Crafting Comfort and Elegance • P12 House Eggers • P8 Unveiling Grosvenor House • P27 20 Victoria: Redefining Urban Living • P. 23
Embracing Nature in Modern Interiors P 33 House on Levels • P 12
Priscilla Nyandoro: Crafting Comfort and Style at 20 Victoria • P. 36
Winter Delights• P 40
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EDITOR NOTE
As the crisp air of winter settles in and the days grow shorter, we find ourselves drawn to the warmth and comfort of our homes This season, our focus turns to creating cozy, inviting spaces that not only shield us from the cold but also rejuvenate our spirits In this winter issue of Homes & Styles, we are delighted to bring you a curated selection of articles, tips, and inspiration to help you transform your living spaces into perfect winter retreats
In this edition, we explore the art of winter plant care Keeping your greenery thriving through Zimbabwe's cooler months can be challenging, but with our expert advice, you'll learn how to maintain humidity, adjust watering habits, and protect your plants from cold drafts Ensuring your plants stay healthy will not only brighten your home but also keep your indoor environment fresh and vibrant
Our feature article takes you on a tour of a stunning new development in the heart of Newlands, Harare Architect Bruce Rowlands of Architexture Spatial Design has masterfully designed a set of twenty units that balance affordability with the aspirational quality concepted by Cardinal Properties\ Discover how thoughtful design and structural simplicity can create spacious, light-filled homes within a limited footprint.
For those who love interior design, we bring you an exclusive interview with Priscilla Nyandoro, a retired hospitality professional turned Airbnb superhost. Priscilla shares her journey from hospitality to interior decoration, offering insights into her signature style a blend of minimalism and Scandinavian influences. Her practical tips on styling your own spaces are sure to inspire you to make thoughtful, functional design choices.
Winter is also a time for reflection and planning. As we embrace the season's quieter pace, consider how you can enhance your living environment to better suit your lifestyle. Whether it's through small changes like updating your decor or larger projects like redesigning a room, let this issue of Homes & Styles guide you with innovative ideas and professional advice.
Thank you for being part of our community. We hope this winter issue provides you with the inspiration and knowledge to create a warm, stylish, and comfortable home. Stay cozy and enjoy the season
ShaanaPuwai
EDITOR
Comein... AGuidetohostinga housewarming
TEXT SJ KOTI OWNER OF SJ GOOD & PHOTOGRAPHS VARIOUS
Hosting a housewarming event is a huge undertaking and there are a few crucial decisions you have to make at the onset to ensure that you not only enjoy the experience, but you show off your home and yourselves in the best light.
Here are the top 5 tips
1. Don’t use the word ‘party’ on the invitation Invitations that subtly tell people how to behave are best “Come to Vongai and Patrick’s Sip and See” or “Bless our Nest” or “Stock the Bar Soiree” not only set a theme, but they also deliver the message that you are proud of the work you have done and would like to share it with those closest to you You may also want to invite a neighbour or two to create goodwill in the community but it’s not a must. Think more about what kind of energy you want in your home and let that guide who you invite.
2 Have a gift guide
It is tradition for guests to bring a gift but unless you want to end up with a country chic lamp shade in your art deco themed home you will need to guide your guests. There are a few design studios and showrooms in the capital that would happily do a gift registry for you The goal is to help your guests find a little luxury trinket or a practical gadget that you, the homeowner, will love but would never think to buy for yourself
3 Hire a caterer
Your primary job will be to show people around your home and you can’t do that if you’re also the one pureeing the strawberry vinaigrette!
