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Introducing Duram’s new Habitat Colour Collection, a curated palette for the contemporary home. Featuring 90 beautiful designer colours from subtle earthbound neutrals to dark inky hues, choosing the perfect colour for your living space couldn’t be simpler. Inspiration comes easily with Duram’s richly pigmented interior and exterior paints that provide exceptional depth of colour, luxurious finishes and superior long-lasting results that always look smart.

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95

20 16

42

contents

36

APRIL 2020 decorating 6 10

16

TREND SPOTTING: THE GREEN

54

82

THINK BIG Use overscaled

LOOKING FORWARD TO

HOME FRONT What’s happening

AND GOLD Nature’s number

furniture to visually

SPRING Prepare now for a

on the decor scene?

one shade goes glam

expand spaces

magical spring show

ARCHITECT’S PLAN:

18

INSPIRATIONS: A MELLOW

58

OVERCOMING OBSTACLES

MOOD Welcome autumn

Ways to subtly divide

A coastal house that balances

with warm shades and

open-plan areas

privacy and natural light

natural textures

20

MAGPIE FARM A globe-trotting family find their roots in

28

62 66

86

DIVIDE AND CONQUER

for colour and texture

89

42

GARDEN Add interest with

powder rooms the wow factor

container plants

92

THIS MONTH’S GOOD IDEA

lush Tokai

Turn an old piece of furniture

ON TOP OF THE WORLD

into a bathroom vanity

52 Cover photograph: Magpie Farm, page 20 Photograph: Karl Rogers

GARDEN NOTES Garden news and debuts

95

SOUTH AFRICA’S SUPER PLANT How to grow carbon-

apartment has it all

gardening

A TOUCH OF THE TROPICS

68

THE GREEN ROOM: A

absorbing spekboom

98

SUNSHINE IN A BLOSSOM

A 1930’s home revamped for a

GOLDEN MOMENT Choose

young family

the perfect creeper for

CLEAN LIVING Inspiring looks

autumn foliage

How to grow this health-

A CITY SANCTUARY

giving fruit

for the modern bathroom

48

ACCESSORISING THE

TIME TO SHINE How to give

This high-rise Cape Town

36

LEAF POWER Foliage plants

70

BRAVE NEW BATHROOMS

A tranquil, contemporary

This year’s biggest trends

garden in Sandton

DOWN TO BASINS Chic above-

76

The many uses of calendula

100 CITRUS FOR SMALL SPACES

RIVERSIDE ROMANCE

counter options that’ll give your

An enchanting garden that

bathroom a lift

constantly evolves

ON THE COVER

gardenandhome.co.za | APRIL 2020

1

104 116

36 112 food & travel 104 EASTER PARADE Be inspired

by Pippa de Charmoy’s

promotions & offers 57

elegant lunch

110 BON APPETIT What’s new in the world of food and wine

112 A FAMILY AFFAIR Easy recipes for Easter gatherings

116 BIG SKYE COUNTRY Outdoor adventure on the rugged Isle of Skye

14

WALK THE LINE Artist

SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

Khotso Khupi’s use

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of broken lines and

save 35% on your

bold colour

12-month subscription

61

regulars

124 DIRECTORY AND

COMPETITION A luxury

COURSES Good

family safari worth

shopping guide and

R50 000 up for grabs

short courses

128 LAST WORD ON STYLE Curator and artist Khanyisile

collecting antiques

Mbongwa shares her favourite things

120 COLLECTING WITH… Glen Holman shares his cloud ORANGE OVERNIGHT OATS glass collection A prep-ahead recipe that’ll make

122 TREASURE CHEST How much breakfast a breeze. See page 103 are your collectables worth?

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APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

READERS’ QUERIES 087 158 0279 or e-mail gardenhome@caxton.co.za EDITOR Mary Jane Harris PRODUCTION/EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Mandy Buchholz 087 158 0279 ART DIRECTOR Geoff Maher geoffm@caxton.co.za KZN CONTRIBUTING EDITOR, DECOR Candice Botha candicebotha@gmail.com CAPE CONTRIBUTING EDITOR, GARDENING Marianne Alexander gandhgardenguru@gmail.com CHIEF SUB-EDITOR, GARDENING Diane Peacock dianep@caxton.co.za COPY EDITOR Marianne McDonald marianne.malone@caxton.co.za DIGITAL EDITOR Khanyi Mlaba khanyim@caxton.co.za EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Juliette Arrighi de Casanova, Natalie Boruvka, Mila Crewe-Brown, Jane Griffiths, Derick Kirk, Lizette Jonker, Connall Oosterbroek, Tess Paterson, Anne Schauffer, Alice Spencer-Higgs, Jo Trappitt, Dina Venter, Diana Wemyss, Lyn Woodward ADVERTISING JOHANNESBURG 368 Jan Smuts Ave, Craighall, 2196, 010 492 8356 CAPE TOWN 36 Old Mill Rd, Ndabeni, Maitland, 7405, 021 001 2401 DURBAN 115 Escom Road, New Germany, Pinetown, 3610, 031 716 4444 SUBSCRIPTIONS 087 405 2003, +27 21 045 1809 (international), subscribe online at gardenandhome.co.za or e-mail subs@magsathome.co.za BACK ISSUES 087 405 2003 or 021 045 1809 CLASSIFIEDS Charmaine Pillai 087 087 8898 cp@caxton.co.za Shantal Pillay 087 087 8902 shantalp@caxton.co.za DISTRIBUTION RNA Distributors 12 Nobel Street, Industria 2093, 011 248 3500, rna@RNAD.co.za PRINTING

by CTP Gravure, 19-21 Joyner Rd, Prospecton, and published by the proprietors, Caxton/RP Magazines (Reg No. 68/12588/06) GENERAL MANAGER Anton Botes FINANCIAL MANAGER Rohan French NATIONAL HEAD OF SALES Ronell Buitenbos HEAD OF RETAIL MARKETING AND INNOVATION Dejane Poil MARKETING MANAGER Reinhard Lotz PRODUCTION MANAGER Sada Reddhi DIGITAL MEDIA STRATEGIST Aqsa Qureshi EDITORIAL HEAD OFFICE Caxton House 368 Jan Smuts Avenue, Craighall Park 2196. Box 1558, Saxonwold, 2132.

Tel 087 158 0279 © All material published is copyrighted and may not be reproduced. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be accepted.

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

True REFLECTION B

When the landscaping and architecture work as one, the result is magical. A perfect example of this is the Jo’burg garden on page 70.

While it seems contradictory, overscaled items in a small space help to visually expand rooms.

See how effective this is on page 54.

Whether your garden is large or small, containers are a great way to add interest. Find out more on page 89.

Did you know that calendula has anti-ageing properties?

Find out more about this intriguing herb on page 98.

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APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

If you love modern country style, you’ll be blown aw ay by the Rossis’ laid-back mix of ol d and new in their Tokai home, featur ed on page 20.

PHOTOGRAPHS KARL ROGERS, CONNALL OOSTERBROEK, CHRISTOPH HOFFMAN, JANE GRIFFITHS AND SUPPLIED

eautiful surroundings definitely have a positive effect on your life. One of the perks of this job is that we get to visit some lovely homes and gardens, and the experience is always uplifting and inspiring. Just being in an attractive space makes you feel so much better. And if that space is your bathroom, the first place you see in the morning, then you’re set for the day.

Bathrooms should be a sanctuary where you can escape life’s demands and enjoy a bit of pampering and alone time. Of course, the lighting should always be flattering. And, if you have to look at your face post sleep, it may as well be reflected in a beautifully framed mirror.

If you’re planning to revamp yours, journalist Dina Venter has put together a round-up of the latest trends on page 48.

I’m a big fan of the new black finishes (who knew that they would look so stylish) on taps, metal-framed shower screens and sanitaryware like the magnificent bath on our cover.

For more inspiration, have a look at the selection of bathrooms on page 42. One thing you’ll discover is that anything goes – there is no right or wrong style. Choose a look that makes you feel good every day and fixtures that suit the way you live; it could be a walk-in shower or a fabulous soaking tub (just remember to recycle the bath water). If a revamp is not in the budget, it’s amazing the difference a new rug (outdoor rugs are ideal for repelling moisture), fresh flowers, a scented candle and clean, fluffy towels can make.

And speaking of making a difference, the humble spekboom is now making headlines around the world for its carbonabsorbing properties. Contributing gardening editor Marianne Alexander has the lowdown on growing this indigenous marvel on page 95. A succulent, it’s water wise, looks lush all year round and is ideal for topiary and hedges. However, do keep in mind that it should not be planted randomly in the wild as it can overwhelm the natural vegetation in certain areas and affect fragile ecosystems.

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

The new 2020 collection from Manuel Canovas looks to both Paris and the Orient for inspiration. Influenced by artists like Édouard Vuillard and Pierre Bonnard, expect statement florals and bold geometrics. Salengro is a standout, available in both fabric and wallpaper. See the range at Mavromac. mavromacandthegatehouse.co.za

TRUE TO NATURE Hermanus-based Leoni Aucamp is the latest artist to collaborate with MRP Home, and the rustic collection reflects the country’s landscapes. Applied to rugs, cork placemats, gift bags and furniture, the designs are both delicate and timeless.

Maddox chair, R3 700. mrphome.com

Great on Paper Cabo Prints is the fruit of owner Cathy Mill’s passion for botany.

The vast range, which is equally appealing to the classic and modern wall art enthusiast, is available in different sizes, framed and unframed.

Based in Cape Town, they ship nationwide. cabodesign.net

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APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

SCULPTURAL GLASS The latest vase collection from Dutz features fluid, contemporary shapes. Available in plain or metallic, bubblefinish or smooth, the palette ranges from night blues and emerald greens to warm, coppery tones. Available from La Grange Interiors. lagrangeinteriors.co.za

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

Artist’s IMPRESSION

INDUSTRIAL CHIC Luxury ADDITION Christian Lacroix Maison’s stunning new L’Odysée range includes Oiseau de Bengale and Prête-Moi Ta Plume!, and features trailing flowers, bold feathers and gorgeous panoramic scenes. Available from Home Fabrics. homefabrics.co.za

The new Barnyard pendant, from R2 499, is the answer for generous loft-like spaces – you can choose between six drops or four. Simply adjust the cords to your liking, and use exposed filament bulbs for added drama. Available from The Lighting Warehouse. lightingwarehouse.co.za

A NEW

classic

Interior designer Olga Barrow brings her effortlessly chic style to Cape Town’s designcentric Bree Street. The elegant Coast & Country showroom and interiors studio is an extension of Olga’s home with chalk whites, natural textures, antiques and a touch of EuroAfro glamour. The custom product range of furniture, lighting and accessories is available online and in store. coastandcountry.co

Moody Blues Design Team’s new Indigo Pebble and Star fabrics have the perfect hue of blue to inject a classic feel into any interior.

Team with crisp white or another of Design Team’s gorgeous fabrics in a vibrant colour. designteamfabrics.co.za

Exotic Essentials Fabric house Romo has launched its latest range titled Sarouk.

The collection of printed, soft-brushed cottons features 1920s leafy motifs and bold geometrics in a striking blend of muted and vibrant colours. romosouthafrica.com

In Sink Kohler’s Parallel collection is now available in SA. Easily identifiable by its defined, angular silhouettes, the mix of bath and shower fixtures comes in a slick, polished chrome finish. africa.kohler.com

BACK TO BASICS Block Basics is a fabulous online store brought to you by the team behind Block & Chisel. This newly launched platform is all about contemporary, accessible furniture pieces that you can mix and match – all at the click of a button. blockbasics.co.za

Designer’s FAVOURITE

Light AND Calm Borastapeter’s Graceful Stories wallpaper collection is beautifully pared down and ideal for spaces where you want to create a calm atmosphere, such as bedrooms and living rooms. As its name suggests, the range has a gentle, muted palette with accents of matt and shimmer. Patterns include stylised flowers, delicate leaves and textured marble motifs. Available at St Leger & Viney. stleger.co.za

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APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

“For furniture and lighting, Spazio is hard to beat,” says Jo’burg interior designer Deborah Garth. “I simply drool when I walk in there! I know the items last and that’s my sole design approach – choosing quality that never dates.” spazio.co.za; deborahgarth.co.za

WHAT’S ON 23 – 27 APRIL KAMERS/Makers, Jo’burg The autumn edition of this market takes place at St David’s Marist, Inanda, Sandton, with makers and artisans showcasing their products. Expect quality, handmade designs from jewellery and clothing to stationery and delicious eats. Open 09h00 – 17h00 daily; tickets are R70 each at plankton.mobi or R100 at the entrance. kamersvol.com

Visit one of our showrooms Johannesburg 227 Jan Smuts Avenue Parktown North 011 447 3149 Centurion 15 Coachmen’s Park, 26 Jakaranda Street Hennopspark 012 653 6808 Cape Town Eagle Park, Computer Road, Montague Gardens 021 555 1034

Manufacturers of Distinctive Decorative Coatings www.cemcrete.co.za

0860 CEMCRETE

enquiry@cemcrete.co.za

R

OBSTACLES When designing this coastal house, the challenge was to find a balance between providing privacy and bringing in natural light on the narrow site

AT A GLANCE THE ARCHITECT Julia Rutherfoord.

THE CLIENT A professional woman.

THE BRIEF A light-filled home that maximises the sea and forest views, while maintaining a sense of privacy.

THE HOUSE From the triple garage, a bridge walkway leads to the entrance and lobby on the first floor, where there are also three en suite bedrooms. The ground floor consists of the open-plan kitchen and living area as well as a covered entertaining area. There is a separate guest suite and a laundry.

TEXT CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPHS MATTHEW WILKES ART DIRECTION BLAIZE JAY WINDSCHEFFEL

Overcoming

ARCHITECT’S PLAN

he extremely narrow, sloping site posed a challenge for architect Julia Rutherfoord when designing this house in Salt Rock on the KZN North Coast.

“The owner wanted a light-filled house that would feel private, while embracing the sea views and open vegetation to the east of the property,” she says. “The architectural code in this estate is a contemporary vernacular response

T

GET THIS PLAN ONLINE to site and context, which is quite an open design code and stimulates good architecture.”

To maximise the light and space, Julia opened up the north side of the house completely and created a small courtyard on the south side next to the stairwell.

The house, built by Sycor Construction, features lots of glass. “This gives the illusion of space, drawing the eye to the courtyards and emphasising the compact, dense tropical planting.”

To ensure privacy, timber screens and pergolas were installed on the exterior on both levels. “We screened the bedrooms on the first floor and added angled vertical slats along the stairwell so that the owner can enjoy the sea view without looking onto the neighbours, or having them look in,” Julia notes. These timber accents have been continued in the interior design, while black steel elements give the house a contemporary feel.

“Making the obstacle the way forward is my philosophy,” she says. “Here, we had the challenges of privacy and a narrow site and, by making these the focal point of the design, we overcame them with a light-filled yet private home.”

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APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

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

First floor

Ground floor garage

store room

bed 4

study

kitchen

entrance

bed 3 dining area

pergola

bed 2

living area

pool main bedroom

outdoor entertaining area

SOURCES Julia Rutherfoord rutherfoordarchitect.co.za Sycor Construction sycorconstruction.co.za

ALBERTON

WALK the LINE Jo’burg artist Khotso Kupi uses broken lines to capture the essence of his subjects How would you describe your work?

It explores the use of lines as a basic function. The structure of the subject matter is reduced to its simplest components – the broken lines connect content, or simply emphasise structure. I have named this technique ‘Caturism’.

My use of colour is secondary, but it can be used symbolically. On one hand, I use colour, shape and texture to evoke the emotions of the viewer, but my work often addresses wildlife conservation and awareness.

What are your greatest influences?

I am inspired by Post-Impressionism, German Expressionism and Cubism as developed by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. My early work was

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APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

also influenced by South African artists Ayanda Nkosi and Richard Scott.

Where did your passion for painting originate? I was introduced to the visual arts at Queens High School in Jo’burg and attended art classes on Saturdays at Funda Centre, but I consider myself self-taught and a naturalist. My mother has always nurtured my love of painting and has been a great support. Thanks to my family and friends, I have become a prolific artist.

What is your working process? Before I begin, I make a decision about whether

the piece will require a mixed-media approach or paint only. When plotting an idea on canvas, my subject can be purely conceptual, or a reference picture can be used as a guide. I sketch on the canvas, then begin applying paint with a brush or a palette knife to achieve my desired effect. It can be painstaking.

Name some of the highlights of your career. I’ve participated in all five of the Africa’s Art Collective Seasons.

My work has also been exhibited at Roche Bobois, The European Light and Design Centre, the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Rosebank, Mobelli Furniture + Living and the Living Artists Emporium HQ. Tell us about your latest work.

It’s inspired by De Stijl artist Piet Mondrian. I’ve also started developing a series of palette-knife paintings.

Any exhibitions on the calendar?

Upcoming shows include group exhibitions at Living Artists Emporium, Turbine Art Fair 2020 and Africa’s Art Collective Seasons at Mall of Africa.

SOURCE Living Artists Emporium 082 5733 488, livingartistemporium.co.za

WORDS MARIANNE MCDONALD PHOTOGRAPHS PETER WHITFIELD AND SUPPLIED

CREATIVE SPIRIT

TREND SPOTTING 3 2

1

THE 4

5

GREEN AND

gold

Nature’s number one shade goes glam with a touch of gold 6

8

9

1. Salencia Hanging Palm lamp, R7 995, La Grange Interiors. 2. Tribal cushion, R895, Block & Chisel. 3. Murano rug, R1 399, FabHabitat.

