Camps Bay. Architect: GSQUARED Architects. Photo: Niel Vosloo Oliato Living Brushed Greymist with WOCA Denmark UV Oil. 15/4 x 220 x 2200
...oak flooring in beautiful spaces. Cape Town: 021 510 2846 | Paarden Eiland Johannesburg: 011 262 3117 | Parkhurst Durban: 031 000 1000 | Umhlanga nick@oggie.co.za www.oggieflooring.com
CONTENTS november
INSIDER 8
11
16
18 2
FROM THE EDITOR It is not
enough to just love local – you need to embrace it in your home. This issue, we celebrate the creativity of South Africa and the continent, says Editor-in-Chief Piet Smedy INSIDER Led by urbanist, curator and publisher Zahira Asmal, Cultivate is a wine merchant and bar spearheading the Blackwinemaker movement in Cape Town and beyond SHOPPING From natural materials and handmade pieces to palm prints and kitsch ceramics, it is time to reap the feel-good rewards of tropical design ARTISAN Artist and language HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
22
activist Athi-Patra Ruga and the team of SA creatives behind Victory of the Word are on a quest to save the 200-year-old Lovedale Press TRAVEL Set on the banks of the Makgadikgadi in Botswana, DumaTau is a safari escape that perfectly blends into its riverside environment without faltering on its luxury offering
DES I G N 29
36
45
52
STYLISH Few local ceramicists
have achieved the international recognition that Jan Ernst has. We meet the designer and discover the inspiration behind his highly collectable pieces PARTNERSHIP Ahead of the launch of its summer collection,
56
Coricraft has teamed up with House & Garden to bring you a first look at the new season’s drop and how to incorporate it into your home (or decorate from the ground up) for a modern, farmhouse style from a proudly South African design brand DESIGN SOLUTIONS With lockdowns eased up, it is time to start entertaining. This is how you do it in style SHOWROOM The top kitchen appliances – from kettles and toasters to coffee makers, juicers and mixers – that get the job done KNOW-HOW Loved by perfumers and gardeners alike, add these fragrant flowers to your outdoor spaces to create a heady, sensory experience
P H OTO G R A P H : CA R L A E R A S MU S
84
A summer state of mind The Sedgwick patio set, reimagined. Comfort you can customise, with buildable modular seating & cloud-like cushions.
R21 999 for a 4-piece configuration
www.coricraft.co.za
CONTENTS november
36
22 TH E E DIT
11
70
78 84
92
4
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
BLUE CRUSH Stephen Falcke
creates a rule-breaking penthouse interior, wrapped in geometric wallpaper, in Joburg’s new City Centre development, the luxury new address by Steyn City BEST DRESSED Reni Folawiyo opens the doors of her threestorey penthouse in Lagos to House & Garden. The home was designed Ghanaian-British architect Sir David Adjaye and undertaken by Cape Town-based firm SAOTA UNDER COVER A terraced Georgian house in London with a glamourous Mediterranean garden ROOM TO BREATHE Local interior designer Dylan Thomaz brings his signature earthy palette and plush style to a compact apartment SOFT LANDING Grounded in a love for organic materials and texture designer Yvonne O’Brien (the creative force behind The Private House Company), has appointed a chic, prêt-à-résider family home in Joburg’s Steyn City
ON THE COVER: Blue Crush p60. Photographed by Sarah de Pina.
S UB SCR IB E
To Condé Nast House & Garden and receive 8 ISSUES for only R390 0800 204 711 kznsubs@inl.co.za
P H O T O G R A P H S : M I C K Y H OY L E , S U P P L I E D
60
PIET SMEDY
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ART ART DIRECTOR THEA PHEIFFER GRAPHIC DESIGNER NOSIPHO NGQULA GRAPHIC DESIGNER ASANDA KUMBACA COPY SENIOR COPY EDITOR LISA ABDELLAH INTERIORS & GARDENS GARDENS EDITOR DECOR ASSISTANT
HEIDI BERTISH JANI ADELEY LANDMAN
EDITORIAL GROUP MANAGING AND LESLEY MATHYS SYNDICATION EDITOR MANAGING AND WALTER HAYWARD SYNDICATION EDITOR FEATURES SENIOR CONTENT PRODUCER SHANNON MANUEL CONTENT PRODUCER THOBEKA PHANYEKO CONTRIBUTING EDITORS MARNUS NIEUWOUDT FRANCHESCA WATSON KAREN NEWMAN CONTENT NATION MEDIA (PTY) LTD CEO MBUSO KHOZA HEAD OF FINANCE PAUL MYBURGH FINANCE CONTROLLER MARJORIE LOTTERIE ADVERTISING HEAD OF SALES AND MONETISATION TUMI MOATSHE ACCOUNT MANAGER ANNE ATKINSON (JHB) ACCOUNT MANAGER NADIA PEREIRA (CT) ACCOUNT MANAGER LARRIQUE-JOHN JACKSON (CT) AD LIAISON MANAGER NATASHA O’CONNOR (CT) SALES REPRESENTATIVE ITALY ANGELO CAREDDU (OBERON MEDIA) DIGITAL ACTING DIGITAL MANAGER (TECH) VINÉ LUCAS ACTING DIGITAL MANAGER (CONTENT) ARTHUR MUKHARI CONTENT PRODUCER FARAH KHALFE CONTENT PRODUCER AMY SAUNDERS CONTENT PRODUCER LUTHANDO VIKILAHLE BRAND PROPERTIES BRAND PROPERTIES MANAGER DESIREE KRIEL EVENTS EVENTS COORDINATOR LINDISWA PUTUMA PRODUCTION & CIRCULATION PRODUCTION MANAGER JEAN JACOBS PRODUCTION COORDINATOR CHARNÉ PHILLIPS CIRCULATIONS MANAGER FREDERICK SMIT CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR BERTINA ELLIS PERSONAL ASSISTANT / OFFICE MANAGER KAREN SHIELDS DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN DR IQBAL SURVÉ
GAAMIEN COLBIE AMINA MOODLEY
CAPE TOWN HEAD OFFICE Content Nation Media (Pty) Ltd 10th Floor, Convention Towers, Heerengracht Street, Cape Town, 8001 Tel 021 344 0500 www.houseandgarden.co.za REPRODUCTION Studio Repro PRINTING Novus Print Montague Gardens DISTRIBUTION Allied Publishing (Pty) Ltd, 32 Wepener Street, Booysens, Johannesburg 2016 s 0RODUCT -ANAGER 3ORAYA 0RETORIUS Tel 011 248 2418 (Direct) RESEARCH Publisher Research Council
SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES Tel 080 020 4711 / 031 308 2022 Email kznsubs@inl.co.za © 2020 Content Nation Media (Pty) Ltd. Copyright subsists in all work published in this magazine. Any reproduction or adaptation, in whole or in part, without the written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited and is an act of copyright infringement, which may, in certain circumstances, constitute a criminal offence. Manuscripts, drawings and other materials submitted must be accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope. However, Condé Nast House & Garden cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material. ISSNs 1028-9895
The paper used for this publication is a recyclable and renewable product. It has been produced using wood sourced from sustainably managed forests and elemental or total chlorine-free bleached pulp. The producing mills have third-party management systems in place, applying standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. This magazine can be recycled at your local recycling point. Log onto www.prasa.co.za to find your nearest sites.
L
WEB SIT E
Join the conversation @HouseGardenSA
Follow our daily posts houseandgarden.co.za
ately, I have been thinking about design a lot, even more so than usual which, for the editor-in-chief of a decor magazine, is saying something. Truth be told, I will be moving house soon and I currently find myself in the blissful – or perhaps, fanciful – headspace I call ‘imaginary decorating land’. It is a wonderful place where budgets do not exist, my floorplan (and wall space) is seemingly endless and my partner agrees with all my choices. The potential for domestic-design magic feels endless – it is marvellous! ‘ I m a g i n a r y decorating land’ is also where I have fallen in love with local design, all over again – a ridiculously welltimed enamourment, given the theme of this month’s issue (it is emblazed loud and proud across the cover, ICYMI). The thing, though, about bringing local design into your home (or, I recommend, filling it), more than the quality of craftsmanship, the ingenious creativity or the deft use of materials (all of which are absolutely present
TA B LE T
and accounted for) – it is the unique narrative each piece tells. It is not just a story, it is our story. Take the ceramics by the impossibly talented artisan Jan Ernst, whose work has, seemingly overnight, become the must-have in any home (I already have a spot reserved for the ‘Five Arms Four Legs’ candelabra). They draw inspiration from a nature that is indisputably South African; the near-alien landscape of the Cederberg. Or look at the spaces created by designers Stephen Falcke, Yvonne O’Brien and Dylan Thomaz – they speak a language we all understand, of a climate, a way of living familiar to us all. Even in Lagos, architecture firm SAOTA has created a home for luxury concept store Alára founder Reni Folawiyo that echoes African character. Although each moment is unique, and each designer or maker is different, the vocabulary is the same: it is the language of Africa. And it is a language I, for one, will be writing the story of my new home in, and there is nothing imaginary about that. Welcome to the new issue.
INS TAG RAM
EDIT OR- IN- CHIEF @pi et smedy
NE WS LET T ER
Read us on the go. Go behind the scenes Sign up to our Download your copy @houseandgardensa weekly newsletter from zinio.com
P H O T O G R A P H : G R E G C OX
from the editor
Sea Point, Cape Town. Design: LVDS interiors. Oggie European Oak Ona Living Brushed Greymist with WOCA Denmark UV Oil - 14/3 x 190 x 1900.
...oak flooring in beautiful spaces. Cape Town: 021 510 2846 | Paarden Eiland Johannesburg: 011 262 3117 | Parkhurst Durban: 031 000 1000 | Umhlanga nick@oggie.co.za www.oggieflooring.com
Your vision. Our expertise. The perfect kitchen.
