and glass sliding door, made by Mango Sootoo Trading, separates the dining area from the TV room. New sliding windows allow for views across the rose garden from the stove. The kitchen was designed by Tiggs and made by Distinctive Cupboards. The overscaled island was painted deep charcoal and has a marble-look top by Caesarstone. The pendant lights are from SHF and the wallpaper is Louise Body from The Silk and Cotton Co. Tiggs painted a storage unit from Velvet Home & Living black and the interior white to show off crockery. The distressed Persian carpet is from Apadana Rugs and the chairs were bought from @home a few years ago.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

TIGGS’ TIPS FOR OPEN-PLAN SPACES Ensure the chosen area is big enough for the different spaces and their associated furniture and there’s good flow. Identify any load-bearing walls in consultation with an engineer. Open plan is only feasible where these can be replaced by supporting steel beams. Choose a floor finish that will withstand kitchen use and apply it throughout to create cohesion.

THIS PAGE, FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: In the living room, a Magic

corner sofa from Wunders and an Umthi lamp by Meyer von Wielligh add a modern touch. The scatters are from the Jungleow collection from T & Co. Fabrics. The view from the kitchen towards the dining and living space. Stacking doors connect it to the garden.

FINISHING TOUCHES To enhance the easy-going feel, Tiggs decorated the space in calming neutrals, with a mix of modern and classical pieces. “Staining the parquet floors black gave it a sophisticated edge, and we echoed this in the charcoal kitchen island and dark painted storage unit.” Contemporary chairs are paired with an existing table; statement light fittings add impact. For a family who love to entertain, their vision has been realised – a traditional space that’s been beautifully modernised.

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

SOURCES @home home.co.za Apadana Rugs apadana.co.za Caesarstone caesarstone.co.za Distinctive Cupboards 082 561 0925 Mango Sootoo Trading mangosootoo.co.za Meyer von Wielligh meyervonwielligh.co.za SHF shf.co.za T & Co. Fabrics tandco.co.za The Silk and Cotton Co. silkco.co.za Tiggs Crozet Interior Design tiggscrozet.com Velvet Home & Living velvethomeandliving.com Wunders wunders.co.za

SHOPPING

High SOCIETY

Add a couple of bar stools around the kitchen island and the cook will never lack for company

8 1. Beldon bar stool with backrest, R3 999, La Grange Interiors. 2. Metalic nook stool, R3 999, @home. 3. Black flair bar chair, R1 400, Mr Price Home. 4. Brioche stool, R1 695, Block & Chisel. 5. Origin tan nook stool, R1 099, @home. 6. Pencil leg bar stool, R1 495, Weylandts. 7. Replica nerd bar stool, R1 180, Esque. 8. Bliss bar stool, R4 995, Weylandts.

SOURCES @home home.co.za Block & Chisel blockandchisel.co.za Esque esque.co.za La Grange Interiors lagrangeinteriors.co.za Mr Price Home mrphome.com Weylandts weylandts.co.za

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

COMPILED BY JO SHARP PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

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gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

KITCHEN LIGHTING

THE LIGHT STUFF

TEXT CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPHS SALLY CHANCE AND SUPPLIED SHOPPING MANDY BUCHHOLZ PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

Well-designed lighting is essential in a kitchen. We asked the experts for their advice on creating the perfect scheme

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

“The ambient light in this room comes from the cage lights over the island, which serve as general lighting and can be turned on independently to provide the kitchen with overall illumination,” says Cindy Talbot of Sins Talbot Décor and Design. “The task lighting is provided by the surface mounted lights under the wall units, which shine down onto the counter, as well as the light provided by the extractor over the hob area.”

Black prism chandelier, R3 750, SHF.

ot only does lighting provide practical illumination in the kitchen, it creates atmosphere and transforms the room from a purely functional space into a welcoming living and entertaining area. “The kitchen has to work from before dawn until after dusk,” says kitchen designer Kim Hansen of Kitchen Classics. “Natural light is great, but artificial lighting is a must.”

PLANNING FOR A NEW KITCHEN OR REDESIGN

A kitchen lighting scheme should be included in the architect’s or interior designer’s plans. “Draw up a floor plan, identify areas where tasks will be performed, establish the budget and look at where the electrical points are,” advises Eben Kruger, marketing manager of Eurolux. “Consult the architect about including a dropped feature ceiling with recessed lighting, uplighting and downlights to add layers,” suggests Kim Hansen. Ensure that each light is on a separate switch, preferably with a dimmer, so that you can control the amount of light in the room, for mood or task lighting as needed. FOR A LIGHTING MAKEOVER

“To give your kitchen a modern update, simply replace old fixtures with new pendant lights or recessed lighting,” suggests Eben Kruger. Adding LED strips under and inside cupboards or a lamp on a countertop also changes the look completely.

Lucca pendant, R572, Eurolux.

Torch hanging lamp, R2 995, Weylandts.

Tallinn pendant, R605, Eurolux.

SAFETY TIPS Pierre Nothard of the SAFEhouse Association has the following advice for safe lighting installation Always buy known and trusted brands from reputable suppliers. Be suspicious of very low prices. These may be substandard copies or have dangerous defects. Ask your electrical contractor to provide proof of registration. You can also check their credentials with the Electrical Contractors’ Association. Ask the lighting supplier to recommend an electrician. For more information, visit safehousesa.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

Kav Flora chandelier, R7 500, SHF.

Milano pendant, R1 070, Eurolux.

Rigel pendant, R1 295, Coricraft.

Nautical gold pendant, R770, K. Light Import.

Kim Hansen of Kitchen Classics designed a layered lighting scheme in this KZN kitchen. “The wall-mounted cabinets have LED strip lighting underneath to light up the countertop and there are downlights directed onto the central island,” she explains. “The uplighting in the dropped ceiling along with the LED lighting above and below the floating cupboards create lovely ambience. They are on dimmers so the mood can be adjusted to suit the occasion.” Accent and decorative lighting is provided by the striking modern pendants.

Downlights or LED strip lights inside a cabinet are a good way to accent a collection of ceramics, and recessed, spot and track lighting as well as wallmounted picture lights are good choices for highlighting interesting architectural features.

DECORATIVE

THE MUST-HAVES Kitchens should have four layers of lighting: ambient, task, accent and decorative.

AMBIENT

This provides overall illumination. “Also known as general lighting, it gives a comfortable level of brightness without glare and allows you to see and walk about safely,” says Eli Kalmi, owner of K. Light Import. There are a vast number of light fittings that will work as ambient lighting, including pendants, downlights, chandeliers and recessed LEDs. Be guided by the style of the adjacent rooms so that your kitchen feels like part of the living area.

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

TASK

“Task lighting provides concentrated and direct lighting for activities like cooking, chopping, reading recipes and washing up,” explains Eben Kruger. Track lights, recessed lighting, lamps and pendants all give good task lighting. “With a pendant, ensure it’s installed higher than head and shoulder height to avoid blocking the light and being bumped,” cautions Eli Kalmi.

ACCENT

“Accent lighting draws attention to a unique feature in your kitchen such as a prized piece of artwork on the wall or pretty marble detailing in your countertops,” says Eben Kruger.

Lighting has become a statement all on its own with wonderful decorative light fittings to suit any decor scheme. “On trend this season are glass shades, bright colours and coloured fabric cord, metal pendants and exposed bulbs,” says Eli Kalmi, while Eben Kruger suggests ’70’s-inspired shapes, matt black pendants and industrial designs with a touch of vintage to update your kitchen.

SOURCES Coricraft coricraft.co.za Eurolux eurolux.co.za Kitchen Classics kitchenclassics.co.za K. Light Import klight.co.za SHF shf.co.za Sins Talbot Décor and Design sinstalbot@gmail.com Weylandts weylandts.co.za

Molten Pendants Code: DL-KLCH-9305 in Chrome, Copper & Gold

DESIGN • SER VICE • QUALIT Y Viewing Showrooms Only, K Light Import supplies only to Retailers and not the public directly. Cape Town: 7 Kunene Circle, Omuramba Business Park, Milnerton, 021 552 4370 Johannesburg: Units 8 & 9, The Arena, Capital Hill Business Park, Halfway House, Midrand, 011 312 1247 info@klight.co.za I www.klight.co.za I Facebook.com/klightimport

THE MAIN

attraction

1. TALL ORDER Accentuate a high ceiling or give the illusion of height with an overscaled headboard like this one featuring deep buttoning. Combined with the fur throw, it’s the ultimate in luxe. Decor by Belong Interior Design.

TEXT MARY JANE HARRIS AND CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPHS SALLY CHANCE, CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN, KARL ROGERS, HENRIQUE WILDING AND SUPPLIED

The bed should be the focal point in a bedroom so give yours star quality with a statement headboard. We’ve rounded up some great examples to inspire you

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

HEADBOARDS

2. MOONLIGHT SERENADE

3 4

To make this bed stand out against the moody blue walls, Donald Nxumalo of DNX Interior Design covered the winged headboard in blue and white ticking stripes and gave it a soft, buttoned effect.

3. GRID LOCKED Instead of a conventional headboard, Cape designer Hendre Bloem mounted a series of padded boards on the wall behind the bed, carrying through the contemporary look of the rest of the house.

4. MIXED MEDIA A combination of timber and upholstered panels, this headboard by Storehaus Design was designed to accommodate the mirrored pedestals. The horizontal shape visually stretches the room and complements the modern bed.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

5. PRINTS CHARMING

6 7

If you prefer white linen but still want colour and pattern in your bedroom, then an upholstered headboard is the ideal way to do this. Interior designer Amanda Walters chose a striking floral, repeating the pattern on a scatter cushion and accentuating it with a coordinating plain one.

6. GOING BAROQUE Think out of the ordinary. This ornate headboard is outlined in nailhead studs and the gorgeous watermelon shade is shown off to perfection against the patterned wallpaper. Decor by Lisa Walters Interiors.

7. PATTERN REPEAT For continuity, the fabric on this curved headboard has been repeated on the quilt. The shape draws the eye up making the bedroom appear larger. All fabrics by Harlequin from Black Fabrics.

SOURCES Amanda Walters amandawalters.co.za Belong Interior Design belong.co.za Black Fabrics blackfabrics.co.za DNX Interior Design dnxinteriordesign.com Hendre Bloem Design hendrebloem.com Lisa Walters Interiors lisa@lisawaltersinteriors.co.za Storehaus Design louise@storehaus.co.za

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

COUNTRY COLLECTION

JVB FURNITURE COLLECTION www.j-v-b.co.za info@j-v-b.co.za

9 Kramer Rd. Kramerville, Sandton.

T +27(0)11 2624118

MAKEOVER

LUXE appeal

BEFORE

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

TEXT DINA VENTER PHOTOGRAPHS CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN AND SUPPLIED

Using a soft blue scheme and luxurious textures, Joâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;burg decorator Sophie Kelly gave a bland bedroom the wow factor

BEFORE

“THIS BEDROOM WAS basically a bed and plain curtains and there were no accessories or decorative accents,” recalls decorator Sophie Kelly of Sophistique Interiors. “The room didn’t feel warm and restful as bedrooms should, nor did it reflect my clients’ style.”

HOW IT WENT FROM DRAB TO FAB As the owners wanted a bedroom where they could relax, they asked Sophie to give it a tranquil feel. “We opted for layers of texture, but as a purely neutral scheme wouldn’t have the wowfactor the owners had in mind, I added shades of blue with scatter cushions,” says Sophie. The owners already had the deep buttoned upholstered bed so, to make it more of a feature, Sophie wallpapered the wall behind it with a marble-look wallpaper, which makes the velvety fabrics on the scatters stand out. As there was space, Sophie introduced a custom-made chaise covered with ombre velvet. “With a side table and a floor lamp, it’s the ideal spot for the owners to enjoy morning coffee or settle down with a good book.”

Sophie continued the glamorous look with a mirrored dressing table placed along the empty side wall. “I paired it with a curved silver-framed mirror. The ghost chair doesn’t take up space visually nor detract from the main focal point, which is the bed,” she explains.

“NOW, THE ROOM LOOKS LUXURIOUS and inviting, somewhere you’d be happy to spend quiet time. It’s the perfect combination of soothing elements and glamour,” says Sophie.

THIS SPREAD, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

To highlight the bed, the wall behind it was wallpapered in Organoglam Marble Aqua from Hertex. The scatter cushions are in velvets from Hertex and the bedside lamps are from @home. The ghost chair complements the mirrored table from @home. Above it is a mirror from Supreme Mouldings. Upholstered in Tsarina, Giovanni in turquoise from Hertex, the chaise provides a relaxing spot for snoozing and reading.