4. Tamegroute jug, R699, The Storer. 5. Noble velvet chair, R2 800, MRP Home. 6. Octo mirror, R1 995, Weylandts. 7. Innocent Smoke red wine glass, R389, KARE. 8. Belleze ottoman, R2 295, Block & Chisel. 9. Large palm tree candle holder, R690, SHF. SOURCES Block & Chisel blockandchisel.co.za FabHabitat fabhabitat.co.za KARE kare-design.com La Grange Interiors lagrangeinteriors.co.za MRP Home mrphome.com SHF shf.co.za The Storer thestorer.co Weylandts weylandts.co.za

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APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

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

7

A mellow

MOOD

For a similar look, try the Decowood range from American Shutters, which provides a stylish solution for blocking glare while allowing air to flow through.

TEXT MARY JANE HARRIS SHOPPING MANDY BUCHHOLZ PHOTOGRAPHS JOHN PAUL URIZAR/BAUERSSYNDICATION.COM/AU/MAGAZINEFEATURES.CO.ZA AND SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

As autumn sets in, surround yourself with warm shades and natural textures

INSPIRATIONS Khaki green will add warmth to a room in the cooler months, yet still looks fresh when the weather warms up.

Autumn Leaves 080-6 paint, Duram.

Look for occasional chairs with strong sculptural shapes to add interest. Genuine leather Fracture armchair with gold electroplated legs, R13 750, KNUS.

If you love the look of hardwood, you can get the same effect with practical vinyl planks without the high price tag. Moda Vinile Cenera wood-look vinyl tile, R399/m², Italtile.

Plump up the sofa with plenty of cushions. Sandy scatter, R349, Coricraft.

EXPERT TIPS

Round coffee tables are ideal in small spaces. The brass trim of this Daylight coffee table, R11 219, from KARE keeps the look right up to date.

Adjustable floor lamps are ideal for both reading and playing board games. Priddy floor lamp, R1 700, Eurolux.

Add a splash of sunshine with this Honeycomb rug, R4 350, Mobelli Furniture + Living

You’ll need a comfortable sofa to curl up on during chilly afternoons.

Tobacco sofa, R25 799, KARE.

Karina Palmer, owner of American Shutters, has these tips for choosing shutters A professional will be able to give you expert advice on which range would suit your home and furniture layout, as well as the correct panel width for the application. This will help you avoid expensive mistakes.

The louvres of white shutters reflect an amazing amount of light into the house, so choose shutters in a light colour for dark rooms. They’re available in a choice of louvre widths; wide options have larger gaps between them, which maximises the amount of light coming in and offers better outward views.

To make updating a colour scheme a simple matter, stick to neutral shades when choosing permanent fixtures such as shutters.

This way, you can tweak a room by painting a wall or buying new scatter cushions.

SOURCES American Shutters americanshutters.co.za Coricraft coricraft.co.za Duram duram.co.za Eurolux eurolux.co.za Italtile italtile.co.za KARE kare-design.com KNUS knus.co Mobelli Furniture + Living mobelli.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | APRIL 2020

19

Magpie

The seating on the veranda is from La Grange Interiors, and the rug and scatters from Veronica Lidchi.

FARM

TEXT DIANA WEMYSS STYLING JULIETTE ARRIGHI DE CASANOVA PHOTOGRAPHS KARL ROGERS

Moving from Dubai, this family found its roots in the lush greenery and rugged mountains of Tokai

CAPE TOWN FARMHOUSE

ew people could be as happy with their new home and rural lifestyle than Caroline Rossi. A year ago, the Rossi family moved to South Africa from Dubai, where they had lived for 12 years. Giovanni and Caroline, who come from Italy and Switzerland respectively, wanted to give their children a different taste of life before returning to their native Europe to complete their education.

They also own a home in Knysna, so know and love South Africa. “Dubai had been about sea and city life,” says Caroline. “We decided we needed to find a place where we could connect to the landscape and nature. Cape Town was the obvious choice and this house, nestled in the foothills of the Constantiaberg, captured our hearts.”

Caroline first saw the house advertised on the Internet and it didn’t disappoint when they went to view it. “It has such a strong feeling of happiness in it.

F WHO LIVES HERE Giovanni and Caroline Rossi (pictured), their children Luca (15), Victoria (14) and Laetitia (10), two horses, a rescue donkey, two dogs and numerous ducks and chickens.

THE HOUSE A double storey on two acres with four bedrooms and bathrooms.

The main barn consists of a kitchen, dining room and sitting area, and there are also two studies, a childrens’ recreation room, guest loft suite, stables and a garden cottage.

THIS PAGE, FROM TOP TO BOTTOM:

The house is framed by the Constantiaberg. Caroline’s rescue donkey, Cindy, named after the supermodel Cindy Crawford.

gardenandhome.co.za | APRIL 2020

21

At the end of a sandstone pathway, the family’s dogs welcome guests at the entrance. Adjoining the vegetable garden, the terrace is shaded by established guava trees.

The table and chairs are from La Grange Interiors. Stairs lead to the guest suite’s private entrance. Stable doors on the left open to the childrens’ recreation room.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

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APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

You can sense the love that the previous owners put into the collection of unique wooden Balinese features such as the doors, windows, screens and columns. We all feel so happy and grounded here. This house seems rooted in its environment.”

And what an environment it is.

Without appearing to be far up the mountainside, it presents sweeping views towards Muizenberg and the Hottentots Holland Mountains. The site is lush and treed with a large pond, swimming

A group of pendant lights over the table in the outdoor dining area creates a magical atmosphere at night. A built-in coat rack by Restorabilia at the entrance houses jackets and hats. The previous owners incorporated Balinese influences throughout the house, such as this pair of double teak doors in the living room.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT:

gardenandhome.co.za | APRIL 2020

23

The grey and raw wood accents in the kitchen and dining area ensure a cohesive look throughout. The dining chairs are from La Grange Interiors, and Caroline had them upholstered for a softer look. The chairs in the formal dining area are from Vogel Design and the table was custom made in Jo’burg. The rug is from Veronica Lidchi. Beyond the entrance hall is the study, where Caroline focuses on her business, Comptoir 102, a concept store and restaurant.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

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APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

pool and emerald green paddocks.

A vegetable garden right outside the kitchen door is shaded by ancient guava trees.

Having decided to settle in South Africa, Caroline wanted to source everything for the house locally. “A lot of South Africans believe that things are better elsewhere, but they aren’t.

We are simply amazed by what is available here.”

All the bathrooms were refurbished, the terraces extended and retiled, and a new braai and pizza oven built. Having fully decorated a house in Dubai using South African furniture, Caroline was familiar with local craftsmen and retailers. She also relied on the help of Manuela Candido Interiors and, apart from the few structural changes mentioned, the project mostly came down to decorating and furnishing.

“We left our house and everything

Caroline wanted a rich, textured approach in the formal sitting room. This laid-back style was given an industrial edge with a metal-framed chandelier.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Laetitia’s room under the eaves features a wet

room enclosed with glass to keep the space light and airy. All the bathrooms were refurbished with help from Manuela Candido Interiors. The bath in the main bathroom is from Victoria + Albert. The upstairs landing between the children’s bedrooms is furnished with modern chairs from Honoré Deco and a stool from the Iranian-French designer India Mahdavi. The light fitting is from Mathieu Challieres.

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APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

Get the look Be inspired by this bathroom to create a calming haven in your home

Tivoli Gadoni matt-black showerhead, from R3 999, Italtile.

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

Ribbed Hive pendant, R790, SHF.

in it back in Dubai, so we had to start from scratch.”

Caroline co-manages Comptoir 102, a concept store and restaurant business in Dubai, and plans to open a branch in a Constantia vineyard soon, so she certainly knows a lot about style and beautiful living. Testament to her good taste and discipline is how the rooms flow one into the other without any false notes, in a muted, textured style.

“It was fortunate that we didn’t bring our previous belongings with us. Although it was hard work, I was quite strict in keeping true to the direction that we had decided on – a rustic home with touches of industrial styling.”

Carrara hexagon marble mosaic tiles, from R172,50/sheet, WOMAG.

Zala free-standing bath, R10 995, Bathroom Bizarre.

Woven bath mat, R299, Superbalist.

ABOVE: The main bedroom, decorated in raw wood and

white, has large French doors that flood the room with light and reveal views of the Somerset West hills.

Iroko Ret porcelain tile, R573,85/m2, WOMAG.

SOURCES Bathroom Bizarre bathroom.co.za Comptoir 102 comptoir102.com Italtile italtile.co.za La Grange Interiors lagrangeinteriors.co.za Manuela Candido Interiors candido.co.za Restorabilia restorabilia.co.za SHF shf.co.za Superbalist superbalist.com Veronica Lidchi veronicalidchi.co.za Victoria + Albert vandabaths.com Vogel Design vogeldesign.co.za WOMAG womag.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | APRIL 2020

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On

Pops of colour punctuate a textured, neutral palette to reflect the city views of this Cape Town pied-Ã -terre

TEXT DIANA WEMYSS STYLING JULIETTE ARRIGHI DE CASANOVA PHOTOGRAPHS KARL ROGERS

TOPof the WORLD

CAPE TOWN PENTHOUSE

Although space is at a premium in Cape Town, this penthouse boasts generous outdoor areas with views of Table Mountain.

In the living area, the large cane butterfly chair from Weylandts dominates the space. The bespoke cabinet with smoked glass mirror is from Dylan’s interior design studio.

WHO LIVES HERE A South African businessman living in America, who lets it out on Airbnb.

THE APARTMENT A penthouse on the top floor of a newly built development in Woodstock, Cape Town. It consists of open-plan sitting, dining and kitchen areas, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and generous balconies on two sides.

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t takes your breath away: the looming granite folds of Table Mountain, the city with cars resembling Dinky Toys whizzing along the freeways, and boats slowly pulling into the harbour. Every iconic view is there, like something out of a panoramic movie. Against this backdrop, interior designer Dylan Thomaz had to create spaces powerful enough to draw you away from the view.

I

The wall of woven baskets from Amatuli is one of Dylan’s design signatures.

The 60’s Verner Panton-inspired chairs from Chair Crazy bring a sophisticated urban look to the dining room. Copper tiles from Southern Art Ceramics were a clever way to give the standard kitchen a lift and antique copper pots add character.

Interior designer Dylan Thomaz.

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The arsenal of this talented interior designer is wideranging. He honed his skills in retail, tempting customers with clever styling of merchandise from sportswear to sofas.

This penthouse, approached from a concrete passageway, opens into a stylish yet comfortable space softened by a multitude of textures in muted tones. Colour plays little part in Dylan’s designs. He believes the key to creating the perfect backdrop for any client is to restrict colour to the artworks and perhaps the occasional scatter. It’s texture that thrills here.

From the luscious, shimmering golds of the splashback tiles in the kitchen and the rustic grass cloth on the bedroom wall, to the leather-fringed rug under the dining table.

The artwork in the living area, commissioned by Dylan, is by local artist Gabi Lee. The modular couch and coffee table are both from Weylandts, and the bronze side table from Coricraft. Dylan chose African accessories to add interest to the sideboard in the dining area. Milnerton Market finds add a personal touch to the coffee table in the sitting area.

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“Every space should have something in leather, glass, metal and fabric,” maintains Dylan. “After that, you can add elements such as ceramics to the mix.”

The aim in this penthouse was to combine firstworld amenities with chic African undertones, hence the rush baskets on the walls and the earthy hues. “If you get the core right,” says Dylan, “everything else follows easily.”

Here, he treated the walls almost like works of art, using thick grass wallpapers and unexpected subway tiles in the bedroom. “I love pushing the boundaries,” he says.

To create a timeless space that is pared back and relaxed, he kept the furniture profiles slim and light.

But, as with all his work, there is always a nod to the past, such as the copper pots displayed in the kitchen.

“I just love trawling through the Milnerton Grass cloth wallpaper from Hertex adds a tactile feel in the second bedroom.

In the main bedroom, Dylan pushed the boundaries by tiling the wall behind the bed in high-gloss subway tiles.

THIS PAGE, FROM TOP TO BOTTOM:

Get the look Recreate the chic, urban look of this open-plan kitchen and dining area

Sixth Floor natural pendant, R1 299, Superbalist.

Carmen copper vase, R500, LaForma Barcelona Living.

Trend Linear stone and glass mosaic tile, R290/m², Italtile.

Twisted metal bowl, R350, Woolworths.

Threaded vase, from R395, Weylandts.

Abstract print, R59,99, MRP Home.

Market on the weekends and have made some great finds there,” he says. Case in point are the two wooden vases on the mirrored TV cabinet, which is from Dylan’s online range. “I always like to include a signature piece,” he says.

Panton chair, R5 670, Créma.

ABOVE: The reflection from the metal surrounds of the

balcony create a warm, ochre glow in the bathroom.

SOURCES Airbnb airbnb.co.za Amatuli amatuli.co.za Chair Crazy chaircrazy.co.za Coricraft coricraft.co.za Créma cremadesign.co.za Gabi Lee gabilee.co.za Hertex hertex.co.za Italtile italtile.co.za LaForma Barcelona Living laforma.co.za Milnerton Market milnertonfleamarket.co.za MRP Home mrphome.com SHF shf.co.za Southern Art Ceramics vlvlk.com Studio Dylan Thomaz dylanthomaz.com Superbalist superbalist.com Weylandts weylandts.co.za Woolworths woolworths.co.za

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

Cadro dining table, R12 990, SHF.

of the

TROPICS I This 1930’s Tamboerskloof dame has notes of art deco and an easy-going, tropical energy in tune with its owners’ penchant for design

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t was a January afternoon in 2017 when Nicole O’Connor got an e-mail from her husband, Chris, titled ‘Must Open’. It was one of many mails with houses for sale that Chris kept an eye on, but this one was different. “I was instantly drawn to the look and feel; it was all white, in immaculate condition and had tall palm trees in the garden. It was also

TEXT MILA CREWE-BROWN STYLING JULIETTE ARRIGHI DE CASANOVA PICTURES KARL ROGERS AND SUPPLIED POTRAIT PHOTOGRAPH TARRYN JORDAAN

XXX

CAPE TOWN HOUSE

WHO LIVES HERE? Nicole and Chris O’Connor, and their sons Christian (3) and Charles (10 months).

THE HOUSE A double-storey, 1930’s heritage house in Cape Town with impressive views of the mountains. It has four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a garden set-up for entertaining and relaxation.

THIS SPREAD, CLOCKWISE FROM

Both the swimming pool and pavilion were new additions built

by Nick Godwin of Phase Three Property Developments. On the deck, the parasol is from Patio Warehouse and the sun lounger from Tradewinds. The outdoor dining table and chairs in the pavilion are from North’s Outdoor Furniture.

ABOVE:

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well located within the City Bowl,” Nicole recalls.

The tropical feel was something of an attraction for the couple, given that both their families have roots in KZN and a love of plantation-style homes is in their DNA. That the previous owners had a parrot was serendipitous.

Chris’ mother, Dominique, and sister, Gigi, own Dominico House, an interior design company known for understated, layered interiors. They have also had a marked influence on Chris’ taste, and in turn Nicole’s.

Bidding war over, they moved in with their son Christian, who was 10 months old at the time. Though the house didn’t call for too much renovation, the couple decided that the salmon

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and indigo walls had to go. They repainted them in Nicole’s favourite: Dulux’s Oyster White. With the help of architect Nick Wright of The Archi Co., they built a pavilion, swimming pool and deck. The garden was levelled and landscaped and one of the bedrooms extended.

Nicole and Chris inherited solid oak floors on the ground floor and a series THIS PAGE, FROM TOP TO BOTTOM:

The all-white kitchen takes on a breezy appearance when paired with Nicole’s collection of blue and white crockery. The blinds throughout the house are from Bali Blinds. The slipcovered armchair from Dominico House in the sitting room is layered with a North African cotton throw.

of characteristic curved walls in the main bedroom and sitting room. They also inherited views so staggering that they make even seasoned Capetonians envious. “The balcony off the master bedroom has sweeping views of the city, perfect for enjoying our morning coffee or evening glass of wine; the other bedrooms look onto Lion’s Head and

Signal Hill, and the study has a view of Table Mountain,” says Nicole.

Furnishing their new home came easily. Chris has a knack for pulling a

space together and the couple love timeless, relaxed interiors that make use of natural materials. The crisp white offsets finishes such as raffia, seagrass, wood and sisal. Teamed with cotton and and heavy linen curtains, hard-wearing slipcovers and upholstered headboards, the effect is both low key and artfully stylish.

For accessories and furnishings, Nicole lists: “local interior wholesale outlets, antique shops, overseas markets, as well as online and secondhand stores” as her go-tos. “Chris and I also try to purchase a local painting every time we travel to remind us of our holiday,” she adds. The couple have been gifted with beautiful furniture, paintings and objet over the years by Chris’ mother and sister, who have a strong intuition for what a space needs.

In the entrance hall, a demilune coconut wood table shows off treasured family photos. Designed for outdoor use, the Hertex Palm rug is durable and easy to clean. The faux bamboo Chippendale-style chairs in the dining room were bought from a friend of Chris.

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An inherited gilt-framed mirror hangs above a custom-designed chest of drawers in the main bedroom. The lamps with raffia shades are from Dominico House. The chest of drawers in Charles’ room was custom made with raffia panels and brass handles. The cot is from Cottonwood Furniture. “With bathrooms, I lean towards classic simplicity, as it always evokes a sense of serenity,” says Nicole.

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Get the look Welcome guests with a mix of traditional and tropical flair

Natural cage pendant, from R2 695, HAUS. Half Moon server, from R15 180, James Mudge Furniture Studio.

Bellevue mantel mirror, R4 999, @home.

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

Delicious Paradise rug, from R2 800, Hertex.

This is a home that shows off its best side in spring and summer. The new additions to the garden ‒ swimming pool, deck and pavilion ‒ extend the living space outdoors and are the setting for jovial parties. Chris sets up a G&T bar on the lawn, jazz plays in the background and Nicole decks the table in blue and white with flickering candles. You might even catch a hint of jasmine, lemon and frangipani in the air. “The garden is all about green and white tropical notes,” Nicole says, adding that the four palm trees that greet guests at the entrance cry ‘island holiday’.

Naturals Coast scented candle, R329, @home.