29 years of quality service. 31 showrooms countrywide. 2 year kitchen guarantee. 0861 327 9543 www.easylifekitchens.co.za Proud member of Kitchen Specialists Association
“My dream was to always have a black and white kitchen with green accents. They made it come to life. I would really recommend Easylife Kitchens if you want a functional kitchen that is tailor-made for you.” Nasiema Peck Rondebosch
INSIDER THE SCOOP ON SHOPPING, STYLE, DESIGN & CULTURE
CULTIVATE’S NEWLY OPENED WINE BAR IN SALT RIVER, CAPE TOWN, WILL SERVE AS A MEETING HUB WHILE PROMOTING THE NEXT GENERATION OF BLACK AND BROWN WINEMAKERS
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
11
THE INTERIOR DESIGN CONCEPT HIGHLIGHTS CRAFT AND MAKING, EARTHY AND GROUNDED TONES, AND ARTWORKS REPRESENTING MEMBERS OF THE COLLECTIVE OPPOSITE PAGE CULTIVATE FOUNDER ZAHIRA ASMAL
12
HOUSE
GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
Founded by urbanist, curator and publisher Zahira Asmal, Cultivate is an inclusive oenophilic enterprise set to redefine the future of Black South African winemakers PHOTOGRAPHS MICKY HOYLE
SERVED AT THE BAR ARE 35 WINES MADE BY BLACK AND BROWN WINEMAKERS OPPOSITE PAGE CULTIVATE IS A WELCOMING SPACE TO MEET FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES
INSIDER
‘an
initiative like Cultivate is long overdue,’ says director Zahira Asmal of this dynamic collective founded in 2020, which has just opened a Salt River, Cape Town, wine bar. ‘Cultivate emerges as a beacon of hope and welcoming space to meet friends, colleagues – or just be – in the city. Here, you can enjoy a variety of wines, 35 in total, made by Black and Brown winemakers. People that are largely invisible in the sector but talented and should be household names, really.’ Cultivate members hail from across Southern Africa and live in various parts of the Cape – from Stellenbosch to Sondagskloof. Zahira chose an urban space to locate the new Cultivate marketplace because cities offer opportunities for visibility, interconnectedness and exposure to complementary industries, which the collective can leverage. This urban marketplace will serve as a cultivating hub for professionals in the wine sector to exchange knowledge, drive business development and promote the next generation of wines made by Africans – and enjoyed by all. Zahira first conceptualised the brand identity and visual direction she wished to take together with designer Robyn Newham before commissioning a duo of design teams to bring this vision to life at the marketplace. She worked with the architectural and interior design teams at Tsai Design Studio and Sook Collective to install the interiors. Her brief was clear: she wanted to create a brand located in an inclusive and more representative narrative and history of winemaking in South Africa. ‘One of Cultivate’s aims is to surface our lesser-known history, that Black and Brown people have been making and producing wines in the Cape for centuries – they have just not yet been foregrounded in the national discourse. Very few wine farms and estates highlight the Black origins of winemaking in their grand stories,’ Zahira explains. ‘I wished to show a layering of time, and how the old and the new juxtapose, so one gets a sense of place, resilience and longevity. ‘Also, I wished for the interior design concept to highlight craft and making, especially making by hand, and the care and patience it takes to make something beautiful and special. I wanted our tones to be earthy and grounded, symbolising the members that are enrolled in the Collective – they were selected by me from various parts of Southern Africa. In our space you will see old and new furniture, including bespoke pieces, and tones and artworks representing the members of the Collective and the people that live and work in South Africa.’ The forward-looking Cultivate brand is nurturing and positive – it is grounded in the image of South Africa’s democracy. It is aspirational and inspirational, helping people to rise and thrive. Cultivate’s inclusive marketplace is a great spot for a drink at the bar. It is also a curated store where you can collect the member’s limited edition, award-winning fine wines by the case or pick up a single gift bottle – or two. You can also buy all the member’s wines online via the Cultivate site. Cultivate Collective cultivatecollective.co.za Q
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
15
FRONDS WITH
BENEFITS
A successful, tropics-inspired space brings together natural materials, handmade craft and tones of seafoam and straw without the kitsch curio elements (though a ceramic pineapple can’t hurt, can it?) 16
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
SHOPPING
1 2
P H OTO G R A P H S : BA L I I N T E R I O R S , S U P P L I E D
3 4
5 6
1. ‘G42’ GRASS PENDANT LIGHT, R2 800, MOROCCAN WAREHOUSE; 2. ‘MUSA #3705’ BOTANICAL PRINT, FROM R2 290, PEZULA INTERIORS; 3. RETRO WEBBING CABINET WITH SHELVES, R17 500, BESPOKE HOMES; ‘FLAMINGO’ OCCASIONAL CHAIR, R3 795, AURA INTERIORS; 5. FRENCH ‘VV’ SERVIETTE IN NAVY ON WHITE, R155, MUNGO; 6. ‘PINEAPPLE’ JUG, R1 850, BORDALLO PINHEIRO NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
17
QUEST
L OV
18
HOUSE
GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
ARTISAN ARTIST AND LANGUAGE ACTIVIST ATHI-PATRA RUGA WITH HIS DOG, ARGOS. ATHI-PATRA WEARS COUTTS COLLECTION BY LUKHANYO MDINGI
E
An urgent intervention to save the 200-yearold Lovedale Press is no mean feat, but it is one for which artist Athi-Patra Ruga and his fellow Victory of the Word creatives are well equipped. Elana Brundyn charts the history of the press and the role of the art world in inspirationled activism PORTRAITS BY JOHNO MELLISH
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
19
W
e know that through their artwork, artists play a different part in contributing to our society’s overall health, development, and wellbeing. Creative thinkers and makers provide their communities with joy, interaction and inspiration. Still, they also give thoughtful critique to our political, economic and social systems – pushing communities to engage thoughtfully and take steps toward meaningful social progress. When an artist steps out of the studio and picks up an important cause, I take note! Having worked closely with artists for many years, I know it takes a true passion project to draw them out of their studios. Visual artist Athi-Patra Ruga, voice artist, actor and academic, Lesoko Seabe, and curator Anelisa Mangcu are among a growing number of creatives who are becoming a powerful force in the world of cultural philanthropy. In addition to very successful full-time careers, they have, through hands-on involvement, provided much-needed support to the Lovedale Printing Press. In esteemed company with other philanthropist artists such as Nick Cave and Theaster Gates, who have played enormous roles in Chicago’s cultural development and neighbourhood transformation. The Lovedale Press tells the stories of Black writers, literature, history, and so much more at a time when traditional printing and funding sources for printing is shrinking. Passionate about saving Lovedale Press in some form, they launched NPC Victory of the Word, kicking off with a ‘three-phase fundraising and development project’. The first objective is to draw public attention to the crisis, the press and its custodians. The next intention is to raise funds to save it as a heritage site or, at the very least, to digitise the rich Lovedale archive. The story of Lovedale Press, founded in 1823, has its origins in a remarkable institution: Lovedale Missionary Institute in Alice (eDikeni), Eastern Cape. Established in 1841, Lovedale went on to become one of the most famous and influential 20
HOUSE
GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
missionary schools and training colleges on the sub-continent. It numbered among its students many who were to have a major influence on the intellectual life and political, cultural and literary landscape of South Africa. Founded when Lovedale Missionary Institute opened a printing department, Lovedale Press provided a means for Black writers to write for Black readers in their languages, when Black authors were marginalised by white-owned presses publishing exclusively in English and, later, Afrikaans. There is a plaque on an outside wall of the modest building which reads: ‘The earliest record of anything written by any Bantuspeaking African in his language in South Africa, was made at the small printing press at Old Lovedale.’ These are the words of AC Jordan, a prominent writer of isiXhosa texts published by Lovedale Press and one of Fort Hare’s most distinguished literary alumni. Over time, the Press became a major southern African publisher, producing outstanding literature not only in isiXhosa but in other Southern African languages, including English. Sol Plaatje’s seminal novel, Mhudi, numbers among them. Today, after years of neglect and under-funding, the once-thriving Lovedale Press, a beacon of intellectual life and vernacular expression for nearly 200 years, faces closure. Having survived successive frontier wars, the 1913 Native Land Act, the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918, and the brutal imposition of the Bantu Education Act under apartheid, it is hard to believe that an institution of such remarkable stature is under threat. In 2001, when its owners auctioned it off, 18 former employees bought the Press, hoping that the government, the corporate sector and the public would support their efforts to keep this profoundly important heritage alive. However, for years, these dedicated custodians of the flame have had to work without pay. Of the 18, seven have died, and eight are no longer actively involved in running the business. Only three remain; Bishop Nqumevu (76), Bulelwa Mbatyothi (59) and Cebo Ntaka (49).