SOURCES @home home.co.za Hertex hertex.co.za Sophistique Interiors 073 260 7964 Supreme Mouldings suprememouldings.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

HOME PROJECT

This month’s

GOOD IDEA…

ESTABLISH A WORKSPACE IN YOUR KITCHEN As kitchens are usually the centre of the action, it makes sense to include a desk space like this one that sits unobtrusively under a window. Conveniently placed next to the coffee station, it consists of a floating shelf with a drawer and a glass top. The drawer has plenty of space for a laptop or tablet and the glass top lets you see what’s in it at a glance. Design by Kirsty Lindley of Lindley & Co., chair and lamp from Weylandts.

TEXT CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPH SALLY CHANCE

SOURCES Lindley & Co. lindleyandco.co.za Weylandts weylandts.co.za

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

Be water savvy with these tips and ideas VISIT GARDENANDHOME.CO.ZA WASTE NOT, WANT NOT Learn how to use grey water in the garden

Harvesting rainwater A guide to collecting every drop

46 WATER-WISE PLANTS Beat the drought with these tough customers

Easy DIY Projects Make your own irrigation systems

SA Garden and Home magazine @SAGardenandHome sagardenandhome sagardenandhome

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

SHOPPING Scratch and lounge cat scratcher, R300, ePETstore.co.za

Mix & Scratch Play Station, sections from R250, at vet and pet shops and pet-related online retailers. For stockists, visit McMac Pet SA.

Black and white damask webbing dog collar in S, M, L, from R30, Dog’s Life.

Creature

Deluxe dog seat in Metallic Rose, R1 349, Ora Pets. Melamine dog bowl, from R139, Absolute Pets.

COMFORTS Pets are considered part of the family, so treat them to stylish accessories

Coolaroo pet bed, in four sizes, (spare covers are available), from R590, Builders, Makro and online at Coolaroo.

Njabulo kennel in African Allure style with stainless steel top, R9 082, Milestone Kitchens.

Non-toxic PVC Little Polkadot cat collar, R60, Dog’s Life. ZEE.DOG (Phantom) dog’s leash from R127,50, Absolute Pets.

SOURCES Absolute Pets absolutepets.com Builders builders.co.za Coolaroo coolaroo.co.za Dog’s Life dogslife.co.za ePETstore.co.za epetstore.co.za Makro makro.co.za McMac Pet SA mcmac.co.za Milestone Kitchens milestonekitchens.co.za Ora Pets woofseat.com For more details and Ts&Cs, visit gardenandhome.co.za

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

COMPILED BY MANDY BUCHHOLZ PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

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SHOPPING MANDY BUCHHOLZ MAIN PHOTOGRAPH KARL ROGERS PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

THE GREEN ROOM

Everyday ESCAPE Establish an inviting outdoor living space in your own backyard

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

EXPERT TIPS

1,9ℓ watering cans, R199,99 each, Lifestyle Home Garden.

Three-shelf wall rack, R959,99, Lifestyle Home Garden.

Milbrook rose fabric, Parish Gardens, R820/m, Hertex.

Rambling Rose cement planters, from R59,99, Mr Price Home.

Tokai, Cape Town resident Jill Mettler, owner of this beautiful garden, has these tips for establishing a cosy garden retreat Create shelter with an arbour or gazebo. Cover it with a creeper such as a climbing rose or good old ivy. For comfort, you’ll need something to sit or lie on. Look for weather-proof items like a wrought iron daybed or a wooden bench. Treat your outdoor room as you would an interior space. For a romantic nostalgic look, introduce slightly faded, weathered objects like old watering cans. Items that you’ve tired of indoors and old rugs are ideal and won’t break the bank. Place a bunch of flowers in an old jug or a galvanised bucket, and string solar powered fairy lights through the greenery to make every night special.

The Herb Garden wooden planter, R249,99, Lifestyle Home Garden.

Lattice daybed, R16 100 (incl. cushions), Leonardo Design.

Rockwell round cast aluminium table, R998, Patio Warehouse. Sugarbird Watermelon and Pincushion Heather cushion covers, R325 each, Carole Nevin.

Metal heart pot holder, R249,99 (excl. plant), Lifestyle Home Garden.

SOURCES Carole Nevin carolenevin.com Hertex hertex.co.za Leonardo Design leonardodesign.co.za Lifestyle Home Garden lifestyle.co.za Mr Price Home mrphome.co.za Patio Warehouse patiowarehouse.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

Landscape designer Tone Alexander used shape, texture and structure to give this elongated garden a subtle freshness

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

hen Tone and Claire Alexander bought a subdivision in Noordhoek, they landed up with an odd-shaped, elongated plot.

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS MARIANNE ALEXANDER

RULES

NOORDHOEK GARDEN

WHO LIVES HERE Landscape designer Tone Alexander, his wife Claire, who is in IT, their children, Erin and Harry, and three dogs.

THE GARDEN A formal, mainly green garden on a 1 300m² property established three years ago.

Tone’s love of plants and design led him to choose a career in landscaping 26 years ago. “Much of my work has been inspired by Australian landscaper Paul Bangay. I’ve always admired him and was lucky enough to visit him three years ago at his country garden in Stonefields, Australia. I took my plan for the garden with me and he reviewed it and gave me lots of new ideas.” As the property is situated in the lowest part of Noordhoek, there is the possibility of flooding during the wet months. To prevent this, they raised and filled the entire garden. This had its advantages as they could ensure that the filling material was made up of top quality topsoil and compost. THIS SPREAD, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

“To maximise the lawn area, we decided to place the house at the back of the property creating more room for garden and squared off the flower beds, which are defined by neat, clipped

hedges,” Tone explains. “This is in keeping with my belief that simplicity, repetition and mass planting works best.” The result is a wonderful illusion of space.

Tone used three Adirondack chairs and three reflecting ‘ponds’ as focal points at the front of their newly constructed gin palace. At the entrance are neatly clipped balls.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

“Soil preparation is the key to a successful garden,” says Tone, and it’s one of the reasons this one looks so established in such a short time. In line with his penchant for simplicity, Tone kept to a limited number of tried and tested, lowmaintenance plants using leaf colour, THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT: Topiary plays a huge role in the design. Antique Indian doors from Amatuli make a statement at the end of the garden. In front, is a mature indigenous fan aloe, Kumara plicatilis. The swimming pool was inserted into the bed to give the illusion of space.

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

TONE’S TIPS FOR FOCAL POINTS Start by establishing central axes across the length and breadth of your garden. Then place focal points at the ends of the axes or in the middle to draw attention. In small gardens, position interesting elements to draw the eye outwards. Use focal points to lead the eye to a particular feature, such as a view. In my garden, the design of the swimming pool, the stone backdrop and the mokoro were centrally positioned to draw the eye up towards the saddle of Chapman’s Peak.

size and texture rather than flowers to create interest. His favourite plants for easy maintenance and low water needs are Australian brush cherry (Syzygium paniculatum), Viburnum tinus and sinensis, Westringia fruticosa, Rhagodia hastata and Searsia crenata (formerly rhus). Although he believes flowers require more attention, he included a few ‘Iceberg’ roses, white heliotrope, Japanese anemones and impatiens to give the garden a lift and add seasonal colour. As the design is formal and structured, he pruned many of the shrubs into hedges and balls. “I love the simplicity of the garden and the fact that it is timeless.” Apart from the strong design lines, what sets the Alexanders’ garden apart are the unusual garden accessories used as striking focal points, such as benches, antique mirrors, doors and an old mokoro. These, Tone explains,

came from all over the country, and in fact the world, and were collected over the past two decades. “They all have an interesting story or they’re a reminder of a special holiday.” As the garden is designed to be part of the living areas, the Alexanders enjoy it on a daily basis. A recent addition, the small pavilion nicknamed ‘the happiest little gin palace’, was designed by Tone and built by his team using recycled materials. Adjoining it is his potting area, which houses his collection of garden accessories including cast iron and marble pots. The whole garden is regularly mulched, composted and fed with a liquid plant food. To lessen the effects of the drought, Tone is currently experimenting with a layer ‘cake’ of mulch using a variety of materials such as lucerne, straw and thatch, which keeps watering to a minimum. He and

his team, headed by Charles Zenda, nicknamed ‘Edward Scissorhands’ for his pruning abilities, maintain the garden in pristine condition. THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

The garden was designed to direct the eye up and out towards Chapman’s Peak. Tone’s potting area is next to the gin palace. An outdoor shower is hidden behind two reclaimed shutters.

SOURCES Amatuli amatuli.co.za Tone Alexander tonealexander.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

ORIENTAL GARDEN DESIGN

Eastern PROMISE

Suzette James left a gap between the trees to make the garden appear larger and to draw the eye to the slopes of Devil’s Peak beyond.

MAY 2018 | gardenandhome.co.za

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS MARIANNE ALEXANDER

If you want a garden that’s calm, relaxing and water wise, be inspired by the East with this advice from Cape gardeners Suzette and Peter James

Placing one set of rocks further along the path gives the impression of depth.

t was during a five-year stint in Tokyo with her husband Peter that Suzette James discovered the art of Japanese gardening and was hooked. While still in Japan, she helped the architect with the redesign of the garden of the corporate house, contributing to the mix of Eastern and Western ideas. On her return to South Africa, she created a Japanese garden, which was featured in Garden and Home. Recently, with Peter’s help, she’s refined the existing oriental-style garden at their new home, and in the process, made it more water wise. “The structure and design is everything and must be in place before you start planting, and always include balance and symmetry,” she advises.

DESIGN GUIDELINES Incorporate the four main elements of an Eastern garden: rocks, stone and pebbles, water, plants and accessories. Begin at the entrance with authenticlooking furnishings such as a stone water basin (tsukubai) or lamp, a bamboo gate or a cloud tree. Use traditional Japanese red for painted items like bridges and benches. Bamboo is invaluable both for screens and planting. Bamboo screens on the precast boundary wall immediately

Windows and screens frame the views. Plants with different foliage add interest, while the repetition of red creates continuity.

changed the ambience. For plants, we recommend planting bamboo in pots to prevent spreading. Create mystery by establishing screens to hide parts of the garden and quiet places for peaceful contemplation where you can sit and admire the scene. Paths invite exploration and give an impression of depth. Changes in direction, narrowing the width of the path and the angle at which stones are laid encourage you to pause. Opt for free-form and organic shapes rather than straight lines. Although characteristic of Japanese gardens, stones and pebbles must be placed carefully and not overdone. Sink

large rocks into the ground by a third or even arrange in a mound to represent a mountain. Design the garden so that there are different vignettes that can be viewed from a window or outdoor sitting area. Use borrowed scenery to add depth. Cleverly positioned features, plants and stones deceive the eye into thinking the garden is bigger than it really is. Think horizontally as well as vertically.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

Bamboo screens were used to hide the unsightly precast boundary wall.

ONLINE EXTRA View stunning garden design ideas at gardenandhome.co.za

Characteristic of Japanese gardens, rocks should be placed so they look natural.

our favourite, ligularia. Indigenous alternatives include yellowwoods, pittosporum, spekboom, cycads, Carissa edulis, C. bispinosa, C. macrocarpa, clivias, ming fern (Asparagus retrofractus), fan aloe, restios like Elegia fenestrata and Thamnochortus insignis. Focus on seasonal colour. Ginkgo biloba, the maidenhair tree can be grown in a container, has an interesting structure and leaves that turn gold in autumn. Combine different leaf textures and shapes. Cloud-prune trees and shrubs so you can see through horizontal layers of branches.

WATER-WISE TIPS PLANT SELECTION Limit the plant selection and repeat them to lead the eye though the garden. Signature plants include Nandina

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domestica, bamboo, maples, which unfortunately struggle in hot dry weather, grassy plants like mondo grass, azaleas, irises, flowering cherry and

Replace lawns with pebbles, gravel or water-wise groundcovers. Turn water features into dry river beds with carefully arranged rocks and pebbles.

Irises add colour to the water garden in spring.

reenleaf home fragrance adds a touch of romance to its repertoire this season with the fresh and timeless bouquets of Peony Bloom. Peony Bloom bursts to life with a flourishing of bergamot, grass leaves and rhubarb. A floral fancy of red rose, tulip, and hyacinth surrender to a woody oak foundation. For your nearest stockists contact Grace Collection

Louisiana iris ‘Sea Quest’

GRADUALLY REPLACE THIRSTY PLANTS WITH WATERWISE OPTIONS ORIENTAL

WATER WISE

Maples

Synadenium compactum var. rubrum

Mondo grass

Agapanthus and wild garlic.

Azaleas

Rhaphiolepis for spring blossom

Irises

Wachendorfia

Flowering cherry

Indigofera

011 463 5005 bronwyn@hartmann.co.za www.gracecollection.co.za

A family

HEIRLOOM The beauty of Hayfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden has been carefully preserved by three generations

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TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS LIZETTE JONKER

KZN FARM GARDEN

WHO LIVES HERE Angela Wolf, her husband Wayne, their children, Timothy and Georgina, their dog, Milo, and cat, Mittens.