Fiddle-leaf fig (incl. basket), from R785, Plantify.

ABOVE: The canopy bed in Christian’s room was custom

made by Ash Interiors. The vintage-style toy racing car is from Polly Potter’s Toy Store and the fitted herringbone carpet from Coirtex.

Palm straw basket, from R899, The Storer.

SOURCES @home home.co.za Ash Interiors 084 204 1797 Bali Blinds baliblinds.co.za Coirtex coirtex.co.za Cottonwood Furniture cottonwoodfurniture.co.za Dominico House dominicohouse.co.za Dulux dulux.co.za HAUS hertexhaus.co.za Hertex hertex.co.za James Mudge Furniture Studio jamesmudge.co.za North’s Outdoor Furniture norths.co.za Patio Warehouse patiowarehouse.co.za Phase Three Property Developments phase-three.co.za Plantify plantify.co.za Polly Potter’s Toy Store pollypotterstoystore.co.za The Archi Co. thearchico.com The Storer thestorer.co Tradewinds tradewinds.co.za

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CLEAN

living

INSIDE OUT Connecting to an outdoor area helps to introduce a spa-like feel. This ceiling-height picture window creates a seamless link to a private courtyard, with the added benefit of an outdoor shower. Painting the courtyard walls in white enhances the indoor-outdoor flow, echoed by the tiled bathroom walls. A modern bath shape makes a bold statement, while the Ethiopian table adds texture.

Tip: Framing a large window in wood adds an element of warmth, offsetting the crisp, white finishes.

TEXT TESS PATERSON PHOTOGRAPHS BUREAUX

Today’s bathroom is as functional and beautiful as any other room in the home. We look at eight inspiring designs that combine style, practicality and comfort

BATHROOM INSPIRATION

PURE AND SIMPLE

PALE AND INTERESTING

Fuss-free and practical, this space was designed as a boys’ bathroom adjacent to a teen den. The all-white, walk-in shower is clad in simple subway tiles, with a porthole window adding a bold visual element. Building in a narrow rectangular shelf provides useful storage space for toiletries – a clever component that breaks the starkness of the tiles.

Tip: Choose matt, non-slip flooring such as vinyl or timber for high-traffic kids’ bathrooms.

All-white bathrooms often produce a feeling of tranquillity and abundant space – the trick is to create layers of interest among the monochrome. This detailed vanity has profiled drawer fronts, plus a brass-toned kickplate and contrasting handles. Set against the luxe marble cladding (light veining introduces the subtlest gray shades), the brass-framed mirrors echo the metallic edging in the shower-door surround.

Tip: Correctly positioned task lights will ensure the right illumination for your vanity area.

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WELL FURNISHED

PATTERN PLAY The trend for patterned tiles continues to gain ground, with countless versions inspired by countries like Morocco, Spain, Portugal and Italy. Guest bathrooms are a great place to experiment with this decorative look as there’s no need to coordinate with other rooms. The choices are limitless, from earthy browns to crisp blue and white or sleek silver and taupe.

Tip: To avoid an overly busy effect, choose a plain floor and accessorise the space with simple ceramics and timber details.

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Where space allows, free-standing furniture will add a wonderfully lived-in feel. Complementing the wide floorboards, a metal and timber vanity is both elegant and practical, while a carved side table can be easily moved around. A generous chair is the ultimate bathroom luxury – keep the look light and airy with a cool, cotton fabric.

Decorating this space like any other room in the house – complete with graphic prints on the feature wall – creates a calm, cohesive feel.

Tip: Extending the same flooring from the bathroom into the dressing room will enhance the sense of space.

A SENSE OF SYMMETRY A pair of classical basins lends balance to this contemporary bathroom, contrasted by large-scale hexagonal tiles and circular mirrors. Brass elements add both glamour and colour, while a third oversized round mirror reflects the courtyard.

The light palette is restful and elegant, while the dramatic shapes and pendant light fittings add a sophisticated edge.

Tip: If you don’t want a full vanity surround, choose a basin with built-in towel rails and/or storage racks to optimise your wall space.

QUIET LUXURY

VINTAGE BLACK AND WHITE

With its pared-back shower cube and elemental concrete floor, this serene space has a striking elegance. Pale wall tiles laid in a herringbone pattern up the ante, as does the dramatic, textured chandelier. A tabletop basin and freestanding mirror give a casual, lived-in quirkiness. The shelf below provides much-needed storage for towels and toiletries. A dark timber ladder doubles up as a towel rail and decorative touch.

Tip: Soften industrial-style fittings with tactile elements such as a woven carpet or chunky laundry basket.

There’s nothing lovelier than a Deco-era bathroom that’s been beautifully restored. Get this smart, classic look by using chequerboard floor tiles and a pedestal basin. Simple globe wall lights are both practical and appealing, while a band of black accent tiles adds a vintage note. To bring the look up to date, choose a simple walk-in or frameless shower design.

Tip: Add a personal touch with a shot of bold colour. An industrial cabinet, for instance, not only adds storage, but gives the space a modern spin.

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Black and white patchwork matt-glazed porcelain tiles, from R790/m2, Italtile.

PATCHWORK TILES “Consumers are creating more excitement in their bathrooms and we’re seeing a move away from safe choices,” says Nicole Russell, marketing manager of Italtile. “If you want to make a statement, patchwork tiles are the way to go. They’re available in different shapes, sizes and patterns, catering to every taste.”

BRAVE NEW Thinking of revamping that tired bathroom or guest loo? Here are this year’s 10 biggest bathroom trends to get you on the right track

TEXT DINA VENTER PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

1

BATHROOM TRENDS

SHUTTERED SHOWER WINDOWS “Large windows in showers are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes, creating a seamless flow between inside and out,” says Briggie Kirchmann, marketing director of Plantation Shutters. However, if privacy is an issue, shutters offer a trendy, practical solution. “The design lines are clean, colours can be customised, and if you choose aluminum shutters, you won’t have to worry about them warping or perishing ‒ even when in contact with water.”

2

LIGHTING THAT’S FUNCTIONAL AND DECORATIVE

3

“Bathroom mirrors with built-in lights are all the rage this year,” says Kelly Klopper, junior brand manager of Eurolux. These mirrors also make life a little easier when applying make-up, shaving, and styling your hair. If you don’t want to replace existing mirrors, flank them with wall sconces for shadowless illumination.

W496 Cosmetic mirror wall light, from R1 740, Eurolux.

CEMENT FLOORING “Decorative cement floors in bathrooms are very much on trend,” says Joanne Sykes, marketing and sales director of Cemcrete.

Practical and hard wearing, sleek and stylish, they complement both traditional and modern bathrooms.

4

SMALL SANCTUARIES Downsizing and living comfortably in smaller spaces also applies to bathrooms.

“It’s the room where we end and start our day, so it has to be a small oasis,” says Lisa Millbacher of Bespoke Bathrooms. In a small bathroom, bold minimalism is the way to go. “Create a striking visual with pattern or colour,” recommends Lisa, “and don’t forget to make the most of the available space by incorporating custommade cabinetry that works with the shape of the room and provides extra storage space.”

5

BLACK FINISHES Hugely popular at the moment are black finishes on bathroom taps and accessories. Timeless and classic, black adds a stylish, almost industrial edge to today’s bathrooms, complementing ontrend monochrome schemes. Plus, they have a luxurious satin-like feel.

Bathroom design by Bespoke Bathrooms.

6

Wall-mounted Tivoli Bardi bath mixer tap with handshower, R4 000, CTM.

GET MORE ONLINE For more decor trends, visit gardenandhome.co.za

Duram Blue Squill

Tivoli Bardi basin mixer tap, R3 000, CTM. Tivoli Bardi shower mixer, R1 500, CTM.

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Duram Knysna Lagoon

Duram Spring Tide

CALMING COLOURS “As we lead busy lives, soothing neutrals are the way to go in your bathroom,” says Lizemari Moller, brand manager of Duram. “Nature is the ultimate source of inspiration for a calming palette, with tranquil ocean blues and calming meadow greens creating a sense of peace and harmony.”

7

SUSTAINABILITY “Making conscious purchasing decisions and considering the environmental impact of the products we buy is very important,” says Georgina Selander, marketing assistant at Mungo. Earth-friendly fibres, such as linen and organic cotton, are becoming the fabrics of choice for their softness, absorbency and longevity.

8

Aegean 100% organic cotton towel, from R270, Mungo.

Glasshouse GLA403 wallpaper, R1 750/10m roll, Dreamweaver Studios

BOLD POWDER ROOMS “The bathroom has become a focus area for wallpaper,” says Haidee Kramer, director of Dreamweaver Studios.

“But opt for a vinyl wallcovering that can withstand steam and moisture. For a guest loo, you can be adventurous and make a statement with bold patterns, fabulous florals, and jungle prints.”

9

Bianco Arabescato porcelain tiles, R493,35m2, WOMAG.

CLASSIC MATERIALS “Classic, timeless materials are growing in popularity, and with the innovations in porcelain tile printing, realistic stone, wood and marble effects can now be produced on tiles,” says Oren Sachs, managing director of WOMAG. “Another trend is to mix materials.

For example, pair wood-look tiles with a marble vanity for a personal and interesting look.”

10

SOURCES Bespoke Bathrooms bespokebathrooms.co.za Cemcrete cemcrete.co.za CTM ctm.co.za Dreamweaver Studios dreamweaverstudios.co.za Duram duram.co.za Eurolux eurolux.co.za Italtile italtile.co.za Mungo mungo.co.za Plantation Shutters plantation.co.za WOMAG womag.co.za

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SHOPPING

2

1

3

DOWN TO basins

4

Give your bathroom a lift with a chic, above-counter basin 5 6

8

1. Rondo basin, R4 800, Studio19. 2. Scalloped bronze basin, R6 800, Copper Bath. 3. Ceramic oval basin, from R1 950, Hadeda.

4. Brass basin, R5 500, Copper Bath. 5. Lat50 basin, R6 844, LAVO Bathroom Concepts. 6. Laufen drop-in basin, R2 790, Italtile.

7. Medium basin, R5 500, Studio19. 8. Drayton 40 basin, R4 095, Bathroom Bizarre.

SOURCES Bathroom Bizarre bathroom.co.za Copper Bath copperbath.co.za Hadeda hadeda-tiles.com Italtile italtile.co.za LAVO Bathroom Concepts lavo.co.za Studio19 studio19.co

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

7

Next month in

Beautiful kitchens and the latest trends

The importance of hard landscaping

Create a colourful autumn garden

Clever makeovers and easy updates

Don’t miss the May issue ON SALE 13 APRIL

Thinking

BIG

1 METAL WORKS To give the illusion of height, Dustin Chaplin of Landmarq Road designed and made an elegant four poster for this bedroom at The Precinct Luxury apartments, Waterfall Estate. “The slender posts draw the eye upwards, but don’t dominate the room, while the oversized lamps give an opulent look,” says Dustin.

COMPILED BY MARY JANE HARRIS AND CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPHS SALLY CHANCE AND CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN

When decorating a small space, your first instinct is often to go for a small piece of furniture. The reality is that, in many cases, a large, bold piece can make it feel much bigger

DECOR IDEAS

2

3

2 LESS IS MORE “When space is limited, don’t clutter it with lots of little pieces of furniture. It’s much more effective to go big and bold with a single modular sofa that offers lots of seating and complement it with a stunning mirror and sculptural floor lamp,” says Dustin Chaplin of Landmarq Road who designed and made the furniture.

Photographed at The Precinct Luxury Apartments, Waterfall Estate.

3 STATEMENT LIGHTING Asked to give this traditional dining area a more modern look, interior designer Tessa Proudfoot installed an oversized contemporary light fitting. It emphasises the high ceiling and its scale immediately updates the room without overwhelming it.

4 INSTANT IMPACT To add the wow factor to this small bedroom at The Precinct Luxury Apartments in Waterfall Estate, designer Angela Saffy of Versatile Interiors chose a bold photograph and had it blown up and mounted on a board. “I wanted to make an impact on entering the room and enhance the art deco theme. As you’re drawn to the image, you don’t notice the lack of space.”

4

5 SLEEK STYLE For this cluster in KZN, interior designer Amy Mitchell of Studio Mitchell chose a generous U-shaped sofa that virtually fills the room. It gives the maximum amount of seating and visually expands the relatively small space.

6

7

6 COLOURFUL EDGE Vibrant colour and pattern is another way you can make a statement without taking up valuable space.

The bold colour and pattern in this TV room add impact and the striking floor lamp makes use of otherwise wasted space. The hide on the floor also makes the room look wider.

7 CLASSIC LUXE If you want to make a small bedroom feel more luxurious, then an extralarge headboard is the way to go.

Give it a buttoned finish to enhance the sense of being pampered and cossetted. Decor by INCdecor.

SOURCES INCdecor incdecor.com Landmarq Road landmarqroad.com Studio Mitchell studiomitchell.co.za Tessa Proudfoot and Associates tessaproudfoot.co.za The Precinct Luxury Apartments century.co.za/the-precinct-midrand Versatile Interiors a.saffy@hotmail.co.uk

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With open-plan living the norm, you need to be able to subtly differentiate spaces without blocking sight lines and natural light. Here are some clever ways to maintain an open, airy feel 58

APRIL 2020 | gardenandhome.co.za

OPEN-AND-SHUT CASE The owners of this Umhlanga home loved the idea of a spacious, open-plan bedroom and bathroom, but also wanted privacy when necessary. The solution was a series of stacking screens that can be opened or closed as desired. By fitting them with paper instead of a solid material, light filters through to the bathroom when they’re closed.

COMPILED BY CANDICE BOTHA AND MARY JANE HARRIS PHOTOGRAPHS DAVID ROSS, SALLY CHANCE, ANDREA CALDWELL AND CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN

Divide AND CONQUER

DECORATING IDEAS

SUITE DREAMS To separate the sleeping and bathing areas in this generous master suite, while maintaining the airy feel established by the open rafters, architect Jenny Mills placed cabinets behind the bed and wallpapered one side. Incorporating clothes storage, they give privacy where needed, but allow the suite to function as a whole.

THE LIGHT MOVE One of the reasons for renovating this bedroom and bathroom was to let more light into the bathroom and make both areas feel more spacious.

Tracy Joubert of Refreshed Designs removed the wall separating them and replaced it with a 1,5m-high screen wall, which also acts as a headboard.

While the neighbours can’t see in, the owners can now enjoy the view while showering.

BENCH MARKS To create a sense of intimacy in this living room, Jacquie Bender of Motifé Interiors separated it from the home office with an upholstered bench. It provides additional seating, and, as it’s low, doesn’t block the view through to the rest of the open-plan areas.

HIP TO BE SQUARE In this Cape Town home, designer Michelle Murray of Interiors Etc. used a display/storage unit on wheels to separate the TV room from the living area. It forms a partial barrier, but allows light through. The items on display can also be accessed and admired from each room.

PATTERN PLAY In this renovated Jo’burg home, a striking patterned rug and contemporary pendant serve to subtly distinguish the dining area from the kitchen.

SOURCES Interiors Etc. interiorsetc.co.za Jenny Mills Architecture jma.za.net Motifé Interiors motife.co.za Refreshed Designs refresheddesigns.co.za

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G

THIS PRIZE INCLUDES: Accommodation in a Fynbos villa Breakfast, lunch and dinner Two game drives per day

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: 1. The first correctly completed entry to be drawn will win the prize. 2. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 3. The prize is non-transferrable and can’t be exchanged for cash. 4. Employees of Gondwana Game Reserve, CTP Caxton, their advertising agencies and immediate families may not enter the competition. 5. Accommodation is subject to availability and excludes peak travel periods. The prize is valid for one year from date of notification. 6. The prize excludes conservation levy, transfers, beverages and items of a personal nature. 7. Entries close on 30 April 2020. 8. The competition is only open to South African residents over the age of 18. 9. The winner will be notified telephonically. 10. To comply with the Consumer Protection Act, postal entries will no longer be allowed and the winner will be required to supply their ID number. 11. E-mail addresses are not mandatory. 12. By entering the competition, you give Caxton Magazines the right to present other Caxton offers to you.

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BEFORE

TIME

to shine TEXT NATALIE BORUVKA PHOTOGRAPHS KARL ROGERS AND SUPPLIED

Brilliant ideas for giving powder rooms the wow factor

MAKEOVERS

METAL ENERGY By stealing space from the kitchen, designer Sue Lloyd-Roberts was able to create a showstopping cloakroom

THE PROBLEM “The ground floor of my client’s home in Cape Town didn’t have a stand-alone bathroom. To access one, guests had to go through a bedroom,” explains Sue Lloyd-Roberts of Mint Designer Renovations.

THE SOLUTION In order to incorporate a new guest cloakroom (which formed part of an extensive renovation), Sue stole space from the existing kitchen and adjacent flatlet. This necessitated the installation of a structural beam across the ceiling. To make it a feature and more functional, Sue had it squared off and it now houses the downlights.

To fulfil her client’s request for decor with the wow factor, Sue created an eye-catching feature wall using black and white Moroccan tiles. Large-format porcelain floor tiles balance the busy pattern, and the charcoal shade gives the small room

depth. The vanity and mirror surround were made from copper piping, which adds a surprising industrial element.

“It makes a striking contrast, but doesn’t take up space,” explains Sue.

Adding another glamorous element are coloured glass pendants that complement the copper piping.

“It’s exactly what I wanted – a gorgeous statement space,” says the owner.

Giving this small space high impact are the wall and floor tiles from Utile Sourcing. The planter and stand are from MRP Home.

Sue made use of this niche by installing glass shelves. The planters are from Bungalow Living and the towels from @home. The vanity and mirror surround were custom designed and the ceramic basin was made by Earth Play Studio.

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SOURCES @home home.co.za Bungalow Living bungalowliving.co.za Earth Play Studio 082 781 8139 Mint Designer Renovations minthouse.co.za MRP Home mrphome.com Utile Sourcing 083 445 5702

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BEFORE

GET MORE ONLINE Visit gardenandhome.co.za for more fabulous makeovers

OFF THE WALL Dramatic paint and wallpaper brought this powder room to life

THE PROBLEM “Although our guest toilet was functional, it was very dull. The only decoration was the wooden dado rail,” recalls Esté Kok of Stellenbosch.

