35 minute read
WICKEDLY GOOD
from The Ridge 121
Wicked Donuts are just as deliciously wicked as the name suggests, with a range of American-style donuts made from scratch in a four-hour process. The deep-fried dollops of dough are then iced or filled with an array of toppings that will leave you spoilt for choice. From ring donuts, to filled donuts, and mini love bites – ideal for just a taste – they’re all soft, fluffy and moreish.
A trademark of the business is constant innovation, and one of the first concepts that put them on the map was their letter-shaped donuts which allow you to spell out a message – hugely popular as a unique gift for any celebration. “These are our most popular product,” says owner Jeanne Brooks, who loves nothing better than seeing pictures of people enjoying the donuts. “I love how my business allows me to express my creativity,” she adds.
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A good example of this
LOVE DONUTS? THEN TAKE YOUR PICK OF HANDCRAFTED YUMMY TREATS MADE WITH PASSION AND PERFECTION FOR AN EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER, WRITES CANDICE BOTHA
creativity is their recent bespoke collaboration with local fine-dining restaurants which resulted in customers clamouring for a taste of the limited edition treats – including The Chefs’ Table’s Spiced Pumpkin, Blond Chocolate, Salted Caramel and Wafer, Summerhill Estate’s Cherry Bomb, and Cafe 1999’s Wicked Unicorn filled with rainbow custard, which were available for one week only.
Following on from the success of these limited editions, Wicked Donuts is currently producing a limited Taste of the World series which kicked off with a Cereal and Milk donut inspired by New York City, and will see India and Thailand starting too. “Although we have all mostly been stuck at home during lockdown, our wanderlust is stronger than ever,” says Jeanne, “and we’re pushing back at 2020 and finishing strong, with some of the wickedest treats we have ever put on our shelves!”
Wicked Donuts are available in several KwikSpar stores as
ABOVE: Jeanne Brooks, owner of Wicked Donuts, with some of her sweet success treats.
well as from their four outlets in Durban North, Florida Road and The Pavillion. You can choose from a variety of single donuts or buy a ready-packaged box containing flavours as diverse as Caramel Sutra, Dulce de Leche, Lemon Meringue Pie, Blueberry Muffin and Peppermint Crisp, as well as the traditional Vanilla glazed.* FOR MORE INFO Order online from wickeddonuts.co.za
Dr Parushinee Naidoo, founder of Skin Solutions uMhlanga, says that chemical skin peels are one of the most requested treatments at her aesthetic clinic. South African skins are extremely prone to sun damage which presents as pigmentation, dehydration and premature aging of the skin. Chemical peels form part of the core protocol in treating these concerns. Dr Naidoo answers some common questions regarding skin peels.
What are chemical skin peels? A chemical peel is a procedure in which a concentrated exfoliant solution is applied to the skin. The peel resurfaces the skin by inducing a controlled reaction, thus removing superficial layers of the skin. The result? A smoother, healthier skin.
What are the different types of chemical
peels? Superficial – mild acids that gently exfoliate, penetrating only the outermost layer of the skin. Medium – reaching the middle and outer layers of the skin, making it more effective at removing damaged skin cells.
Reveal a healthier SKIN
DR NAIDOO SHARES EXPERT ADVICE ON THE LAYERS BEHIND CHEMICAL PEELS
Deep – these fully penetrate the middle layer of the skin, have significant downtime, and cannot be used on all skin types. Although recovery time may be longer, results tend to be more dramatic and longer lasting.
What conditions can be treated with skin
peels? Common conditions include signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. Peels help reduce pigmentation such as age spots, brown patches (melasma) and pigmentation caused by acne scarring. Regular peels improve the skin texture, reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, and repair the skin barrier. Chemical peels can also be used on the body to improve the appearance of stretch marks and body scars.
How will I know which peel to consider?
All skin types respond to peels. It is best to consult with your aesthetic practitioner to discuss your skin concerns, assess your skin and then make a recommendation. Skin type and ethnicity is paramount in selecting the correct peel to achieve the desired results.
What to expect after a chemical peel?