The less formal the meal the better. You want people to be light and nimble on their feet, moving around, enjoying and experiencing the home Have your caterer do one entrée and lots of side dishes and appetizers, deconstructed, so you can cater for different dietary requirements, all laid out on a beautifully set large table Set aside a pre-cooked heartier meal for the few closest and most dear friends and family who will inevitably stay on long after everyone else has left
. Prep your home
This may seem like an invalid point considering you can still smell the fresh paint and you still haven’t connected the new SMEG fridge yet
It is, however, one thing to have a new house and quite another to have a new home that feels lived in Consider what your guests will experience. What will they smell? What will they hear? What will they touch? What will they see? Unlike some other house parties no room should be off-limits Get to the point where you feel good about all the rooms. Every room should be open and accessible. Burn a diffuser an hour before guests arrive, set the music on low and have fresh cut flowers When it comes to actually taking people through the house, unless you want to give several tours, you can lead one about halfway through your get-together
5. Authenticity
Let who you are shine through If you have always been the fun couple then don’t expect people to come and sit around quietly. You could have a few games set up for entertainment.
(Look out for my upcoming piece on how to host a lux game night.) If you are nature lovers have a cheese and s’mores board setup beside the bonfire. Ask yourself what you want people to remember most about this day or night and make that your main focus A few days after the event be sure to send out thank you cards or e-cards to your guests to show your appreciation.
SJ Koti owns SJ Good, a full-service event planning and design production firm with corporate and individual clients sj@sjgood.co.zw.
HOUSE EGGERS HOUSE EGGERS
Text & Photography by Inter Slab
When renovating your home it is always ideal to see your vision in application We looked to Rudi and Lynn Eggers gorgeous family home for inspiration, which is situated in Franschhoek’s Val de Vie Estate
From the moment you open the front door, the beautifully considered interiors draw you in. With large glass windows throughout, the home is filled with natural light. Their goal was to welcome the outdoors in and incorporate interesting snaps of colour and deep textures on a grey-toned foundation. With an incredibly clever selection, each area is anchored by a signature piece that dictates the style, making the space unique. Elements of high-glamour are offset by a pared-back elegance that reflects the couples personal style and charisma
With fully-integrated appliances and a free-standing island cladded in Sleek Concrete Caesarstone, the Eggers’ kitchen is positioned front of house, acting as the prop that brings all the elements together No longer a space for merely cooking, this kitchen was designed with functionality in mind and also caters for entertaining, catch-ups and even a working space if need be.
Apart from increasing the value of your property, installing Caesarstone into your home is the perfect choice for hardworking spaces as it is non-porous and incredibly durable, making the kitchen an obvious area to incorporate it. The Sleek Concrete Caesarstone was used with a combination of crisp white cupboards on the island and warm natural wood finishes on the other doors
Their taste in, and support of, local art is also reflected throughout the home. Hanging authoritatively in the various parts of the home are vibrant paintings and large photographic prints. But it is not just the art that adorns the walls that offer exquisite talking points... On entering the home you are met by an unmissable floor to ceiling wine rack (also cladded in Sleek Concrete Caesarstone), followed by a jawdropping book-ended Panda marble by Rudi’s Choice natural stone, that occupies the wall behind the fire place. A statement raw wood server welcomes you into the upstairs living area; Guiding you upstairs is a dramatic cascading chandelier and grey textured wallpaper
The bathroom, as it is known today, is best viewed as a sanctuary. A place curated for personal well being, where you can escape and revive In this instance, the four bathrooms each hold pride of place. With all flooring in Sleek Concrete Caesarstone, the walls in the luxurious guest bathroom are cladded in a total of 12 Frosty Carrina Caesarstone slabs The other 3 bathrooms have wall-cladding in decadent Bianco Ciello marble from Vietnam, also supplied by Rudi’s Choice. The vanities in the main bathroom, as well as the wall paneling in the guest toilet are cladded in Snow White Caesarstone 2141.
With a passion for natural and engineered stone, the couple marble and Caesarstone flawlessly in various other applications too. Even in the bedroom, innovative side tables are cladded in popular Rugged Concrete Caesarstone, which imitate the natural textures and movement of concrete.
With a lovely juxtaposition of engineered stone, natural elements and the mix of colours on grey foundations, this light-filled home has a grounded, contemporary-chic feeling to it With a large family and a love for entertaining, the open-plan design ensures that this home will always be able to welcome guests and good times.