“A friend, designer Willem J Bruwer of Karakter Studio, had revamped our other bathrooms, so we asked him to give the powder room a similar dramatic black and white scheme,” says Esté.

Willem had the dado rail, the wall below it, as well as the door, window frame and sill painted in Plascon’s Dark Onyx. The existing Venetian blind was sprayed to match. “As we wanted to make this space fun and surprising, we wallpapered the upper section of the walls, a practice popular in Victorian times,” explains Willem.

“The wallpaper gives the room just enough interest and the painted sections prevent it from looking too busy.” For a sharp contrast to the floral pattern, Esté chose black and white floor tiles with a geometric pattern.

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The wallpaper is from WCI Wallpapers, the floor tiles from Moroccan Warehouse and the custom-made mirror from The Artisan.

As the space is long and narrow, they replaced the old-fashioned pedestal basin with a slim, wall-mounted version. The brass-framed mirror creates

depth while adding a contemporary element. “Now the room makes a stylish statement,” says Esté, “and visitors always comment on how unexpected it is.”

SOURCES Karakter Studio 084 402 7795 Moroccan Warehouse 021 461 8318 Plascon plascon.com The Artisan the-artisan.co.za WCI Wallpapers 021 465 6547

TEXT NATALIE BORUVKA PHOTOGRAPHS KARL ROGERS AND SUPPLIED

THE SOLUTION

Have YOUR SAY Join the exclusive Garden and Home discussion group

TO GIVE YOU MORE OF WHAT YOU WANT TO SEE IN YOUR FAVOURITE MAGAZINE, WE’D LOVE TO GET YOUR INPUT AND OPINIONS. All you have to do is answer a few questions, which won’t take more than five minutes of your time. You’ll be able to see the results of your and other readers’ feedback in the magazine and online.

JOIN OUR GROUP: Download the free UPINION app from Google Play or the App Store.

Join the group by entering our group code Homelovers.

You’ll receive a notification on your phone when there are questions for you.

By answering questions, you earn points, which you can use to enter the monthly lucky draw.

For more information, contact Analda on analda@opinionsolutions.co.za

This month’s GOOD IDEA… TURN AN OLD PIECE OF FURNITURE INTO A VANITY Instead of buying a new vanity unit, have a look at your existing furniture. Old desks, console tables and sideboards make very attractive alternatives. Whether you fit them with an above- or under-counter basin will depend on the height of the piece ‒ it must be

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comfortable to use. Then ask a professional plumber to install the basin and taps and connect the plumbing.

Voila, you’ll have a unique bathroom feature, like Magdel van der Walt’s (pictured), at a fraction of the cost of a new one.

TEXT MARY JANE HARRIS PHOTOGRAPH GREG COX

HOME PROJECT

When choosing a creeper to cover a pergola, look for one with leaves that turn rich colours in autumn. Then set a romantic table to complement them

COMPILED BY MANDY BUCHHOLZ AND MARY JANE HARRIS MAIN PHOTOGRAPH BUITENZORG/ PERFECTHIDEAWAYS/HENRIQUEWILDING PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED PRODUCTS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AND PRICES WERE CHECKED AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT. SEE PAGE 2.

XXX

MOMENT

THE GREEN ROOM Andover lantern, R195, Block Basics.

Iron Age pendant, R3 100, Eurolux.

EXPERT TIPS Bucket Makwela, plant manager at Lifestyle Home Garden has these suggestions for creepers with gorgeous autumn foliage Parthenocissus tricuspidata or ‘Boston Ivy’ is a perennial climber that grows in full sun or partial shade. In autumn, its leaves turn a vibrant red. Birds love the loads of blue berries that appear shortly after on established plants.

Grapevines make excellent canopies for pergolas, and in autumn, the leaves turn from green to deep red. As a bonus, the grapes from Vitis vinifera ‘White Hanepoot’ can be juiced, made into wine or eaten as table grapes. V. vinifera ‘Red Globe’ produces sweet crisp fruit suitable for juicing or drying. Both need well-draining soil.

Parthenocissus quinquefolia, or ‘Virginia Creeper’ is a stunning five-leafed ivy that grows in full sun or shade. Its leaves turn burnished bronze and red in autumn and winter. In addition to covering walls and structures, it can also be used as a groundcover.

Earth dining table, from R9 953, Homewood.

Butterfly lounge chair, from R5 995, Weylandts.

Boyi bench, from R6 628, Homewood.

French planters (excl. plants), from R4 149,99 each, Lifestyle Home Garden.

Multicolour striped seat pad, R130, Woolworths.

SOURCES Block Basics blockbasics.co.za Eurolux eurolux.co.za Homewood homewood.co.za Lifestyle Home Garden lifestyle.co.za Weylandts weylandts.co.za Woolworths woolworths.co.za

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sanctuary ne of the first rules of landscaping is to take your cue from the architecture of the house. And this is exactly what landscape designer Gregory Mark did when given the opportunity to design this garden in a complex in Inanda, Sandton. “My clients work between London and Jo’burg and wanted a tranquil, no-fuss space that would also showcase their collection of sculpture,” explains Gregory.

Involved right from the start while the house, designed

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by Joe van Rooyen of JVR Architects, was still under construction, Gregory was able to plan the garden so that it forms an extension of the modern architecture. He chose materials such as the Zimbabwean teak decking and granite tiles used in the sunken courtyard and the stone cladding on the raised planters to complement the finishes on the house.

“It’s these natural textures that make the garden come alive – it doesn’t need flashy colours or flowers,” he comments.

As there was no garden apart from a sickly poplar, he

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS CONNALL OOSTERBROEK

Just a stone’s throw from the bustling heart of Sandton lies this tranquil garden, ideal for unwinding in after a long day

WHO LIVES HERE A professional couple who travel frequently.

THE GARDEN A contemporary, 300m2 garden in Inanda, Sandton.

had a blank slate to start with. He managed to revive the poplar, now thriving and a key feature at the entrance to the underground parking.

To provide privacy and give the garden an established

Doors opening out to the main garden allow it to be an extension of the house.

Eragrostis grass is low maintenance and softens the lines along the verge. Two immense buxus-filled pots at the front entrance create a dramatic effect.

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The lines of the swimming pool, which was designed as a water feature, mirror those of the boundary hedges.

Geometric shapes enhance the sense of openess in the inner courtyard. Evergreen Acorus gramineus ‘Golden Edge’ provides subtle colour and interest at the front gate of the property.

ABOVE LEFT:

look, he introduced mature open-ground trees. “This was no easy task. But, fortunately the house was still being constructed so we were able to manhandle these huge specimens through the shell,” says Gregory.

There were a few challenges when establishing the layout. As the site sloped quite sharply, he had to level the areas off the house and this required the construction of retaining walls, which he disguised as raised planters. But these changes in level proved to be an advantage as he was able to incorporate thick, almost sculptural, slabs of granite as steps down to the inner courtyard. “By painting the garden walls a dark shade,

Phantom Ship by Plascon, we created the illusion of shadows and depth in the relatively small space,” says Gregory.

“When it came to the planting, I wanted low-maintenance varieties with seasonal and perennial interest,” he explains.

“Because the planting is simple, the plants had to offer interesting leaf textures and subtle changes in colour. We used Pride of India trees (Lagerstroemia indica) for their burst of pink blossoms in summer and old-fashioned favourites such as Acanthus mollis, which send up an abundance of white flowers in winter.”

The geometric lines of the hedging and hard landscaping

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The sloping ground was levelled in the courtyard and held in check with raised beds.

Zimbabwean teak decking in the entrance garden matches the finishes used on the house. The textured trunks of the Pride of India are an excellent foil for the natural stone.

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proved to be the perfect backdrop for the owners’ contemporary sculptures, which now form focal points.

A good example is the low buxus hedge that frames the courtyard and emphasises the female figure by Anton Smit in the reflecting pool.

As this pool is visible from the living areas, Gregory planted it with Nymphaea alba water lilies that offer a continuous show of pure white blooms through summer, and indigenous water blommetjies, which provide interest in winter.

“Water plays a major role in this garden, creating a tranquil atmosphere,” says Gregory. As you enter the forecourt, you are greeted by a sculpture platform clad with granite tiles, from which water emerges from a letterbox spout. This is the perfect position for a mixed media work.

“We even designed the swimming pool as a water feature by constructing a cantilevered platform with a modern water spout at one end,” says Gregory. “This was intended for an artwork, but we haven’t found the right piece yet and fortunately, the owners aren’t in any rush.

“When selecting pots and other accessories, we didn’t The soft foliage of Carex ‘Frosted Curls’ offsets the clean lines of the lawn. The sculpture in the peaceful reflecting pool is by Anton Smit .

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want to upstage the sculpture,” says Gregory. “So, we chose oversized, yet simple dark grey containers, which we filled with buxus topiary.” These weighty elements introduce a solidity which, together with the well-defined structure, give the garden its sense of timelessness.

SOURCES Anton Smit antonsmit.co.za Gregory Mark Landscapes 082 443 7251 JVR Architects 011 568 4211 Plascon plascon.com

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BRIDGELEA GARDEN

Riverside

ROMANCE

WHO LIVES HERE still remember the excitement when Alan brought me here to look at the property 17 years ago,” says Maryanne Watkins. “It was grazing land, quite wild, and the steeper portion had been previously under timber. Alan cut through a hedge of bramble and grass, and there was the Umzimkulu

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River, with a magnificent view through the valley towards Rhino Peak and the surrounding mountains – we were sold!

Alan was adamant the house should be close to the river, with no garden in front, and he was right.”

The Watkinses used a backend loader to dig large holes for trees on the road

Maryanne and Alan Watkins, a pharmacist, who own and work in the local pharmacy.

THE GARDEN A two-acre garden on a 20-hectare smallholding in the Underberg where Alan hobbyfarms Dorper sheep.

TEXT ANNE SCHAUFFER PHOTOGRAPHS KAREN EDWARDS

Like many gardeners, the Watkinses believe there’s a sense of poetry in the landscape in which they live

boundary, and – once they’d decided on the garden’s position – dug more for the perimeter trees. They collected a truckload of manure from a dairy farmer, tons of compost, and planted the biggest trees their budget would allow.

As the house neared completion, they rotovated the garden, planned the shape

of the beds around the trees, chose plant material, and got started. “The children spread the lawn seed, and we soon had a lush green lawn… to the delight of my daughters, who were rearing two hanslammetjies at the time,” says Maryanne.

“The one request from the entire family was a large lawn area – no flower beds – for Frisbee and cricket, so that’s exactly what I gave them.”

Maryanne found the planning a bit daunting: “I’d decided to use the natural boundaries and landscape.”

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A large pin oak, the first tree they planted, towers over a mixed bed of evergreen shrubs, perennials and roses underplanted with ajuga and lamb’s ear.

A pathway through a banksia rosecovered arch links the house to the garden. Conifers and phormium provide evergreen colour and shape. In front, near the house, is a view of the Umzimkhulu River. Coreopsis border a pathway that winds through the trees to the campsite at the end of the garden.

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Pathways, a feature of the garden, entice the visitor to benches under the trees, where acanthus, azaleas and Iris sibirica flourish in the shade. ‘Annie’s Pink’ and ‘Pink Sunsation’, with ‘Madams’ Rose’ and ‘Roy McAllister’ roses among irises, verbena, gaura, provide the English country garden look Maryanne enjoys. Clipped variegated privet and photinia add height and shape.

Pretty Spirea ‘Little Princess’.

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On the far boundary, the Watkinses retained the existing large pine trees to balance the height of the house and oldwood (leucosidea), as well as a stream. They were determined to keep the natural elements, but also wanted to include the roses and English country garden look that Maryanne loves.

She began with loads of hardy shrubs around the perimeter between the trees: “I chose, among others, euonymus varieties, variegated privet, and conifers. I planted beds around and close to the house using roses and cottage plantings.” Large gently curving beds filled with hardy shrubs and perennials surround the lawns, and the beds are edged with colourful verbenas and more. She also planted a small rose garden to the side of the house, especially for picking. “I edged this with

two of my favourite roses, ‘Happy Home’ and ‘Amarula Profusion’.”

Walk from the house towards the stream then down to the river and the landscape changes. “Here, I’ve included more indigenous material and grasses, so it transitions naturally from garden to river bank.” On a particularly rocky slope near the stream, the Watkinses deliberately retained the pine trees: “I know they’re frowned upon,” shrugs Maryanne, “but here, they create a woodland feel. We placed a bench that just invites you to sit and enjoy the tranquillity… even on the hottest day, it’s cool.”

But there’s more to this path than meets the eye. It leads to a small campsite: “With all the children and extended family, we ran out of accommodation for our big family get-togethers. This seemed like the logical solution at Christmas.”

Alan’s vegetable garden lies between house and shed, and the couple love the satisfaction of nipping outside to pick what’s needed. “We used to grow too much

of everything, so now we’re trying to plant small amounts more often.”

Directly in front of the house and veranda, the lawn meets the wild grasses of the river bank. From the veranda, the vista is of the river,

trees on the opposite bank, fields, and mountains beyond, all ever-changing and strikingly beautiful. No need for a flower bed here.

The joy of a garden is its constant change. “The trees we first planted –

Roses in pretty shades of pink are a feature of this beauiful garden. A bed filled with phormiums, cordyline, variegated abelias and day lilies is edged with cotyledon and succulents. Artichokes were planted for their interesting grey foliage. Fuchsias hang in baskets under the Malus floribunda.

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pin oaks, English oaks, London planes, tulip, dogwoods, Japanese maples, liquidambars – are all thriving. I’ve had to move plants and plan new beds in sunny areas; pathways and focal points have been created, benches placed under trees, and I still have a long list of ideas,” says Maryanne.

“It’s also about the hit-and-miss plantings, and the learning,” she continues. “Winters are very harsh in Underberg, especially on the river. I’ve made some expensive gardening mistakes.

Now I only consult local experts.”

From the outset, inspiration came from the setting: “Our garden borrows from the backdrop of the surrounding hills, the river and the mountain views in front.

The changing seasons are always seen and felt, and the sound of flowing water is constant – you can’t help but feel the peace and tranquillity of this garden.”

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‘Blossom Magic’ climbs over an arch in the rose garden. Off the dining room, this sitting area is surrounded by nandinas and clipped golden privet with star jasmine on a trellis. Looking beyond the Japanese maples, pin oaks and plane trees, towards the stream that flows through the end of the garden.

LEFT:

FOUR GREAT

REASONS TO VISIT Decorating WITH CLASSIC WHITE

FOR THE LOVE OF LAMB

Clever ways to use white in home decor

Serve a delicious lamb dish at Easter lunch

FABULOUS FLOWER

arrangements

Find ideas for stunning centrepieces

TASTE THE GARDEN Grow your own fruit, veggies and herbs with our easy-to-follow guides

GARDENANDHOME.CO.ZA SA Garden and Home magazine

@SAGardenandHome

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sagardenandhome

LOOKING SPRING f you’ve always admired spring gardens, be inspired by this Centurion garden and establish your own.

Start working on the design and laying out beds, then all it takes is good soil preparation and regular care, and you’ll have a pretty garden overflowing with spring flowers in three to four months’ time.

Follow the steps that turned this bare plot on a smallholding into a profusion of spring flowers. Named Amani (the Swahili word for peace), the garden took four

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months to mature and look gorgeous.

It was designed and planted by Garden Diva in a spiral shape to encourage visitors to stop and admire the planting as they make their way to the centre. From the arched entrance, a lawned pathway circles its way to a rose- and jasmine-covered gazebo, which adds height to the composition.

Custom-made, curved benches provide spots from which to sit and enjoy the display. On one side of the

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS LIZETTE JONKER

Start preparing now to ensure that your garden looks magical come September

PLANTING FOR SPRING

STEP1 In July, the garden was laid out in a spiral shape using pegs and string. The poor soil, a combination of clay and rock, was dug out to a depth of a metre and discarded. This is the secret to fast growth, whether your garden or flowerbed is large or small – don’t work with poor soil.

GET MORE ONLINE Discover more seasonal gardening ideas at gardenandhome.co.za

spiral, a winding pathway leads past a potted berry garden and quince hedge to an orchard and meadows.

The planting includes perennials like osteospermum and gaura, which form the backbone, with lots of sweet peas and violas for seasonal colour. Roses in pastel shades were grouped in colour blocks throughout.

White-flowering hedges border the garden on three sides and, on the fourth side, small Midinette climbing roses in pastel hues cover wooden supports.

STEP 2 The soil was replaced with good topsoil enriched with compost.

Atlantic Bio Ocean organic fertiliser was mixed into the top 30cm. A paved circle was laid at the centre, and a metal arch and gate were installed at the entrance.

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STEP 3 To form a 2m-high hedge, Viburnum tinus were planted 60cm apart against the fence, and will be trimmed to hide it later. And to establish the garden as quickly as possible, the biggest plants available were used. Even though some were quite leggy in their first spring, they were cut back after flowering to encourage them to bush out.

STEP 5 Before the perennials and annuals were planted between the roses, Talborne Organics Seedling Food was placed in each planting hole. All the plants were then watered with borehole water every day for the first two weeks until the seedlings had become established.

A gazebo with seating accentuates the centre of the spiral.

STEP 4 Over 100 roses were planted in colour zones – soft yellow, blue and lilac, apricot, cream and soft pink. The sizes of the bushes vary – tall varieties were planted at the back, and shorter landscape varieties in the wider sections towards the front. The roses were drenched with Koinor immediately after planting for season-long protection against insects such as thripps.