THE GARDEN A large two-hectare garden near Howick established 60 years ago with flowing beds filled with trees, shrubs and flowers and divided into different garden rooms.

t’s not often that you come across a 60-year-old garden, especially one that has been tended by the same family through the years. Originally established in the 1960s by Clive Fyvie and his wife Diana, the property, near Howick, was passed down to their daughter Fiona Fowler and her husband John. In 2014, when their daughter Angela Wolf and her husband Wayne took it over, they inherited a wellestablished framework. “My grandparents chose this site for their retirement and spent many happy years creating their dream garden,” says Angela. “They planted a number of trees including planes, beeches, maples, yellowwoods and swamp cypresses.” These trees were gradually underplanted with shrubs such as pink and purple azaleas, yesterday-today-and-tomorrow and camellias, as well as old roses.

THIS SPREAD, CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: The garden is protected from cold winds by enormous 60-year-old trees. The beds have evolved over the years and at the back of this one is a striking Erythrina crista-galli. Self-seeding foxgloves are a common sight in gardens in the Midlands. Mittens the cat relaxes in a favourite sheltered spot.

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“We owe a lot to my grandfather’s passion for gardening. He hauled huge rocks up from the Umgeni River to place strategically in the beds. These warm the soil in the cold winters and provide natural drinking holes for bees and homes for lizards,” says Angela. “He was also mad about chickens, which provided plenty of manure for the garden. He and my grandmother generously shared slips and seeds and often provided flowers and foliage for weddings and special occasions. In my mind, I always see them in the garden ready to take visitors on a tour.” When Angela’s parents, also garden lovers, sold the farm, the garden was retained and now forms part of a river estate. The outbuildings of the estate were converted into guest THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Angela is proud of the kitchen garden where she grows a variety of organic vegetables, berries and herbs. Swiss chard and leeks rub shoulders in the potager. Adding to the rustic charm are self-seeding white Shasta daisies.

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cottages, which are managed by Angela and her family. “When we moved here, it was quite daunting to take over a garden of this size,” Angela explains. But help was there in the form of Begisiswe Radebe, who had spent the last two decades maintaining it. “He knows everything that needs to be done. All I have to do is add some seasonal colour. Luckily my cousin Craig Fyvie has an eye for landscaping and he helped me create new beds around the guest cottages.” Fortunately, many of the plants such as lupins, primroses and Shasta daisies self-seed and Angela also propagates as she needs lots of plants. She doesn’t use pesticides and the garden is still fed by digging in chicken manure that comes from the same chicken houses her grandfather built. THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: Vegetables and herbs, such as yellow mustard, red lettuce and fennel, are grown in the potager where a bench invites visitors to sit and enjoy the garden. Yellow daylilies, lavender, petunias and white daisies. Kale grows happily in the sun among the daisies.

SOURCE River Goose Cottages, Hayfield, 072 333 3459

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GROWING PLECTRANTHUS P. zuluensis (Zulu spurflower) flowers periodically throughout the year.

Variegated form of P. neochilus.

The two-lipped tubular flowers appear in autumn.

Spur of the MOMENT Versatile plectranthus are suitable for most gardens, plus many are drought tolerant

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TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS MARIANNE ALEXANDER

outh Africa is home to some of the most rewarding and attractive plectranthus species in the world. Commonly known as spurflowers, they are easy to grow and very versatile. Some are the perfect solution for difficult shady parts of the garden, while others will take sun and several are drought tolerant. Although the majority have a shrubby growth habit, from 40â&#x20AC;&#x201C;50cm up to 2m high, there are those that make wonderful groundcovers and look stunning in hanging baskets and containers. They flower mainly in late summer to autumn (from late March to May) and many have attractive foliage, which adds interest during the rest of the year.

P. fruticosus ‘Ellaphie’

AT A GLANCE

P. neochilus

WHY PLANT THEM? They bring colour to the garden when most summer flowers have faded; a few, such as P. zuluensis, have flushes throughout the year. Most thrive in shade, but some tolerate sun while others are suitable for more exposed spots. They thrive in coastal areas and frostfree zones, but can be grown in cold areas in sheltered positions or containers which can be moved undercover. Some need summer rain, or watering in summer in winter-rainfall areas, but others are suitable for more arid regions. They have flowers in restful pastel shades of pink, blue, purple, lilac and white. The yellow flowered species are generally not happy in cultivation. They are fast growing. They are one of the easiest plants to propagate from slips. Most of them are evergreen and those with colourful leaves add interest when there are no flowers. They are members of the mint family so many have scented or fragrant foliage. They attract butterflies. There are so many species and varieties, you are spoilt for choice.

Position Most plectranthus require some shade. Plant in free-draining, humus-rich or well-composted soil; drought-tolerant plants will grow in more sandy, free-draining soils. Fertiliser Feed In the growing season from spring to late summer with foliar feeds like Seagro or an organic version of 2:3:4 or 3:1:5. In beds, every two months; and in pots, monthly. Flowering season March to April; some produce a flush or two sporadically in summer. Water Most spur flowers have shallow roots and are quite thirsty but can cope with dry periods. There are some drought tolerant species. Frost tolerance They are frost tender. When grown in the shade of trees and walls, where they are protected they will tolerate some frost especially the older more woody plants. Don’t cut back those that have been frosted until spring when they will resprout. Propagation Take slips after flowering in autumn in warm frostfree areas or in spring in cold areas.

P. fruticosus ‘James’

P. madagascariensis

GROUNDCOVERS P. fruticosus ‘Ellaphie’ has large leaves that are a plummy red underneath, as are the smaller glossy leaves of the gossip plant, P. verticillatus, and P. lucidus. They are among the many plectranthus that root as they grow. They do well under trees and in shade.

P. ambiguus (pincushion spurflower) has a mass of compact deep purple to violet blue flowers. Reaching 30–70cm high, it makes a stunning groundcover and thrives under trees P. ciliatus, the eyelash spurflower is a dainty plant and is quite water wise.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

P. ecklonii ‘Erma’

P. saccatus

P. hereroensis (Herero spurflower)

P. ambiguus

FLOWERS P. zuluensis (Zulu spurflower) has compact spikes of pretty pale blue flowers with a hint of lilac and flowers sporadically throughout the year; its main flush is in autumn. Its leaves are a lighter green and show up against the dark stems. Growing 75cm–2m high, depending on the cultivar, it prefers a cool shady position and needs water in dry periods. Look out for ‘Oribi Gorge’ and ‘Sky’. P. ecklonii bears spikes of pink, white or purple flowers and is ideal for the back of a bed. Reliable cultivars include deep-pink ‘Erma’ (pictured), named after botanist, Ernst van Jaarsveld’s wife. It grows 1–3m high; prune it back hard after flowering. P. saccatus (stoep jacaranda) bears lilac-mauve flowers that are larger than

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usual and show up well against the lighter green foliage. Growing 80cm –1m high, it thrives in containers on shady patios, and if watered regularly, does well in beds in shady subtropical areas. Named cultivars include ‘King Goodwill’ and ‘Nkandla’. P. hereroensis (Herero spurflower) is a 1–2m tall, fast-growing shrub with deep-blue flowers that’s recently become available. “It behaves a bit like an annual or a two to three year perennial, readily reseeding itself. It’s as tough as nails and tolerates some dry periods in summerrainfall areas,” says Adam Harrower of Kirstenbosch, which has seeds for sale. P. fruticosus ‘James’ grows 1,5m high, has masses of small pink and purple flowers with speckled faces and purple stems and serrated leaves. It’s frost tender and can take sun.

NEW RELEASE Plectranthus ‘Velvet Elvis’ from San Michells Farm is similar to ‘Mona Lavender’ (launched in 2002), but produces far bigger, more eyecatching spikes of lavender flowers and stunning purple-backed leaves. It has a dense growth habit and is disease resistant.

P. grandidentata (big-teeth spurflower)

P. spicatus (spike spurflower)

FOLIAGE The flowers of some plectranthus are quite insignificant, but their leaves add colour, texture and shape. P. oertendahlii has round green and white marbled leaves. It grows 5–20cm high and likes a moist shady position; take slips regularly to regenerate it. P. grandidentata (big-teeth spurflower) has light green leaves and loves a moist shady position where it spreads, rooting as it goes. P. spicatus (spike spurflower) makes an eye-catching groundcover and container plant with its red margined, somewhat succulent leaves and small but intense blue flowers. P. spicatus ‘Kaboega’ is just one of the named cultivars. P. ciliatus ‘Sasha’ has stunning variegated green and gold leaves. Use it as a groundcover or in a container or hanging basket. P. argentatus (silver spurflower) from Australia has distinctive large grey silvery leaves with a velvety look. With its spreading habit, 75cm–1m high and wide, it does well in both summer and winter-rainfall areas.

WATER WISE P. venteri ‘Sekukuni’ has an upright growth habit, small lilac blue flowers and interesting aromatic leaves. It grows

P. oertendahlii

50–75cm high in semi-shade or full sun in fairly arid conditions. P. neochilus is a well-known water-wise groundcover with succulent grey-green leaves. Spikes of blue-purple flowers appear sporadically throughout the year, but mainly in spring and autumn. It forms clumps about 20–30cm high. There is an attractive variegated form. P. madagascariensis is semi-succulent and copes with dry periods and light frost. Growing 30cm high, its leaves vary from plain green, to variegated green and white and even pink tinged, which lighten up dark shady areas.

P. venteri ‘Sekukuni’

HANGING BASKETS Trailing forms of the P. saccatus (stoep jacaranda), P. madagascariensis, particularly those with variegated leaves, P. ciliatus, P. lucidus with its shiny leaves, P. fruticosus ‘Ellaphie’, which has large leaves that are a plummy red underneath, the smaller glossy-leaved gossip plant, P. verticillatus, and for its beautiful grey leaves, the Australian P. argentatus.

CONTAINERS P. ernstii is a bonsai-like succulent, named after Ernst van Jaarsveld, author of the book The South African Plectranthus (Fernwood Press). It makes a great container plant, as do P. oertendahlii, P. saccatus (stoep jacaranda) and P. ciliatus ‘Sasha’.

PEST ALERT Eelworm sometimes attack the roots of older plants restricting their uptake of water and nutrients. Take slips or cuttings as replacements then dig out the plants. Dispose of them where they won’t infect others.

SOURCES Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch San Michell Farms 021 572 3930 or michells.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

EASY GARDENING

GARDEN A

lthough it sounds impossible, with the right plants and layout, you can create a self-sustaining, easy-to-maintain garden. “Decide on the overall look you want and research your choices. Make note of the sunny and shady areas and check the plants’ watering requirements very carefully,” says Rose Vermeulen of Indigo Landscapes.

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EASY EVERGREENS “Choose foliage plants in different shades, shapes and textures for year-round interest,” advises Rose. Most indigenous shrubs are very forgiving and water wise too. She recommends the following tall shrubs for the back of a bed: Freylinia tropica and Mackaya bella. Medium shrubs: Abelia species and rosemary. Groundcovers: Falkia repens, Mazus reptans and convolvulus. “They require a bit of trimming to keep them in shape, but are self-sufficient and not too fussed about watering and feeding.” ABOVE: A layered, evergreen display with Mackaya bella and Coprosma ‘Marble Chips’ at the back, Nandina domestica and Duranta ‘Sheena’s Gold’ in the middle, and agapanthus and Acorus ‘Golden Edge’ in the front. Design: Karen Gardelli.

TEXT LOREN SHIRLEY-CARR AND LYNNE YATES PHOTOGRAPHS LOREN SHIRLEY-CARR AND SUPPLIED

Want a beautiful garden but don't have time to maintain it? Here are some expert shortcuts to establishing a garden that virtually looks after itself

RELIABLE PERENNIALS Craig de Necker of The Friendly Plant says that choosing naturally occurring species in your area is a great way to cut down on maintenance. He recommends self-sufficient perennials such as wild garlic (Tulbaghia sp.), bulbine and agapanthus that give colour without expecting anything in return. Landscaper Gregory Thompson says, “One perennial that comes up year after year and doesn’t need deadheading or protection from pests is the yellow wild iris (Dietes bicolor). “It’s one of the toughest and most faithful garden plants. I use it in my landscapes as it’s water wise and produces an abundance of pale yellow blooms throughout summer.

NO-FUSS GRASSES

HIGH-FLYERS

For colour, texture and movement, you can’t beat grasses. “They get on with things, demanding very little care. They have green plumes in rainy months, and, although dormant in the dry months, remain a gorgeous brown or blonde colour,” says Gregory. Cut them right down to the growing crown in spring, and leave them to come back on their own. Soften beds with Aristida junciformis, Anthericum saundersiae, carex and pennisetum varieties.