In Zimbabwe Caesarstone and Rudi’s Choice natural stone is exclusively available by Slab Sales Africa. Contact them today for a quote! www.slabsalesafrica.com Cnr Loreley Close & Loreley Crescent, Msasa, Harare 024 244 6226 | +263 77 513 7942 damien@slabsalesafrica.com
House on Levels
Located in the Western suburbs of Mumbai the 4bedroom duplex had to be eloquent and elegant Catering to a family with diverse age groups and aesthetical inclinations the brief was to have an individual identity for each of the bedrooms whereas the common areas had to be diligently luxurious. The lower level consisted of the Formal living room, dining, Kitchen services and a Guest bedroom The upper level is a private zone with a master bedroom, Kid’s bedroom, one bedroom converted into a Kids play area and an informal family lounge.
Creating a ripple effect at the entrance with wooden rafters with metal edging. The rafters have been turned into the ceiling; the length gives prominence to the otherwise stunted entrance lobby
On the lower level, the formal living room has been done up in tones of beige. Playing with the materiality; the monotones in the room amplifies the eloquence. A subtle marble cladding with contrasting veneer paneling wraps the room The piece de resistance is the staircase; keeping a delicate balance the first step has been cast a platform
Project by Aum Architects
Photo by Prashant Bhat
Wrapped in a floral mosaic appearing like a carpet laid over it The dining area is nestled between the staircase overseeing the double height area. The dining tabletop is a unique metallic finish with specks of ruby strewn across the length. The formal seating adjacent to the dining area has plush furniture with customised wall bracket light Amplifying the natural light this area has been designed.
The kitchen being large was planned with a breakfast island. A statuario marble tile backsplash accentuates the immaculate kitchen finished in back-painted glass on the overhead unit and a wooden finished under counter unit
The guest bedroom is smaller than the rooms needed clutter-free planning. White dominating the space a lighter wooden texture was used Vertical elements have been added to give the room a spaciousness An arch profile has been repeated in the wardrobe and headboard as a pattern.
The family room on the upper level has the opulence of a Victorian style; an autumn colour palette has been infused in the soft furnishings whereas the walls have been treated with high gloss lacquer in a Taupe colour overall with one highlighting wall finished in indigo blue Gold accents are strewn across the room in the form of details on the furniture, Art and drapes. The sheer curtain has filigree work looking like cherry blossoms
Two bedrooms are for the youngest members; one as their bedroom the other as their play area cum library The bedroom has been kept subtle with pastel colours, A playful cabinet replicating building blocks fulfils the need for both a functional requirement as well as aesthetically pleasing.
The wardrobe is made to look like a panel with the center accessed with sliding doors finished in wallpaper On either side of it are matte white openable shutters with custom made handles The kids play area is a vibrant and colourful space with engaging pieces of furniture. A library unit with built-in seats, A bunk bed with a slide attached to it. Multiple arches of varying sizes amalgamate to form the library unit A vibrant colour palette, bespoke curtain with hand-embroidered motifs designed to a football field theme and a custom-made wallpaper make this play area unique.
The master bedroom is modern aesthetic, the room is divided into a sleeping and a seating area. The seating area has a long facade of the wardrobe finished in a copper ombre giving it the appearance of a wall panel A fluted wooden panel wraps around the column dividing the two rooms A wooden ledge extends onto the window side to form a study area. The sleeping area comprises a floating bed and a headboard overlaid with marble and upholstery A refreshing punch of colour is infused through the soft furnishing.