ARTISAN Athi-Patra, who lives between rural Hogsback in the Eastern Cape and his studio in Cape Town, has a fascination with language and understands the deep significance of the vernacular as a means to understand and preserve indigenous knowledge systems, pre-colonial ways of seeing and being. His work ‘iiNyanga Zonyaka’ indirectly pays homage to a rich tradition of African thought, writing and publishing at Lovedale, and celebrates this proud symbol of African excellence. His sublime installation at Norval Foundation, ‘iiNyanga Zonyaka’ (The Lunar Songbook), a monumental vinyl artwork that refracts and radiates light like a stained glass window, has a deep and richly symbolic connection with The Lovedale Press. The central avatar of Athi-Patra’s imagined world, Nomalizo Khwezi, was inspired by Helen Nontando (Noni) Jabavu (19192008), who was born in Alice and attended Lovedale in her primary school years but left South Africa to be educated in England at the age of 13. She was one of the first African women to follow a successful literary and journalistic career and the first Black South African woman to publish her memoirs (Drawn in Colour and The Ochre People). Noni was born into a highly educated literary family: her grandfather, John Tengo Jabavu (1859-1921), made his name as editor of South Africa’s first newspaper to be written in isiXhosa, Isigidimi samaXhosa. Her father, Davidson Don Tengo Jabavu (1885-1959), a politician-turned-journalist, founded and became editor of the first Black-owned newspaper, Imvo Zabantsundu (Black Opinion). Both newspapers were published at Lovedale. Her aunt, Cecilia Makiwane, educated at Lovedale Girls School, became the first Black registered nurse in Africa, and Cecilia’s sister, Daisy
CURATOR ANELISA MANGCU
THE HEIRLOOM COLLECTION BOX SETS, CUSTOM-DESIGNED TOTE BAGS AND VICTORY OF THE WORD MERCHANDISE CAN BE BOUGHT AT CLARKE’S
BOOKSHOP IN CAPE TOWN IN SUPPORT OF LOVEDALE PRESS. CLARKESBOOKS.CO.ZA; VICTORYOFTHEWORD@ GMAIL.COM
‘ Today, after years of neglect and underfunding, the oncethriving Lovedale Press faces closure’ Makiwane, became a pioneering journalist. In the 1982 preface to The Ochre People, Noni writes of Daisy, ‘She had been a writer on my grandfather’s weekly newspaper at the turn of the century… [a] genius as well as a mathematician.’ Like Noni Jabavu, who moves between two very different worlds, rural and cosmopolitan, African and Western, Athi-Patra’s avatar Nomalizo has a shifting, hybrid identity, at once traditional and contemporary, steeped in traditional African cosmology and in the urbane intellectual culture of the city, with its language of (English) cultural alienation. It is not without significance that she comes to Cape Town to work in a publishing house. Athi-Patra explains that Nomalizo’s surname Khwezi is a reference to the planet Venus, the ‘Morning Star’, named iKhwezi in isiXhosa. Victory of the Word is a way of restoring the waning light of the Morning Star that is The Lovedale Press. Victory of the Word victoryoftheword Q
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
21
a river runs through it DumaTau’s newly imagined design is a nurturing space that pays homage to its waterside setting TEXT JULIA FREEMANTLE
TRAVEL
b
otswana is a country of myriad landscapes. From the stark blanched pans of the Makgadikgadi to the winding emerald waterways of the Delta, there is a whole universe within this wild country. One could argue Linyanti offers the best of all these disparate safariscapes in one magical destination of abundance and diversity. A blend of untouched grassland, riverine forest and meandering lagoons, it is relatively underused by tourists, making it the ultimate escape. And DumaTau, perched on the edge of the Linyanti River, where elephants cross in leisurely fashion each day to root up water lilies, offers the best of Linyanti. Recently redone, it is also a blueprint for contemporary luxury lodge design that takes its environment into context – both stylistically and in terms of sustainability – and finds a balance between innovation and tradition, sophistication and comfort. Above all, it is a tribute to the waterway it overlooks. While the lodge was not redesigned in its entirety, substantial changes were made to enhance this connection to the landscape and revitalise the camp to align it with Wilderness’ Premier Lodge standards while maintaining the soul of the original DumaTau. The extraordinary lagoon-side setting is central to the experience of a stay here – and the element around which all dining and leisure time revolves – and, as a result, its latest incarnation has expanded ways for guests to soak in the setting. Sustainability and a sensitivity to the setting informed many architectural choices – from passive cooling to savvy design details that work with the climate. Each suite now has a plunge pool and covered decks shaded by extensive overhangs. In keeping with the company’s sustainability standards, the camps are 100% solarpowered and feature water-efficient showerheads, tap aerators and cisterns. There are nods to sustainable craft and Wilderness’ driving purpose of sustainability: each room features
TOP DOWN THE MAGNIFICENT LAGOONSIDE SETTING – WHICH ATTRACTS HERDS OF ELEPHANTS COOLING DOWN – IS THE CENTRAL FOCUS FOR THE ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN; THE MAIN LODGE HOUSES LIBRARY, BAR AND LOUNGE AREAS SHELTERED FROM THE
ELEMENTS BUT OPEN TO THE VIEWS OPPOSITE PAGE THE FLOATING DECK CONNECTS WITH THE RIVER ON ALL SIDES, IMMERSING GUESTS IN THE LANDSCAPE. AT NIGHT, THEY SIT FIRESIDE WHILE HIPPOS SURFACE IN THE WATER
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
23
TRAVEL a life-size ‘curiosity box’ with details about the elephant and wild dog – both species integral to DumaTau’s conservation purpose (the Linyanti is a migration corridor for elephants and serves as a dispersal hub for wild dog, and its protection is, therefore, crucial). Essentially, everything revolves around an awareness of the environment, the river in particular. In the bush, water is the source of all life, and here it is also the central focus and fount of inspiration visually – but in a less obvious way than you might think. The lodge was previously monochromatic, but colour now gently ebbs in via soft furnishings and warm decor accents (think brass wall lights, copper basins and terracotta ceramics) in a palette that, rather than referencing the water itself, was inspired by the tones of the abundant water lilies that float on – and, no doubt, the spectacular sunsets that form the backdrop for drinks on the floating deck and evening boat cruises. A refreshing take on a riverine theme, it has resulted in a warm, cocooning scheme that feels earthy despite its aquatic origins. The suites have a similar welcoming, grounding effect. Stylistically, the tentinspired silhouettes and campaign-style influences were retained but updated and expanded upon – with timber decking from the old DumaTau introducing an architectural layer, traditional campaign furniture modernised, and texture added via mohair rugs, linen wall hangings, handmade wall tiles, and leather and rattan accents. Space-wise, they have also been given more scope. A hallway links the new lounge additions (equipped with tea and coffee and minibar stations) to the bedrooms. Separate dressing and bathing areas and outdoor showers create an expansive feel and orient you towards the river views. Constantly connecting you to the setting, the main lodge areas too are open, but feel protected courtesy of the abundant riverside foliage and trees. Notable new additions to the main social hub are a wine room, perfect for intimate gatherings, an expanded outdoor deck for starlight dining, and newly lowered fire pit (where breakfast is cooked over coals) and floating deck, allowing guests vantage points from every area and encouraging a dialogue with nature.
TOP DOWN ONE OF MANY OUTDOOR AREAS AT THE LODGE, THE TREE-SHADED BOMA IS ONE OF THE AREAS WHERE BREAKFAST IS SERVED, COOKED OVER THE FIRE; GUESTS CAN APPRECIATE THE LOCATION FROM ALL OF THE SOCIAL SPACES, AT ANY TIME OF DAY, FROM SOFT
SUNRISES TO SATURATED SUNSETS OPPOSITE PAGE THE NEWLY EXPANDED DUMATAU SUITES HAVE A SOFT, NURTURING PALETTE OF WARM NEUTRALS INSPIRED BY THE PROLIFIC WATER LILIES IN THE LAGOON BEYOND
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
25
Everything revolves around an awareness of the environment, the river in particular The newly added Osprey Retreat – the wellness area to the left of the main lodge area – further enhances this connection, and has introduced a whole new wellness focus. A spacious deck designed around a 12-metre swimming pool overlooks the lagoon and is populated with contemporary daybeds in bold colours, tables to dine at (served by the deli conveniently on hand), a gym with a view and the Safari Boutique (where you will find local craft treasures, some made by the team). The camp’s tranquil new spa is tucked away in a nearby thicket for privacy and serene relaxation. DumaTau offers the best of both bush and water landscapes, social and sanctuarylike spaces, a design that draws on tradition but considers contemporary travel, and a level of luxury that still treads lightly. Wilderness Safaris wilderness-safaris.com Q
26
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT THROUGHOUT THE LODGE, FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES PAY HOMAGE TO SAFARI, BUT WITH A CLEAN, CONTEMPORARY TWIST; THE OSPREY RETREAT IS A NEWLY ADDED WELLNESS AREA DESIGNED AROUND A SWIMMING POOL OVERLOOKING THE LAGOON AND FEATURING WATER LOUNGERS AND SHADED DAYBEDS; EACH SUITE HAS A SPACIOUS DECK AND PLUNGE POOL FOR OPTIMAL CONNECTION TO THE LAGOON; DUMATAU AND LITTLE DUMATAU’S POSITION, ENVELOPED IN THE RIVERINE FOLIAGE, SNAKING ALONG THE WATER’S EDGE, IS BEST APPRECIATED FROM ABOVE NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
27
DESIGN KNOW-HOW AND DECOR DETAILS THAT MAKE THE LOOK
P H O T O G R A P H : G R E G C OX
JAN ERNST DE WET’S WORK COMPRISES CANDELABRAS, VESSELS AND LAMPS THAT CELEBRATE SOUTH AFRICAN LANDSCAPES AND NATURAL FORMS
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
29
pretty weird
Architect-turnedceramic-artist Jan Ernst de Wet is inspired by nature to create textured pieces driven by functionality TEXT SHANNON MANUEL PHOTOGRAPHS GREG COX
30
HOUSE
GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
STYLISH
OPPOSITE PAGE ‘THE “WOMB” LAMP was inspired by the Cederberg. I became increasingly fascinated by the mysteriousness of this Martian landscape. There is an inexplicable primal feeling that envelops you when you walk around the rock formations and caves. The design explores the ideas of the unknown and unlocked potential – it symbolises the cave and Great Mother. The aim of the lamp is to draw you in closer, to swallow you in the dark void when it is just a sculpture but evoke a feeling of giving birth when it is switched on.’
j
an Ernst de Wet’ has gone global. Last month he showed a solo virtual exhibition with Galerie Philia, based in New York. The concept, titled ‘Into the Wild’, creates a complex dialogue between natural forms and sculptural design pieces. The body of work comprises candelabras, vessels and lamps that celebrate the South African landscapes and natural forms that inspire his work. A selection of the physical work is currently being exhibited at the gallery’s Paris outpost. Next year, he will showcase a range of table, floor and wall lamps and pendants with Galerie Revel at the Brussels-based design fair, Collectible. ‘At the heart of all my creations, there is a meaningful story, and I get tremendous joy in sharing that with people,’ says Jan. ‘I try to create an interplay between the delicate and robust. Nature is full of these
contradictions and nuances, and I try to reflect that in my work. The minimal aesthetic is driven by the functionality of the design item. I aim to create a balance between what is pure and true to clay as a material and something that reflects the manicured environments we live in. ‘I find organic form fascinating because it is so honest. It reflects growth, decay and change, so there is a story of time passing. A great example is the rock formations in the Cederberg, carved away by the wind to create monolithic sculptures. From a “making” point of view, clay prefers to be shaped into organic forms rather than straight lines, so the medium accommodates the inspiration and physical form very well.’ Jan believes clay is a medium that has not been explored to its full potential NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
31
‘THE “SQUIGGLE” SIDETABLE was created in collaboration with Meeco Studio. Part of a capsule collection, the table explores ideas of rhythm, wavelengths and organic movement. The table was constructed by creating a series of clay slabs that were shaped around curves and joined together. We wanted to emphasise the negative space in the middle and decided to add a bronze-glass top that would highlight the void.’ OPPOSITE PAGE ‘THE “FIVE ARMS FOUR LEGS – SEA” CANDELABRA was inspired by corals found along the coastline. The design started as an exploration of single arms and legs that later grew into a halfmetre-high candelabra. The focus of this design is allowing the piece to change over time as the wax melts and starts forming part of the body. The work is covered in a scarred texture that emphasises the movement of the organic tubes.’
in contemporary design and is drawn to its organic materiality, ability to connect the maker with nature, and how it can be shaped and manipulated. ‘I recently started experimenting with wood. It is interesting to consider the different processes – clay allows you to add and subtract mass throughout the making process, while wood only allows you to take away when you work with solid mass forms.’ Drawn to textural design, his work is adorned with unique marks and finishes. ‘While smooth is technically also a texture, the mark-making comes from my interpretation of the textures found in nature and leaves traces of engagement with the piece,’ he says. ‘I use texture, not as an applied decorative element, but rather as a means to enhance the compositional lines of the pieces. 32
HOUSE
GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
Thin lines on the coral-like candelabra emphasise flowing lines, curves and give movement to the piece. The mud-like texture on the anthill anchors the piece to its environment and represents the earth or dirt texture created by ants when they form anthills.’ Describing his work as functional art, Jan explains that, for a long time, art and design were seen as two very distinct disciplines; however, this idea is slowly changing, opening a whole different world of creating. ‘Functional art and collectable design are ways to express and tell stories through utilitarian objects or furniture pieces. It creates a platform where the unconventional and quirky can be introduced into our homes and not just viewed in galleries. Jan Ernst jan-ernst.com Q
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
33
‘THE “TWO EYED” LAMP is a mythical creature inspired by the forest. It stands proud on its three legs and has a slightly intimidating presence due to its size. The light bulbs are concealed in the body making the eyes glow at night, rather than shine. The dialogue between the user and the lamp starts when the lights are turned on and the piece starts staring at you. The intent of the design is to make you feel uneasy, to make you giggle and wonder.’