Depending on the type of chemical peel, a reaction similar to mild sunburn can occur. With superficial peels there is usually associated redness followed by scaling skin for three to seven days, after which your skin will be smoother and brighter. Medium and deep peeling may result in swelling, significant redness and initial darkening of the skin, and generally heal within seven to 14 days.
“Chemical peels form an important part of maintaining a healthy skin. They are affordable procedures and significant results can be achieved,” says Dr Naidoo, stressing that chemical peels are safe when performed correctly and by a trained skin care practitioner. At Skin Solutions chemical peels are performed as a standalone procedure or combined with adjunct treatments such as the Oxygen facial and micro-needling to enhance results. The longterm results of skin peels include brighter, more even toned skin with improved texture.
FOR MORE INFO 066 241 2161/031 001 0877; drp@ skinsolutionssa.co.za; www.skinsolutionssa.co.za
031 001 0877 drp@skinsolutionssa.co.za
0 CW drnaidoo.skinsolutions drnaidoo.skinsolutions @ www.skinsolutionssa.co.za ® Shop 4 A, Ground Floor, The Boulevard, 19 Park Lane, www.skinsolutionssa.co.za Shop 4 A, Ground Floor, The Boulevard, 19 Park Lane, Umhlanga J
Umhlanga DR NAIDOO SKIN SOLUTIONS
Let me begin this ode to the art of the braai with the following all-inclusive disclaimer: You, yes you, are in fact the one and only legendary braai guru of all time. Dudes and dudettes, each one of us has wielded the tongs of dominion at the tended fire around which both our greatest memories were forged and our boldest dreams announced. Hooch in hand, wisdom at the ready, we’ve crossed the blazing threshold into the mythical realm of braai Valhalla as we’ve shown all kinds of meat exactly who’s boss.
I wouldn’t dare tell anyone how to braai. Instead, I offer you 10 important what notto-dos at your next, probably imminent, gathering. Don’t overdo the firelighters. Instead invest in a charcoal chimney and use just one firelighter for the best braai kick-start. Set the griddle over the fire at its hottest, and after a minute or two, rub down with either half a lemon or half an onion on a braai fork for a good clean start. Don’t add the meat too soon – or too late. A simple visual cue for charcoal braais that the fire is ready, is that there are no flames and the coal is completely grey with no visible black areas. For all braais – hold your hand over the grill. If you can keep your hand there for five seconds (red meat), seven seconds (boerewors) or
Rock the BRAAI
WITH SUMMER HERE, BRING FRIENDS TOGETHER AND IMPRESS THEM WITH YOUR “BRAAI MASTER” SKILLS. ANT ELLIS SHARES HIS TOP 10 BRAAI TIPS TO SUCCESS
10 seconds (chicken breasts or kebabs), you’re good to go. Don’t cook chicken on the bone on a braai, except to finish – and this is a big deal. Avoid the burnt outside and gummy inside by cooking in the oven at 170º for an hour first, then flame-grilling while basting over the fire at the end. That’s how the world’s favourite peri-peri chicken brand does it. Don’t scorch everything over an even bed of brimstone. Try two-phase or two-zone cooking by keeping the heat over to one side of the braai and moving the meat to the less-hot zone as necessary. Never, ever buy sausage that is just called wors. There’s a 100% chance you wouldn’t eat what’s in that
ABOVE: Durban lover of good food, Ant Ellis. Talk to me at ant@rockthekitchen.co.za
under any circumstances. Don’t use vegetables cut too thin. If you’re braaiing kebabs with veg segments, make sure they’re robust and chunky so they add flavour and don’t fall off and through the grill. Don’t forget the bread. Any bread. Loaves, toasties, or my personal favourite, Texas-style – thick sliced white, buttered on both sides. Make your own marinades – homemade is far better than bought. Most importantly: Never undermine the sides and salads – and those who prepared them. You may be able to Gordon Ramsay your way around the grill, but your beloved better half or various guests’ contributions should not be diminished. Ever.
You know how to cook the meat, so here are some rocking recipes for the next time you’re getting your flame on. And don’t forget dessert.