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PLANT LIST PERENNIALS AND ANNUALS

ROSES

Yellow: Yellow argyranthemum, Dusty Miller (Cineraria maritima), giant goldenrod, yellow Bulbine frutescens

Pink: ‘Perfume Passion’, ‘Roberto Capucci’, ‘Brümilda van Rensburg’, ‘Remember Me’, ‘Mushe Kirsh’, ‘Riana Joubert’, ‘Dainty Bess’, ‘Fordyce’, ‘La Fleurette’, ‘Huntington Rose’, ‘Princess Alexandra of Kent’, ‘Garden Princess’, ‘Addictive Lure’, ‘My Granny’, ‘Eden Rose’, ‘Candice’

Peach/apricot/cream: Dusty Miller (Cineraria maritima)

Yellow: ‘Limelight Panarosa’, ‘Lioness grandirosa’, ‘St Dunstan’s Centenary’, ‘Arlene’, ‘Rosanna Jacobs’, ‘The Poet’s Wife’, ‘Forever Yellow’, ‘South Africa’

Pink: White argyranthemum, coral Salvia coccinea, wild garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) and wild bush petunia (Barleria greenii)

Lilac: ‘Rhapsody in blue’, ‘Silver Cloud’, ‘Ocean in Motion’, ‘Pink Purple’, ‘Steve Hofmeyr’, ‘Arctic Ice’, ‘Blue Fairy’, ‘Galaxy Glow’, ‘Super Bowl’, ‘Zulu Royal’, ‘Ellerines Rose’, ‘Vodacom’, ‘Sweet Chariot’, ‘Lago Maggiore’

Lilac/blue: Lilac osteospermum, Salvia ‘Mystic Spires’, blue/lilac violas, artichokes, Lavandula intermedia ‘Margaret Roberts’, Lavandula Ellagance, Scabiosa ‘Fama Dark Blue’, Limonium perezii, Penstemon ‘Carillo Purple’ hybrid

Peach/cream: ‘Sabine Plattner’, ‘Babette’, ‘Rosafrica’, ‘Adele Searll’, ‘University of Pretoria Centenary’, ‘Granny Dearest’, ‘Olga Bothongo’, ‘Jean Geldenhuys’, ‘Apricot Profusion’, ‘Vanilla Kordana’, ‘Jadine’

To accentuate the spiral shape: Gaura lindheimeri ‘White Sparkle’, mixed colour sweet peas (seedlings). For next spring, sweet pea seeds in single colours will be planted to match the colour sections

Small climbers: ‘Sunshine Sally’, ‘StarryEyed’, ‘Perfumed Breeze’, ‘Lavender Midinette’, ‘Softee’

David Austin rose ‘Princess Alexandra of Kent’.

Sweetpeas flower through to early summer, if planted in well-prepared beds.

SHRUBS Hedges: Viburnum tinus, snowball bush (V. opulus), single-flowered Cape May (Spiraea cantoniensis ‘Flora Pleno’) Shrubs: Bauhinia tomentosa (yellow section), ginger bush (Tetradenia riparia – lilac/blue section) Amani Garden was planted to commemorate a beloved daughter.

Situated at 45 Baard Street, Raslouw, Centurion, it is open to the public.

Call Anna-Marié van Zyl on 083 677 6199.

Gaura lindheimeri ‘White Sparkle’ and ‘Garden Princess’ roses pair well in the pastel section.

SOURCES Amani Garden 083 677 6199 Garden Diva 076 332 2009

Climber on gazebo: ‘The Generous Gardener’

FOLIAGE PLANTS

Leaf

oliage plants are not restricted to shades of green.

You’ll find vibrant tones of red, burgundy, purple, pink, silver and even gold. It’s difficult to go wrong with these plants, so use them as a permanent framework for your garden, providing splashes of colour from season to season.

F

Design tips Use warm colours and variegated foliage sparingly, as a way to draw attention to a particular area or as a focal point.

Pay attention to the size of the leaves, as large foliage tends to bring things closer. Finer foliage gives the illusion of distance and space.

Silver and green foliage plants are useful for toning down strong colours and establishing a sense of tranquillity.

By repeating a colour or shades of a colour, a sense of rhythm is established creating unity and harmony.

HYPOESTES SANGUINOLENTA A small (15–25cm high), leafy plant, it has striking, patterned foliage, which comes in soft pink, red, rose and silvery white with deep green veins that give it a speckled, polka dot appearance. It delivers plenty of colour without the hassle of having to deadhead the flowers.

GROWING TIPS Hypoestes grows in bright, indirect light to semishade and tolerates all types of soil. Too much sun or deep shade will affect the colour of the leaves. Water regularly and fertilise once or twice during the season with a general balanced fertiliser. Remove flower spikes to keep the plant bushy and full of leaves.

HOW TO USE IT Place plants 20cm apart to form a low, uniform groundcover or border for begonias or impatiens. It is a good filler for containers and hanging baskets in the shade.

1

TEXT ALICE SPENSER-HIGGS PHOTOGRAPHS BALL STRAATHOF AND ALICE SPENSER-HIGGS

Foliage plants in their many and varied colours are your best option for long-lasting colour, contrast and texture

2

HEUCHERA MICRANTHA

2

A perennial groundcover for shady areas, it comes in many colours, ranging from dark burgundy to peach and pale gold. The maple-shaped leaves are dramatically veined or marbled. From late spring, they produce delicate wands of flowers. The mounded, spreading plants range in height from 45cm to dwarf varieties only 10–15cm high.

GROWING TIPS Plant it in bright or dappled shade in well-composted soil that drains well. Plants will rot in wet, soggy soil. Space well apart and make sure the root crown is slightly higher than the soil level. Don’t overwater.

Remove spent flower stems to encourage new foliage. Divide every three to four years.

HOW TO USE IT Plants are striking in shady borders and under trees. Dwarf varieties make charming border edgings.

They are showy container plants as well as indoor plants.

3

ALTERNANTHERA ‘PURPLE PRINCE’ A spreading groundcover, it becomes a carpet of burgundy-purple leaves with ruby-rose undersides when grown in full sun. Plants can spread up to 50cm, forming a high, 25–40cm mound. It’s a long-lasting, low-maintenance landscape plant that copes with drought as well as wet conditions.

GROWING TIPS Plant it in full sun (preferably) or light shade, in ordinary composted garden soil that drains well. It can withstand short periods with no water, but does best with weekly watering. Trim when necessary to keep it neat. Fertilise every two months. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering. Protect plants from frost in very cold areas.

HOW TO USE IT It makes a colourful border for annuals, succulents and shrubs.

Let it cascade over walls, use it to edge pathways and in mixed containers.

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SENECIO CANDICANS ‘ANGEL WINGS’ This striking plant was discovered by an American plant developer while on a fishing trip to Chile’s Patagonia region and was released internationally last year. It grows into a large specimen, 60cm high and wide, with huge, soft silvery leaves. Despite its size, it holds its shape very well.

GROWING TIPS It’s extremely drought tolerant, growing in sun or semishade. Plant it in well-draining soil and don’t overwater. It also grows indoors with good light, but allow the potting mix to dry out before watering again.

HOW TO USE IT This eye-catching plant looks good on its own in a pot or mixed with other plants. It’s a solid performer in the garden and a stand-out feature in beds and borders.

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5

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MENTHA REQUIENII ‘MINI MINT’

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COLEUS HYBRID ‘PINKPLOSION’

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well-mulched soil that retains moisture but doesn’t get soggy. Water well while establishing and then reduce. The naturally branching plants don’t need pinching out. Remove flower spikes for larger foliage.

HOW TO USE IT Works well as a stand-out feature plant in a mixed bed, for height behind a border of Sunpatiens and in containers. However, container plants need regular watering, even daily in summer, if in full sun.

This non-invasive, fragrant plant can be used instead of pennyroyal. It forms a dense mat and creeps along the ground.

Plants grow 2,5–5cm high with a 30cm spread. When grown in a pot, it resembles peace-in-the-home, but lasts a lot longer.

GROWING TIPS Plant in areas that receive partial sun or shade. Like all mints, it prefers moist, fertile and welldraining soil and should not be allowed to dry out completely. Fertilise in spring and thin out when it becomes too dense as it needs good air circulation. Plants will tolerate light frost.

HOW TO USE IT It is effective between stepping stones or pavers, as a replacement for lawn where there is only light foot traffic, and in pots to cascade over the edges.

This is the newest addition to the Sun Coleus range which includes ‘Redhead’, ‘Henna’, ‘Campfire and ‘Wasabi’. The pink and cream centre of each leaf stands out against the serrated green edging, becoming deeper pink with more sunlight. The sturdy, low-maintenance plants grow into neat bushes 35–70cm high and almost as wide.

GROWING TIPS Full morning sun is ideal, and plants can take some afternoon sun if watered more often. Grow in fertile, SOURCE Ball Straathof 011 794 2316 or ballstraathof.co.za

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CONTAINER PLANTING 1

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ontainers overflowing with flowers are the horticultural equivalent of scatter cushions. Move them around the garden to add colour, change a colour scheme, brighten a dull area or act as a focal point.

The secrets to beautiful plant-filled pots are simple: Give sun-loving plants enough sun to bring out the flowers, and tenderleafed plants dappled or afternoon shade so they don’t burn.

Regular watering will keep them looking good.

Feed with a liquid fertiliser once or twice a month.

Don’t forget to trim regularly to keep them in shape.

1 TEXT ALICE SPENSER-HIGGS PHOTOGRAPHS ANDREA CALDWELL AND BALL STRAATHOF

THREE’S COMPANY

Accessorising Wanting to give your garden a lift?

Get creative with container plants

This trio of containers, filled with seasonal flowers, adds colour to a predominantly green, low-maintenance garden. In this instance, they make a feature of the rustic steps and lead the eye up to the rest of the garden.

Plant choice: The same plant varieties are used in each container for an harmonious effect. Spillers include Calibrachoa Cabaret ‘Bright Red’, MiniFamous Lavtastic (lavender coloured) and Conga ‘Orange Kiss’ with Pelargonium Turkana ‘Scarlet’ and ‘Light Pink’ as the main flowering plants. For texture, rosemary was added at the back of the middle container, and as a spiller in the tallest, thyme ‘Fredo’, a bushy dwarf shrub that produces spikes of pink or white flowers in early summer.

Plant profile: Calibrachoa, with its masses of tiny flowers, doesn’t like to be overwatered or fussed over and is a vigorous grower that quickly fills a container. The Cabaret series has a spread of 25–30cm, but only grows up to 15cm, so that a single plant amply fills a hanging

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basket or pot. They also branch from the centre to produce a mound of colour. MiniFamous has prominent double blooms and offers a tidier effect for fillers and spillers.

Pelargonium zonal Turkana flower best in April and May, as well as August and September. Plants are compact (20–25cm high and wide), with dark green healthy leaves and vividly coloured blooms, including eyecatching bicolours and a deep, dark red.

For good quality blooms, feed twice a month with Margaret Roberts Organic Supercharger and let the potting soil dry out slightly before rewatering.

Thyme ‘Fredo’, is one of the most profusely flowering thyme varieties, bearing a mass of salmon pink flowers in spring and summer. It’s low and creeping with woolly green foliage that cascades over the sides of containers or forms a mat. The flowers attract butterflies and bees. It tolerates drought, but grows better with plenty of water.

Good to know: Because these containers are in full sun, the plants were chosen for their heat and drought tolerance. However, in summer it’s best to water daily, or every second day.

Container choice: The wood-like grain of the containers complements the wooden sleeper steps. Working with three sizes has its own step-like effect.

Although they look solid, they’re made from durable, recycled plastic, so the containers are light enough to move around.

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SPEAK TO ME

Intimate outdoor spaces, like patios, verandas and gazebos, call for smaller plants that match the outdoor furnishings and enhance the ambience.

Neat, compact plants that hold their shape work best, especially if they are fragrant.

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2 Plant choice: In this sunny setting, Nemesia ‘Sunshine’ from the Nesia series fits the bill with its abundance of large (for nemesia) buttery-yellow flowers, with little splashes of purple.

The compact plant resembles a fresh flower arrangement and the light fragrance of the flowers is a bonus.

Plant profile: Nesia has a long flowering season, from early summer into autumn. It’s light and airy and produces a mass of large blooms above shiny green leaves. The loose, open shape (30cm high and wide) is suitable

for garden beds and borders, as well as for containers, window boxes and hanging baskets.

Good to know: In cold areas it may die down in winter, but will return in spring.

Container choice: To prevent water draining through and spoiling the table, grow the plants in plastic pots with drainage holes and pop them into a sealed ceramic container. When they need water, lift out the pots, water and leave them to drain before putting them back. If the plants remain in water, their roots will rot.

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ATTENTION GRABBER

Almost every garden has a shady corner. It’s lovely in summer, but similar shades of green can look dull. This container of Begonia Big ‘Bronze Leaf Pink’ bursts with colour against the green backdrop, drawing attention to the different textures of the leaves around it. As a focal point, it is simple and effective, and no one will walk past this bed without stopping.

Plant choice: ‘Bronze Leaf Pink’ was chosen for its colourcontrasting leaves and to complement the surrounding tropical foliage. Its main asset is that it flowers non-stop. The full effect is achieved by planting three plants together.

Plant profile: The Big series features showy landscape begonias that grow into substantial plants, 60cm high and 50cm wide, with upright, arching growth and glossy leaves. The large flowers fall off cleanly when over. This interspecies hybrid tolerates full sun as well as partial shade. It does best in moist soil that drains well and should be fertilised once a month. Use it in tropical gardens as a filler, in mass plantings, mixed borders, as an edging, and in large containers and hanging baskets Good to know: In frost-free areas, Big flowers through winter, but in cooler areas it will die down.

Plants are also available with green leaves.

Container choice: The container was chosen for its texture and subtle, neutral colour. Too dark, and it would have blended in, too light, and it would have clashed with its surroundings.

3 SOURCE Ball Straathof 011 794 2316 and ballstraathof.co.za

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Garden

NOTES

Explore ways to attract birds and butterflies to your garden

MUST-DOS THIS MONTH Contributing gardening editor Marianne Alexander’s handy checklist of essential chores to do in April

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Prepare flower beds for winter and spring annuals by adding compost and bonemeal. Rake and water lightly before planting out seedlings. Shade them in hot dry areas and check for snails on damp evenings.

Plant annuals like pansies, foxgloves, digiplexis, Bellis perennis, stocks, Iceland poppies, snapdragons, and for shade, cineraria and primulas.

Thin out in situ plantings and self-sown annuals like forget-me-nots, nigella, (love in a mist), Flanders poppies, Johnny-jump-up violas and replant in bare spots. Pinch out the tips of sweet peas.

Plant out cool-climate bulbs from the northern hemisphere, such as daffodils, anemones and bluebells. Plant ranunculi with the claws down; anemones on their sides. Order treated tulip bulbs for planting in May. Label dahlias with their name or colour, and lift when all the leaves have died back.

In cold frosty areas, move tender plants such as begonias, impatiens (busy Lizzies), iresine (blood leaf), coleus (Josephs’ coat) and plectranthus to a sheltered spot. You can also root slips taken from the tips in glass jars of water, or plant directly in small containers. Keep in a warm, protected spot until the weather warms up.

Oversow lawns where grass is struggling to grow, especially in shady areas, with specific shade grass mixes like Shade-Over® or Starke Ayres Shade Mixture.

Lawns that turn brown after frost can also be oversown with All Seasons Evergreen or Starke Ayres Evergreen Mix. Start taking hardwood cuttings of shrubs like hibiscus, viburnums, abelias and hydrangeas. Dip in rooting powder or liquid, shake and plant the ends in coarse river sand. Feed winter and early spring flowerers like violets, primulas and hellebores.

In winter-rainfall areas, plant endemic fynbos for example, ericas, buchus, restios and members of the protea family, which have adapted to the local conditions. Look for shrubs and trees with attractive autumn foliage to add colour to the autumn garden.

Give less water to containers of summer-flowering bulbs like amaryllis, achimenes, begonia, caladiums and gloxinias as they become dormant and label them. Pot up spring flowering primulas and cineraria and bulbs like cyclamen and lachenalia for the house and patio. Grow some hyacinths or narcissus hydroponically in containers of water.

To get the best out of succulents and especially aloes, which come into flower in the cooler months, feed with an organic fertiliser like Talborne Vita Fruit and Flower 3:1:5.

In the ROSE GARDEN Keep treating your roses for downy mildew during cool, damp periods with preventative products.

Deadhead regularly to promote flowering and keep bushes neat. Only deadhead repeat-flowering shrub roses that don’t produce hips.

In cool regions, apply a low-nitrogen/ high-potash fertiliser (3:1:5), or water in potassium sulphate to harden them off for winter.

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SOCIAL BUTTERFLIES Beautifully photographed, this new edition of Field Guide to Butterflies of South Africa by Steve Woodhall (Penguin Random House), R390, features all 671 of South Africa’s species. It includes identification, flight periods and typical habitat and distribution, so you can identify those that visit your garden, plus the food they love best. penguinrandomhouse.co.za

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

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GARDEN NEWS

The VEGGIE garden

WHAT’S ON

Feed cabbages, cauliflower, kale and broccoli with a high-nitrogen fertiliser.

Deter white cabbage butterflies by interplanting with garlic or strong-smelling herbs, or plant nasturtiums nearby.

Plant seed of true or English spinach.

Choose ‘Viroflay’, ‘Matador’, Baby Leaf or Baby Leaf ‘Dash’.

Make your first plantings of peas. As an alternative to green peas, which need shelling, try sugar snap peas, which have plump, stringless, edible pods, or flat-podded ‘Snow’ or ‘Oregon Sugar Pod’ mangetout. In frost zones, wait until July.

Set an area aside for soup vegetables like turnips, leeks, soup celery and Swedes.

Salad celery loves cooler weather and a good supply of water. Try Tall Utah, Golden Pascal and Pink Peppermint Stick celery from Seeds for Africa.