Project Location: Malad, Maharashtra, India | Project Completion Year: March 2021 | Plot Area (In sq Ft.): 3100 Sq.ft. | Project Type: Residence | Photography Credits: Prashant Bhat | Team Aum: Manish Dikshit, Sonali Pandit, Nachiket Borwake
Project Suppliers ● Lighting Fixtures: Ivytech ● Decorative lights: The white teak & Deepam ● Glass and Mirror: Saint Gobain ● Wallpaper: Confido ● Wall finishes: Colour Coats ● Fabrics: Embellish ● Loose Furniture: MDL ● Rugs: Jaipur Rugs
CRAFTING COMFORT AND ELEGANCE: CRAFTING COMFORT AND ELEGANCE:
THE ARCHITECTURAL MASTERY BEHIND THE ARCHITECTURAL MASTERY BEHIND
ACTON PLACE ACTON PLACE
TEXT STAFF WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHS H&S
In the bustling heart of Borrowdale Brook, an innovative architectural feat has emerged, transforming a tight area into an oasis of spacious, comfortable living This ambitious project, which involved fitting 20 units into a limited space while maintaining a sense of openness and luxury, perfectly embodies the aspirational quality that a Borrowdale Brook investment demands
The client’s brief was clear: create a development that maximizes space and comfort within a restricted area, while keeping the units affordable yet luxurious. The challenge was to balance these seemingly opposing goals and deliver a design that not only meets but exceeds expectations
The overarching design concept focused on spatial optimization and ensuring each unit felt like an individual haven. By aligning all the units in the same direction, the design ensures privacy and exclusivity, with none of the units facing into each other's living spaces This clever orientation creates a harmonious community while preserving the individuality of each home.
Major Architectural Considerations
To achieve the final design objective, several key architectural considerations were meticulously addressed: 1. Privacy and Space: Ensuring that each unit had ample privacy was paramount The units were designed to be "blind" on their sides, meaning that adjacent neighbors do not impose on each other's spaces.
2. Light and Ventilation: Avoiding dark, unventilated cores was critical. Each master ensuite was given an outdoor shower courtyard, which acts as a light well and ventilation source for the enclosed core of the house.
3. High-Level Light: Raising the central roof to allow generous highlevel light into the spaces was a significant design move This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also maintains privacy for each unit
4. Future-Proofing: The high roof design also offers future flexibility. Homeowners have the option to install a loft over the kitchen, providing additional space for a pyjama lounge or a study, should their needs evolve
Several unique design elements stand out in this development:
- **Outdoor Shower Courtyard**: This feature not only serves practical purposes of light and ventilation but also adds a touch of luxury and connection to nature.
- **High Central Roof**: The elevated roof design floods the interiors with natural light, creating bright and airy living spaces
- **Adaptability**: The potential for future loft installations showcases the development's forward-thinking approach, allowing homeowners to adapt their spaces as their needs change
This remarkable project was brought to life by Bruce Rowlands from Architexture Spatial Design Bruce’s expertise and innovative approach were instrumental in turning a challenging brief into a stunning reality His attention to detail and commitment to creating functional yet luxurious living spaces are evident throughout the development.
This Borrowdale Brook development is a testament to innovative architectural design and thoughtful planning. By addressing the challenges of space, privacy, and light, the architects have created a community that feels both expansive and intimate Each unit stands as a model of efficient design, luxurious living, and future adaptability
In essence, this project is a shining example of how careful design and planning can transform constraints into opportunities, resulting in homes that offer comfort, elegance, and a high quality of life for their residents It is developments like these that continue to elevate Borrowdale Brook as a prime investment destination, offering an unparalleled living experience in the heart of Zimbabwe.
PROJECT SUPPLIERS
Architects: Architecture Spatial Design
Design lead: Bruce Rowlands
Main contractor : Elevate Construction Plumbing : Zimsinga
Nestled in the heart of Harare, Grosvenor House stands as one of the city’s premier luxury boutique guesthouses, offering an idyllic and exclusive haven. As you step into this magnificent home away from home, the bustling hum of the city fades away, replaced by an atmosphere of quiet sophistication and unmatched hospitality. Here, a warm welcome awaits you, promising a perfect stay with personalized service, luxurious accommodations, and an array of exclusive facilities.