Simple Steak Marinade
This quick and tasty recipe simply requires throwing everything in a bowl and a thorough mix. Marinate for a couple of hours in the fridge, then add to a zipper-top bag with your steak for a cracking sweet and savoury flavour. It’s great for chicken and boerewors, too. • 50ml balsamic vinegar • 75ml Worcestershire sauce • 50ml soy sauce • 75ml olive oil • 2 tbsp honey • 1 tbsp mustard • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tsp black pepper
Candied Cashew, Blue Cheese & Nectarine Salad
Lay a bed of crisp lettuce on a platter. Generously add paper thin slices of red onion and ripe nectarine, and crumble Blue cheese over. To candy the nuts, add a cup of unsalted cashews and half a cup of sugar to a hot pan. Keep the contents of the pan moving as the nuts toast and sugar melts. When the nuts are coated in the caramel, scrape out on to wax paper well-coated with cooking spray, allow to cool and harden, then bust up and add to salad. Serve with a citrus vinaigrette made of 4 tablespoons each of olive oil, apple cider vinegar and freshly squeezed orange or grapefruit juice, a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, a pinch each of salt, pepper and oregano, and a teaspoon of honey.
Until next time, raise those tongs (and beers) to the sky in glorious victory – and help with the cleaning up. *
Africa’s Largest Selection of Patio Furniture & Accessories
Pattern PLAY
COMBINING CONTRASTING PATTERNS IS A CONTEMPORARY WAY TO ADD INTEREST TO YOUR DECOR. CANDICE BOTHA ASKED LOCAL DECORATORS FOR THEIR TOP TIPS FOR MAKING PATTERNS WORK TOGETHER
1Combining patterns is a simple way to add interest and personality to a room. In this living room, Tarryn Hendra of calla&taia has used a patterned rug and scatters to instantly refresh a tired room. The tribal print and geometric patterned cushions on the sofa work in harmony with the abstract rug by keeping to a neutral palette. “Choosing similar tones is key when making several patterns work together – the prints may contrast
but the colours are complementary,” she notes. Picture: Olivia Rebecca Photography
2“Working with pattern combinations is probably my favourite part of any project,” says Kirsty Badenhorst of Kirsty Badenhorst Interiors. “I get to really express my creativity through textures, styles and tones of patterns.” For this master bedroom, Kirsty has created a luxurious feel by pairing a whimsical wallpaper with rough textured marble on the wall around the fireplace. “It is an interesting combination that is enhanced by the contrast between the soft velvets and structured pattern on the scatters which also echoes the feel of the wall feature and brings the space together.” Picture: Courtney Dale Photography
3In this formal lounge, Kirsty has warmed up a muted colour palette with a pop of gold. “I went for a soft watercolour-like wallpaper, paired with a strong patterned velvet with darker tones to anchor the space,” she says. “The lighter tones are incorporated with the linen feel and embroidered design of the geometric which brightens up the space. »
People tend to think that neutrals can be boring, however when you create a striking combination of texture, complementary tones, and incorporate interesting patterns, they can be just as appealing as colour.” Picture: Courtney Dale Photography The rug is a large-scale floral, the cushion is medium, and the buttoning on the headboard is small. “The varied scales make this space look contemporary rather than cluttered, which tends to be the case when every element is in a similar scale of print,” she says. “When choosing the location of your patterns, keep in mind that a large pattern works best on a large item – like the rug here – because the space is large enough to accommodate the pattern in its entirety.” The faux fur throw at the bottom of the bed adds another element of interest with its texture without competing with any of the patterns.
5Incorporating pattern via natural materials, as Tracy has done in this dining-room, is a modern take on luxury. “It is essential to distribute patterns evenly throughout a room,” she says. Adding the pattern to the server balances out the busy marble wall and dining table on the other side of the room.