Tall plants that require no support and very little effort are invaluable for hiding tall boundary walls. Gregory recommends Magnolia ‘Little Gem’ with its glossy green leaves and giant white, scented magnolia blooms. “This gorgeous screening plant can reach 4–5m high and is happy anywhere.” Another hardy, drought-resistant, indigenous scrambling shrub is Jasminum multipartitum, which can reach up to 3m high. White, scented flowers attract pollinators and it needs little to no attention, except trimming on occasion.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Tough Dietes bicolor sends out masses of blooms in summer. Water-wise bulbine is perfect for areas where nothing else grows and it flowers all summer long. Grasses such as Aristida junciformis require very little attention; combine them with hardy, water-wise salvias. Design: Mia Marsay. Low-maintenance magnolia ‘Little Gem’ reaches about 4m high. Jasminum multipartitum is the perfect low-maintenance hedging and screening plant.

gardenandhome.co.za | MAY 2018

PRINCIPAL PLAYERS

DOUBLE-DUTY EDIBLE PLANTS Choose edibles that offer both beauty and food. Jane Griffiths, author of Jane’s Delicious Garden (Sunbird Publishers), says, “Plenty of edible plants are easy to grow and look good in borders.” Try Swiss chard; the ‘Bright Lights’ variety has colourful vivid orange, cerise and yellow stems and provides a harvest over many months. Nasturtiums are a bright addition and have edible leaves and flowers – plus they lure aphids away from other crops. According to landscaper Gregory Thompson, no-fuss artichokes look particularly great when mixed with other flowering perennials, adding height, texture and seasonal flowers to beds.

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Trees and shrubs form the backbone of a garden and most need minimal maintenance. Choose species that work overtime providing lovely foliage, flowers, berries or interesting bark. Rose Vermeulen suggests the wild plum (Harpephyllum caffrum) for its pretty bark, flowers and berries in summer, the medium-growing lavender tree (Heteropyxis natalensis) for its mottled bark, cream flowers and attractive foliage in autumn, prunus to create a bold colour statement, and Buddleja saligna, an evergreen shrub, which has fragrant white blooms. Perennial artichokes add height and structure to borders. Nothing beats a flowering plum (Prunus sp.) for bold seasonal interest. Swiss chard is easy to grow and looks at home among flowering plants. Plant ‘Bright Lights’ for brilliant colour. THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

SOURCES Craig de Necker 082 805 0910 or thefriendlyplant.co.za Karen Gardelli 082 745 2891 Jane Griffiths 082 898 6953 or info@janesdeliciousgarden.com Mia Marsay 083 227 8030 or overthegardenwall.co.za Gregory Thompson 082 443 7251 or greg@gregorymark.co.za Rose Vermeulen 072 268 4659

INDIGENOUS CONTAINER PLANTS

Home

AFRICAN DAWN

GROWN Indigenous plants do well in containers and there’s a wide variety to choose from

Filled with succulent plants in shades reminiscent of an African sunrise, this container makes a fresh, water-wise feature for a sunny to semi-shaded spot. In the centre, Portulacaria afra (1) forms the backbone and is known for removing carbon from the air. On either side, the spiky stems of Euphorbia tirucalli (2) and yellow bulbine (3) blend beautifully with the flowers of Aloe ‘Goldfish’ var. Andgol (4), a charming stemless aloe, and Aloe ‘Rascal’ var. SPIZA (5). In the foreground are the red-edged leaves of crassula (6), while the small, rounded leaves of Senecio ‘String of Pearls’ (7) cascade elegantly over the rim. Growing tips: This semi-hardy mix only needs watering twice a week. For a similar effect, replace the crassula with kalanchoe, or the aloes with Cotyledon orbiculata.

TEXT LYNNE YATES PHOTOGRAPHS LOREN SHIRLEY-CARR CONTAINERS PLANTED BY INA PAUW ALL PLANTS AND CONTAINERS SUPPLIED BY GARDEN WORLD GARDENWORLD.CO.ZA ALTHOUGH NATURAL, HERBAL REMEDIES CAN BE TOXIC. USE THEM WITH CAUTION.

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LUSH AND LEAFY A striking combination of different leaf shapes and textures makes this container a feature. At the back is Carissa macrocarpa (1) an ornamental shrub with shiny leaves and oval red fruit. Keep it trimmed to suit the size of the pot. Silvery, trailing Helichrysum petiolare (2) can be used medicinally to treat infections, coughs and colds. African star grass or African potato (Hypoxis hemerocallidea) (3), another medicinal plant has long, strappy leaves. To the left, the spiky fronds of Asparagus densiflorus (4) contrast with the variegated leaves of Agapanthus â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Variegataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (5). Growing tips: This container will do well in full sun to semi-shade. Try swapping the Asparagus densiflorus with the daintier maidenhair fern (Adiantum sp.).

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IN FULL COLOUR

KEEP CONTAINERS THRIVING

This concrete pot perfectly offsets these flowering beauties. At the back, the tall white Felicia amelloides (1) stands proud above gauzy pink scabiosa (2), a magnet for bees and butterflies. Deadhead it to encourage more blooms. A red pelargonium (3) on the right and a compact orange Pelargonium ‘Angeleyes’ (4) add colour. Trailing over the side is purple and white Lobelia erinus (5), a popular dwarf edging plant. Growing tips: Position the pot in sun to semi-shade and water daily in summer. Replace the scabiosa with tulbaghia, another perennial that attracts bees and butterflies.

Container expert Ina Pauw has these tips Choosing the right container is paramount. Ensure that it has drainage holes and is suited to the size and number of plants. Group plants with similar light and water requirements. Position the container in the right spot before planting as it will be too heavy to move once you’ve added the soil. Use a good quality potting soil to help with drainage and mix in a slow-release fertiliser. Plan the layout of the plants before you begin planting – a good tip is to plant tall leafy plants in the middle, surround them with lower-growing plants and incorporate trailing plants around the edges. Mulch well. Water containers every day in summer (less often for succulents), and, in winter only when the soil feels dry to the touch.

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ONLINE EXTRA For more container gardening ideas, visit gardenandhome.co.za

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GARDEN NEWS & DEBUTS

GARDEN

notes

Be water wise. Mulch your garden now to preserve moisture and suppress weeds

Contributing garden editor Marianne Alexander’s handy checklist of essential chores to do in May

Finish planting winter and spring bedding plants. If self-seeded plants need thinning out, use them to fill gaps. Feed with an organic fertiliser such as 3:1:5 or 2:3:4, home-made liquid manure, or foliar feed with Nitrosol (8:3:6) or Margaret Roberts Organic Supercharger (4:1:3). Pinch out the first flowers of plants like pansies and calendulas. Plant petunias in summer-rainfall gardens. Collect fallen leaves. Use to mulch under shrubs, add to the compost heap or turn into leaf mould by placing in a chicken wire or rigid plastic mesh cage. Add chopped comfrey, dandelion and yarrow leaves to speed up their breakdown or use a commercial compost activator. Get ready for pruning. Clean secateurs and clippers, sharpen blades and lubricate moving parts with a few drops of penetrating oil. Have saws professionally sharpened. Invest in strong leather gloves for rose pruning and a mask if you’re going to spray with lime sulphur. Plant tulips 10–15cm apart and 8cm deep as soon as the bulbs arrive. Keep them moist but not wet. Once the leaves of liliums have withered, cut back the stems leaving a little stub, and label them to mark their position. Start preparing shrubs and trees that need to be moved by digging trenches and cutting through the roots one side at a time; repeat fortnightly. Plant new trees and shrubs in winter-rainfall areas. Prune late summer/autumn-flowering shrubs like hedgehog sage (Pycnostachys urticifolia), bush violet (Barleria obtusa), the ribbon bush (Hypoestes aristata), wild dagga (Leonotis leonurus), lagerstroemias (pride of India), ginger bush (Tetradenia riparia) and climbers like canary creeper and golden shower. Tidy up perennials, for example, cannas and heliconia (lobster Hedgehog sage claws), Michaelmas daisy, golden rod, Japanese anemones and chrysanthemums. Stake trees and shrubs in wind-prone areas. Select new shrubs and perennials to add colour to the autumn garden while they are in flower or showing their autumn foliage. Look out for ornamental grasses, annuals and perennials that produce attractive seed heads. Start watering in summer-rainfall areas especially plants from winter-rainfall areas. Don’t neglect to water azaleas and camellias. Clean out ponds and water features before fish and frogs start spawning. Spread the dark deposit, found at the bottom, around your plants as it’s full of nutrients, but remember to put some back in the pond as it helps reintroduce beneficial microbes to the fresh water.

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THE VEGGIE GARDEN Plant ‘English’ spinach, peas and broad beans. See page 113 on how to grow healthy spinach and other leafy greens. Erect a support for pea plants so they get more sun and are easier to pick. Plant oriental vegetables in the garden, in containers or among ornamental plants. For colour, try the large red-leafed mustard, and for foliage and contrast, frilly mustard. Feed granadillas with 3:1:5 once the fruit has been harvested. Pick mature pumpkins and squash leaving the stump of the stem; the fruit should sound hollow when knocked. Plant small batches of broccoli (above) and cauliflower at sixweekly intervals as well as kale and cabbages. Feed existing plants with high-nitrogen fertiliser; once they’re well developed, use 3:1:5. Sow a few rows of carrots, beetroots and leeks now it’s cooler as well as turnips and parsnips. When planting lettuces, choose some for their crispness, others for their soft buttery texture and some to provide visual contrasting leaf shapes or colour. Harvest sweet potatoes now.

TEXT MARIANNE ALEXANDER AND DIANE PEACOCK SHOPPING PRODUCTS MANDY BUCHHOLZ PHOTOGRAPHS MARIANNE ALEXANDER AND SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

must-dos this month

We’re PLANTING… INK SPLASH PETUNIAS Why: With their neat growth (35cm high and wide), they’re ideal for smaller gardens. Their striking, deep-purple, starshaped blooms with splashes of white aren’t affected by rain. Where: In small pots, or two or three planted together in larger containers and hanging baskets. Container-grown plants prefer morning sun and afternoon shade. How: Plant in fertile, welldraining soil. Petunias don’t like being planted in the same position two seasons running or overwatering. For more information, call Ball Straathof on 011 794 2316.

Indigenous BERRY

PLANTS FOR AUTUMN

Diospyros lycioides (blue bush) Grow this shrub, standard or small tree, for its edible berries and fragrant, creamy flowers. 1 It attracts birds and insects. Berries are borne only by female trees when a male tree is nearby, so buy one of each. The lowdown: Hardy and drought tolerant, plant them in sun and semishade. Height: 2–5m. Chironia baccifera (Christmas berry) A neat rounded shrublet with needlelike leaves, its bright pink star-like flowers produce 2 an abundance of red berries from Christmas to autumn. It attracts birds and self-seeds freely. The lowdown: It thrives in sun and tolerates dry periods and sandy soil. Height: 30–40cm. Lycium ferocissimum (Cape box thorn or snake-berry) The ferocious thorns on this small shrub make it ideal as a hedge, but it also looks attractive in a border. Small flowers 3 are followed by red drop-pearl-like berries. The lowdown: Plant it in full sun; it’s tolerant of wind, drought and sandy soils. Height: 2–3m.

3 THIS WEEKEND

Greenhouse effect Growing plants in a small enclosed area not only reduces the amount of water you need, it makes gardening easier. Garden Master Walk-in Greenhouse, R630, from Builders and Makro, is easy to assemble and ideal for growing a variety of veggies including trailing tomato plants and hanging planters. Size: 1 950 (H) x 1 430 (L) x 1 430 mm (W). builders.co.za, makro.co.za

Minimise the effects of frost. Protect roots with a thick mulch, place grass or shade cloth shelters around susceptible shrubs to protect them from icy winds, cover tender plants with commercial fleece and move pots into a sheltered spot.

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ECO-ALERT Dragonflies rid gardens of many flying insects, particularly midges and mosquitoes. As they need water for breeding, installing a water feature or pond will attract them to your garden. Gently sloping sides, well-placed rocks and plants with upright stems, which stand above the water, assist mature nymphs to climb from the water.

BE WATER-WISE Replace water-reliant plants with these indigenous, drought-resistant beauties. Wild dagga (Leonotis leonurus) is undemanding and bears brilliant orange-red flowers for many months. Fast growing, it makes a great filler in a border, and attracts honey bees, birds and butterflies. There’s also a white one. Canary creeper (Senecio tamoides) is fast-growing, mainly evergreen, and covered in masses of yellow flowers in late summer and autumn. It’s fragrant, and attracts butterflies and honeybees.

The earlyBIRD Feed insectivorous birds with Nature’s Feeds dried Mealworms. Available at garden centres or from Ferndale Nursery, about R50 for 100g. Call 021 794 5144.