3 – 5 APRIL The Autumn Garden Show, Jo’burg Wander through The Herb Farm, 264 Summit Road (R562), Bridle Park, Midrand, and discover the benefits of over 450 different herbs. Open from 09h00 – 17h00 daily (final gate entry at 16h00), there’s a scented rose garden and spiral labyrinth, plus you can shop for seeds, plants and other gardening goodies and enjoy a free talk or demo.

Tickets cost R80, pensioners R65 and children U12 (who fit under the Giant Daisy) R20. Discounted tickets are available at webtickets.co.za. Visit gardenshow.co.za

LIFESTYLE GARDEN DESIGN SHOW When: Now until 31 May 2020 Where: Lifestyle Home Garden, cnr.

Beyers Naude Drive and Ysterhout Avenue, Randpark Ridge, Jo’burg Enjoy nine colourful gardens put together by the students of Lifestyle College. This year’s show focuses on small and micro gardens, balconies and patio living. Entry is free and a Garden Guide with descriptions of the gardens and lots of gardening advice is available.

For more information, call 011 792 5616, or Lifestyle College on 011 792 8244, or visit lifestyle.co.za and lifestylecollege.co.za

Bye-bye bugs

8 – 13 APRIL Rand Show Don’t miss this bumper show at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec, Corner Nasrec and Randshow Roads.

Expect a variety of new on-trend content and experiences, including the Marvel Find Your Power Junior Super Hero Training Academy, the Festival of Gaming, tech and cosplay.

Visit the farm-to-table meal prep at the Organic Farmers Market; or settle in for the Jacaranda Clash of Kitchens – South Africa’s newest reality cooking challenge. Browse through the home makeover and shopping hall and see what the best brands have to offer.

Assorted passes are available, from R150 pp at the door, or R135 online.

Visit randshow.co.za

THIS WEEKEND Divide overcrowded summer-flowering perennials with fleshy, rhizomatous roots into generous clumps so they bulk up quickly. These include agapanthus, day lilies, Dietes spp. (wild iris), Tradescantia virginiana (pictured), alstroemeria (Inca lilies), summer-flowering red-hot pokers and Tulbaghia spp. (wild garlic).

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We’re PLANTING… PHILODENDRON ‘HOPE’® Why: Its large leaves add a tropical touch to containers on patios, it’s an excellent landscaping specimen, and placed indoors, it improves air quality.

Evergreen, it’s also easy to care for.

Where: Plant it in semi-shade or shade. It can tolerate frost once established. Indoors, it prefers bright, indirect sunlight near an east- or south-facing window.

How: ‘Hope’ requires moist soil, but shouldn’t be overwatered. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch and make sure the soil drains well.

Fertilising every two weeks helps to avoid nutrient deficiencies.

Visit malanseuns.co.za

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Open

GARDENS

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Spend an afternoon at one of these beautiful open gardens and help raise funds for charity.

18 APRIL TOKARA Rare Plant Fair and Autumn Open Garden Meander along tranquil walks, enjoying autumn in all its splendour, including the magnificent vistas over the large dam at TOKARA wine and olive farm, Helshoogte Pass, Stellenbosch. A wide variety of plants will be on sale from indigenous flora, such as fynbos and proteas, to the more exotic. Open from 09h00 – 16h00, tickets cost R50; children under 10, free.

Visit tokara.com, or e-mail opengarden@tokara.com, or for the fair, Karin Alant at info@rareplantfair.co.za

GARDENS OF THE GOLDEN CITY 18 – 19 APRIL Aloe Ridge 303C Olievenhout Avenue, Northriding, Jo’burg See a glorious range of aloes and other indigenous shrubs, bulbs, grasses and trees.

Dense patches of plectranthus (spurflower species) and other shade plants create a forest floor under the tree canopies. Relax at the tea garden. Open from 10h00 – 17h00, entrance costs R30, children under 12, free. For details, call Margreet on 072 400 1559, Helena on 083 267 1661 or visit gardensofthegoldencity.co.za

GIVEAWAY Ts&Cs: 1. Standard terms and conditions apply. 2. The prize is non-transferrable and can’t be exchanged for cash. 3. Entries close on 30 April 2020. 4. The competition is only open to South African residents over the age of 18. 5. To comply with the Consumer Protection Act, the winner will be required to supply their ID number. 6. It is not mandatory to supply your email address.

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EVERGREEN TREES WITH AUTUMN FRUIT

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Apodytes dimidiata (white pear) This neat, small tree is suitable for compact gardens and produces sprays of fragrant flowers. Its attractive red and black fruit is a magnet for birds.

The lowdown: Plant in sun; frost tolerant.

Height: 4–6m.

Syzygium guineense (woodland waterpear) An upright shade tree with a beautiful grey trunk, it bears fragrant flowers in spring. Young trees have pinkpurple foliage. Its crisp, dark purple fruits are edible and enjoyed by birds.

The lowdown: A water lover; half hardy.

Height: 10m+.

Loxostylis alata (tierhout) A small tree, it has dainty leaves and fragrant flowers. Its enlarged sepals turn a lovely salmon pink to red. Being dioecious, only female trees produce the fruit.

The lowdown: Half-hardy. Height: 6m.

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GROWING SPEKBOOM

South Africa’s

SUPER PLANT

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS MARIANNE ALEXANDER

Help offset your carbon footprint by planting some of these amazing indigenous shrubs in your garden

Spekboom blooms erratically in summer, but when it does its intense tiny pink flowers are a bonus.

Clipped into topiary, spekboom adds structure.

Spekboom is very effective when trimmed into neat hedges.

s a result of the world focus on global warming and climate change, the common spekboom (Portulacaria afra) is attracting a lot of attention. What makes this succulent unique is its ability to absorb huge amounts of carbon, one of the main greenhouse gases contributing to global warming, from the atmosphere and turn it into plant tissue.

An indigenous, rather unpretentious, shrub or small tree, it’s also known as pork bush, dwarf jade bush or elephant’s food. It can be used in shrubberies, as a foliage contrast and looks stunning in containers, while the prostrate varieties make effective groundcovers.

Spekboom is extremely drought tolerant. In the wild, it grows on arid, rocky slopes, mainly in thickets in the Eastern Cape as well as further north.

It’s well adapted to dry, harsh climates so tolerates periods of little or no rainfall, poor soil and heat, but also thrives in areas with good rainfall provided the drainage is good.

Despite its succulent nature, it has a lush look with pairs of neat, green circular leaves studding its stems.

Botanists have discovered some with eyecatching colours and other forms with either tiny or very large leaves.

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GET MORE ONLINE Take part in the #SpekboomChallenge, visit gardenandhome.co.za for more info.

Those that are available to gardeners include some with larger than usual leaves, prostrate and upright, variegated cream and green forms and one with golden-yellow leaves.

The beautiful pink flowers appear sporadically from October to January.

The nectar attracts insects, which in turn draw insectivorous birds. Bees that feed on spekboom are said to produce delicious honey.

In their natural habitat they are browsed by goats and eaten by elephants, so they take readily to pruning. Some are shrub-like; others have a tree-like appearance and reach a height of over 2m or more, but are easily trimmed to the size and shape you require. They make excellent hedges and can be clipped into balls and pillars. They’re also perfect for mazes, labyrinths and bonsai.

The gold form P. afra ‘Aurea’ needs a sunny position.

Use the prostrate forms to soften the edges of pots and retaining walls.

Spekboom makes a low-maintenance planting on a verge.

A variegated form.

AT A GLANCE

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ABOVE: 1 Known as the large-leafed spekboom, this variety is fast growing and

provides good visual contrast with other smaller leafed plants. 2 The common spekboom has attractive red stems. 3 An upright version of the variegated cream and green form. 4 Because it has long flower stems, P. armiana is also known as the whipstick-porkbush. It has large grey-green leaves and is found in the Richtersveld and Namibia. 5 This unusual mini-leafed spekboom, found near Calitzdorp and known as ‘Kaai’, is popular with collectors. 6 The intensity of the colour of the gold form changes, depending on the light conditions.

Position: Full sun. Spekboom will take some shade, but become leggy if they don’t get enough light. They’ll also grow indoors in good light.

Soil: No special soil requirements, but must have good drainage.

Water: Water wise, they’re able to survive heat and periods of little or no water. Don’t overwater.

Frost tolerance: They are half-hardy and will tolerate some frost.

Propagation: Spekboom grows easily from large truncheons, which can be planted in situ, making it affordable for those on a budget to mass plant. Break or cut off a piece, let the cut ends dry and then plant in a mix of river sand and compost, or directly in the ground.

This can be done at any time of year, but early spring is best.

Uses: The leaves have a sour tang, are high in vitamin C and can be used in salads to add crispness. Chewing them is said to relieve a sore throat.

CAUTION: Don’t plant spekboom in the veld or out of its natural habitat as it can become invasive.

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member of the daisy family, calendula is a versatile, spicy herb that’s easy to grow both in the garden and in sunny containers. A hardy annual, it flowers from late autumn throughout winter into early summer.

Calendula, Cleopatra’s secret weapon against ageing, is just one of the versatile herbs featured in Jane Griffiths’ new book Jane’s Delicious A–Z of Herbs: A guide to growing herbs organically in South Africa 98

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Growing Grow it from seed in full sun in welldraining soil – it doesn’t like wet feet.

Calendula likes being planted in big groups. Its flowers attract beneficial insects, including bees, and its leaves

TEXT JANE GRIFFITHS PHOTOGRAPHS JANE GRIFFITHS AND KEITH KNOWLTON ALTHOUGH NATURAL, HERBAL REMEDIES AND SUPPLEMENTS CAN BE TOXIC. USE THEM WITH CAUTION. THIS INFORMATION IS NOT INTENDED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. CONSULT A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL FOR A DIAGNOSIS BEFORE TAKING ANY SUPPLEMENTS OR MEDICATION

Sunshine IN A A blossom

GROWING CALENDULA

deter leaf-eating insects. It’s a good companion for winter crops such as cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, broad beans and peas. Deadhead to encourage further flowering. It self-seeds if you leave it, but never becomes a problem.

Healing properties Calendula has a wide range of medicinal uses, from astringent to antiseptic. It is primarily used as an anti-inflammatory and skin healer for problems such as eczema, cuts, mouth ulcers, insect stings, grazes, slow-healing wounds, dry or inflamed skin, minor burns, sunburn and fungal conditions such as athlete’s foot, thrush and ringworm.

When treating a wound, make sure that it is clean and that there is no infection.

Tissue treated with calendula heals very quickly and it is vital that no infection remains underneath the healed skin.

Using it Infusion: (petals and leaves) As a mouthwash for mouth ulcers or gum infections. Externally as a face wash for pimples and acne. Gargle for a sore throat and tonsillitis. Drink for digestive problems and stomach aches, infections, to release nervous tension and relieve menstrual cramps.

Tincture: (petals and leaves) Use internally to treat tonsillitis, sore throats and swollen glands. Use externally to heal pimples, sores, cuts, ringworm and other fungal infections.

Ointment: (petals) For varicose veins, sore nipples from breastfeeding, bruises, dry, inflamed or itchy skin, wounds and cuts, eczema, sunburn and scalds.

Compress: (petals) Soak a pad in a hot infusion and apply to varicose veins, sore nipples or eyes, slow-healing wounds or stiff muscles. Soak a pad in a cold infusion for sprains and sore joints.

Essential oil: Add to bath water to relieve depression and nervous tension.

Infused oil: (dried petals) As for essential oil. Apply to varicose veins, aching joints, sore nipples and stiff muscles. Add to face cream for an anti-ageing remedy.

In the kitchen Known as the ‘poor man’s saffron’, calendula’s golden orange flowers colour food yellow and have a spicy, tangy flavour, similar to saffron.

Young leaves add a slightly bitter bite to leafy salads. Fresh petals add a yellow tint to pasta and rice.

Mixed petals brighten salads, and are also delicious mixed into herb butters or steeped in vinegar.

AT A GLANCE Position: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil.

Size: 60cm high by 60cm wide.

Flowering season: Late autumn to early summer.

Harvesting: Harvest young leaves and open flowers from late autumn through to summer.

Parts used: Leaves and petals.

Caution: Don’t take internally when pregnant or breastfeeding. Don’t use on deep cuts or puncture wounds as rapidly healing skin might seal an infection inside the wound.

WIN!

WIN! We’re giving away two copies worth R285 each. To enter, SMS the word HERBS, your name and e-mail address to 48406.

SMSes charged at R1,50 and free SMSes don’t apply. See page 94 for Ts&Cs.

SOURCE Jane’s Delicious A-Z of Herbs by Jane Griffiths (Jonathan Ball Publishers) is a hands-on guide to over 80 herbs, from planting and growing, to their many healing properties and culinary uses.

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Citrus FOR SMALL Citrus trees can be grown almost anywhere – even in a tiny courtyard! Jane Griffiths tells us how 100

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ardy, evergreen, with healthgiving fruit, citrus trees are ideal for small city gardens.

They’re self-pollinating so you only need one, and can be grown in containers or pruned to suit the space. Although they prefer temperate climates, many varieties survive mild frosts if protected when young.

Varieties LEMON Meyer (thin skin with juicy, dark-yellow flesh; moderate to heavy frost) and Variegated Eureka (juicy with pinkish flesh; mild frost) both grow to 3 x 3m.

Rough Skin (tough, easy to grow and hardy) grows to 5m high, and takes well to shaping.

TEXT JANE GRIFFITHS PHOTOGRAPHS JANE GRIFFITHS, KEITH KNOWLTON AND CLINTON FRIEDMAN

SPACES

CITRUS TREES

Oranges

LIME Sweet Lime (low acid and mildly sweet flesh; very light frost) and West Indian Lime (strong flavour and more acidic; frost sensitive) are compact varieties growing to 2 x 2m. The Asian Lime (distinctive double leaves with a very aromatic flavour used in cooking; light frost) is even smaller at 2 x 1,5m.

NAARTJIE Most varieties grow to 3 x 3m, but can be shaped. Satsuma (sweet tangy fruit; moderate frost) is one of the easiest to grow.

KUMQUAT The small oval fruit with sweet skins and sour flesh, is ideal for preserves. It tolerates moderate frost and grows to 2 x 2m.

CALAMONDIN Both normal and variegated varieties are small at 1m x 75cm. Tolerant of moderate frost, they produce small juicy fruit, lovely in preserves and liqueurs.

ORANGE Cara Cara is almost thornless with pink, sweet, tangy fruit; moderate frost and grows to 3 x 3m.

GRAPEFRUIT Both Star Ruby (ruby red flesh with great flavour) and Jackson (creamy, sweet, juicy flesh) grow to 3 x 3m. Both frost sensitive.

Growing and maintenance Citrus trees need fertile, well-drained soil, full sun and regular water – more

Rough Skin lemons

Lime flowers

in spring and summer, and less in autumn and winter. A sign of too much water is dropping, yellowing leaves.

Remove fruit in the first year so it puts its energy into getting established. Feed with Talborne Organics Vita Grow 2:3:2 once a year for root conditioning, followed by Vita Fruit and Flower 3:1:5 every four months. Keep well mulched to suppress weeds and retain moisture.

Feverfew, lemon balm, tansy and yarrow are all good companions.

In containers An excellent option for small gardens, verandas and patios as all citrus trees do very well in containers, as long as they are fed and watered regularly.

Kumquats

CONTAINER TIPS Use a large container at least 40cm diameter and 60cm high.

Citrus trees need a well-draining potting medium. Use a mixture of compost, vermiculite and cocopeat.

In the top third, include a slow-release organic fertiliser such as Talborne Organics Vita Fruit and Flower.

They don’t like being too wet as they are susceptible to root rot, so keep the soil slightly on the dry side – monitor regularly and don’t let the roots dry out completely.

Pinch off new shoots regularly to encourage a compact bushy shape.

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Lemon pruned into a hedge.

Black spot

Ants farming woolly aphids on citrus.

Lemon trained up a trellis as a screen.

GET MORE ONLINE For Jane’s quick and delicious marmalade making tips visit gardenandhome.co.za

Pruning Citrus trees need pruning to remove weak, broken and dead branches and spindly growth. Do this after they have finished bearing when needed. Aim for a well-balanced framework of larger branches with an open centre for light and air flow.

Shaping A good option for small gardens, citrus trees can be trained to fit into compact areas. Prune them into the rough shape you want when young so they grow into a dense form.

Follow the Italian example of training lemons over a pergola to form a shady roof for a courtyard.

Train citrus up a trellis to create a screen in the garden.

Shape citrus into hedges. These look good flanking a pathway in a small garden as the top can be left to fill out above it.

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Diseases, pests and remedies Aphids: Treat with organic insecticidal oil.

Black spot: Use an organic fungicide.

Codling moth: Make sticky traps with a lure.

Citrus psylla: Spray with an organic pyrethrum spray.

Harvesting and using Fruit can take six to eight months to ripen to full size and colour.

Undamaged fruit can be stored for several weeks in the fridge. All parts of citrus fruit are edible, creating a wide variety of options from marmalade, preserves and juicing, to candied peels and zest. Citrus pips, particularly lemon, are full of pectin, which makes jam and jellies gel. And of course, a gin and tonic isn’t the same without a slice of lemon.

Tips for happy citrus trees Producing fruit requires plenty of energy. If a tree is struggling, strip

Meyer lemon

the fruit off so it can direct its energy towards recovering.

Don’t worry if leaves go yellowish in winter, it’s a sign that they don’t enjoy the cold.

Remove fallen fruit. This helps to prevent disease from spreading and pests from breeding.

Feed, feed and feed! Citrus are hungry trees and benefit from plenty of fertiliser.