34
HOUSE
GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
WELCOME
LEFT TO RIGHT ‘LAMU’ OCCASIONAL CHAIR, R5 999; ‘HARRIS’ CABINET, R17 999; ‘INDIANA’ SOFA, (PRICE VARIES DEPENDING ON NUMBER OF PIECES); ‘MAOAO’ COFFEE TABLE (1.2M), R9 499; CLASSIC JUTE RUG (180CM X 270CM), R2 499; STRIPED JUTE RUG IN NATURAL AND CHARCOAL, R3 999
36
HOUSE
GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
PARTNERSHIP
HOME
To introduce its latest stylish, slow living collection of furniture and decor pieces, Coricraft teamed up with House & Garden on a handy guide to bringing its key pieces – or whole collection – into your home TEXT PIET SMEDY PHOTOGRAPHS GREG COX VIDEO ZWELIHLE BUKHWELE PRODUCTION THEA PHEIFFER & PIET SMEDY LOCATION PERFECT HIDEAWAYS
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
37
Mindful Gathering Living spaces take on the easy-living informality of a modern farmhouse, with artisanal pieces crafted from noble materials and upholstered in natural fabrics. Create textural harmony by pairing the cool marble and brass of the ‘Isla’ nesting tables with the smooth timber and steel of the ‘Maoao’ coffee table, all grounded by the earthy fibres of jute and cotton. The ‘Indiana’ sofa is front-andcentre this season, its modular design making it highly adaptable to any room configuration, while the slipcovers introduce a classic, barefoot luxury.
CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP RIGHT ‘BULBS’ CUSHION IN CREAM, R499; ‘ORIAN’ IN BRASS OBJET, R249; ‘BLOOM’ FRAMED A1 ARTWORK, R1 299; MEDIUM ‘WONKY’ VASE IN GREEN, R899; ‘ISLA’ NESTING TABLES, R2 999
‘O’CONNER’ OCCASIONAL CHAIR, R7 999; 2. ‘COVE’ CUSHION, R3 99
38
HOUSE
GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
PARTNERSHIP
A L L P R I C E S A R E S U B J E C T TO C H A N G E W I T H O U T N OT I C E
CLOCKWISE, FROM RIGHT ‘ARI’ DINING TABLE, R4 999; ‘SILO’ BENCH (1.2M), R3 699; ‘JASMINE’ DINING CHAIR, R1 799; SAWYER’ CABINET, R9 999 ; ‘WINONA’ RUG IN IVORY, R4 999
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
39
Slow Living The idea of creating a sanctuary at home has become the holy grail for decorators and homemakers alike – and form the core of Coricraft’s latest offering. Layering textured cushions and throws, mixing soft fabric with warm, natural materials, such as timber and glazed ceramic, work together in a palette of cookies and cream to create a dreamy, revitalising roomscape. Turn to the Coricraft Essentials range for reliable, timeless pieces – such as the metal ‘Nina’ bed – that complete the look with contemporary charm.
‘WREN’ THROW IN CHARCOAL, R499
CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT ‘ADIA’ VASE (SMALL) IN TAUPE, R499; ‘LASZLO’ CUSHION, R399; ‘AVERY’ BASKET (SMALL), R399; ‘MAYA 2’ FRAMED ARTWORK, R1 299; ‘JUNO’ PEDESTAL, R4 999; ‘ORIGAMI’ VASE (SHORT) IN NAVY, R249
40
HOUSE
GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
PARTNERSHIP
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT ‘WINONA’ RUG IN DARK GREY, R4 999; CARVED WOODEN COFFEE TABLE, R8 499; ‘NINA’ METAL QUEEN BED, R6 999; ‘ALLY’ OCCASIONAL CHAIR, R6 499; ‘QUINN’ FRAMED ARTWORK, R1 299; ‘ALOE 2’ FRAMED ARTWORK, R899
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
41
CLOCKWISE, FROM RIGHT ‘CAMINO’ THREE-SEATER PATIO SOFA, R22 999; ‘PORTO’ PATIO COFFEE TABLE, R9 299; ‘PANAMA’ SEAGRASS OUTDOOR RUG, R4 499; ‘AKARI’ LANTERN (MEDIUM), R599
42
HOUSE
GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
PARTNERSHIP
Feel-good Alfresco Welcome the sunshine season – and ample opportunities to entertain – with a stylish patio. Forget spartan outdoor spaces and embrace a luxurious, nuanced approach to alfresco decorating: think layers of slouchy, mix-andmatch cushions and rugs that bring softness underfoot; high-comfort seating for enjoying lazy sunsets and a range of lanterns to introduce soft romance to balmy, midsummer evenings. coricraft.co.za Q
ISLA BAMBOO TRAY (LARGE), R899 CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT ‘WONKY’ VASE (WIDE) IN AMBER, R449; ‘KARYN’ VASE (LARGE ) IN TAUPE, R799; ‘CAMINO’ PATIO OCCASIONAL CHAIR, R9 999; ‘BYRON’ PATIO OCCASIONAL CHAIR IN NATURAL, R6 999 NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
43
DESIGN SOLUTIONS
F IN E DI NI NG
T E X T: P I E T S M E DY; P H O T O G R A P H : C O U R T E S Y O F C H E Z G E O R G E S
These six stylish dining rooms offer a master class in considered entertaining spaces
ABSOLUTE MATERIAL IMMERSION CREATES A HIGH-IMPACT DINING EXPERIENCE IN THIS HEAD-TO-TOE TIMBER SPACE, COMPLETE WITH RICARDO FASANELLO ‘ANEL 60S’ DINING CHAIRS, AT MIDCENTURY BRAZILIAN VILLA, CHEZ GEORGES, IN RIO DE JANEIRO
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
45
Equal Share
P H O T O G R A P H S : VA N G L I S PAT E R A K I S ; P R O D U C T I O N : A N E S T I S M I C H A L I S ( T H I S PAG E ) ; P H O T O G R A P H S : I N G E P R I N S ; P R O D U C T I O N : S A N R I P I E N A A R ( O P P O S I T E PAG E )
When square meterage is tight, the dining room is often the first room to be cut. But, instead of doing away with it entirely, incorporate it into the general living area for a more dynamic living experience. In this project in Greece – dubbed Akri House – designed by K-Studio, the main living and entertaining area is shared, but each is still afforded a degree of independence. A single space, zoned for different uses, offers ease of transition and allows interaction to flow between areas or be contained within one or the other. K-Studio k-studio.gr
46
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
DESIGN SOLUTIONS
Material Gains The humble dining room table often finds itself playing second fiddle to the kitchen island when it comes to conversations about ‘bringing people together’ – and while islands do make for convenient spots for informal gathering, there is something to be said for the joy of hours spent around a dining room table. Make yours a show-stopping,conversation-starting centrepiece, such as the ‘Ashby’ table by Lemon; an elegant silhouette backed by superb craftsmanship available in both Bianco Carrara marble and travertine. Lemon lemoncollection.co.za
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
47
Plants are so much more than decorative: they infuse a space with vitality – and, when incorporated into the dining room, the effect is no different. Here, in the Cape Town home of actress Rolanda Marais, a Houtlander dining table and spindle back chairs is cocooned in foliage (opting for plants with unusual leaf shapes and patterning makes the experience all the more interesting). Cleverly, Rolanda’s choice of furniture is all timber, enhancing the conservatory-like effect established by the space’s glass wall. Houtlander houtlander.co.za
48
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
P H O T O G R A P H S : G R E G C OX ; P R O D U C T I O N : T H E A P H E I F F E R , P I E T S M E DY ( T H I S PAG E ) ; P H O T O G R A P H S : S U P P L I E D ( O P P O S I T E PAG E )
Natural High
DESIGN SOLUTIONS
Lighting Company The dining room is no place for task lighting, as function takes a backseat to mood. Soft, ambient lighting is the path of least resistance – think lamps – or, if we are talking overhead illumination, eschew those passé exposed Edison bulbs for something more subtle, such as these frosted matte-glass ‘Fluid’ pendant lights by Muuto, available locally through Créma Design, which were inspired by water droplets. Créma Design cremadesign.co.za
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
49
Tip the Scale Playing with scale is an ingenious way to make small spaces feel much larger (the trick is to go for more robust shapes) or, conversely, make cosy, comfortable nooks of capacious areas. Beneath these overscaled lights, the table and leather-and-timber ‘Elizabeth’ dining chairs are dwarfed, making what is, in reality, a generous dining area feel intimate. La Grange Interiors lagrangeinteriors.co.za
P H OTO G R A P H : C O U RT E SY O F L A G R A N G E I N T E R I O R S
Q
50
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
SUBSCRIBE OR RENEW
SAVE
SAVE
20% 4 issues for only
R240
35% SAVE 8 up to issues for only R210
R390
HERE’S HOW PHONE 0800 204 711 / 031 308 2022 EMAIL condenast@inl.co.za HOURS Monday - Friday: 6.30AM-6PM Saturday - Sunday: 7AM-10AM, Public Holidays: Closed DEBIT ORDER 0800 204 711 POST Choice of hand delivery or post This offer is for print subscribers with a South African address only. Offer valid until 30 November 2021.