Wise BUYS Make container gardening easier 12ℓ watering can, R499,99, Lifestyle Home Garden. lifestyle.co.za

Plant trolley, R149,99, Lifestyle Home Garden. lifestyle.co.za

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WHAT’S ON 11 – 12 MAY East Rand Orchid Show See an array of beautiful orchids, at the Edenvale Community Centre. It’s open on Friday from 12h00 – 18h00 and Saturday, 08h00 – 16h00, when there’ll be demonstrations at 10h00, 12h00 and 14h00. Entrance is R15 for adults, R10 for pensioners, children under 12 are free. For details, call Andre on 011 453 6888 (office hours only) or e-mail info@eastrandorchids.co.za

FIRE BASKETS AND OUTDOOR HEATERS

Discus wood-burning firepit, POR, Beauty Fires.

Firepit, R1 065, ash tray R413,65, 4 Seasons 4 U.

warm

YOU’RE GETTING

Totai tall patio heater, R5 999, Hirsch’s Homestore.

COMPILED BY MANDY BUCHHOLZ PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

Keep the party going even after the sun sets

Dolce Vita heater, R39 999, Mobelli Furniture + Living.

Wrought iron fire basket, R3 800, Naledi Customised Forge.

Large natural chiminea, R5 250, Mexican Imports.

Storm firepit, from R550, Builders. Farm stove freestanding fireplace, R6 840, Home Fires.

Papyrus firepit, R3 199,95, Garden World.

SOURCES 4 Seasons 4 U 4seasons4u.co.za Beauty Fires beautyfires.com Builders builders.co.za Garden World gardenworld.co.za Hirsch’s Homestore hirschs.co.za Home Fires homefires.co.za Mexican Imports mexicanimports.co.za Mobelli Furniture + Living mobelli.co.za Naledi Customised Forge paola@nalediarts.co.za

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SHOW GARDEN

EASY

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Visit Garden and Home’s sponsored garden, ‘Ring-ARosey’, at this year’s Lifestyle Garden Design Show 108

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Bougainvillea hybrid ‘Pink’ grows over three metal structures. A decorative wrought iron bench is a good match for the white-painted screen.

TEXT DIANE PEACOCK PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED

he attraction of this garden, entitled ‘Ring-a-Rosey’, lies in its fusion of spaces, both indoor and out, in a simple statement of classic elegance. Designed by students of Lifestyle College under the leadership of lecturer Mike Rickhoff, it also reflects one of this year’s hottest trends: creating a peaceful and personal sanctuary. While borrowing from the formal, it ticks all the boxes for the ideal garden: a great design with elements that can easily be tailored to any taste, a subtle colour scheme and a plant selection that’s both charming and easy to grow. A chequerboard path leads past a bed filled with roses and edged by floating Syzygium paniculatum hedges to a cosy ‘apartment’ area where a table and chairs invite you to pause. A ‘patio’ looks out onto a gravelled courtyard containing French planters brimming with herbs and cascading plants that include lettuce, rhubarb, basil, Salvia ‘Victoria’, fennel, chives, celery, spinach and tomatoes. It’s

F 6

4 C

F 2

G 8 7

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PLANT LIST

VISIT THE SHOW The Lifestyle Garden Show is on until the end of May at Lifestyle Home Garden, cnr Beyers Naudé and Ysterhout Avenue, Randpark Ridge, Randburg. Entrance is free. For more information, call 011 792 5616 or visit lifestyle.co.za

Syzygium paniculatum

Gaura lindheimeri ‘Jingle Bells’

Red/pink roses: ‘Double Delight’, ‘Knock Out’, ‘Elizabeth Rose’, ‘AvantGarde’ and Flower Carpet ‘Pink’

White roses: ‘Snow Queen’, ‘Iceberg’ and Flower Carpet ‘White’

Bougainvillea hybrid ‘Pink’

Yellow roses: ‘Monicas’, ‘Atlantis Palace’ and Flower Carpet ‘Gold’

Thymus vulgaris

Mixed planting in French planters: lettuce, rhubarb, fennel, basil, chives, celery, spinach ‘Bright Lights’ and cherry tomatoes

Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Salvia farinacea ‘Victoria’ (blue salvia) and Thymus citriodorus (lemon thyme)

10 Betula pendula 11 Cuphea mexicana ‘White Wonder’ 12 Dianthus barbatus

HARD LANDSCAPING open and casual and hanging baskets containing herbs are within easy reach. The garden is self-contained and compact with classic elements such as statuary, water features, steel spheres and a series of decorative metal structures that line the path creating a romantic effect.

With a mainly pink and white colour scheme, there’s a profusion of roses that includes red ‘Avant-Garde’, ‘Knockout’, ‘Double Delight’, Flower Carpet ‘Scarlet’ and pink ‘Elizabeth Rose’ softened with white ‘Iceberg’ and ‘Snow Queen’.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ‘Avant-Garde’ roses and ‘Jingle Bells’ gaura form part of the restful pink and white planting scheme. Hanging baskets are filled with herbs such as lemon thyme. French planters provide plenty of planting space. Yarrow, with its soft foliage, protrudes from the gravel alongside lemon thyme and blue salvia.

Statue

Chequerboard path

Metal structures

‘Patio’ area

‘Apartment’ area

Water features

Gravelled area with veggie planters

SOURCES Lifestyle College of Landscape Design 011 792 8244 or lifestylecollege.co.za Lifestyle Home Garden 011 792 5616 or lifestyle.co.za

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KITCHEN GARDENS

FRESH

itchen gardens are usually a step or two from the kitchen door. They can be the size of a tennis court or literally the last available space in the garden. Size doesn’t really matter because it’s possible to cultivate veggies and herbs intensively. Sunshine and good soil are essential and that’s the challenge that many kitchen gardens face, as they’re often situated at the back of the house where there’s little light. These three very different kitchen gardens have been adapted to suit their particular conditions.

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TEXT ALICE SPENSER-HIGGS PHOTOGRAPHS CONNALL OOSTERBROEK AND SHIRLEY WALLINGTON

Garden

The appeal of a kitchen garden is that veggies and herbs are within easy reach. These three different examples offer inspiration for making the most of available space

BRYANSTON SALAD GARDEN The problem: This 4 x 3,5m kitchen garden is a tiny gem, almost a secret space within a much larger estate. As it’s within the kitchen courtyard, the area doesn’t get full sun, but a mix of morning sun and shade. The solution: Landscaper Karen Gardelli raised the level of the beds by building a plant box for more exposure to the light and good drainage so that vegetables don’t stand in cold, wet soil. Being a cool, but sheltered garden, it’s ideal for salad vegetables, even in the hottest months. Layout: The deep planter is filled with a mix of soil and compost, with pavers forming two intersecting pathways. These divide the area into four small beds, easy to plant, harvest and weed. Chives and oregano are planted between the pavers. Walls enclose it on three sides, providing shelter, and the eastern boundary wall supports a trellis for granadillas. Vegetables are densely planted in blocks. Crops: Seedlings are planted to speed up the time to harvest. In summer, coriander, rocket, radishes, celery, basil, baby tomatoes, chillies, peppers, brinjals, spinach ‘Bright Lights’ and four different types of lettuce are planted. In winter, beetroot, carrots, and leeks are added to the salad greens. Large ornamental pots filled with strawberries (for the owner’s granddaughter) as well as thyme, sage, rosemary, mint and parsley, provide a decorative element. KAREN’S TIPS Whenever a new crop is planted, compost, 2:3:2 fertiliser and superphosphate are worked into the soil. Vegetables are watered daily for 10 minutes with borehole water. They’re fed monthly with a 2:3:2 granular fertiliser. No pesticides are used and aphids are washed off with a jet of water.

VEGETARIAN’S GARDEN IN ILLOVO The problem: When vegetarian Dren Nupen decided to grow her own vegetables and herbs, the only area left was an irregular space on the south-western side of the house, heavily shaded by trees. The solution: Landscaper Shirley Wallington removed all the trees and built raised beds to catch as much sun as possible. The garden now receives mostly morning sun. Layout: In the centre is a large bed built from brick from which squash and other rambling vegetables can tumble. Around this are raised beds, 1m wide in places, against the surrounding walls. These were painted blue and trellised to support espaliered apples and granadillas. A gravel floor keeps the area mud-free. Crops: A keen cook, Dren favours pungent coriander, chillies, Italian parsley and lots of greens, especially multicoloured lettuce and ‘Bright Lights’ spinach. Seasonal edible flowers grow among the veggies as well as thyme, chives, parsley, lovage and artichokes. DREN’S TIPS For ease of working, don’t make beds more than 1m wide. It’s only necessary to enrich the soil with compost and kraal manure once a year in autumn, if crops are rotated seasonally. Plant varieties with edible flowers in between vegetables to invite pollinators. Check irrigation systems at least once a week as nozzles easily become blocked. Vegetables need more regular tending than a flower garden. Add colour by painting the surrounding walls.

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POTAGER IN SAXONWOLD The problem: At this historic home in Saxonwold, a derelict area about the size of a tennis court, but level and sunny, was earmarked for a traditional potager with a mix of herbs, veggies and fruit trees. A gardener’s dream, the challenge was to divide up the space so that it would be manageable, productive and aesthetically beautiful. “I wanted it to look quite different,” recalls landscaper Shirley Wallington. The solution: Shirley decided on a very formal, geometric design, typical of a potager. But there was also a practical reason, the design made it easy to practise seasonal crop rotation. Layout: The area was divided into a series of squares and rectangles with interconnecting gravel pathways. Each square contains a circle with a tree in the centre, underplanted with herbs, and lines radiating out of the circle to demarcate the beds. The design was emphasised with terracotta brick edging. A new addition is an outdoor dining area under a pergola covered by Catawba grapevines. Crops: The large space has made it possible to accommodate olive, espaliered apple and cherry, lemon, avocado, fig and macadamia nut trees. In addition to seasonal favourites such as lettuce, cabbage, brinjals, tomatoes, potatoes and onions, perennial vegetables include artichokes and asparagus. A rosemary hedge and other herbs are interplanted among the vegetables. SHIRLEY’S TIPS Only plant what you can eat and what you enjoy, otherwise it’ll go to waste. Friable soil and good drainage are essential. Soil depth isn’t as important because most vegetables have shallow roots.

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Lighten heavy soil by adding a 50:50 mix of mushroom compost (for friability) and good quality compost such as Earth to Earth. River sand can make the soil heavier. Mushroom compost is available from Stanler Farms, Midrand. In very hot weather, water vegetables every second day. Netting is the best protection against birds. Harvest regularly because harvest-ready vegetables lose quality quickly. Use natural or organic remedies for pests. Veggies with blemishes are still edible.

WHY USE CROP ROTATION? Crop rotation is an organic gardening practice that alternates the planting of leaf, fruit, root and leguminous vegetables in the same bed to obtain a healthy, diseasefree harvest. Its purpose is to use nutrients more effectively and prevent a build-up of soil-borne diseases and pests. That’s because each vegetable has particular nutrient requirements and is affected by different pests. Brassicas and leafy vegetables are the heaviest feeders, then fruit, like tomatoes, eggplants and peppers, and least of all, root crops. Legumes (peas and beans) fix nitrogen in the soil. Some plants, like tomatoes, produce a chemical that inhibits growth and don’t do as well if planted in the same place. Another crop needs to be grown for a season. Where soil isn’t particularly fertile, start with a legume crop, followed by leaf, fruit and root crops. Keep a plan because it is easy to forget where specific varieties were planted.

SOURCES Karen Gardelli Creative Containers 082 745 2891 Shirley Wallington 083 750 3998 or wallington.co.za Stanler Farms stanlerfarms.co.za

GROWING SPINACH

TEXT JANE GRIFFITHS PHOTOGRAPHS JANE GRIFFITHS AND KEITH KNOWLTON ORACH PHOTOGRAPH MOUNTAIN HERB ESTATE HERBGARDEN.CO.ZA

GREENS Spinach and other similar greens are easy to grow and rich in essential nutrients. Jane Griffiths has these tips to ensure a year-round supply Luscious healthy spinach.

n addition to spinach, there are other leafy plants that have a similar flavour and health benefits. Unlike spinach, they don’t go to seed as quickly in hot weather and continue to provide greens almost year round.

SPINACH (SPINACIA OLERACEA) Because greengrocers often label Swiss chard as spinach, it’s easy to mix them up. In the garden though, the two

are very different. While Swiss chard produces leaves almost throughout the year, true spinach is much less heat tolerant. It goes to seed quickly in midsummer and is best grown in the cooler months. Growing tips: Spinach likes rich, fertile soil and plenty of moisture. You can either sow seed directly or transplant seedlings. In most areas, successive sowing can be done from early spring until early winter, but more often

during hotter months. The plants prefer full sun, except in warmer weather when they benefit from semi-shade. Keep soil well-mulched and make sure the ground doesn’t dry out. Harvesting and eating: Harvest a selection of leaves at a time from a few plants. Use baby leaves in salads and cook larger leaves. Spinach tastes best when young and freshly picked. Leaves from older plants tend to become bitter.