6In this bedroom, Amy Mitchell of Studio Mitchell has chosen a patterned wallpaper as the starting point in the room. “The 60/30/10 approach has worked well here,” she says. “The wallpaper accounts for 60% of the pattern in the room, the pattern on the curtain for 30%, and the final 10% comes from the floral cushion as an accent.” As a bedroom should be relatively tranquil, Amy has included several elements in plain fabrics to balance out the patterns. “The plain yellow headboard and white linen give the eye somewhere to rest, keeping the look calm.” Picking up touches of yellow and stone in the cushion and repeating them in the headboard and wallpaper creates some depth and connects the FOR MORE INFO CALLA&TAIA INTERIOR DESIGN: hello@callaandtaia.com KIRSTY BADENHORST INTERIORS: kbinteriors.co.za REFRESHED DESIGNS: refresheddesigns.co.za STUDIO MITCHELL: studiomitchell.co.za
4In this bedroom, Tracy Joubert of Refreshed Designs has varied the scale of the patterns. scatter with the other patterns in the room. *
It’s that time of year again. After a stressful year of lockdown, we all deserve a break. It is, however, very important to ensure our pets are well looked after during the holidays. Here are some handy tips to make sure your pets have the best care while you are away. Boarding arrangements
If you are going away and will not be able to take your pets with you, now is the time to book a place in a kennel or cattery. •Do your due diligence and take your pets to places recommended by your vet. •Ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date – especially for Kennel Cough – since this can be transferred very quickly in a kennel environment, and most reputable kennels will not allow your pet to come stay without this vaccination having been done.
Finding a great house-sitter is also a viable option. I must encourage you, though, to do your research first. •Interview the person and see how they react around your pets. •Always introduce your pets to the person who will be taking care of them. • Familiarise the sitter with any special medical and dietary needs your pet may have. •Leave the sitter with your vet’s number and an emergency family contact.
Holidays and your PETS
GOING AWAY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON? THEN DON’T FORGET YOUR PET, SAYS DR KARIEN BRINK, RESIDENT ULTRA PET VETERINARIAN
Travelling with your pets
If you take your pets with you on holiday, please take them for their annual visit to the veterinarian beforehand. You want to ensure your pet is healthy, and it is also an ideal opportunity to discuss needs your pet may have during the trip. Some issues you may wish to discuss are: •Motion sickness medication for the car ride. •Anxiolytic medications if they will be around noisy New Year celebrations. •Collecting emergency medication such as antibacterial treatment for wounds, antihistamines, anti-nausea meds and pain medication.
Dr Karien Brink qualified from the Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria in 2010. She worked at Valley Farm Animal Hospital from 2011-2019, before she joined RCL FOODS. She has a special interest in animal behaviour and dermatology, and is passionate about nutritional advice and preventative health care for pets. Drop her a message at www.ultra-pet.co.za/dr-karienscorner/ if you have any questions.
Make sure your pet is micro-chipped – you don’t want to potentially ruin your holiday because your pet got lost.
Internal and external parasite control is important; stock up on deworming meds and tick and flea control products.
And finally, do some research on your holiday destination as follows: •In case of emergency, Google which vets are close by and save their details on your phone. •Have a copy of your pet’s medical records with you, so your holiday veterinarian will be well informed of your pet’s medical history.
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How green is your LIFE?
MOVING TOWARDS A MORE SUSTAINABLE WAY OF LIVING IS NOT
AS DIFFICULT AS YOU MAY THINK,
WRITES KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN
Going green is all and products you choose to about pursuing support, buy and use. There knowledge and are many ways you, as a practices that consumer, can go greener at can lead to home and in your personal life more environmentally friendly – doing your bit to reduce the and ecologically responsible carbon footprint. Be conscious decisions and lifestyles, of what you buy and how which can help protect the much you buy. Ask yourself: environment and sustain its Is it eco-friendly? Is it locally natural resources for current made? Do I really need it? and future generations. We have rounded up a few
A green lifestyle focuses fabulous local and Proudly on reducing, reusing and South African options for you – recycling whenever possible, because every little bit you and includes the initiatives do counts.