OR Download your digital subscription now by visiting
zinio.com/ houseandgardensa
FULLY KITTED
Whether you are striving for Heston Blumenthal-levels of at-home prep or your kitchen confidence ends at making the morning coffee, investing in the right appliance is half the battle won. The editors of House & Garden present to you the best kitchen appliances on the market
1
1. ‘TOTAL CONTROL’ 3-OVEN IN LINEN, POR, AGA; 2. NUTRIBULLET JUICE BLENDER IN RED, R2 099, @HOME; 3. PHILIPS ‘OMNIA 2200’ ESPRESSO MACHINE, R9 999, @HOME
3
2
52
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
SHOWROOM
There is perhaps no kitchen appliance brand that better embodies both the ideals of heritage and innovation than the German legacy name Gaggenau. With a history that spans over 300 years, making it the oldest kitchen appliance brand in the world, Gaggenau has remained at the forefront of technology, producing hardware and appliances that continue to redefine the luxury kitchen industry – and our homes. gaggenau.com/za
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
53
The trick to a stylish kitchen is opting for appliances that operate in the sweet spot where form and function are both accounted for – and no one does it better than Italian manufacturer Smeg. Yes, the brand does more than just those retro fridges, in fact, its collection of kettles, toasters, blenders, juicers and coffee machines (pictured here in a kitchen by Weylandstudio) come in a range of colours while staying true to the old-school cool look that has made it, aptly, a household name. smeg-online.co.za Q
SHOWROOM 1
2
1. SODASTREAM ‘SPIRIT ONE TOUCH’ ELECTRIC SPARKLING WATER MAKER, R1 800, YUPPIECHEF; 2. SMEG ‘CITRUS’ JUICER IN BLUE, R2 699, MASONS; 3. PHILIPS ‘PREMIUM XXL’ SMART SENSING AIRFRYER, R6 999, MAKRO; 4. DELONGHI ‘AVVOLTA CLASS’ CORDLESS KETTLE IN CHARMING RED, R1 899, YUPPIECHEF; 5. ‘OGS 188’ CUSTOMISED COOKER, POR, OFFICINE GULLO;
4
3
P H O T O G R A P H S : C O U R T E S Y O F W E Y L A N D S T U D I O , C O U R T E S Y O F G AG G E N A U , S U P P L I E D
5
A MINIMAL KITCHEN FEATURING INTEGRATED MIELE APPLIANCES
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
55
The scented garden Garden Designer Franchesca Watson fills us in on creating a garden infused with a heady fragrance for summer evenings outdoors PHOTOGRAPHS HEIDI BERTISH & ELSA YOUNG
KNOW-HOW
w
e are not the only ones for whom perfume is attractive, often evoking memories and emotions. In Nature’s scheme of things, flowers that throw out their waves of scent at night tend to be pollinated by moths or bats, and they also tend to be white or very pale colours so that they shine in the moonlight and make navigation easy.
Many well-loved traditional garden plants are known for their heady night fragrances: think Gardenias and Magnolias, star jasmine and pale honeysuckle, Clematis, moonflowers, lemons and orange trees, Nicotianas, evening primrose, St Joseph lilies, pale Dianthus and Freesias – and the night Cestrum or Cestrum nocturnum is incredible if you can get hold of it.
If you want indigenous plants, for large shrubs or trees try Buddleja auriculata (heavily honey scented with a great habit), wild Gardenia (Gardenia thunbergia) with its architectural branching, Rothmannia capensis, Nuxia floribunda, Diospyros whyteana, Gonoima kamassi and Freylinia lanceolata. Mediumsize shrubs include all the Carissas, Pavettas, Coleonema alba, and the fairly woody Jasminum multipartitum. Smaller lovelies include Agathosma mucronulata and A. ciliaris (in fact most white buchus), pale Pelargoniums such as Pelargonium tomentosum (peppermint scented), Eriocephalus africanus ‘ Wild Rosemary’, Freesia alba (best planted in drifts in your lawns), and the lovely graceful Struthiola dodecandra and Gnidia squarrosa.
For the greatest effect, plant near windows, terraces, outside seating areas and benches and along your pathways. You need to be able to throw open the windows and patio doors when the smells of a romantic summer night beckon. To enjoy to the fullest, add lowkey outdoor lighting, but remember to switch off the lights before midnight so pollinators can find their way in the dark to your gorgeous pale blooms. Franchesca Watson 082 808 1287 franchescawatson.com
TOP TO BOTTOM THE MOONFLOWER OPENS AT NIGHT, RELEASING A WONDERFUL SCENT THAT ATTRACTS NIGHTTIME POLLINATORS; GARDEN DESIGNER FRANCHESCA WATSON OPPOSITE PAGE A COVERED WALKWAY, HEAVY WITH STAR JASMINE, PERFUMES THE APPROACH TO A PRIVATE GAZEBO
Q
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
57
The difference is Gaggenau.
Where tradition meets innovation. Synonymous with exclusive culinary culture and recognised for its sophisticated lifestyle, Gaggenau is not simply and appliance; it is an experience in itself. Inspired by the desires of leading professionals and top chefs, Gaggenau brings expert culinary technology to the domestic kitchen. For over three centuries, Gaggenau has been a leading brand for innovative and revolutionary kitchen appliances. Now, Gaggenau is part of one of the largest residential installations in the world and one of South Africa’s most exclusive, lifestyle estates. City Centre – Steyn City’s flagship development – epitomises the apex of secure, luxury apartment living. This prestigious residential estate comprises 2000 acres of indigenous parkland and boasts world-class leisure facilities including a Nicklaus Design championship golf course, equestrian centre, a 300m lagoon with beach style facilities and a helistop. Make a statement: Gaggenau.com/za
THE EDIT SUPERB HOMES AND STYLISH GARDENS
A VIEW OVER THE LAKE AND HIGHVELD SKYLINE FROM THE STEPHEN FALCKEDESIGNED PENTHOUSE AT STEYN CITY’S CITY CENTRE DEVELOPMENT
P H OTO G R A P H : SA R A H D E P I N A
Full story on page 60
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
59
THE GRAND LIVING ROOM OF THE STEPHEN FALCKEDESIGNED PENTHOUSE AT
STEYN CITY’S NEW CITY CENTRE IS A SYMPHONY OF SEAFOAM AND ICECREAM TONES
In one of Steyn City’s City Centre penthouses, interior designer Stephen Falcke has created a pastel powder keg of Bahamian hues and charming patterning that evokes an air of easy summer living 60
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
TEXT PIET SMEDY PRODUCTION DEAN VAN ASWEGEN PHOTOGRAPHS SARAH DE PINA
BLUE
CRU SH NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
61
THE LIGHTFILLED DINING ROOM FEATURES STEPHEN’S MIX OF SOFT PRETTINESS AND MODERN EDGE OPPOSITE PAGE THE KITCHEN WAS DESIGNED BY BLU_LINE AND EQUIPPED BY GAGGENAU
P
erhaps the most surprising thing about this Stephen Falcke interior is that, at first glance, you would probably never guess that it was designed by Stephen Falcke. But the designer who, famously, created the richly layered Afro-classic interiors of the Saxon (as well as the interiors of the hotel’s owner Douw Steyn’s aptly named home, Palazzo Steyn, in Steyn City) has never, by his admission, been one to stick to the rules (even – or perhaps, especially – when they are his). ‘I wanted to do something new, light and bright,’ says Stephen of the 432-square-metre, north-facing penthouse, which overlooks the new 300-metre lagoon with beach-style facilities and, further on, the highveld skyline. The space consists of a central living area that continues out onto a capacious outdoor
patio with a plunge pool; ‘both areas sharing the same roof structure makes the space very much an indoor/outdoor configuration,’ says Stephen. Two passages lead off this central hub: one to an informal lounge with the master bedroom and ensuite beyond, the other to the blu_line-designed kitchen fully equipped with Gaggenau appliances (a standard for all City Centre apartments), dining room and additional guest rooms. ‘I designed the penthouse as a luxury hotel suite with a unique environment and resort-like feeling,’ says Stephen. The penthouse forms part of the City Centre development under the larger Steyn City banner. City Centre comprises over 700 apartments, each with a unique floor plan, in a completely pedestrianised zone, featuring treed piazzas while rooftop swimming pools offer residents a private space to relax in the sun. The development sports a 2 000-acre indigenous parkland with over a million planted trees and shrubs, giving residents the biggest garden to explore in the country. Easily one of the home’s most distinguishing features is the geometric wallpaper, which bubble wraps the space, filling it with a sense of weightlessness. ‘I was inspired to use the eau de Nil watercolours as a constant throughout the apartment,’ says Stephen. ‘I wanted the wallpaper to act as a 3-D fretwork, to give depth and interest to the home.’ Quilted furniture pieces, perspex and crystal complete the delicate atmosphere. ‘My favourite thing is the contrast of the soft prettiness with the strong contemporary edge,’ says Stephen. Outside, the decor takes a similarly organic form, with plush cushions offering ample opportunity to lounge and drink in the panoramic views. ‘With our perfect climate and outlook over the water, I wanted people to gravitate to the end of the patio to enjoy the view and make the living/dining room space a focal point.’ The resulting oasis is something of an anomaly in a city that prides itself on its nonstop energy, a quiet moment to enjoy the idyllic City Centre development and the green recreation areas beyond it. Stephen Falcke Interior Design stephenfalcke.co.za; Steyn City steyncity.co.za To book an exclusive viewing of City Centre, email ccsales@steyncity.co.za or telephone 010 597 1170 Q
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
63
THE LIVING ROOM, LIKE THE REST OF THE PENTHOUSE, IS ENROBED IN EAU DE NIL WALLPAPER FEATURING A FRETWORK-LIKE GEOMETRIC PATTERN
64
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
65
THE PLUSHLY APPOINTED BEDROOM, WITH THE PENTHOUSE’S IDIOSYNCRATIC WALLPAPER, OFFERS A SANCTUARY MOMENT FROM THE BUSTLE OF BIG-CITY LIFE
66
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
67
TOP DOWN THE PASSAGE LEADING FROM THE COMMUNAL LOUNGE AREA TO THE INFORMAL LOUNGE AND MASTER BEDROOM, WITH GEOMETRIC ART THAT ECHOES THE WALLPAPER PATTERNING; A MARBLE-CLAD BATHROOM