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Malabar spinach

MALABAR SPINACH (BASELLA VAR. ALBA OR RUBRA) Although this frost-tender climbing plant belongs to a completely different family to spinach, it’s used in the same way, hence the name. The big difference is that Malabar spinach loves hot weather and thrives in midsummer – just when true spinach is bolting. Growing tips: Sow seeds directly or sow in seed trays. It helps to scarify (use a nail file to nick the hard seed coat opposite where the new shoot will emerge) and soak seeds overnight before planting. With its red twining stems and delicate white flowers, it’s a spectacular addition to a midsummer vegetable garden and will cover a tripod or archway in just a few months. It’s not hardy and will die in areas with cold winters. However, in subtropical areas, it can take over, so keep it contained. Harvesting and eating: Its nutrientrich leaves and shoots are tasty and

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New Zealand spinach

succulent and can be used fresh in salads or stir-fries. The flowers turn into dark purple berries, each with a single seed inside. Leave these on the vine to dry and save the seeds for the following spring

NEW ZEALAND SPINACH (TETRAGONIA TETRAGONIOIDES) As its name suggests, this bushy perennial is native to New Zealand and Australia. It’s a sprawling, fast-growing shrub with triangular, succulent-like

leaves and tiny yellow flowers. Growing tips: Like Malabar spinach, it’s frost tender and does well in hot weather. It grows happily on the edge of a bed, where its rambling stems can be wound through and over a fence. Harvesting and eating: Pick leaves regularly. It contains quite high levels of oxalates which can cause kidney stones. Reduce this risk by blanching leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds, stir-frying or sautéing. It has a fresh, almost marine flavour, similar to spinach, but with juicer, more succulent leaves.

Orach

ORACH (ATRIPLEX HORTENSIS) This semi-hardy annual, also known as French spinach, is more of a cool-season crop, but can be grown during warmer months as it doesn’t bolt as quickly as regular spinach. There are red, green and yellow leaf varieties, all with a similar spinach-like flavour. The red is particularly striking. Growing tips: Sow seeds directly in well-drained soil in full sun during spring and autumn. The leaves are arranged around an upright stem that can grow up to 1,8m high. It can tolerate drier conditions, but tastes much better when the ground is kept moist. Harvesting and eating: Pick leaves as needed. They can be eaten raw in salads where the bright leaves add wonderful pops of colour. They can also be stirfried, steamed or added to soups.

‘Bright Lights’ Swiss chard.

Switzerland nor is it widely grown there. This leafy green is a member of the beet family and is one of the easiest crops to grow. Growing tips: Swiss chard likes full sun and fertile well-drained soil. It grows almost all year round, but is a little more prone to bolting in the hot summer months than during winter. As with beetroot, the ‘seed’ is actually a cluster of seeds. If you direct sow them, the seedlings need to be thinned. A good idea is to grow them in seedling modules first and then separate them when transplanting. Once established, Swiss

chard seeds itself happily. Harvesting and eating: Harvest only the outer leaves by twisting them off at their base with a downward pull. Pick from a selection of plants, leaving enough for the plant to continue growing. Don’t let leaves grow for too long before harvesting, otherwise they become bitter. Use baby leaves in salads and bigger leaves in stir-fries and soups, or to wrap food for steaming. Young stems can be chopped up to add a delicious crunch to salads. When stir-frying large leaves, cut the stems out, chop them and cook for a moment before adding the leaves.

SWISS CHARD It’s unclear where the moniker ‘Swiss’ comes from as this plant isn’t native to

SOURCE Jane’s Delicious A-Z of Vegetables by Jane Griffiths (Sunbird Publishers, jonathanball.co.za) janesdeliciousgarden.com

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TEXT LYN WOODWARD PHOTOGRAPHS CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN THESE RECIPES ARE SUPPLIED BY THE ENTERTAINER, AND WHILE EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO ENSURE THEY ARE CORRECT, THEY HAVENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T BEEN TESTED BY GARDEN AND HOME

ENTERTAINING

FOOD for FRIENDS Pretoria sisters Ilze and Hanlie Volman entertain with stylish ease

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Ilze and Hanlie Volman with Louis

Menu SPINACH AND FETA HUMMUS WITH PINE NUTS ROASTED GRAPE CROSTINI FILLET IN PHYLLO WITH MUSHROOM AND TARRAGON CREAM CARAMELISED FIG, ORANGE AND FETA SALAD PUMPKIN FRITTERS WITH SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE

lze Volman and her sister Hanlie, live in the quiet Pretoria suburb of Groenkloof with Louis, a wirehaired terrier, and DiKat, a kitty that arrived one day and never left. But who can blame her? The food the sisters serve is so delicious and the stylish environment they’ve created in their art deco-inspired 1950s house is conducive to lingering. Born and raised in Bethlehem in the eastern Free State, Ilze and Hanlie grew up with good, healthy food. “It was simple but nourishing and all the meat and milk came from local farms. We ate organically without even knowing what that meant. We’d never heard of terms like free range and nose-to-tail eating.” When they learned to cook, it wasn’t with exotic ingredients and complicated techniques. “We made preserves from the yellow peaches from my mother’s

orchard and pickled vegetables that were grown locally,” recalls Ilze. “We woke up to my grandmother’s freshly baked boerebrood and beskuit dripping with home-made butter,” adds Hanlie. “We didn’t know how fortunate we were.” Ilze moved to Pretoria as a student and Hanlie joined her a few years later after a stint in London. It was then that they decided to combine Ilze’s talent for cooking and passion for beautiful things with Hanlie’s love of design (she’s a graphic designer) and started a bespoke gifting company V&Me. They describe this as curating thoughtful, stylish gifts sourced from boutique South African companies. As they both enjoy entertaining, the company soon expanded to include event management and catering. “Our gifts and events, although we prefer to call them experiences, are put together

with a lot of attention to detail in the menu, decor and music with the aim of creating a lasting impression,” explains Hanlie. At home, Ilze, the food lover, does most of the cooking. Her speciality is simple, fresh dishes presented in a visually appealing way. “I adore the way beautiful, delicious food nourishes both body and soul and the sensory elements such as the colour of candied beetroot, the smell of fresh bread and the texture of linen tablecloths,” she explains. The result of this appreciation and sharing means a constant stream of visitors to their home. “I love it when a late brunch flows into afternoon snacks and then into the evening,” says Hanlie. Hanlie likes to reflect the colours and textures of the season in the setting, and Ilze’s advice is to always give something of yourself to the occasion.

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Janien Kluge and Karen Kellerman

FILLET IN PHYLLO WITH MUSHROOM AND TARRAGON CREAM (Serves 6–8)

SPINACH AND FETA HUMMUS WITH PINE NUTS (Inspired by a Donna Hay recipe) (Serves 6–8) 1 x 400g tin chickpeas, drained and rinsed 15ml tahini 30ml lemon juice 2 cups baby spinach leaves, blanched and drained 1 cup marinated feta, drained ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted ¼ cup fennel sprigs 15ml fresh thyme sea salt and milled black pepper, to taste TO SERVE extra virgin olive oil toasted pine nuts fresh thyme, chopped grissini sticks

1. Place all the ingredients in the bowl of a food processor and blend until smooth. If necessary, for a more creamy consistency, add a few drops of water. 2. Spoon the hummus onto a serving plate and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with toasted pine nuts, chopped thyme and some milled black

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pepper, to taste. 3. Serve with grissini sticks or fresh crusty bread. *COOK’S NOTE This hummus is also delicious served with vegetable crudités.

ROASTED GRAPE CROSTINI (Makes 16) 2 cups red grapes 15ml avocado or olive oil 10ml fresh thyme leaves, chopped sea salt and milled black pepper, to taste 15ml balsamic vinegar 200g goat’s cheese, sliced 16–20 slices baguette, lightly toasted TO SERVE 30ml honey few fresh thyme leaves ¼ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped (optional)

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1. Preheat oven to 160°C. Toss the grapes, oil and thyme together in a bowl. 2. Season to taste with salt and pepper and arrange in a single layer in a greased baking dish. Bake in the oven for about 30–45 minutes. 3. Remove from the oven. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the grapes and toss to coat. Set aside. 4. Arrange equal amounts of goat’s cheese on the baguette slices and place on a baking sheet. 5. Either pop the crostini under a hot grill to melt the cheese, or use a blow torch to soften the cheese and char the edges. 6. Top with the grape mixture. Decorate with a drizzle of honey, a sprig of thyme and some chopped toasted walnuts, if desired.

1kg free-range whole beef fillet sea salt and milled black pepper, to taste 30ml olive oil 1 packet phyllo pastry, defrosted 100g butter, melted 150g garlic butter log, well chilled FOR THE MUSHROOM AND TARRAGON CREAM 15ml olive oil 15ml butter 200g small button mushrooms, thinly sliced 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 125ml crème fraiche 15ml fresh tarragon, finely chopped 30ml chives, finely chopped for garnish

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. 2. Slice the fillet into serving portions and season with salt and milled black pepper. 3. Heat the oil in a pan, and once hot, sear the fillet on both sides. Set aside to cool. 4. Cut the phyllo pastry into squares large enough to make a parcel around each steak. Each steak will require three squares of pastry.

Ilze Volman and Louis

Karen Kellerman and Johann Kluge

5. Brush each square of pastry with melted butter and stack one on top of the other at odd angles. Place a piece of steak in the centre of each stack. 6. Slice the garlic butter log and place a disc of garlic butter on top of the steak and fold the pastry over the steak. Repeat with all the steak. Arrange the parcels on a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden. 7. To make the mushroom and tarragon cream, heat the olive oil and butter and fry

the mushrooms and garlic for 2–3 minutes. 8. Stir in the remaining ingredients and cook for 1 minute. Allow to cool to room temperature. 9. Serve the fillet with the fig, orange and feta salad and cooked greens.

CARAMELISED FIG, ORANGE AND FETA SALAD (Serves 6–8) 100g castor sugar 8 fresh figs, cut in half lengthways

30ml lemon juice 1 garlic clove, crushed 15ml Ouzo or other aniseedflavoured liquor (optional) 80ml olive oil sea salt and milled black pepper, to taste 60g fresh rocket and/or watercress leaves 15ml fresh oregano, small leaves 4 medium oranges, topped and tailed, peeled and sliced into 1cm slices 200g feta cheese, roughly crumbled 5ml fennel seeds, lightly toasted

1. In a heavy saucepan, melt the sugar over a low heat without stirring. 2. Once the sugar has melted it will begin to caramelise.

Remove from the heat. Don’t worry if it gets too dark. The longer it caramelises, the more of a burnt, bitter taste it will add to the salad. 3. Use a fork and dip each fig quickly in the warm caramel, cut side up and transfer to a plate. 4. Melt the caramel again, if necessary, then remove from the heat. 5. Add the lemon juice, garlic and Ouzo, if using, and stir well. Whisk in the olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. 6. Arrange the salad leaves and oregano in a serving bowl or on a platter. Top with the fruits, drizzle the pan juices over the salad and top with the feta cheese and fennel seeds.

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QUICK CHAT WITH ILZE AND HANLIE VOLMAN My cooking style is simple and delicious (Ilze, left). Mixing things up, combining old and new, modern and natural (Hanlie, right). My store cupboard staples are herbs, flowers, real butter and salt (Ilze). Ginger, chillies and coconut oil (Hanlie). My flavour of the month is sumac (Ilze). Cinnamon and masala (Hanlie). If I had just one recipe book, it would be Google (Hanlie). I really couldn’t choose just one recipe book (Ilze). My favourite autumn dish is anything with figs (Ilze). Fig and orange salad (Hanlie). The kitchen gadgets I couldn’t live without are my KitchenAid, a sharp knife, and dishwasher (Ilze). The best thing I ever ate depends on the people that I share it with. Those are the memories (Ilze). Fresh street food in Vietnam (Hanlie).

PUMPKIN FRITTERS WITH SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE (Serves 6) 1 cup cooked, drained and pureéd pumpkin 1 cup cake flour 10ml baking powder 30ml castor sugar 1 egg 60ml milk 1ml salt oil, for deep frying FOR THE SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE ¾ cup sugar 1 cup cream

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5ml vanilla extract 45ml butter ½ cup golden syrup 5ml sea salt flakes. TO SERVE cream or ice cream 3ml black lava salt (optional)

1. To make the pumpkin fritters, combine all the ingredients, except the oil, in a mixing bowl and mix until you have a smooth batter. 2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan and fry spoonfuls of the batter, in batches, until golden brown and cooked through, about 2–3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to

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Hanlie Volman and Bart Maritz

remove the fritters from the oil and drain well on kitchen paper. Repeat, until all the fritters are done. Keep them warm. 3. To make the salted caramel sauce, combine all the ingredients in a saucepan

and cook over a medium heat for 10–15 minutes until the sauce is thick and glossy. 4. Pour the syrup over the warm fritters and serve at once with cream or ice cream and a sprinkling of black lava salt, if desired.