SOURCES Jane’s Delicious Urban Gardening by Jane Griffiths (Jonathan Ball Publishers) janesdeliciousgarden.com

OATS

to go GH8927/04/20 RECIPE AND STYLING ANNA MONTALI PHOTOGRAPHS SHAUN SMITH AND SUPPLIED

Make these oats the night before for a quick and delicious breakfast

ORANGE OVERNIGHT OATS TOPPED YOGHURT AND SEASONAL FRUIT (Serves 4–6) ½ cup rolled oats 2T chia seeds 1T sesame seeds 300ml Krush Carrot & Orange juice 1T vanilla extract 1T ground cinnamon 2T fresh coconut, sliced 2T almond slices, toasted 175ml Clover Classic Yoghurt Based Dairy Snack, Plain seasonal fruit of your choice runny honey, to drizzle

1. Make the oat base the night before by mixing the oats and seeds with the Krush Carrot & Orange juice in a large mixing bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

2. In the morning, mix the vanilla extract and cinnamon through the oat mixture and add coconut slices, almonds, Clover Classic Yoghurt Based Dairy Snack, Plain and fruit of your choice. Drizzle with honey and serve.

Krush Carrot & Orange juice is a delicious 100% fruit and vegetable juice blend with no added sugar or sweeteners. It’s also enriched with vitamins A, C and E.

Easter PARADE

TEXT CANDICE BOTHA PHOTOGRAPHS SALLY CHANCE THESE RECIPES ARE SUPPLIED BY THE ENTERTAINERS, AND WHILE EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO ENSURE THEY ARE CORRECT, THEY HAVEN’T BEEN TESTED BY GARDEN AND HOME

ENTERTAINING

Pippa de Charmoy’s Easter feast combines her favourite things: flowers, food and friends

Pippa and Demi de Charmoy

G

uests arriving for Easter lunch at Pippa de Charmoy’s home in Mount Edgecombe, Durban, were greeted by a hint of the charmingly decorated table inside – a bunch of carrots nestled among pastel-coloured tulips hanging from the front door. Pippa loves including elements like this, and playing host to large family gatherings, has honed her entertaining and decorating skills.

“I can spend ages gathering ideas for dinner and lunch parties, especially the table, which always features flowers, napkins and, at night, loads of candles,” she says. “We often have 20 or more guests seated on our veranda and, although I delegate the salads and side dishes to someone else, I love cooking too.”

Swapping recipes and ideas brings her great pleasure – the zucchini and herb-stuffed, deboned chicken she’s serving as a main course is a dish her daughters, Daniella and Demi, made for Pippa and her husband, Thomy’s, 20th-wedding anniversary. The corn, avocado and coriander salad is a family staple, and the orange chocolate cake, a friend’s recipe.

Menu WATERMELON RUM COCKTAIL

HALLOUMI WITH FRESH SWEET CHILLI SAUCE

ZUCCHINI AND HERB STUFFED DEBONED CHICKEN

MAPLE-ROASTED CARROTS IN TAHINI SAUCE WITH POMEGRANATE AND PISTACHIOS

CORN, AVOCADO AND CORIANDER SALAD

CHOCOLATE ORANGE CAKE

“I always lay the table, no matter what,” Pippa explains, and for today’s lunch, she asked florist Cindy Rynhoud of Love Laugh Ballito to add carrots to the floral centrepieces.

“Whenever I visit Ballito’s Lifestyle Centre, I pop into Cindy’s shop. The variety of flowers and fragrances makes it one of my favourite stores.

The way she added the bunches of carrots to the blooms creates just the right feel,” says Pippa.

Ursula Maroun and Sarah Slater

Today she’s asked guests to dress in white and placed a piece of jewellery from her collection, Della Fashion & Lifestyle Accessories, as a gift at each place setting, the colourful semiprecious stones complementing the vibrant flowers. “I adore the colours, natural beauty and that each stone is unique,” she says. As well as her own designs, she also supplies retailers with fashion accessories.

“What I enjoy most about my business is customer satisfaction,” she says. “I guess that’s what I enjoy most about entertaining too.”

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Debbie Allan, Michelle Lynch and Vanessa Karon

Lou Harvey and Petra Batho

GET MORE ONLINE Find Pippa’s halloumi with fresh sweet chilli sauce recipe at gardenandhome.co.za

WATERMELON RUM COCKTAIL (Makes 24) 4 cups white sugar 4 cups water 1 ripe watermelon 2 cups white rum (Pippa uses Bacardi) TO SERVE crushed ice fresh mint sprigs watermelon slices

1. In a small saucepan over high heat, boil the sugar and water together until the sugar has dissolved. Allow the syrup to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate.

2. Halve the watermelon and reserve a few slices for the garnish. Remove and discard pips and rind from

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the remaining watermelon.

Chop the flesh and place in a blender.

3. Add the white rum and sugar syrup to taste. Blend to a liquid.

4. Add crushed ice and serve immediately with each glass garnished with mint sprigs and slices of watermelon.

1. Boil the sweetcorn until tender. Set aside to cool. Cut the kernels off and place in a bowl.

2. Finely chop the coriander and add to the corn. Roughly chop and smash the avocados.

Add to the sweetcorn along with the lemon juice and olive oil.

3. Add the chilli, if using, season to taste with salt and pepper and serve.

ZUCCHINI AND HERB CORN, AVOCADO AND STUFFED DEBONED CORIANDER SALAD CHICKEN

(Serves 6–8)

(Serves 4–6)

4 sweetcorn on the cob handful fresh coriander 2 large avocados, pitted and peeled juice of 1 lemon, freshly squeezed 2T olive oil fresh chilli, chopped (optional) salt and pepper, to taste

2kg zucchini, grated 5½t kosher salt 1,5kg whole chicken, deboned, leg bones intact ¾ cup ricotta ¾ cup fresh breadcrumbs ½ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, coarsely grated ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

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1T chopped fresh marjoram 1 large egg yolk 1T freshly ground black pepper 1T Herbes de Provence 2T extra virgin olive oil

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C. 2. Place the zucchini in a colander set over a large bowl. Sprinkle over 2 teaspoons salt, toss and allow to stand for about 20 minutes.

3. Place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Leave it to stand for a few minutes on a dry kitchen cloth.

4. Pat the chicken dry.

Gently loosen and lift the skin from the breasts, thighs and drumsticks, being careful not to tear or totally detach the skin.

5. Mix together the ricotta,

QUICK CHAT WITH THE COOK

Sarah Power-Wilson

breadcrumbs, ParmigianoReggiano, softened butter, marjoram, egg yolk, drained zucchini, 1½ teaspoons salt and 1½ teaspoons pepper until combined.

6. Stuff the mixture under the skin of the chicken breasts, thighs and drumsticks.

Carefully replace the skin, evenly distributing the stuffing. Place the remaining stuffing into the carcass and tie the legs together with cooking twine.

7. In a bowl, stir together the Herbes de Provence, 2 teaspoons of salt and the remaining pepper.

Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with the herb seasoning.

8. Roast the chicken for about 20 minutes until the skin is lightly browned. Reduce the temperature to 160°C. Cook, basting after 30 minutes, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest portion of thigh registers 70°C, about 50 minutes.

9. Remove the chicken from the oven and allow to rest for about 20 minutes.

10. Carve and serve with the roasted carrots.

MAPLE-ROASTED CARROTS IN TAHINI SAUCE WITH POMEGRANATE AND PISTACHIOS (Serves 6) 2kg carrots, cleaned and trimmed 1T oil

1T maple syrup FOR THE SAUCE 2T tahini 2T lemon juice 1t white miso paste (or use soy sauce, gluten-free tamari or salt) 1t maple syrup 1 small clove garlic, grated 2T water, as needed TO SERVE 2T pomegranate seeds 2T pistachios, chopped 1T fresh parsley or coriander, chopped

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. 2. Toss the carrots in the oil and maple syrup.

Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast turning once, until tender, about 20–30 minutes.

2. To make the tahini sauce, mix the ingredients together with enough water for the desired consistency.

3. Serve the carrots topped with the tahini sauce, pomegranate seeds, pistachios and parsley.

My store cupboard staples are olive oil and fresh herbs – I don’t know what I’d do without them.

The kitchen gadgets I can’t live without are my herb chopper and air fryer.

My table decor always includes flowers, candles and napkins.

My family’s favourite meal is tuna lollipops – chunks of fresh tuna marinated in teriyaki sauce, coated in tempura bread crumbs and sesame seeds then flash fried. I serve them skewered on sticks with mayonnaise, soya sauce, ginger and wasabi.

The best thing I’ve ever eaten is a toss-up between the rump steak, chips and salad my husband cooked me when I arrived home after the birth of our first daughter and the tasting menu at the Pot Luck Club in Cape Town.

If I was stuck on an island with a celebrity chef, I‘d choose Jamie Oliver because of his ability to produce delicious seafood dishes with limited resources.

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Vanessa Karon, Pippa de Charmoy and Michelle Lynch

CHOCOLATE ORANGE CAKE (Makes 12 large slices) 2 cups granulated sugar zest of 1 large orange 1¾ cups all-purpose flour ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder 2t baking soda 1t baking powder 1t kosher salt 1 cup buttermilk ½ cup vegetable oil 2 large eggs 1t orange liqueur (Pippa uses Grand Marnier) 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee FOR THE CREAM CHEESE FROSTING 3T unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 cup confectioner’s sugar, sifted 2 cups cream cheese, at room temperature zest of 1 large orange ½t kosher salt

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1. In a medium glass bowl, combine the sugar and orange zest. Rub the zest and sugar together. Cover with cling film and allow to infuse, preferably overnight.

When ready, use a fork to break up the sugar clumps.

2. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Spray 3 x 15cm (6-inch) round cake pans or 2 x 20cm (8-inch) round cake pans generously with cooking spray and line the bases with parchment paper circles.

Spray the tops and set aside.

3. In the bowl of a freestanding electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, 2 cups orangeinfused granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder and salt.

Mix on low speed until thoroughly combined.

4. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk,

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oil, eggs and orange liqueur.

Whisk together gently until just combined.

5. With the mixer on its lowest speed, slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients.

6. Add the hot coffee and continue stirring on low speed until just combined.

Use a rubber spatula to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl and mix into the batter. It will seem really liquid, but this is normal.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 35–40 minutes, until a skewer inserted into the centre of each cake comes out with a few crumbs and the tops bounce back when poked gently with your finger.

8. When the cakes are ready, remove from the oven and leave to cool for 30 minutes in the pans or on a wire rack before turning them out to cool further. Remove the parchment paper and allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.

Lee Besnard

9. To make the frosting, combine the butter and confectioners’ sugar in the bowl of a freestanding electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed until smooth and glossy.

10. Add the cream cheese all at once and beat on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy.

11. Add the orange zest and salt and continue beating until just incorporated.

12. Ice the cake immediately and serve.

SOURCES Della Fashion & Lifestyle Accessories della.co.za Love Laugh Florist Ballito 083 875 4263

CLASSIC

favourites Don’t forget to put these Clover Classic favourites on your shopping list next time you’re stocking your fridge

CLOVER CLASSIC CUSTARD

GH8927/04/20 PHOTOGRAPH SHAUN SMITH

Ideal as a topping for malva pudding or other scrumptious desserts, or simply enjoyed on its own, Clover Classic Custard is a creamy, smooth and delicious ready-to-eat custard that’s a source of vitamins A, B2 and D. The 200ml size makes it a perfect lunch box treat, too.

CLOVER CLASSIC YOGHURT BASED DAIRY SNACK Enjoy Clover Classic Yoghurt Based Dairy Snack with muesli, stewed fruit, or on its own. It’s delicious, creamy, a source of 10 vitamins and made to Clover’s unique recipe. Available in a 100g six-pack as well as 175g, 500g and 1kg packs. Try it today!

CLOVER CLASSIC MAYONNAISE Make the perfect sandwich with Clover Classic Mayonnaise. With three levels of tanginess available, there’s one to suit every taste.

CLOVER CLASSIC FAT SPREAD Clover’s Classic Fat Spreads, with a touch of Clover Cream, are ideal for everyday use and are a source of 10 vitamins. Use them your way – to spread, bake or cook.

TIMELESS TASTE

FOOD AND WINE

Shake

IT UP

Life is sweet Clover Bliss Double Cream Yoghurt, R22,99 for a six pack, is a delectable way to indulge, plus they come in three irresistible flavours: Black Forest, Strawberries & Cream and Choc Chip. clover.co.za

FLIPPIN’ GOOD

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

A feel for flavour The East African Cookbook by Shereen Jog, R260, Penguin Random House, is packed with recipes featuring East African flavours, Indian spices and an abundance of fresh ingredients.

Find the recipe for Chicken and Vegetable Spring Rolls (pictured) on our website, gardenandhome.co.za

ALL WHITE NOW Try these crisp, dry white wines from the Cape: New, luscious David Nieuwoudt Ghost Corner Semillon 2017, R200; Groote Post Seasalter Sauvignon Blanc 2019, R145, and Tokara Director’s Reserve White 2017, R280, a complex blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. They’ll all benefit from a couple of years of cellaring – if you can wait that long!

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+ Who doesn’t love pancakes?

Whip up a batch with Gourmet Cravings Flapjacks & Pancakes Mix, R35 a packet, available in Original, Apple or Banana. yuppiechef.com

Make them in the KitchenCraft Non-stick Crepe or Pancake Pan, 24cm, R369. Its shallow depth makes flipping a breeze. yuppiechef.com

WHAT’S ON 3 – 4 APRIL Mpumalanga Wine Show Wine lovers can enjoy some of SA’s favourite wines at The Arena, Emnotweni, Nelspruit. Tickets cost R200 pp at computicket.com. For details, visit mpumalangawineshow.co.za 3 – 5 APRIL Pick n Pay Wine & Food Festival Cape Town Swirl, sniff and sample a range of local wines accompanied by delicious food at the V & A Waterfront, Cape Town. Tickets cost R165 at webtickets.co.za. Visit pnpwineandfoodfestival.co.za 4 – 5 APRIL The Johannesburg Cap Classique & Champagne Festival Savour a range of South Africa’s finest MCCs as well as a selection of Champagnes and Italian Proseccos at the Inanda Polo Club, Sandton.

Tickets, R395 pp, are available at webtickets.co.za 25 – 27 APRIL South African Cheese Festival Escape to Sandringham Farm in Stellenbosch and enjoy a selection of well-known cheeses as well as artisanal creations. Pair them with wine, beer, gin or bubbly. Tickets, from R240, at computicket.com.

Visit cheesefestival.co.za

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

Bon appetit

Add superfood goodness to shakes and smoothies with Harvest Table’s Ancient Shake Powder, R250 for 180g, which contains collagen, beef bone broth and green alkalising powder. For more details, visit harvesttable.co.za

affair

Getting together during Easter is a breeze with these recipes

SLOW-ROASTED LAMB SHANKS WITH MINTED PEARL COUSCOUS (Serves 6) FOR THE LAMB SHANKS 15ml oil, plus extra for frying 45ml cake flour 10ml paprika 6 small to medium lamb shanks 4 cloves garlic 2 red onions, peeled and cut into crescents 10ml tagine or harissa paste 1 (410g) tin chopped tomatoes 500ml lamb or beef stock 30ml fresh rosemary FOR THE MINTED PEARL COUSCOUS 600ml vegetable stock or water 300g pearl couscous 100g frozen peas 30g butter 15ml basil pesto 30ml fresh mint, finely chopped salt and milled black pepper FOR THE TOPPING 45ml fresh parsley, finely chopped finely grated zest of 1 small lemon 45ml Panko breadcrumbs salt and pepper TO SERVE fresh herbs (we used sprigs of rosemary and pineapple sage flowers)

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C. 2. To make the lamb shanks, heat the oil in a large ovenproof casserole with a lid.

3. Mix the cake flour and paprika together and sprinkle over the shanks.

Sear the shanks, in batches, until browned all over.

4. Remove the shanks from the casserole dish and set aside.

5. Return the dish to the stove, with a splash of oil and fry the garlic and onions over a low heat for 5–7 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the tagine or harissa paste and the tomatoes.

RECIPES AND STYLING LYN WOODWARD PHOTOGRAPHS CHRISTOPH HOFFMANN

A FAMILY

EFFORTLESS ENTERTAINING

6. Return the lamb shanks to the casserole and cover with the stock and rosemary. Cover with the lid and bake for 2½–3 hours, or until the lamb is meltingly tender.

7. To make the minted pearl couscous, bring the stock or water to the boil and add the pearl couscous, simmer for 10 minutes and add the frozen peas.

8. Cook for 2 minutes and drain well. Transfer to a bowl and stir through the remaining ingredients.

Set aside.

9. Mix the topping ingredients together. Transfer the shanks to a platter, sprinkle over the topping, and garnish with fresh herbs.

10. Reheat the couscous just before serving with the lamb.

3. Place the egg yolks in a mixing bowl with the sugar and whisk until thick, pale and creamy.

4. Fold in the melted chocolate mixture, ground almonds or flour, coffee, vanilla extract and salt.

5. In a separate, spotlessly clean mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites, using an electric whisk, until soft peaks form.

6. Mix a spoonful of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture to loosen the batter, then carefully fold the remaining egg whites into the chocolate mixture.

7. Pour the batter into the cake tin and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into

the centre comes out clean; it may still be a little wobbly in the centre.

Allow to cool.

8. To make the ganache, melt the chocolate and cream together over a pan of barely simmering water. Stir gently, and allow to melt.

9. Pour the ganache over the top of the cake and place in the fridge for at least 3 hours to set.

10. Serve with whipped cream, a dusting of cocoa powder and fresh figs, if desired.

FLOURLESS CHOCOLATE CAKE (Serves 8–10) 200g dark chocolate, broken into pieces 180g butter 4 large eggs, separated 150g sugar 100g ground almonds or almond flour 25ml espresso or strong coffee 2ml vanilla extract 1ml salt FOR THE CHOCOLATE GANACHE 100g dark chocolate, broken into pieces 80ml cream TO SERVE whipped cream cocoa powder, for dusting fresh figs (optional)

LIKE A SHOPPING LIST? To download one for this menu, visit gardenandhome.co.za and go to Recipes

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a 20cm springform cake tin and line with baking paper.

2. Place the chocolate and butter in a bowl and place over a pan of barely simmering water, making sure that the base doesn’t touch the water. Stir gently, and allow to melt.