Made from 100% South African post-consumer waste, these bags remain entirely local throughout their manufacturing process. Low cost, versatility, durability, high strengthweight ratio and limitless and immediate designs, make Virobag a highly feasible alternative packaging option for both big retailers and smaller independent brands. www.virobag.co.za
Green Office, wanting to “close the loop” on their waste, has designed a unique portable
laptop stand made from cartridge plastic waste. The Eezigo is not only sustainable, eco-friendly and manufactured locally, but also ergonomic, portable, convenient and compact. It’s the ideal corporate Christmas gift, with bespoke branding available. www.valfyproducts.com
A pioneering, clean and conscious range make-up, Lula Fox is ecolux – eco because it is not tested on animals and is made from natural, organic and non-toxic ingredients; lux
because it is on a par with professional and mainstream make-up ranges with regards to performance and colour payoff. The proudly South African brand offers an inclusive shade spectrum covering all skin tones, and are at the forefront of international trends. www.lulafox.life
The South African designedand-manufactured YOLO Compost Tumblers are ideal for organic kitchen waste as they are rat, dog, monkey and pest proof. Free-standing or wall-mounted, they come in three sizes, take little space and are odour-free. By composting, less volume is produced for trash collection, and rich compost dug directly into the garden puts valuable nutrients back into the soil. www.yolocolours.co.za Moontree's Facefood is 100% organic and suitable for all skin types. It is cellular regenerative, collagen supporting, reduces wrinkles, improves skin tone and deeply hydrates and nourishes. Boasting the most incredible ingredients to feed your face – such as mafura butter, shea butter, sweet orange oil and lemongrass oil – it’s also rich in antioxidants, Vitamin A and E. Understanding that your skin is your largest organ in your body and absorbs what you apply to it, you will want to try this out. www.moontree.co.za
Did you know that the fashion industry is the world’s second biggest polluter? Excess production, mismanaged waste and fast fashion can be avoided by
opting for preloved. Chic Mamas Do Care Durban raises funds to support early childhood development projects in our neighbouring communities – promoting conscious, sustainable thrift shopping through the sale of donated quality clothing, handbags, shoes and accessories. Pop into their Westville retail store, where it’s easy to go green without compromising on fabulous fashion or skimping on style. www.chicmamasdocaredurban.co.za The Nu-Eco range of cleaning products has plantderived ingredients that work to clean your home through the inclusion of powerful botanical extracts that are not only highly effective, but burst with the delicious fragrance of essential oils. Creating awareness about the importance of using products that are watercourse safe and biodegradable, NuEco’s 100% natural products are lovingly manufactured in a small local factory in Hillcrest. www.nu-eco.co-za *
Re-Discover Durban Summer 20
CREATING NEW MEMORIES
RE-DISCOVER DURBAN THIS SUMMER TO CREATE NEW MEMORIES IN A UNIQUELY VIBRANT SUMMER SEASON. EXPERIENCE DURBAN LIKE NEVER BEFORE!
Explore the sprawling coastline, buzzing restaurants, magnificent outdoors, a heritage rich in culture and so much more. Durban has plenty on offer to create new and lasting memories for you and your loved ones.
Feel the pulsating energy that moves from Umlazi across Durban to the drumbeats of Inanda, Clermont and many other townships that offer a full Durban experience. Re-discover a crisp ocean breeze, year-long sunshine that takes you from Durban’s Golden Mile promenade
to the urban cosmopolitan beats of downtown uMhlanga.
This summer Durban has packaged an all-inclusive selection of products and experiences that will cater for all tastes and expectations, accommodating the whole family.
DURBAN’S TOURISM HOTSPOTS Unique culinary experiences suitable for every palate, world-class shopping and a pulsating nightlife. For a complete Durban experience, make sure you visit at least one of these: • Florida Road in Morningside • Station Drive in Umgeni Road • Inanda Heritage Route • The Valley of 1000 Hills • Umhlanga Arch • Davenport in Glenwood • Ushaka Marine World theme park • Mackeurtan Ave in Durban North • Chartwell Drive in uMhlanga • The Sapphire Coast
Take a HIKE
HIKING IS GOOD FOR YOU – YOU’RE EXERCISING, OUT IN THE FRESH AIR, AND TAKING IN THE SURROUNDING BEAUTY. BUT IT’S ALSO A GOOD IDEA TO HAVE THE IDEAL BACKPACK ALONG AS YOUR BEST FRIEND