Upon arrival, guests are immediately enveloped in the serenity and elegance of Grosvenor House Thoughtfully and meticulously designed with luxury in mind, the guesthouse features eight individually appointed rooms, each tailored to provide maximum comfort Whether offering picturesque views over the meticulously manicured garden or a private courtyard, every room is a unique retreat designed to make you forget you are in Zimbabwe’s vibrant capital
Grosvenor House caters to both corporate guests and leisure travelers, making it an ideal choice for business travelers or those in transit.
Its prime location ensures convenience, with numerous restaurants and amenities within a 3km radius and business hubs such as Borrowdale and Harare CBD easily accessible by car
Inspired by the prestigious Grosvenor House in London, this Harare gem offers the perfect blend of privacy and intimate luxury Opened in March 2020, it boasts a 100% off-grid operation powered by solar energy and gas geysers, ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly stay The guesthouse's backbone is its exceptional staff, who are dedicated to providing unparalleled service to every guest.
The architectural brilliance of Bruce Rowlands brought this property back to life, adding an aesthetically pleasing and intentionally designed flow to the house The interior, crafted by renowned designer Michelle Davis, features bespoke and locally sourced furniture and decor pieces, enhancing the guesthouse's unique charm
Additionally, Grosvenor House offers a self-service honesty bar, laundry service, a conference room, airport transfers, secure parking, and dining options including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Grosvenor House is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience of luxury, tranquility, and exceptional service, making it a distinguished choice for discerning travelers in Harare
For a seamless blend of luxury, comfort, and exclusivity, Grosvenor House is the ultimate destination in Harare Whether you're a business traveler or seeking a serene getaway, this boutique
Nestled in the heart of Newlands, Harare, the newly completed 20 Victoria development stands as a beacon of modern urban living This innovative project, ideally located close to Harare CBD and shopping centers, was meticulously designed to offer a perfect blend of comfort, space, and cost-effectiveness within a limited footprint
The primary challenge was to create comfortable two-bedroom apartments that were both spacious and cost-effective. The solution was a set of double-storey row houses, featuring two ensuite bedrooms upstairs and a living space downstairs that opens onto a small private garden Each unit also includes two covered parking bays, ensuring convenience for the residents.
The design concept revolved around structural simplicity and efficiency of space Key to this approach was the use of the stairwell design to bring light from a skylight down through the void into the living space below This not only maximized natural light but also enhanced the sense of openness within each apartment.
Several major architectural considerations were crucial to achieving the final design objective:
1. Spatial Efficiency Ensuring each apartment felt spacious despite the limited footprint required meticulous planning and innovative use of space.
2 Structural Simplicity The design focused on maintaining structural simplicity, which helped in keeping the construction cost-effective while maximizing the functionality of the space.
TEXT STAFF WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHS H&S
3.Light and Ventilation Bringing natural light into the living spaces was essential. The stairwell, designed to channel light from a skylight, played a significant role in achieving this objective.
4. Facade Design The regular facade was layered with white slatted trellises, serving multiple purposes such as concealing service pipes, providing balustrading for balconies, and acting as burglar bars for windows This design not only added to the aesthetic appeal but also ensured functional benefits
One of the standout features of 20 Victoria is the individual identity given to each of the twenty apartments. Each unit was assigned a unique feature color, making it recognizably distinct. These vibrant colors dressed up the overall exterior, adding festive accents between the regular white fin walls, and contributing to the development's visual appeal.
The success of this project is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the team at Architexture Spatial Designs. Special acknowledgment goes to Thara Sweetman, the architectural assistant who led the design on this project. Thara’s vision and creativity were instrumental in transforming the client’s brief into a stunning reality.