SOURCE V&Me. vandme.co.za, info@vandme.co.za Ilze 076 800 6488 Hanlie 071 526 2429

BON APPETIT

Cream of the crop

Quaffable REDS

Bon appetit

Smooth

Get a taste of what’s new in the culinary world

OPERATORS

Daily SPREAD COMPILED BY LYN WOODWARD PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

Under R100 a bottle, these reds are perfect for both lunch and dinner. Klein Contantia KC Pinot Noir is best enjoyed with mushroom risotto, Terra del Capo Sangiovese with beef ragu, and Stone Town Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot with a juicy rump steak.

Clover’s new delectably thick mayonnaise, Cream O’Naise, contains real dairy cream and is high in Vitamin E. Add lashings to potato and pasta salads, sandwiches and wraps. It comes in a reusable microwave and dishwasher safe tub. Available nationwide, from R19,99. clover.co.za

In her latest cookbook, Everyday, R320, Struik Lifestyle, busy mom Lisa Clark solves the quandary of what to cook every day. Filled with hearty, healthy, quick to prepare recipes, it also includes bakes and treats. Find the recipe for Tomato and Chorizo Risotto (pictured above) on our website gardenandhome.co.za

Healthy appetite Col’Cacchio’s new veganfriendly menu includes a pizza with nut-based cheese, which is also suitable for the lactose intolerant. Also try their Spiroco salad with spiralled vegetables. To ﬁnd a restaurant near you, visit colcacchio.co.za

The handy musthave garlic press, R126, and pizza cutter, R67,80, from Eetrite, are crafted from stainless steel with natural black walnut handles. eetrite.co.za

WHAT’S ON 13 MAY Celebrate Mother’s Day! Winelands: Mother’s Day in the Nuy Valley Enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch at Nuy Winery’s new tasting room and restaurant, On the hill, with a complimentary bottle of wine. For more details, call 023 347 0272 or e-mail onthehill@nuywinery.co.za Gauteng: Mother’s Day High Tea Treat your mother to a decadent high tea at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa, then spoil her with a spa treatment. Call 011 808 7300 for details and bookings. 18 – 20 MAY The Joburg Bubbly Festival Celebrate Cap Classique and Champagne at the Park House of Events on 7, Hyde Park, Jo’burg with live music and food. Tickets, R380 pp, include 10 tasting coupons and a glass and are available at webtickets.co.za

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EFFORTLESS ENTERTAINING

Midweek MAGIC

RECIPES AND STYLING LYN WOODWARD PHOTOGRAPHS CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN

You can happily invite guests to dine midweek with these stylish, easy-to-make dishes

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(Serves 4)

Like a

CRUMBED MUSHROOMS WITH CORIANDER AND LIME DIPPING SAUCE oil for frying 150g cake flour 5ml Chinese five spice powder 3ml garlic powder salt and milled black pepper, to taste 2 eggs 80g fresh white breadcrumbs 120g panko crumbs* 500g assorted mushrooms, such as button, brown and enoki FOR THE CORIANDER AND LIME DIPPING SAUCE 10ml coriander seeds 5ml cumin seeds 125g sour cream 60ml mayonnaise 1 clove garlic, crushed zest and juice of 1 lime salt and milled black pepper, to taste TO SERVE 45ml fresh coriander, chopped lime wedges (optional)

1. To make the crumbed mushrooms, heat the oil in a deep pan or fryer. 2. Place the flour, Chinese five spice powder, garlic powder and salt and pepper in a bowl and mix well. 3. In a second bowl, lightly beat the eggs. 4. In a third bowl, place the white and panko breadcrumbs. 5. Coat a few mushrooms in some of the flour mixture and shake off any excess flour. Dip and coat the mushrooms in the egg then coat in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat with the remaining mushrooms. 6. Gently fry the mushrooms in batches, until crispy and golden brown. Drain well on paper towel and season with salt and pepper. 7. To make the coriander and lime dipping sauce, heat the coriander and cumin seeds in a hot, dry frying pan for 1–2 minutes. Transfer them to a mortar and pestle and crush them together. Place

ping list? p ho Visit

STRAP HERE

gardenandhome.co.za and go to Our Mag to download the shopping list for this menu

in a small mixing bowl. 8. Stir in the remaining ingredients and season to taste. 9. Serve the mushrooms garnished with coriander, the lime wedges and the coriander and lime dipping sauce. *COOK’S NOTE For a more even crumb coating, use only white breadcrumbs or for a lighter, crisper coating, only panko crumbs.

TAGLIATELLE WITH PRAWNS, PEAS AND PESTO (Serves 4) 350g tagliatelle 10ml olive or avocado oil 15ml butter 400g prawns 5ml paprika

salt and milled black pepper, to taste 120g frozen peas 45ml basil pesto 250g mascarpone 125ml water 5ml orange zest TO SERVE 20g fresh rocket

1. Cook the tagliatelle according to the packet instructions and keep warm. 2. Heat the oil and butter in a wide pan and fry the prawns with paprika for 2–3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 3. Add the peas, pesto, mascarpone and water and simmer for 2–3 minutes. 4. Add the cooked, drained tagliatelle and orange zest and heat through. 5. Serve garnished with fresh rocket.

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DESTINATIONS

The lure

OF THE SOUTH

outh-eastern Sicily seems like Italy distilled to its essence – magnificent churches filled to the brim with splendid mosaics and art, narrow side streets with elegant couples wearing cream fedoras against the sizzling sun, and pigeon-breasted, intricately carved balconies overhanging ancient piazzas abuzz with café conversations. Of course Sicily is traditionally associated with the Cosa Nostra criminal syndicate, but as a tourist you don’t encounter

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mafiosi – unless you want to. Google and you’ll find tour companies that’ll take you to the locations where parts of The Godfather movie were shot in the early 1970s – in fact you can even do so in a vintage Fiat 500. Sicily lies just south of the Italian mainland and just north of Malta. Our starting point was the small town of Noto in the south-east: accessible, easy to explore and boasting a collection of exuberant Baroque architecture that has made

TEXT JUDY BRYANT PHOTOGRAPHS JUDY BRYANT AND SANDRO BEDESSI ITALIAN NATIONAL TOURIST BOARD (FOTOTECA ENIT)

Volcanoes, vineyards and vespas are just three of the things that make Sicily a fascinating island destination, writes Judy Bryant

JUDY’S TRAVEL TIPS WHERE TO EAT Caffe Sicilia, 125 Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Noto. Stock up on treats such as tuna products, olive oil, artichokes and peppers in brine at campisiconserve.it MUST-SEE SIGHT Noto exhibitions at Ex Convitto Ragusa, 91 Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Noto. CULTURAL TREAT Wine tasting at Fuedo Ramaddini fuedoramaddini.com NICE-TO-KNOW LINGO A simple greeting like buongiorno in the morning, and buonasera in the afternoon and evening, covers both hello and goodbye.

The Roman Catholic cathedral of Noto, completed in 1776.

The grand entrance gate to Noto.

A Sicilian vista with Mount Etna in the distance.

the old town centre a UNESCO world heritage site. A massive earthquake in the late 17th century caused havoc, but it had a happy outcome, as reconstruction and further restoration a decade ago has produced beautiful limestone buildings, sun-ripened to a rich biscuit colour. It’s rather like stepping onto an Italian movie set when you enter the town through the Porta Reale, a larger-than-life monumental entrance gate. It’s carved with symbols such

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A sun-bleached balcony.

Delicious pastries and ices at the famous Caffè Sicilia.

Arabic architectural influences in Ortigia, Syracuse.

as wheat and fish, representing the town’s agricultural and fishing roots. Most of the churches and palazzi are situated on the main road, Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Noto’s not only about elaborate buildings, battered vespas and old men sitting chatting in small groups under trees. The Ex Convitto Ragusa cultural centre houses contemporary installations, and we struck it lucky with an exhibition twinning artist Marc Chagall and fashion house Missoni, renowned for its colourful knitwear and artistic collaborations. Chagall’s bright lithographs, displayed against a rich turquoise background, beautifully complemented the vibrant zigzag Missoni textiles and patchworks. It was a masterclass in colour combinations, with a quote reminding visitors that: “In our life there is a single colour which provides the meaning of life and art. It is the colour of love.” The heat provided an excuse to sample ice cream and visit the vendors pressing fresh orange juice. In Sicily, granita is traditionally served with a brioche pastry, and the best place for both is Noto’s Caffè Sicilia where owner Corrado Assenza is famous for his pastries and gelatos with intense flavours. Next stop was Syracuse, with the historical centre of Ortigia. The intertwined old and new give you a disorientated

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PLANNING YOUR TRIP WHEN TO GO March to October, preferably spring or autumn – Sicily’s warmer for longer than the rest of Italy. GETTING THERE Travel to Europe with an international carrier and then take a short flight on a budget airline to Sicily at the beginning or end of your trip. You could also catch a ferry from the Italian mainland or Malta. WHERE TO STAY Farm stays and meals: Agriturismo Agrimilo agriturismo.it/en USEFUL WEBSITE Sicilian regional tourism regione.sicilia.it/turismo VISAS South Africans need a Schengen visa. Visit Capago International it-za.capago.eu CURRENCY The currency is the euro (EUR1=R14,60). A meal at an inexpensive restaurant is about €12,50 (about R182), a local draught beer, €3 (about R44) and a cappuccino €1,50 (about R22).

sense of timelessness. Popping into a modern Benetton outlet to search for a sale bargain, you’ll pass the remains of an ancient Greek temple or fountain of the goddess Diana. The classic profile of the shop assistant takes you back to an illustration in a school text book. It’s a crossroads and crucible, with the dazzling white cathedral incorporating high Doric pillars of a fifth century BC temple of Athena. Of course cafés, vineyards and restaurants are just as important as cathedrals and monuments. The Mount Etna lava flows that have caused so much destruction have also left the soil very fertile. Syracuse’s ancient side streets offered beautiful little shops selling variously coloured pasta, cheeses and wine. Marzamemi, on the south-east coast, is a fabulously picturesque town based on the tuna processing industry. Many of the old fishermen’s and tuna workers’ cottages are now Instagram-worthy cafés, shops and bars, decorated with woven fishing baskets, pots of geraniums, bright umbrellas and nets draped on rough stone walls.

Marzamemi’s picturesque harbour.

Packed stone walls.

Welcome to the Feudo Ramaddini vineyards.

Narrow streets lead off the main square and colourful wooden boats bob in the harbour. It looks ready for a shoot, and every summer the town hosts a major film festival. Marzamemi still produces artisanal salt-dried and oilcanned delicacies. We lingered at the Campisi shop, where five generations have perfected the art of making tuna salamis, smoked swordfish, marinated anchovies, seafood pasta condiments and much more. “Try bottorga… it’s tuna caviar with capers and possibly chilli, a real Sicilian starter,” recommended our guide Attilio Ruta. The area is also known for specialities like pale green pistachio marzipan (there’s also a pistachio cream liqueur), and in Modica, great chocolate. The Spanish brought cocoa beans from South America and beans are still traditionally ground using lava stone then gently warmed. Sugar’s added, as well as orange or lemon zest, almonds and pistachios. Naturally all the products are exquisitely packaged in true Italian style with lavishly illustrated labels and swirly typefaces that make you want to treasure them forever. The Greeks introduced several varieties of wine to Sicily, and at the Feudo Ramaddini vineyards near Marzamemi, we were welcomed by charming marketing manager Valeria Ballacchino, who showed us a collection of old wine-making equipment. The latest vintages tasted pretty good, we agreed, sitting in the courtyard and sampling red and white wine along with delicious bruschetta, salami and local olive oil. Near the farm was an abandoned railway station farming

Mount Etna, from the hillside town of Taormina.

Charming tiny shops.

can be tough, and many producers have turned to agriturismo meals and lodging to supplement their incomes. The hot air was vibrating with the sound of cicadas when we arrived at a working farm, Agriturismo Agrimolo, near Noto. The children loved petting the animals, like donkeys and goats, then we bonded over vast platters of antipasti followed by delicious pasta. I didn’t have room for the home-made sausage and steamed green vegetables, but we refreshed ourselves with chunks of watermelon and sweet pastries. Seated around an enormous table, our group ranged from a family of four from Australia (with Italian heritage) to a glamorous Colombian guest. The island’s well worth a visit, whether you prefer cultural artefacts or sun-drenched beaches with sand colours ranging from pale yellow to black lava. The capital, Palermo, is an exotic mix of oriental and European influences: hilltop Taormina’s trails lead up to the summit of Mount Etna, and Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples has an impressive complex of ancient Greek buildings. Wherever you do find yourself, Sicily’s vibrancy, passion and timelessness can be summed up in the theme of the Chagall and Missoni exhibition in Noto: ‘Sogno e colore’ (dream and colour).