With summer fast approaching, now’s the padding on the back panel, shoulder straps and hip belt strap. best time to explore and enjoy one of the The Thule AllTrail collection is a must for a day hike, offering a amazing hiking trails right on our doorstep. singular pack for all your hiking needs. An adjustable torso fit is It’s also the perfect way to spend time with built into the back panel, and combined with breathable shoulder your family with not a screen or digital straps, hip belt padding and back panel, even the toughest day device in sight. Whether you’re hiking hike is super comfortable. All your for the first time or are an old pro at gear is within reach thanks to the easy it – here are some tips on choosing a access side zippers and front shovehiking backpack and hiking essentials it pocket; hydration sleeve frees up that are a must. space for other essentials like keys
Three things to look for when and snacks; and there’s an integrated buying a hiking backpack are: rain cover. This versatile all-rounder A hiking backpack needs to is available for men and women and distribute weight evenly. The comes in various sizes. most important factor to keep in mind For something more lightweight, is comfort. No matter how many the Thule Stir range of hiking backpacks cool features it has, if the bag does offer a simple, clean design, quick not sit comfortably on your back and access via the top zippered mesh shoulders, then it is not the right hiking pocket, and über organisation for all bag for you. your items. To be more streamlined, The size of the backpack is all remove the sternum strap and hip belt; important – decide if you’d prefer a side pockets expand to stash water bag that is wider and shorter or longer bottles and other essentials; weather and thinner. Obviously a bag that isn’t resistant coated nylon fabric and massive is first prize, but think about breathable back panel and shoulder the duration of your hikes and how straps help you to stay cool. Comes in much you need to take with you for a different sizes for men and women. short hike (snacks and water) versus For the ultimate in comfort, opt for a full-day hike (light lunch, water, the Thule Capstone collection. The additional clothes). Internal storage is an important Hiking tensioned mesh back panel provides unparalleled factor, and is the difference between having enough essentials breathability keeping you cool on your trail; the room or potentially having to take multiple bags. high-visibility rain cover keeps your gear dry during The key to a comfortable backpack is a Comfortable shoes and socks (and a few plasters). storms; a customised hip belt is compatible with balanced load. Too little padding will not protect your A hat and sunscreen. interchangeable VersaClick accessories (sold body from the strains of weight and can cause painful Water and snacks or separately); there are a host of pockets – on the chafing. Similarly, too much padding will cause awkward a light lunch. Flint/matches and top and the side – to store loads of things; gear can and uncomfortable pressure against your body, which a warm jacket. be lashed to the front of the pack using the durable may lead to soreness, or standing in a strange way A Thule hiking backpack buttonhole webbing. Comes in different sizes for to ease the pressure. A decent backpack should have and accessories. men and women. *
More fun for LESS
SPORTY, FRESH AND FOREVER YOUTHFUL, A
NEW STAR HAS BEEN BORN
THAT’S SURE TO BRIGHTEN YOUR ROAD AHEAD
Smart, seductive and simply stunning! Experience a refreshing breath of modernism with a dash of youthfulness and a sporty panache. Yes, we’re talking about the all-new Toyota Starlet.
Replacing the enigmatic Etios which has been discontinued, the Starlet flaunts more power, more spaciousness, more modern tech – and the best news of all, retails for just a fraction more than the Etios. Although a newcomer to South Africa, the Starlet is staying true to the ethos of being a compact, efficient and value-focused affordable vehicle.
The Toyota Starlet debuts into the highlycontested B-segment aimed at attracting the younger demographic – the budget-conscious, first-time car buyer, students and young married couples. Boasting an economical 1,4-litre petrol engine, gorgeous exterior design, a modern and ergonomical interior, and an incredible infotainment system including Toyota Connect, Android Auto and CarPlay, the Starlet is sure to become an affordable favourite.
Available in either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, the 1,4-litre petrol DOHC four-cylinder engine features Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and a tumbleflow intake manifold to produce a healthy 68kW of power. Enough for long-distance trips and perfect for city and campus commutes.
All Starlet models are equipped with the Toyota Connect telematics system which includes an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary 15GB data. Customers can utilise this feature to manage their vehicle via the MyToyota App allowing on-demand service bookings, vehicle information and history, tracking data, as well as Toyota Connect data recharge services and much more.
As expected, uncompromised safety is paramount and all Starlet models include active electronic safety and security aids like ABS, EBD, Brake Assist (BA) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Automatic Starlet models include Hill Assist Control (HAC).