‘I designed the penthouse as a luxury hotel suite for local or international clientele, who will take advantage of the unique environment and the resort-like feeling’ STEPHEN FALCKE
68
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
DESIGN NOTES
‘CHRISTY’ SCREEN IN WHITE, R3 495, BLOCK & CHISEL
‘CATANIA’ CHAIR, R7 559, KARE DESIGN
‘LUCENT’ TEMPERED GLASS DINING TABLE, R5 999, @HOME
‘CORAL’ SIDEBOARD, R12 900, SHF
P H OTO G R A P H S : S U P P L I E D
‘ONYX GESTURE I FRAGMENT’ ARTWORK, R7 995, WEYLANDTS STAINLESS STEEL LOWLINE ARMCHAIR (EXCLUDING FABRIC), FROM R19 399, TONIC DESIGN NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
69
TWO CARVEDWOOD TOTEMS BY NIGERIAN ARTIST REUBEN UGBINE PRESIDE OVER THE LIVING ROOM. A PAIR OF LIGNE ROSET ARMCHAIRS, A BØRGE MOGENSEN LEATHER SOFA AND A CUSTOM POLTRONA FRAU SOFA SURROUND A COCKTAIL TABLE BY JÉRÔME ABEL SEGUIN, WHO ALSO CRAFTED THE MAHOGANY ROOT CONSOLE AT THE REAR
BE ST DR E SSE D
With unerring style sense, fashion entrepreneur Reni Folawiyo outfits her penthouse home in Lagos, Nigeria TEXT LOLA OGUNNAIKE PHOTOGRAPHS DANIEL OBASI
72
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
R
OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RENI FOLAWIYO AND DAUGHTER FARIDAH LOUNGE ON A B&B ITALIA CHAIR IN THE POOL PAVILION; RENI (WEARING A TURFAH DRESS, A TAHER CHEMIRIK NECKLACE, BRACELETS BY GERDA GOOSEN JEWELLERY AND MONIES, AND SALVATORE FERRAGAMO SHOES) INSIDE ALÁRA; THE EXTERIOR OF ALÁRA, RENI’S FASHION-ANDDESIGN EMPORIUM IN LAGOS, DESIGNED BY SIR DAVID ADJAYE
eni Folawiyo had one goal in mind when she opened her renowned luxury concept store Alára in Lagos, Nigeria, six years ago. A ‘ lára is a Yoruba word that means “wondrous performer, somebody who thrills endlessly,”’ Reni, an attorney-turned-lifestyle-entrepreneur, explains, ‘and we wanted to thrill.’ Designed by celebrated Ghanaian-British Architectural Digest 100 architect Sir David Adjaye, the three-story temple to style not only delights, it offers a painstakingly curated mix of fashion, art and design. Home to both African and Western brands, it is a place where Jacquemus trousers and Saint Laurent slingbacks mingle effortlessly with Hassan Hajjaj photographs, woven baskets from Burkina Faso, and designer Kenneth Ize’s signature aso oke suits. It is little wonder that in its relatively short existence, Alára has earned comparisons to Milan’s 10 Corso Como and London’s Dover Street Market. And as a beacon of bold modernist architecture, its iconic red-sand exterior, inspired by the deserts of North Africa, has become a go-to backdrop for homegrown Instagram-obsessed influencers. ‘Reni wanted to create something in Africa that would really be a lightning rod about the potential of the continent to produce design excellence,’ David says of Reni, whom he calls a creative force and a kindred spirit. Mission accomplished. A short drive from Alára, in Lagos’s tony Ikoyi enclave, is another of Reni’s spectacular creations: her family home. Nestled on a quiet side street, far away from the din of honking horns and boisterous street vendors hawking everything from charred plantains to terracotta planters, Reni’s sprawling penthouse duplex perches atop an 11-unit boutique apartment complex she and her husband, Tunde, erected. Reni, who calls herself an ‘unapologetic proponent of the brilliance of Africa and its contemporary language’, chose the award-winning Cape Town-based architecture firm SAOTA for this undertaking. She tasked the firm with creating a modern, wide-open expanse with remarkable scale that seamlessly merged indoor and outdoor living. During the three-year build, she pushed architect Stefan Antoni to amp up the wow factor, telling him, ‘We want more drama! After that, he just went to town.’ Reni’s four-bedroom, nearly 14 000-square-foot residence boasts soaring floor-to-ceiling windows, breathtaking views of surrounding treetops, and an epic terrace (complete with infinity pool) that has achieved near-mythical status in the megacity. ‘I love to throw parties here,’ Reni, a mother of two, says as she strolls alongside the pool’s azure waters. Her daughter, Faridah, an art curator, does as well. ‘My husband is much quieter than me,’ Reni adds. ‘He always hides in the corner.’ Brimming with sculpture, furniture, and art that Reni has amassed during her more than three decades of world travel, the sun-suffused space is a reflection of her passions and experiences. ‘Every piece is important to me and has a very meaningful story,’ she says, offering a tour. The ’90s-era El Anatsui carvings hail from Ghana, and the beaded traditional headdresses in her dining room come from Ogbomosho in southwest Nigeria. Originally a single cabinet, the white side tables in her daughter’s vibrant bedroom were discovered at Rossana Orlandi’s famed Milan gallery. Other design trophies include a sinuous walnut bench by South Korean artist Bae Se Hwa and a lacquer Ron Arad rocking chair. Vintage Moroccan rugs collected over years serve as warm accents throughout. In the vast living room, soft throw cushions from Senegalese textile designer Aïssa Dione, a dear friend, rest near Goyard pillows on custom Poltrona Frau couches. Gently petting a Nacho Carbonell bush statue, she says, ‘I love that this feels like hair.’ Jérôme Abel Seguin’s industrial coffee tables from Indonesia were so heavy that they had to be brought in by crane. ‘I knew that Jérôme’s pieces would help form the core of my home,’ Reni says. ‘I have been dreaming of collecting his work for years.’ Jérôme has said that he ‘creates objects that cry out to be caressed.’ So, naturally, one cannot help but stroke the mahogany-root console standing in a nook. Fashioned from a single slab of wood, the colossal, tomato-red Dominique Zinkpè sculpture is an aweinspiring marvel composed of hundreds of carved miniature figures. ‘The size, the layers of wood, the details, it is tremendous,’ Reni says. A headless eagle by South African artist Wim Botha has proved a reliable conversation starter. ‘People are shocked by this piece. They do not really understand it. “What is this? Why do you have it in your home?”’ She bursts into laughter. A ‘ lot of people are confused by it, but art is like that.’ Making her way to the second floor, Reni points out that all of the timber featured in her home was locally sourced and produced in the factory she opened to meet the demands of her burgeoning furniture line. In a town where gilded fixtures and gleaming marble reign among the haute société, her grey slate floors are an anomaly. ‘I did not want a very flashy, over-finished space,’ she says. ‘I wanted something more understated. This feels more natural and real to me.’ Reni worked closely with Adam Court, creative director of interiors firm OKHA and then-lead designer for design studio ARRCC, to weave together the disparate design elements. ‘The architecture is very lean and taut, whereas the interior is looser and has a sort of casualness to it,’ he explains. ‘It all works together because it is done with ease and fluency and confidence. It is not an artificial composition of things that have been put together by an interior designer. It is a very honest reflection of Reni.’ Q
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
73
Ç F 9 B = ď K 5 B H 9 8ď H C ď 7 F 9 5 H 9ď G C A 9 H < = B ; ď = Bď 5 : F = 7 5 ď H < 5 Hď K C I @ 8 ď 6 9ď 5 ď @ = ; < H B = B ;ď F C 8 ď 5 6 C I H ď H < 9ď D C H 9 B H = 5 @ ď C :ď H < 9 ď 7 C B H = B 9 B Hď H C ď D F C 8 I 7 9ď 8 9 G = ; Bď 9L79@@9B79È SIR DAVID ADJAYE
TWO SCULPTURES, AN EAGLE BY WIM BOTHA AND A COLOSSAL RED PIECE BY DOMINIQUE ZINKPÈ, DOMINATE ONE END OF THE LIVING ROOM
A SERGE MOUILLE SCONCE ILLUMINATES A CUSTOM BED IN A GUEST ROOM THAT ALSO FEATURES A RON
ARAD ROCKING CHAIR, B&B ITALIA SOFA, JÉRÔME ABEL SEGUIN COCKTAIL TABLE AND CUSTOM BERBER RUG
THE BATH FEATURES A FREESTANDING TUB AND ZUCCHETTI FITTINGS
76
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
DESIGN NOTES ‘SCALLOP’ DRINKS CABINET, FROM R20 700, STUDIO19
BROWN SHELL NECKLACE ON STAND, R2 600, CÉCILE AND BOYD
‘AUBERGINE’ CUSHION, R1 100, CÉCILE AND BOYD
SACHA LAKIC ‘CARACTÈRE’ CORNER COMPOSITION SOFA, POR, ROCHE BOBOIS
‘ROC’ SCULPTURE, POR, OKHA
P H O T O G R A P H S : DA N I E L O B A S I ; S U P P L I E D
VALENTINA CONSOLE TABLE, R12 995, BLOCK & CHISEL
A07-09-09-16 BY ANDRZEJ URBANSKI, 2016, POR, EVERARD READ NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
77
In her own London garden, landscape designer Emily Erlam has constructed a series of terraces, each with its own mood, which provide structure for Mediterranean planting and natural canopies TEXT NON MORRIS PHOTOGRAPHS ÉVA NÉMETH
A SECLUDED SPOT BENEATH A PLUMCOLOURED CERCIS CANADENSIS TREE OPPOSITE PAGE ROSA ‘CÉCILE BRUNNER’
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
79
YOU can tell there will be something rather glamorous and spirited going on in the back garden as soon as you arrive at the terraced Georgian house belonging to the garden designer Emily Erlam. Wisteria has been painstakingly trained to run in elegant low lines along the cast-iron railings – rather than against the house facade – creating an intriguing framework of soft green to welcome visitors. This gently unorthodox decision heralds Emily’s disciplined, exploratory approach to garden-making and her sheer pleasure in the potential of every plant. ‘When we arrived, the back garden was a long, neglected runway. There was an overgrown grapevine, self-seeded sycamores and a municipal path that ran up from one end to the other,’ says Emily. Levels were built up to form four elegant tiers separated by simple brick retaining walls. Each of the terraces has a distinct atmosphere and purpose, ‘but all have a shared quality of intimacy and shelter,’ Emily explains. The added height of the upper terrace has resulted in a sheltered, sunny haven with an exquisitely curated Mediterranean planting of towering echiums, headily scented pineapple broom and the delicate spreading umbrella of the Persian silk tree, Albizia julibrissin ‘Rosea’. The dining terrace is paved with the same limestone flags as the open-plan ground-floor interior. Further up, simple stone setts have the relaxed feel of a ’70s Dutch garden. They are combined with pale gravel, which softens everything, and Emily says, ‘is essential for bringing in light under the trees.’ When Emily started to plant the garden, she wanted to ensure that ‘each space has at least one area of a canopy, so you feel as if 80