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COLLECTABLES

Collecting

LEGO with Luke Comins Not only has Lego been a favourite toy for 60 years – it’s one of the world’s fastest-growing collecting crazes

or professional Durban graphic designer Luke Comins (45), childhood birthdays and Christmases meant watching the post for rattling boxes of Lego arriving from relatives in the UK. “Even though I had Lego sets that weren’t always available in South Africa and always enjoyed creative building with the Lego, I wasn’t collecting it then,” he recalls. “My collections were stamps and marketing trinkets such as Smurfs and shaped, branded erasers.” In fact, in his late teens, his mother gave quite a lot of his Lego to charity and he sold the remaining pieces he and his brother had accumulated to a family friend. “It wasn’t till I turned 30 and a friend gave me a Luke Skywalker Lego figurine for my birthday that I realised how cool it could be to collect,” he says. “Now I enjoy the visual appeal of the minifigures as well as the challenge and nostalgia of building the sets. I still store bricks and other construction pieces in boxes featuring Lego stud trims that were made by my father and I display the minifigures in glass-fronted cabinets. I also keep one in my design office to inspire me.”

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The Lego brick officially celebrated its 60th birthday on 28 January this year, but it derives from educational wooden toys produced in the 1930s by carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen in Billund, Denmark. These eventually evolved into the 1958’s modular brick system. Alex Schmitt, co-owner of Pops Toys in Northmead, Jo’burg, has been a Lego collector since he was a child. “Millennial nostalgia kick-started Lego collecting about 10 years ago,” he says, “helped by the 2007 launch of the Star Wars Millennium Falcon, then Lego’s largest set with more than 5 000 pieces. Since prices for rare and vintage pieces began rising five years ago, the original of that set sells for about R150 000. The shop’s twice-yearly Lego expos attract up to 20 000 people.” The British TV series Toy Story presented by Top Gear’s James May and featuring an adult-sized, functioning house made from Lego, helped boost the cool quotient, Luke believes. “Clever brand extensions from video games to seven worldwide Legoland theme parks also contribute to Lego’s continual appeal,” he says.

ABOVE LEFT: These popular minfigures commemorate the 2012 London Olympics.

TEXT PATRICIA MCCRACKEN PHOTOGRAPHS SALLY CHANCE

A BRIEF HISTORY OF LEGO

TIPS FOR ASPIRING COLLECTORS

CARING FOR LEGO

“Choose an appealing theme from the Lego catalogue or websites to give your collection coherence,” suggests Luke Comins. “Later, move into sub-collections such as figurine colour and detail variants, for example, red London buses.” “Protect the packaging, as unopened, sealed boxes fetch top prices,” says Alex Schmitt. “Compromise by opening the box carefully, pack it away flat with an unopened instruction guide and make up the set using downloaded instructions.” Set yourself a budget. “Top-priced new sets currently cost about R10 000, but the cheapest is about R75. Architecture sets tend to cost between R500 and R1 000,” says Alex. Join the social media community as Lego collectors are active on Facebook and Instagram. Online friends can help you acquire a limited edition that’s only ever on sale at a particular store, such as the London toy retailer Hamleys. “Watch the media for new Lego ranges that almost immediately start increasing in value because they have limited runs of six months to a year. SA might receive only one delivery of 60 sets, for example, and some ranges are never launched here,” says Alex.

Display it out of sunlight so that it doesn’t discolour. If you can, store it behind glass in a cabinet to prevent dust accumulating, especially in the logo lettering. If white bricks become yellow, weigh them down in bleach for two days, stirring occasionally to make sure they are bleached evenly. Don’t bleach any colours other than white. Clean printed bricks carefully using washing-up liquid and a bristle paintbrush. Bricks without printing can be washed in a washing machine inside a securely tied pillowcase.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

Lego had been in eclipse until the launch of Star Wars tie-in merchandise revived its fortunes and generated themed Lego series as well as other co-branding. A new generation now found collectables they could relate to. Within a year or so, Luke and his wife Lyse had started their own family and Luke introduced Rebekah (now 14) and Jethro (now 11) to the joys of Lego. Luke tried several times to buy back the bulk of his childhood Lego, but eventually accepted that it’s been passed down for another generation to enjoy. Unusual for collectables, Lego items are interactive and not just for display. So Luke and Jethro are often to be found engrossed in ever more intricate constructions, whether it’s the recent Old Fishing Shop set or creating their own variations of figurines and models.

The quirkiness of some Lego minifigures adds to their appeal for younger collectors. Luke used his typesetting and graphic design skills to customise the advertising on these Lego London buses. Grey on grey on grey made constructing this model particularly challenging. The larger Homemaker figurines dating from 1974 were the precursors of today’s hugely popular minifigures. For fun, Luke created this working mini Rubik’s cube in Lego.

SOURCES Brickpicker.com has pricing guides, including the Brick Index that tracks six-month prices of Lego sets most in demand on eBay. Lego.com South Africans can’t buy from the official site, but can check details of discontinued ranges, make up a wish list for when you travel and download construction manuals. Pops Toys 011 849 4926 or popstoys.co.za

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ANTIQUES AND COLLECTABLES

Treasure chest What are your collectables worth?

FIND OF THE MONTH

Please can you tell me more about this little jug I found at my favourite secondhand shop? It’s 110mm high, has three different characters on it and a silverplated rim. From its marks, it might be over a 100 years old. Elizabeth Bezuidenhout “This little Royal Doulton Lambeth jug dates from 1858 – 1910,” says Ingrid Aron of Kalk Bay Antiques Centre. “Stoneware pottery was highly favoured for its functionality, and this little jug, depicting men drinking, was used in homes and taverns to measure around two drams of spirits. It would retail for about R450.”

Could you give me an indication of the value of this sketch by Frans Oerder, which I inherited some 30 years ago. Unfortunately I can’t decipher his writing to see where it was sketched. Irma Ehlers

EXPERT TIP “LOOK OUT FOR OTHER HOLLYCRAFT JEWELLERY SUCH AS BRACELETS AND BROOCHES IN THE SHAPE OF BASKETS AND TREES, ALL WITH BRIGHTLY COLOURED STONES,” SAYS BARBARA COLLINS

THANKS TO OUR SPECIALISTS Ingrid Aron Kalk Bay Antiques Centre 021 788 8882 Barbara Collins The Georgian Antiques & Vintage Fair 083 444 0133 or barbsc@telkomsa.net Anton Welz Stephan Welz and Co. stephanwelzandco.co.za

I bought this jewellery set 37 years ago, as a birthday present for myself. It was only years later that I saw the Hollycraft Copr.1950 inscription on the back. Can you tell me more about it? Fatima Cassiem “What a lovely piece of costume jewellery,” says Barbara Collins of The Georgian Antiques & Vintage Fair. “Dating from the 1950s, this necklace with matching clip-on earrings is a beautiful example of Hollycraft. Embodying the glitzy glamour of Hollywood, their pieces were always made with vibrant coloured stones. All their jewellery is distinctive and clearly marked. I would treasure it and estimate the set to be worth between R1 000–R1 250.”

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WRITE IN AND WIN EVERY MONTH we give away a *prize for the most valuable or interesting item sent in. This month Irma Ehlers has won six screw cap bottles of Zari Sparkling Grape Juice and six bottles of cork screw bubbly worth R780. Non-alcoholic and beautifully packaged, they’re perfect for any celebration. Visit zari.co.za E-mail clear photographs and relevant information about your collectable item to gardenhome@caxton.co.za with Treasure Chest in the subject line. Due to the volume of mail we are unable to respond personally. Pictures must be sent as separate attachments at a size between 1MB – 2MB. Only one submission per reader will be accepted. For guidelines on the best way to take your photos for Treasure Chest, visit gardenandhome.co.za

COMPILED BY DIANA WEMYSS *DELIVERY OF PRIZES TAKES AT LEAST 6–8 WEEKS.

Anton Welz of Stephan Welz & Co. says, “You don’t say how large this artwork is, but I assume the size is approximately 25 x 60cm. While Oerder’s sketches don’t seem to be fetching as high a price as his works on canvas, the auction value of this piece would be R4 000–R6 000.”

LAST WORD ON STYLE

3 5 4

Nompumelelo MQWEBU This passionate Jo’burg chef and awardwinning cookbook writer shares some of her favourite things

ccomplished chef Nompumelelo Mqwebu recently received the national award for the South African region in the First Book and Self Published categories at The Gourmand World Cookbook Awards. Now, Nompumelelo’s African inspired cookbook, Through The Eyes Of An African Chef, will compete in these same categories for the Best in the World awards to be announced in May 2018. The latest in a long line of achievements, Nompumelelo’s success is based on her love of food and cooking. She’s travelled the world to hone her skills, yet her roots remain firmly planted

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in Africa. “Growing up in Durban in a family of talented cooks and business people, my love of cooking was instilled at an early age,” she says. Former head chef at Zimbali Lodge, she shares this passion through her work as a food writer, founder of the Mzansi International Culinary Festival, owner of Africa Meets Europe Cuisine and coowner of Kumyoli Culinary Experiences based in Dunkeld Manor, Jo’burg. Her cookbook includes indigenous recipes that reflect her love for organic ingredients and simple, tasty African food from Amadumbe Salad, served with home-made pesto to Samp Risotto and Chamolia (African Kale) in peanut

sauce. Her recipes incorporate tried and tested techniques, passed down through the family. “My mission is to shine an international spotlight on South Africa’s culinary history and potential.” SOURCES Culinary Equipment Company culinary.co.za Dansko shoeworks.co.za Dolce & Gabbana dolcegabbana.com Global Knives globalknives.co.za ISI isi.com Nompumelelo Mqwebu info@africameetseurope.co.za Thabo Makhetha thabomakhetha.com Through The Eyes Of An African Chef is available at leading book stores or online at publisher.co.za/product/ through-the-eyes-of-an-african-chef

TEXT CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPHS PETER WHITFIELD AND SUPPLIED

1 LOCAL ARTIST SINGER/ SONGWRITER ZOE MODIGA She draws you in with her beautiful, powerful voice and always gives a stellar performance. 2 LAMU TOWN, KENYA It offers a buffet of history and culture and has a unique Swahili heritage. 3 GLOBAL CHEF’S KNIFE This was a Christmas gift in 2012 and I don’t let anyone else touch it. 4 DOLCE & GABBANA 3 I love the way it’s fruity-floral yet fresh and settles to a beautiful nonintrusive scent. 5 THROUGH THE EYES OF AN AFRICAN CHEF I know it’s my book, but writing it allowed me to pursue my love of cooking and share the wonderful traditions of SA food. 6 ISI GOURMET WHIPPING SIPHON from Culinary Equipment Company. I fell in love with it when I used it to make my favourite amadumbe dish. 7 KOBO SHORT CAPE by local designer Thabo Makhetha. She’s innovative and her designs are cutting-edge and creative. 8 DANSKO CLOGS As a chef, I stand for hours in these shoes and my feet are so grateful.

These are safety devices WARNING: Which one can you trust? These are typical miniature circuit breakers (MCBs), very similar in appearance. They are installed in your distribution board. Their purpose is to protect you and your assets from faults in your electrical system. Faults can and do result in fires, destruction of possessions, injury and death. But one of them WILL NOT COMPLY with safety regulations and will not do the job.

ALL OVER SOUTH AFRICA THERE ARE MILLIONS OF UNSAFE ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS ON OFFER & IN USE.

WHAT TO DO?

• Be critical of a suspect installation or a Certificate of Compliance (COC)

• Buy from reputable distributors and outlets. • Beware of copies of prominent brands.

that is issued too easily.

• Be suspicious of prices lower than for other, similar products/services.

• Ask the supplier to prove compliance with regulations.

• Be suspicious of lack of information on or with the product packaging.

• Look for certification marks such as SABS, VDE and UL. (Note that the

• Ask the supplier for references to other users – and contact them.

SABS mark is not necessarily a substitute for the LOA).

• When dealing with an electrical contractor, ask for proof of registration and about its membership of the ECA (Electrical Contractors Association). Call the ECA in your region to check credentials.

• Beware of fraudulent use of well-known certification emblems, such as the SABS mark. • A “CE” mark is not proof of independent testing and not necessarily proof of conformity.

SAFEhouse members have signed a code of conduct: Your assurance of commitment to offer only safe electrical products and services. SAFEhouse membership is suppliers’ assurance to customers of responsible behaviour and of customers’ safety as a priority. SAFEhouse members regulate themselves. SAFEhouse is primarily a communications association that informs customers of safety requirements and occurrences of non-compliance with such requirements.

The SAFEhouse Association is a non-profit, industry organisation committed to the fight against sub-standard, unsafe electrical products and services.

As at 14/03/2018

For more information contact: Barry O’Leary: Tel: 011 396 8251 | Email: barry.oleary@safehousesa.co.za Pierre Nothard: Tel: 011 396 8140 | Email: pierren@safehousesa.co.za