All Starlet models come with a standard three services @ 15 000km intervals until 45 000km. A three-year/100 000km warranty
CMH Toyota Umhlanga - Ridge Design Brief Form.pdf 1 2020/10/20 13:00:53
plan is also provided. The Toyota Starlet is quite simply the most sensible choice in your search for “more vehicle for less spend!” Test drive and #MakeSpaceForFun!
Available in the following models: Starlet 1,4 Xi MT – R204 900; Starlet 1,4 Xs MT – R215 200; Starlet 1,4 Xs AT – R235 700; Starlet 1,4 Xr MT – R258 500; Starlet 1,4 Xr AT – R272 500. *
FOR MORE INFO Visit CMH Toyota uMhlanga, 1 Wilton Crescent, uMhlanga Ridge; 031 580 4000; #ToyotaNUR #CMHGroup #StaySafe #Starlet #LeadTheWay
Watch this SPACE
WITH OFFICES STANDING EMPTY AND HOMES BEING ADAPTED TO WORK REMOTELY, GARETH BAILEY CONSIDERS HOW OUR FUTURE WORK ENVIRONMENT IS INFLUENCING PROPERTY DECISIONS
With the arrival of Covid-19, a real life, remote working experiment has been put to the test. And while it has had its challenges – such as the loss of control and a sense of disconnection amongst peers – it has also opened our eyes to the potential of employees working effectively from home, supported by smart IT platforms. What businesses previously thought was impossible, has, in fact, proven possible.
During lockdown, we had no option but to accept the remote working arrangement, but now that it has become a choice, it will be interesting to see the extent to which businesses opt to reduce their fixed rental overheads and adopt this method of working, versus returning to the physical office space as before. According to a recent KPMG CEO Outlook report, in which 315 global corporate CEOs participated in a survey, 68% indicated they plan to reduce their company’s office space.
Clearly, the degree to which remote working is embraced, will have a direct impact on the demand for commercial office space and therefore on commercial property. However, the effect may not be limited
ABOVE: Gareth Bailey, Pam Golding Properties.
to commercial, but may also have a knock-on effect on other property types.
In a September Property Insights report, John Loos, a property strategist with FNB Property Finance, identified some key considerations around the impacts of the remote working trend.
For example, if businesses permit remote working arrangements in the future, will it still be necessary for people to live as close to their workplaces, or could they live further away in order to take advantage of the relative space, environment and healthy lifestyle benefits of suburban living? The appeal of this option may be further enhanced if traffic is reduced by the remote working trend, making it even easier to commute to the office for the occasional meeting.
The lure of more spacious living has increased during lockdown. If we are going to
Picture: www.freepik.com spend more time at home in the future, then our homes will become more important in determining our quality of life, and it is likely we will see people seeking more spacious homes with suitable workspaces and access to health and well-being activities on their doorstep.
This trend of living further away from work could also translate into an increase in “semigration”, where business people seek to move away from the stress of first-tier
cities, relocating to the more relaxed lifestyle offered by second-tier cities and towns. While the weaker economy may act as an inhibiting factor, the more affluent may take advantage of this remote working phenomenon to reside in Durban or Cape Town and commute by plane to Gauteng for work from time to time.
A drawback of this is that unexpected, in-person interactions are limited, and meetings need to be more formally scheduled in advance. This may result in people rather opting to live away from the workplace – but still within the same metro – as an alternative to city hopping.
What does this mean for high-density residential living near major business nodes? If
it is practical and preferable for people to live outside of the city, then it is possible that demand for high-density accommodation – usually popular due to workplace proximity – may experience a softening demand.
Furthermore, as owners of office blocks seek to occupy their buildings, they may creatively convert them into high-density residential apartments, further weakening the demand and supply equation of residential blocks in metro areas. Either way, it is likely that affordable residential units will remain in demand, but we will have to wait and see what happens with higher-end, high-density apartments in these locations.
Finally, it goes without saying that hospitality and conferencing property has been and will be affected by the remote working phenomenon. While leisure tourism demand is likely to recover, businesses will opt to conference remotely in the short term, driven by health concerns, and potentially in the longer term by proven cost savings.