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
you are sitting under something’. On the second terrace, a pair of generous crab apple trees make the garden seem broader than it is and provide the perfect anchor for the outdoor sofa and armchairs. Trees and shrubs are selected for their shape ‘to bring the eye away from the hard lines of the boundary walls’ and for the way they light up the garden in succession. The year begins with the beautiful pendant bell-shaped primrose-yellow flowers of Stachyurus praecox, which has been cleverly trained against the wall to save space. In early summer, a multi-stemmed Cornus kousa ‘Miss Satomi’ is smothered with pink-flushed flower bracts, and in late summer, a just-pink fuchsia provides a delightful backdrop to the handsome Belgian dining furniture. Most important of all is Emily’s use of structural evergreens. They spill over walls, nestle comfortably into corners and provide the glossy understory to deciduous trees. Key plants for both sun and light shade include tightly clipped Mexican orange A ‘ ztec Pearl’, Euphorbia stygiana, Pittosporum tenuifolium and the orange-barked myrtle tree. A succession of ephemeral flowering plants emerges from these beautifully nurtured evergreens throughout the year individual stems of purple Verbascum phoeniceum ‘Violetta’ or a glorious wall of the fragrant Rosa ‘Cécile Brunner’. This is the poised, richly layered garden. There is so much to inspire, but perhaps the ultimate lesson is the freedom gained by establishing a strong underlying structure. As Emily explains, ‘It is about being a tiny bit strict in certain areas so that, when you want to, you can really let yourself go.’ Emily Erlam Studio erlam.com Q
‘It is about being a tiny bit strict in certain areas so that, when you want to, you can really let yourself go’ EMILY ERLAM
CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT THE ROUNDED FORM OF THE WHITE-FLOWERING MEXICAN ORANGE AND STACHYURUS PRAECOX AGAINST THE WALL; TOWERING PURPLE ECHIUMS AT THE FAR END OF THE GARDEN; GLIMPSES OF THE RELAXED
SECOND TERRACE THROUGH A CERCIS CANADENSIS TREE OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT A MATURE CRAB APPLE TREE FRAMES THE VIEW TO THE UPPER TERRACES; LIMESTONE FLAGSTONES LINK THE LIVING SPACE WITH THE DINING TERRACE
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
81
CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT A BRIGHT PINK CISTUS AND LAVENDER; NECTAROSCORDUM SICULUM; WHITE IMPATIENS AND PALE YELLOW EUPHORBIA STYGIANA CLUSTER; YARROW; VERBASCUM PHOENICEUM ‘VIOLETTA’; ANTHRISCUS SYLVESTRIS ‘RAVENSWING’; CANDY-COLOURED ROSA CHINENSIS ‘MUTABILIS’ VISIBLE THROUGH THE BRANCHES OF A CERCIS
82
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
CANADENSIS ‘FOREST PANSY’ TREE; TOWERING PURPLE SPIRES OF ECHIUM PININANA OPPOSITE PAGE VIEW BACK TO THE HOUSE FROM THE RICHLY PLANTED THIRD TERRACE. PURPLE SPIRES OF VERBASCUM PHOENICEUM, LAVENDER, CRIMSON-TUFTED FLOWERHEADS OF PLUME THISTLE AND APRICOT-ORANGE GEUM ‘TOTALLY TANGERINE’
GUTTER CREDIT
ROOM TO
84
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
BREATHE In Cape Town, designer Dylan Thomaz of Curación has created a paredback pied-à-terre in nuanced neutrals and timeless design pieces
TEXT SHANNON MANUEL PHOTOGRAPHS CARLA ERASMUS STYLING AND PRODUCTION DYLAN THOMAZ
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
85
‘I
gravitate to a more timeless style, quietly understated and sophisticated, designed to be highly functional and adaptable. The beauty of this is that it endures and can adapt and belong to both its space and environment. My first impression of the space was that it had a pied-à-terre feel to it. Looking at the views – the lush green surroundings – it had a European air, which worked well with the client’s vision,’ says Dylan. As the client is an art collector, the brief was to create a pared-back aesthetic in which the furniture pieces would complement the art and grow and mature with the space. ‘There are a lot of pieces that speak to this environment. I drew inspiration from the building’s location, its views of the Cape Royale hotel in the distance, and the architecture of the building itself, which has an old-world feel. However, I wanted to give it a more contemporary energy inside that was not in complete contrast to the building’s exterior but rather a modern extension.’ The Green Point apartment in sits inside a building built in the ’50s. With high ceilings and wooden floors throughout, it offered the perfect opportunity to create an almost gallery-like feel, where the homeowner could showcase his extensive art collection in harmony with the interior pieces. A ‘ s a designer, when you merge art and furniture, what is important is that it still looks lived in without appearing too precious,’ says Dylan. ‘It was important to me to create a neutral wall and floor that plays into the architectural details, and then complement it with art, lighting and furniture.’ To incorporate a dining room table in the small main living space, he added moveable banquet seating. ‘You can see underneath it, which adds a sense of lightness. The balcony also has banquet seating, deep enough to lie in the sun reading
86
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
DESIGNER DYLAN THOMAZ OF CURACIÓN OPPOSITE PAGE ON THE BALCONY ARE CONCRETE BISTRO TABLES BY CURACIÓN COLLECTION AND A WOVEN OUTDOOR CHAIR BY WEYLANDTS
‘When you merge art and furniture, what is important is that it still looks lived in without appearing too precious’ DYLAN THOMAZ
a book or linger over a beautiful breakfast or romantic dinner. It also became a multi-functional space, doubling as storage.’ Dylan explains that the main factor for the kitchen was keeping it simplified and not overly styled. ‘The important thing we did to this space was clean it up. When the client bought the apartment, the kitchen was newly renovated, so we removed shelving, changed the colour and replaced the floors with a luxe finish. We added carpet, which is an unconventional design element in the space. Carpeting, in general, can make any space feel softer, and I wanted that same effect in the kitchen. We treated the kitchen as we treated the living room to make it more comfortable and inviting. The carpet is very tactile – it is soft and luscious underfoot. The kitchen is usually practical, even though it is the heart of most people’s homes and has become such a social space, so I wanted to move away from it being clinical and purely functional. The furniture, accessories and design elements are custom-made by Curación, vintage finds and local designers, including Créma Design, Mae Artisan Rugs, Bofred, Vorster & Braye and Meuble Fine Furniture. Curación Interior Design Studio dylan_thomaz; curacion_interior Q
A BAMBOO SILK RUNNER FROM MAE ARTISAN RUGS’ ‘CONTEMPORARY’ COLLECTION IS A FOCAL POINT IN THE KITCHEN OPPOSITE PAGE THE BENCH AND DINING TABLE IN THE LIVING AREA ARE CUSTOM-MADE BY CURACIÓN COLLECTION NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
89
THE WALL LIGHTS IN THE BEDROOM ARE BY BOFRED AND THE HANDMADE WOVEN THROW ON THE BED IS FROM CURACIÓN COLLECTION
DESIGN NOTES REPLICA SERGE MOUILLE TWO-ARM WALL LIGHT, R8 699, MOOD LIGHTING & DECOR
PAVIMENTO ‘CENTRO FLORENTINE’ MATT GLAZED CERAMIC TILE IN BLUE, FROM R590, ITALTILE
CHENILLE SCATTER PILLOW IN GREEN, R499, @HOME
‘CALIZA B’ SIDE TABLE, FROM R16 499, TONIC DESIGN
‘FLORA’ TWOSEATER SOFA IN MAYA CREAM, R11 999, SOFA COMPANY
P H OTO G R A P H S : S U P P L I E D
‘EVA’ DINING CHAIR, R3 695, AURA INTERIORS
‘FUME STAR FRUIT’ BOWL, R1 595, WEYLANDTS
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
91
Staying true to the creative principles of her studio, The Private House Company – neutral tones, organic materials and textured finishes – interior designer Yvonne O’Brien creates a calming family home in Joburg TEXT PIET SMEDY PHOTOGRAPHS ELSA YOUNG
92
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
SOFT LANDING NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
93
O
n any given midsummer’s evening, you will find the future owners of this Steyn City home lounging in the sheltered patio room, ensconced between the cushions, a glass of wine in hand, with conversation and the distant hum of Joburg in the background. Or perhaps they have gathered at the spacious dining room table, entertaining friends and family against a backdrop of neutral tones and warm, natural materials. And when the night draws to a close, it is easy to see them ascending the staircase, destined for one of the four cocooning rooms. ‘We designed this home as if it was for a family with two children. We always design with “practical living” in mind, whether this is in the slipcovers that can be taken off and washed or the dining chairs that are comfy for long dinners, and did the same here to make sure this future 94
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
family has everything they need,’ says designer and The Private House Company founder Yvonne O’Brien, whose team transformed this 371-square-metre, four-bedroom apartment in Steyn City’s recently launched City Centre development. The brief was open, with the only expectation to showcase the unit’s generous floor plan, luxury finishes and (perhaps contradictory in concept) peaceful city living. ‘Our guiding principle was introducing texture. Developments are built to appeal to a larger market, so there is little individualism to them (although each of the 700 City Centre apartments is unique in floor plan), and we wanted to still stay true to the look and feel of our brand. We offset the uniformity with organic textures, a restrained colour palette and incorporated a sense of liveable luxury.’