20 Victoria is more than just a housing development; it’s a new standard for urban living in Harare. By addressing the challenges of space, light, and cost, the project offers a harmonious blend of practicality and aesthetics Each apartment not only meets the needs of its residents but also adds to the vibrant community spirit of Newlands This development is a shining example of how thoughtful design and meticulous planning can redefine urban living, making it both luxurious and accessible
In essence, 20 Victoria exemplifies the future of residential architecture in Harare, setting a high benchmark for quality, comfort, and individuality It’s developments like these that continue to enhance the appeal of Newlands as a prime residential area, offering an unparalleled living experience in the heart of Zimbabwe
Architects: Architecture Spatial Design
Design lead: Thara Sweetman
Main contractor: KW construction
Gas Solution: Gasman
Painting Interior & Exterior: BK Paints
Doors : Balzer Trading
PRISCILLA NYANDORO: CRAFTING COMFORT AND STYLE AT 20 VICTORIA
Priscilla Nyandoro is a retired hospitality professional whose career spanned from 1986 to 2023. Throughout her working life, she developed a deep passion for interior decoration. This passion eventually led her to embark on an Airbnb business from 2018 to 2023, during which she achieved the prestigious Superhost status for four consecutive years.
Priscilla and her husband own a unit at 20 Victoria, a newly completed development in the heart of Newlands, Harare They decided to rent it out as a fully furnished apartment, and Priscilla took on the responsibility of the interior decor Her previous experience in similar projects, such as the Mawuya and Sunungukai Airbnb listings, has shaped her signature style, which is a mixture of Minimalism and Scandinavian This style is characterized by its functionality and meaningful design, focusing on eliminating unnecessary items to create a serene and efficient living space
The design inspiration for 20 Victoria stems from Priscilla's extensive background in hospitality, her avid reading of interior design articles, and feedback from her Airbnb reviews. The property aims to be a modern rented apartment with a warm, homely feeling, targeting professional young couples or families. A key consideration in the design was whether Priscilla herself would be happy and comfortable living in the space day in and day out
One of the challenges Priscilla faced was working within the existing color scheme of the apartment To overcome this, she had some furniture items specifically made to achieve her desired outcome This adaptability and attention to detail have contributed to the unique and inviting atmosphere of the apartment
Priscilla offers valuable advice to homeowners looking to style their properties: there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach, but less is often more She believes that common mistakes include not taking the time to have a clear vision of the desired living space and crowding the area with dysfunctional and often expensive items By taking inspiration from a wealth of available resources and carefully selecting what works best, homeowners can create spaces that truly reflect their personal style and needs
In essence, Priscilla Nyandoro's work at 20 Victoria is a testament to her expertise and passion for interior design Her ability to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal has created a living space that not only meets the needs of its residents but also stands as a model of modern, minimalist living This project, like her previous endeavors, showcases her dedication to creating environments that are both beautiful and practical, ensuring that each space feels like a true home.
Priscilla Nyandoro - Designer
EMBRACING NATURE IN MODERN INTERIORS
In today's fast-paced world, many have drifted from their roots, yet there's a growing recognition of our interconnectedness with nature. This awareness is reshaping architecture and design, where sustainable practices and the inherent benefits of natural elements are gaining prominence.
Bringing Nature Indoors: The Importance in Interior Design
In contemporary design, integrating natural elements like water features, greenery, and abundant natural light, alongside materials such as wood and stone, is crucial. These elements not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also promote wellbeing. Benefits include reduced stress levels, improved cardiovascular health, and heightened overall comfort, underscoring the synergy between human habitats and the natural world
Achieving Green Interior Architecture: Ways to Incorporate Nature
Creating nature-inspired or biophilic designs involves strategic use of materials like solid wood, bamboo, and natural stone. Wallpapers adorned with botanical patterns, furniture with organic shapes, and designs that echo natural forms all foster a deeper connection to nature within living spaces.