Cleary the remote working trend has had a profound impact on commercial property with knock-on effects on the residential property market. With so many unknowns currently, we will have to wait and see whether we truly are creatures of habit, or whether the Covid-19 interlude has an enduring effect on how we use property at work, and at home. *
Durban North office · 031 573 6000 Umhlanga office · 031 561 5300 Umdloti office · 031 568 1299
Durban North / R12.5 million
Ref# 1ND1497257
Bedrooms 6 / Bathrooms 6 / Parkings 3 / Situated in sought after Upper Durban North, on a private pan handle site of 2329 sqm, this lovely home opens onto an expansive undercover patio and pool.
Stella Simes 084 556 5842
Umhlanga Rocks / R17.5 million
Ref# 1ND14504514
Bedrooms 4 / Bathrooms 3 / Parkings 6 / Spectacular penthouse with stunning sea views in prime position. Walk across the road to the beach and promenade. Perfectly designed for the discerning buyer.
Ellmarie Spencer 083 256 4381
Sunningdale / R3.5 million Ref# 1ND1497070 Bedrooms 4 / Bathrooms 3 / Parkings 2 / This home is perched high up in Sunningdale and offers spectacular sunsets over the hills. The finishes are top-drawer and very tasteful. Sharon Westcott 083 270 0478
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Let me tell you a STORY
RE-CONNECTING WITH FRIENDS SHOULD BE ABOUT CONNECTING WITH FRIENDS – NOT GOOGLING, WRITES DARREL BRISTOW-BOVEY
My partner wants to host a outrageous lies to win arguments.” dinner party. I don’t know “That is not true!” I thundered. “Actually why – dinner parties I have been diagnosed with Wallenheiser’s are just like restaurants, Syndrome, a condition by which a person except the food’s not so acts grumpy but on the inside is warm and good and you have to pay for everything sensitive and longs for intimacy.” and clean up afterwards, plus you can’t “Wallenheiser’s Syndrome, eh?” she eavesdrop on strangers at the next table. said, reaching for her phone. “Let me just
“It’s summer,” she said. “We can eat look that up.” outside and re-connect with people we “You see! This is the problem! No trust haven’t seen in months!”
Personally, I think that not seeing people has been one of the upsides of this year, but I’m trying not to be so obstructive. I don’t want to end up a cantankerous old man – it’s bad enough that I’ve already been a cantankerous young man and a cantankerous middle-aged man.
“Fine,” I said. “We can have a dinner party.”
“Yay!”
“With the usual condition.” The usual condition is that we find a way to block the internet from our house.
“Why must you be like this?” my partner demanded.
“Because I believe in the age-old art of conversation,” I told her sternly. “I miss the days when human beings sat face to face any more! No simple art of conversation! and had conversations without someone And anyway, you’re wrong. I don’t make up hunching over their phone to Google when things just to win arguments. I also like to that happened or what movie she was in tell good stories.” or the capital of Equatorial Guinea. I crave “Remember the time you tried to claim human contact!” your great-great-uncle Adam had an element
“That’s a lie,” she said. “You do not crave of the periodic table named after him?” human contact. In fact you go to great “I thought adamantine was a real element.” lengths to avoid it, and the reason you don’t “Wolverine’s claws are made out of want people accessing the internet is so adamantine. He’s a cartoon character.” that no one can prove you’re making up “And no one would have known that if it wasn’t for Google! It was a good story!”
I remember my dad at the dinner table, telling terrific stories of how he was once Roger Moore’s stunt double in Gibraltar, or how long it took him to walk from Kilimanjaro to Cairo. His eyes would sparkle and his voice would rise and fall and I loved to listen, even when I’d heard the story many times before.
He was a grand storyteller, and he made evenings more fun and enhanced the lives of those lucky enough to hear him. I’m not sure how much anyone believed his stories, but at least he could tell them without some sour-faced sneak Googling beneath the table, all ready to smarmily say, “Are you sure that’s what happened? Because according to Google, Roger Moore has never set foot in Gibraltar due to his allergy to Barbary macaques.”
Evenings with friends are opportunities
to entertain each other, to show them parts of our personalities they may not see in the humdrum everyday. There’s more to us than what really happened: there’s also our dreams, and the things we hope will entertain those near to us.
“I don’t know where I can find a machine that will block the internet,” my partner said, sighing.
“Ah well,” I said, reaching for the remote control. “Maybe next year.” *