THE DINING ROOM FEATURES A HEERENHUIS DINING TABLE AND BENCHES. A COMMISSIONED ARTWORK BY MARY COLLINS HANGS ABOVE THE ‘CALA’ SERVER BY TONIC DESIGN OPPOSITE PAGE A LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPH BY ANTON DE SOUSA COSTA PUNCTUATES THE TV ROOM WALL ABOVE THE ‘MONACO’ SOFA FROM THE PRIVATE HOUSE COMPANY
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
95
THE PATIO WAS DESIGNED FOR COMFORTABLE OUTDOOR LIVING, WITH A BUILT-IN SEAT AND THE PRIVATE HOUSE COMPANY’S OUTDOOR ‘LAGUNA’ CHAIRS AND SOFA
96
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
97
‘The perfect balance between laid-back living and modern style, achieved through the use of beautiful fabrics, wallpaper and, mostly, bespoke and handcrafted joinery’ YVONNE O’BRIEN
ALL APARTMENTS IN THE CITY CENTRE DEVELOPMENT COME WITH A BLU_LINE KITCHEN, EQUIPPED WITH GAGGENAU APPLIANCES
OPPOSITE PAGE IN THE FOREGROUND, THE ‘MAYA’ TEAK ROUND DINING TABLE AND CHAIRS FROM THE PRIVATE HOUSE COMPANY
Having worked with Steyn City’s developers in the past, Yvonne and her team knew the target market, as well as the appliance and design names that had been involved with the build (the kitchen is particularly impressive, having been designed by blu_line Kitchens and fitted with Gaggenau products). ‘We had to strike the perfect balance between laid-back living and modern style, which we achieved through the use of beautiful fabrics, wallpapers and, mostly, bespoke and handcrafted joinery,’ she says. Paramount to her design process, Yvonne set out to create an interior dialogue between the various living spaces, so though they may differ in their function, they shared a common visual language. To this end, the team opted for a neutral palette (a signature of The Private House Company) and built on this foundation by
adding cushions, throws and accessories. ‘Although this allows each room to have a little bit of its own colour scheme and personality, it means that the rooms always have a common thread and feeling. For us, this provides tranquillity as you move through the spaces,’ she says. ‘It is neutral, restrained, organic, textured and layered. Everything that we always strive for in our interiors.’ ‘No matter what the project or whom the client, this is always a key element in The Private House Company interiors; it is a process that evolves organically – just like the materials we use,’ says Yvonne. ‘Although we may have a specific look and feel for a room in mind and we choose big pieces accordingly, it is always the layering that really gives the space its life and personality.’ The Private House Company privatehouseco.co.za Q
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
99
ONE OF THE CHILDREN’S BEDROOMS WAS DESIGNED IN SOFT SHADES OF PINK. THE HAND-BEADED AND STITCHED CUSHIONS AND THROWS ARE ONE OF THE PRIVATE HOUSE COMPANY’S SIGNATURE LOOKS
100
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
DESIGN NOTES
‘BANANA LEAF III’ ART PRINT, R360, KNUS
‘CIRCLE’ FLOOR LAMP, R11 300, THE PRIVATE HOUSE COMPANY
TEALIGHT IN TORTOISESHELL, R160, CÉCILE AND BOYD
P H O T O G R A P H S : C A M E R O N E WA R T- S M I T H , S U P P L I E D
‘MAYA PACIFIC’ ROUND DINING TABLE, R19 600, THE PRIVATE HOUSE COMPANY
THE BERGMAN COLLECTION ‘NORA’ LOUNGE CHAIR, R9 960, THE PRIVATE HOUSE COMPANY
NDEBELE PATTERN PUNCH NEEDLE CUSHION IN CHARCOAL, R995, BLOCK & CHISEL
NOVEMBER 2021 HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA
101
ONLINE
Never miss a beat – your daily dose of architecture, design, art and culture news and interviews straight to your device
DON’T MISS AN EDITION
HOUSEANDGARDEN.CO.ZA FOLLOW US 102
Facebook HouseGardenSA Instagram houseandgardensa Pinterest housegardensa
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
P H OTO G R A P H : SA R A H D E P I N A , S U P P L I E D
SUBSCRIBE TO HOUSE & GARDEN ON ZINIO FOR YOUR MONTHLY DIGITAL DESIGN AND DECOR FIX, AND SAVE UP TO R450 PER YEAR. ZA.ZINIO.COM
Resources @home home.co.za Aga agaliving.co.za Anatomy Design anatomydesign.co.za Apparatus Studio apparatusstudio.com Artisafire Clay Studio 082 468 2223 Ashley Furniture Homestore ashleyfurniture.com Aura Interiors 021 447 8808 Belgotex belgotex.co.za Bespoke Homes 021 448 7155 Bestwood Flooring bestwood.co.za Black Koki blackkoki.com Block & Chisel blockandchisel.co.za Blu-Line blu-line.co.za Bordallo Pinheiro 021 180 2678 Builders Warehouse builders.co.za Bulthaup domum.bulthaup.com Caesarstone caesarstone.co.za Carl Hansen & Søn carlhansen.com Cara Saven Wall Design carasaven.com Casarredo 011 786 6940 Cécile and Boyd cecileandboyds.com Cemcrete cemcrete.co.za Charles Greig charlesgreig.co.za Cielo cielo.co.za Coral & Hive 021 851 7665 Coricraft coricraft.co.za Créma Design 021 448 7775 de Gournay degournay.com Design Store designstore.co.za Dokter and Misses 011 403 1024 Domum domum.co.za Egg Designs eggdesigns.com Eight Degrees South eightdegreessouth.co.za Elevenpast 021 201 1211 Enza Home enzahome.com Eurocasa eurocasa.co.za Eurolux 021 528 8400 Everard Read Gallery everard-read.co.za Gaggenau gaggenau.com Game game.co.za
Generation Design 011 325 5963 Glo Lighting 011 440 1781 Griffiths & Griffiths 011 444 5744 GSquared Architects gsquared.co.za Hansgrohe hansgrohe.co.za Haus by Hertex 021 914 3390 Herholdts Lighting herholdts.co.za Hertex hertex.co.za Home Fabrics homefabrics.co.za Houtlander houtlander.co.za Italcotto italcotto.co.za Italtile italtile.co.za K. Light Import 021 552 4370 K-studio k-studio.gr Kare Design kare-design.com Kipekee Studio kipekeestudio.co.za Knus knus.co Kohler africa.kohler.com La Grange Interiors 021 447 3508 Le Creuset lecreuset.co.za Lemon madebylemon.co.za Ligne Roset 010 823 2250 LIM lim.co.za Limeline 021 424 8682 Lite-glo liteglo.co.za Loot loot.co.za Louis Vuitton louisvuitton.com Lowry Fabrics lowry.co.za Makro makro.co.za Mark Alexander markalexander.com Mash. T Design Studio mashtdesignstudio.co.za Masons 011 845 3885 Mavromac & Gatehouse 011 444 1584 Miele miele.co.za Mobelli Furniture & Living mobelli.co.za Modern Gesture moderngesture.co.za Mooi Mirrors juliedenicola1@gmail.com Moroccan Warehouse 021 461 8318 Mungo mungo.co.za Mr Price Home mrphome.com Natuzzi natuzzi.com Nespresso nespresso.com
PUBLISHED BY CONDÉ NAST Chief Executive Officer Roger Lynch
Newport Lighting newport.co.za Nguni Hides Online ngunihidesonline.co.za Offcine Gullo offcinegullo.com Oggie oggieflooring.com Okha 021 461 7233 Opia Design 072 903 5979 Patio Warehouse patiowarehouse.co.za Pezula Interiors 021 424 2661 Poliform SA poliform.it Private House Collection privatehouseco.co.za Radiant Lighting radiant.co.za Roche Bobois 021 286 0793 ROMO Fabrics romo.com Salon91 salon91.co.za Samsung samsung.com/za Setamono Tableware setamonotableware.com Sevens sevens.co.za SHF shf.co.za Smac Gallery smacgallery.com Smeg smeg-online.co.za St Leger & Viney stleger.co.za Studio 19 studio19.co Sofacompany.com 021 200 5904 Southern Guild 021 461 2856 Spazio Lighting 011 555 5555 Streamlight streamlight.co.za Superbalist superbalist.com Takealot takealot.com The Crown Collection 011 463 6060 The Dialogue Room thedialogueroom.co.za The Private House Company privatehouseco.co.za Tiletoria tiletoria.co.za Tonic Design 011 327 2028 True Design truedesign.co.za Valcucine South Africa valcucinesa.co.za Victorian Bathrooms 021 418 0855 Weylandts weylandts.co.za Womag 021 447 6161 Woolworths woolworths.co.za Yuppiechef yuppiechef.com Zara Home zarahome.com/za Zinc Textiles zinctextiles.com
Merchandise supplied by these companies has been featured editorially. Information was checked at the time of going to press, but Condé Nast House & Garden cannot guarantee that prices will not change or that items will be in stock at the time of publication.
Subscription Terms and Conditions By providing contact details, you're giving Condé Nast House & Garden permission to communicate with you via these channels, unless you end your correspondence with ‘NO’ to opt out. To avoid interrupted service upon expiry, your subscription will automatically be renewed and your debit order payment activated, unless instructed not to do so. Current renewal discounted rates will apply.
104
HOUSE & GARDEN NOVEMBER 2021
Global Chief Revenue Officer & President, U.S. Revenue Pamela Drucker Mann Global Chief Content Officer Anna Wintour Chief Financial Officer Jackie Marks Chief Marketing Officer Deirdre Findlay Chief People Officer Stan Duncan Chief Communications Officer Danielle Carrig Chief of Staff Elizabeth Minshaw Chief Product & Technology Officer Sanjay Bhakta Chief Data Officer Karthic Bala Chief Client Officer Jamie Jouning Chief Content Operations Officer Christiane Mack CONDÉ NAST ENTERTAINMENT President Agnes Chu Executive Vice President–General Manager of Operations Kathryn Friedrich CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Jonathan Newhouse WORLDWIDE EDITIONS FRANCE AD, AD Collector, GQ, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Vogue Collections, Vogue Hommes GERMANY AD, Glamour, GQ, GQ Style, Vogue INDIA AD, Condé Nast Traveller, GQ, Vogue ITALY AD, Condé Nast Traveller, Experienceis, GQ, La Cucina Italiana, L’Uomo Vogue, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Wired JAPAN GQ, Rumor Me, Vogue Girl, Vogue Wedding, Wired MEXICO AND LATIN AMERICA AD Mexico and Latin America, Glamour Mexico, GQ Mexico and Latin America, Vogue Mexico and Latin America, Condé Nast College Américas SPAIN AD, Condé Nast College Spain, Condé Nast Traveler, Glamour, GQ, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Vogue Niños, Vogue Novias TAIWAN GQ, Vogue UNITED KINGDOM London: HQ, Condé Nast College of Fashion and Design, Vogue Business; Britain: Condé Nast Johansens, Condé Nast Traveller, Glamour, GQ, GQ Style, House & Garden, LOVE, Tatler, The World of Interiors, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Wired UNITED STATES Allure, Architectural Digest, Ars Technica, basically, Bon Appétit, Clever, Condé Nast Traveler, epicurious, Glamour, GQ, GQ Style, healthyish, HIVE, La Cucina Italiana, LOVE, Pitchfork, Self, Teen Vogue, them., The New Yorker, The Scene, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Wired PUBLISHED UNDER JOINT VENTURE: BRAZIL Casa Vogue, Glamour, GQ, Vogue RUSSIA AD, Glamour, Glamour Style Book, GQ, GQ Style, Tatler, Vogue PUBLISHED UNDER LICENSE OR COPYRIGHT COOPERATION: AUSTRALIA GQ, Vogue, Vogue Living BULGARIA Glamour CHINA AD, Condé Nast Traveler, GQ, GQ Lab, GQ Style, Vogue, Vogue Café Beijing, Vogue Film, Vogue Me, Vogue Business in China CZECH REPUBLIC AND SLOVAKIA Vogue GERMANY GQ Bar Berlin GREECE Vogue HONG KONG Vogue, Vogue Man HUNGARY Glamour ICELAND Glamour KOREA Allure, GQ, Vogue, Wired MALAYSIA Vogue Lounge Kuala Lumpur MIDDLE EAST AD, Condé Nast Traveller, GQ, Vogue Café Riyadh, Wired POLAND Glamour, Vogue PORTUGAL Vogue, GQ, Vogue Café Porto ROMANIA Glamour RUSSIA Vogue Café Moscow SCANDIANAVIA Vogue SERBIA La Cucina Italiana SOUTH AFRICA Glamour, GQ, GQ Style, House & Garden THE NETHERLANDS Glamour, Vogue, Vogue Living, Vogue Man, Vogue The Book THAILAND GQ, Vogue TURKEY GQ, Vogue, Vogue Restaurant Istanbul UKRAINE Vogue, Vogue Café Kiev Condé Nast is a global media company producing premium content with a footprint of more than 1 billion consumers in 32 markets. condenast.com
Halo Golden Pendants Code: K-LED-5801/80, 60 or 50 in Gold or Black
DESIGN 8 SER VICE 8 QUALIT Y Viewing Showrooms Only, K. Light Import supplies only to Retailers and not to 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 I Instagram: k_light_import
F O R F U R T H E R I N F O R M AT I O N C A L L 0 1 1 6 6 9 0 5 0 0