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PROMOTION

Egg-cellent family fun M

ake Easter 2020 an extraspecial time for you and your loved ones by putting tech devices away and enjoying each other’s company.

EASTER EGG OR SCAVENGER HUNT Include the whole family in the hunt by colour-coding the chocolate eggs and bunnies, and giving each family member a colour to hunt for. You can even use ribbons to mark ‘hot spots’ for the little ones.

FAMILY BRUNCH A family brunch can be as easy going, or as opulent, as you like. Add something special to the table by decorating it with Á����� ���� ��� �������

SUNDAY LUNCH

FAMILY GAMES NIGHT

Make Sunday lunch a family affair and give everyone a chance to catch up after a few hectic months of work and school. Leave the phones and tech and get to know one another over a delicious meal. Clover’s Bliss Chocolate Dairy Dessert is the ideal pudding or dessert topping to end your meal on a sweet note.

Stow those phones in the other room and make one evening strictly family only. Get out the board games, play charades, and have a great time.

FAMILY PICNIC Enjoy the mild autumn weather with a picnic in your garden or at the local park or botanical garden. You could even have a beach picnic if you’re at the coast!

Remember to pack some Clover Bliss Chocolate Dairy Dessert as a wholesome treat for everyone.

Clover Bliss Chocolate Dairy Dessert is a readyto-eat indulgent dessert that can be used as a sauce or topping, or enjoyed on its own. It’s also a source of vitamins A, B2 and D.

Pour it, sauce it or top it!

GH8927/04/20 PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCK/GETTY AND SUPPLIED

From Easter egg hunts to Sunday lunches and family game nights, make your Easter weekend one for the memory books

Big Skye Outdoor pursuits are legendary on the ruggedly beautiful Isle of Skye. Just be prepared for the midges, writes Tess Paterson 116

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TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS TESS PATERSON

Views across the Sound of Sleat.

DESTINATIONS Kayaking around the tiny island of Eilean a Chait.

A moody day on the Sound of Sleat.

TESS’S TRAVEL TIPS WHAT TO PACK Warm clothing and good hiking boots – expect rain at any time – and a pair of binoculars to spot the elusive puffin.

MUST-SEE SIGHT Attadale Gardens are a spectacle in spring. attadalegardens.com INTERESTING TO KNOW Skye has just two whisky distilleries – Talisker and Torabhaig.

WHERE TO EAT After hiking The Storr, stop off at the Skye Blue Gallery for really good coffee and cake. Owner Lynne Douglas’s evocative photographs make memorable gifts.

e’re kayaking across water that is so compellingly turquoise, it feels a bit like a Greek island. One small difference is that we’re on a loch that’s a nippy six degrees – not something you’d want to fling yourself into in a hurry. It’s early spring, and we’ve hired a house on Skye for a week. Travelling

W

with the mohair-farming in-laws means rising early and staying busy. Which is why, on our first day in Scotland, I find myself kitted out in an alarmingly snug wetsuit and wedged into a ridiculously slender vessel. Possibly for life.

“Don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of it in no time,” says our instructor Will Evans. Earlier, Will had shown us the basics in a sheltered cove just off the village of Plockton, a delightful mainland spot about half an hour from Skye. We’d practised sprints and turns – nifty moves that ideally require years of Pilates and upper body conditioning.

Once Will was satisfied we wouldn’t drift out into the Atlantic, we left Plockton in our wake.

For a blissful few hours we meander along Loch Carron. Right away we’re hooked, drawn in by the spectacular

scenery and impossibly clean water.

Every so often a seal lifts its glossy head above the surface, following us at a safe distance. Just when I think my arms might give in, we pull up at a lovely cove with a shale beach. We’ve bought a packed lunch, we have this pristine spot to ourselves, and the sun has turned the water to Mykonos blue.

Skye has a rugged beauty all of its own – a spectacular mix of mountains, lochs and moody skies, with great pubs thrown in. Each morning we leave our comfy house on the Sound of Sleat for a day’s adventuring. At first, as rank amateurs, we don’t quite register the omnipresent cloud of midges that thrives along the shore. What begins as an innocent packing of the car soon turns into a session of undignified yelling and manic face swatting.

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Walking back down from The Storr.

Colourful houses at Portree.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP GETTING THERE We flew to London and took a connecting flight on Easyjet to Edinburgh. It’s a good five hour self-drive from there.

Alternatively, fly from London to Inverness or Glasgow and drive to Skye.

WHERE TO STAY We stayed at Napier House – a self-catering, double-storey with superb loch views. stayhouse.co.uk VISAS South Africans need a visa to visit Britain. vfsglobal.com CURRENCY Currency is the British pound. At the time of going to print the exchange was £1=R19,30. A tot of single malt in a pub starts at £4 (about R77); a main meal ranges from £12–£20 (around R230–R386).

By day two, wise to their stinging bites, we sprint to the car, get in as one, and slam the doors. No mozzie ever caused such outrage.

Will had recommended the Applecross Pass as a worthwhile drive, and this glorious stretch of road does not disappoint. From Loch Kishorn it rises steeply, morphing into eyebrowraising hairpin bends with forever views.

We hit pockets of cold mist and the craggy beauty reminds me of Naude’s Nek in the Eastern Cape. Winding

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Waiting for the ferry from Mallaig to Skye.

down the other side, there’s a deer-filled field and a knot of woodland, before we arrive at the Applecross Inn. This charming pub is owned by Judith Fish, who was recently awarded an MBE for her services to local tourism and to the Applecross community.

Judith’s team manages hordes of hungry pass-goers with unflappable calm. They serve comfort food like haddock, chips and peas, and local haggis flambéed in Drambuie. It’s generous, down to earth and deserves its reputation. Replete and happy, we wander outside past a throng of expensive motorbikes. Judging by the owners’ accents, much of fit, middleaged Scandinavia has chosen to ride the pass in matching leathers.

The next day we head north through the pretty town of Portree towards the Trotternish peninsula. It’s a cool, damp day, which is a good thing because the walk up to The Storr is pretty steep.

This remarkable rocky pinnacle looks out over the Isle of Raasay, and bar the abundance of fellow walkers, it’s a peaceful, wild spot that seems to capture the essence of Skye.

Another outing takes us to Dunvegan Castle. Towering above a rocky promontory, this stunning site was claimed by the MacLeod clan eight centuries ago. It’s remained their ancestral home ever since, and a meander through the five-acre gardens is particularly rewarding.

The elegant exterior of Kinloch Lodge.

A crofter’s cottage near Applecross.

The bridge to Dunvegan Castle.

Attadale Gardens are a joy in spring.

Archive news footage from 1956 shows Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip driving in an open-top Hillman to Dunvegan for lunch. Apparently, the royal yacht Britannia had dropped them off in Portree and picked them up at the castle afterwards. Frankly, I wouldn’t travel any other way.

Back home we head out to our local – the Am Praban bar at the hotel Eilean Iarmain. It’s a half hour walk along the busy main road, but the views are jawdropping. All along, islands and boats dot the Sound of Sleat, and on arrival we order a thirst-quenching pint of bitter. I’d like to say that we sat outside, admiring the lighthouse on Ornsey Isle. What actually happened was an

onslaught of midges, so we hastened inside and enjoyed some upbeat music by a pair of local fiddlers.

Years ago we watched a fabulous cooking series called Seasonally Scottish.

The host, Lady Claire Macdonald, concocted delicious, locally sourced dishes at her home on Skye. To our delight, this hallowed spot, Kinloch Lodge, is just down the road. Making the best of our jeans-and-flannel rambler look, we head over there for lunch.

Chef Marcello Tully, former protégé to Albert Roux, is at the helm, and let’s just say that the man understands flavour. Tender, seared scallops, Aberdeen Angus fillet with a rich

Highland cattle.

brandy sauce and a dark chocolate torte with coconut sorbet. All is quietly exquisite, with loch views beyond.

Unsurprisingly, Skye is now the most popular Scottish destination after Edinburgh. But the rapid rise in tourism (some 650 000 visitors annually) has brought its own challenges. It is crucial that its wild beauty and innate charm be preserved amid the growing congestion.

Perhaps the midges are nature’s way of telling us something.

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A BRIEF HISTORY OF DAVIDSON GLASSWARE Up until the Industrial Revolution, glass was only found in homes belonging to the wealthy as blown and handcut glass was expensive to produce.

The invention of machine-pressed and moulded glass meant that glass could be mass-produced, and with the resulting lower prices, it was more affordable for the general public.

In 1867, at the height of the Industrial Revolution, savvy entrepreneur George Davidson founded Davidson & Co., which produced fancy glassware on a large scale to meet the increasing demand. The company made clear vases and decorative items until the 1920s, and limited amounts of everyday tableware.

In 1923, Thomas Davidson, George’s son, came up with the concept of cloud glass, using colours of different intensities to create a marbled effect. The company manufactured cloud glass until WWII. After the war, the company sold off their cloud glass stocks, but items were still available from retailers well into the 1950s.

In 1966, Davidson & Co. was taken over by glassworks Abrahams & Co. and renamed Brama Teams Glassworks, but eventually closed in 1987.

Collecting

This Canadian-born, globe-trotting Capetonian finds it gratifying that considering its origins, his glassware has found its way back to South Africa

M

y interest in Davidson cloud glass was initially sparked when I viewed a vast glass collection left by Michael Parkington to the Broadfield House Glass Museum in the West Midlands of England,” explains Glen Holman.

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1

3

THIS PAGE: 1 This octagonal Art Deco-style bowl (circa 1935) in

rare, deep-orange on a contrasting black glass stand is Glen’s favourite piece. 2 Large, scalloped fruit bowl with turned-down rim. 3 Complete brown-toned dresser set, including a previously unseen finger ring bowl.

TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHS DERICK KIRK

ANTIQUE DAVIDSON CLOUD GLASS with Glen Holman

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COLLECTABLES

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CARING FOR YOUR COLLECTION Dust glassware regularly as dirt collects in relief work and grime tends to stick to the matt, acid-etched finish.

Carefully wash by hand with mild detergent and tepid water.

Use a plastic basin to prevent chipping.

Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth to remove any soap residue.

To make the most of your collection, back or under light brightly coloured pieces, or place them on a mirrored surface.

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6 7 “An eccentric collector, Michael Parkington was Nelson Mandela’s defence lawyer. Apparently, while in Jo’burg defending Mandela on treason charges, he came across this glass, fell in love with it and started collecting. When he died, his palatial London flat was filled from floor to ceiling with

TIPS FOR ASPIRING COLLECTORS “Because of the way cloud glass is made, the pressed glass often has bubbles in it. These are often mistaken for chips, but don’t detract from the value of the item,” says Reg Taylor of Skyscraper Cape Town.

“Brown is the most common colour, while purple, amber, green, blue and light orange are more rare. A red cloud glass and a more intense orange colour version were made between 1929 and 1934, both of which are now highly sought after. When buying a piece, check that the red is original and not painted on, a trick used by unscrupulous sellers,” says Carl Landsberg of Curatables in Jo’burg.

significant examples of English glass. He’d definitely crossed the line between collector and hoarder,” says Glen.

“I was lucky enough to snap up a few pieces at his estate sale, and brought them back to South Africa.”

Cloud glass is produced by adding trails of molten darker glass to lighter glass in a mould. When the plunger is brought down to form the object, the swirls of colour are created at random so no two pieces are alike.

Of the seven colourways that Davidson & Co. produced, brown is the least favoured, but Glen begs to differ. “I like the brown. When you place brown cloud glass in the right setting, it comes to life,” he says, and demonstrates this by placing a tortoiseshell brown set on a burrwood dresser. Glen’s favourite piece is a rare and striking orange, octagonal Art Deco-style fruit bowl on a black glass stand, which he found at a local Cape Town antiques dealer.

As he has a young son, a busy job and limited space, Glen has put collecting on hold for the moment and just admires the beauty of his glassware. “But as soon as I retire, I’ll start again,” he says.

THIS PAGE: 4 Large scalloped fruit bowl, the same shape as the

one featured opposite, but with a more upright rim. 5 Late 19thcentury clear Davidson Glass milk jug, a predecessor to cloud glass. 6 Small but striking posy vase. 7 Ultra-rare, red vase from the 1930s. Pieces in this colour will set you back a few thousand rands. 8 Small green vase in typical Art Deco fan shape. 9 One of a pair of squat candlestick holders from the late 1920s. 10 Large rose bowl on matching stand, complete with flower frog.

SOURCES Curatables 011 646 6796 or celandsberg@iafrica.com Skyscraper Cape Town 073 308 4490 or skyscrapercapetown.co.za

gardenandhome.co.za | APRIL 2020

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ANTIQUES AND COLLECTABLES

Treasure chest What are your collectables worth?

FIND OF THE MONTH I bought this bottle of cognac from a deceased estate about five years ago. Can you please tell me if it’s worth anything?

Grant Teasdale Carrie Adams from Norman Goodfellows Fine Wine and Spirit Merchants says, “The ullage on the bottle (level of the liquid) is low, which detracts somewhat from the value. For the rest, the labels appear to be in good condition (no tears) and it could fetch up to R30 000. Sadly, this value may not be realised locally as the market for these lovely old cognacs in South Africa is incredibly small. I’d advise selling it on the international market.”

Specialist online silver dealer David Murray of Leopard Antiques says, “This style of teapot, oval with flat base, straight spout and domed lid with flush hinge, was popular from 1780 – 1795.

The attractive engravings were made popular during this time by Hester Bateman, whose work also commands a premium. The engraved cartouche with swags is intended for an owner’s engraved crest or initials. I can’t see if any engraving has been removed. This would reduce its value, which is greatly dependent on condition (damage, repairs, dents etc.). This should cost R15 000 – R25 000 to replace, 30% less for auction value.”

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George Curtis of Quagga Rare Books and Art says, “Unfortunately this is a standard version and not the rare vellum-bound edition. The handwriting does not appear to be Barrie’s and the signature is definitely not his. As the condition is not good, its value would probably be R600 – R800.”

EXPERT TIP “As flat-base teapots scorched the tea table, they were usually accompanied by a teapot stand. Having the original stand significantly increases the value,” says David Murray.

WRITE IN AND WIN EVERY MONTH we give away a *prize for the most valuable or interesting item sent in. This month, Grant Teasdale has won two cases (12 bottles) of Middelvlei Free-Run Pinotage worth R1 560.

Made from 100% free-run juice, this superior quality, uniquely South African wine contains gentler tannins with complex flavours of raspberries, mulberries and elegant oak spices.

Visit middelvlei.co.za E-mail clear photographs and relevant information about your collectable item to gardenhome@caxton.co.za with Treasure Chest in the subject line. Due to the volume of mail, we are unable to respond personally. Pictures must be sent as separate attachments at a size between 1MB and 2MB. For guidelines on the best way to take your photos for Treasure Chest, visit gardenandhome.co.za THANKS TO OUR SPECIALISTS Carrie Adams Norman Goodfellows Fine Wine and Spirit Merchants ngf.co.za George Curtis Quagga Rare Books and Art quaggabooks.co.za David Murray Leopard Antiques leopardantiques.com

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

Can you please tell me a bit about this silver teapot, which I inherited from my grandmother?

T Rathbone

My grandmother gave me this copy of ‘Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens’ with illustrations by renowned artist Arthur Rackham. It’s a first edition published by Hodder and Stoughton in 1906 and inscribed and signed

by J M Barrie. There are 50 illustrations.

I’ d be interested to know its value.

Trishie Parker

ss s l ime e a te

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LAST WORD ON STYLE

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Khanyisile MBONGWA

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The chief curator of the Stellenbosch Triennale 2020 shares a few of her favourite things

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hanyisile’s extensive involvement in the art world as an artist, curator and sociologist was almost inevitable. “I come from a family of creatives,” she says.

“My mother designed and made all our Christmas outfits when we were kids and is still designing and making clothes.

My father is a self-taught architect and master tiler.” This inventive background gave Khanyisile the tools to develop her own performing arts practice.

While she didn’t study art, it was while completing her sociology degree at Stellenbosch University that Khanyisile became one of the founding members of Gugulective, a Cape Town-based artist collective. Growing up in the Cape Town township of Gugulethu, and with

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a sociology background, Khanyisile has a unique understanding of the role art plays in addressing South Africa’s socio-political issues. “It’s the curator’s role to provide a forum for people to experience and process their emotions through art,” she says.

The projects she has been involved in include Handspring Trust, an NPO that supports puppetry artists, the Cape Town Carnival and Infecting the City, an annual arts festival.

She was subsequently appointed the chief curator of the inaugural Stellenbosch Triennale 2020, the theme of which is ‘Tomorrow There Will be

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1 HEARTLEAF PHILODENDRONS They remind me of my childhood home. Our house is filled with plants and flowers.

2 MAYIBUYE NTSATSA, AKA DJ MIGHTY is my all-time favourite.

His old-school cassette mixtapes bring my inner child to life.

3 DARK CHOCOLATE I love Lindt’s Sea Salt flavour and home-made dark chocolate with whole nuts.

4 HOME-MADE LEMONADE This is my partner’s speciality.

5 UBATUBA, BRAZIL The view of the ocean here is spectacular.

6 SHOES My favourite brand right now is Melissa’s.

7 ANIME (Japanese animation) Forest Piano is beautiful to watch.

More of Us’. “Putting the show together has been an incredible journey filled with excitement, tension, celebration and love,” says Khanyisile. “Stand-out features include the poetic conversation between Zaituna Kala (Untitled, Still We Are The Ancestors) and Ibrahim Mahama (Strangers to Lines II), and Kaloki Nyamai’s and Tracy Thompson’s work, which both address current environmental issues.”

The Stellenbosch Triennale will run until 30 April 2020. For a full programme of events and venues, visit stellenboschtriennale.com

SOURCES Cape Town Carnival capetowncarnival.com Handspring Trust handspringpuppet.co.za Infecting the City infectingthecity.com Melissa’s melissaza.co.za

TEXT MARIANNE MCDONALD PHOTOGRAPHS SUPPLIED

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