Introducing Konak Walls and Stones: Elevating Green Interior Architecture
Konak Walls and Stones, based in Zimbabwe, epitomizes commitment to sustainability by harnessing a diverse range of natural stones from the region. Their offerings include intricately crafted stone features such as precast decorations, floor tiles, basins, plaster elements, ethanol lights, stone-clad walls, and gabions
TEXT STAFF WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHS H&S
These products not only enrich interiors with their natural beauty but also uphold environmental responsibility, catering to conscientious homeowners seeking to blend elegance with ecological mindfulness
Personalizing Spaces: Infusing Personality into Home Design
Beyond functionality, designing a home is about imbuing spaces with personal touches. It's about layering textures, incorporating unique artworks, and selecting furnishings that resonate on an emotional level. This approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also fosters a sense of belonging and serenity, reminding us of our journey through life
Winter Plant Care: Keeping Your Greenery Thriving in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s winter, which spans from May to August, is characterized by dry and cooler temperatures, with some regions experiencing mild frost. While the temperatures rarely drop below freezing, the dry air and significant temperature fluctuations between day and night can stress plants. Here are some essential tips to help your indoor and outdoor greenery remain healthy and vibrant during Zimbabwe's winter months.
AdjustWateringHabits
During Zimbabwe’s dry winter season, plants typically require less frequent watering due to reduced evaporation rates. However, it’s important not to let the soil dry out completely For indoor plants, allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. For outdoor plants, water them deeply but less frequently, ensuring that the soil remains moist and welldrained.
MaintainHumidityLevels
The dry winter air in Zimbabwe can cause indoor plants to lose moisture quickly. To combat this, consider using a humidifier in rooms with plants, or place a tray of water near your plants to increase humidity Grouping plants together can also create a microclimate with higher humidity.
3.ProvideAdequateLight
With shorter daylight hours during Zimbabwe’s winter, plants may struggle to get the light they need. Move indoor plants closer to windows that receive ample sunlight. If natural light is insufficient, especially on overcast days, consider using grow lights to supplement their needs. For outdoor plants, ensure they are positioned in areas that receive the most sunlight throughout theday
Protect from Cold Drafts
Indoor plants can be affected by cold drafts from windows and doors. Keep them away from drafty areas and consider using weather stripping to seal any gaps. For outdoor plants, mulch can provide insulation to the roots, and frost cloths can protect them from the occasional frost, particularly in the cooler highland areas.
Prune and Clean
Winter is an excellent time to prune dead or damaged leaves and stems from your plants. This helps prevent diseases and pests and allows the plant to focus its energy on new growth. Additionally, clean the leaves of your indoor plants to remove dust and improve photosynthesis, which can be reduced due to lower light levels
Reduce Fertilization
During winter, most plants enter a period of dormancy and their growth slows down Consequently, they require less fertilizer Over-fertilizing can harm your plants, so it’s best to reduce or even stop fertilizing them until spring, when growth resumes
Monitor for Pests
Pests can be more problematic in winter as indoor environments can favor their growth. Regularly check your plants for signs of pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. If you notice an infestation, treat it promptly with appropriate methods such as insecticidal soap or neem oil
Gradual Acclimatization
If you’re moving plants from indoors to outdoors or vice versa, do so gradually to avoid shocking them with sudden changes in temperature and light Acclimate them to their new environment over a week or two, moving them in and out for a few hours each day.
By following these winter care tips, you can keep your plants healthy and thriving despite the cooler and drier conditions of Zimbabwe’s winter Each plant species has unique needs, so it’s important to tailor your care routine accordingly. With a little extra effort and attention, your plants can continue to bring beauty and life to your home and garden all winter long
WINTER DELIGHTS by Chef Adnan
Hello everyone,.I trust I find you all in good health and spirits. We have gone through almost 3/4s of our winter season, it hasn’t been as we feared but all the same cold enough to keep some of us indoors. .In this issue I would like to focus on winter snacks you can make and fed your guests whilst catching up in front of the fire place and downing some wine or liquor of choice. They are super easy to make and with easy to find ingredients.
AUSSIE SAUSAGE ROLLS
Ingredients
1 finely chopped onion
2 tbs minced fresh or dry chives
· 1tbs fresh basil or dried basil
· 2 minced garlic cloves
1/2 tspn salt
1/4 tspn black pepper
· 1 tspn smoked paprika
· 1kg bulk pork sausage
1 pack thawed puff pastry
Directions
· 1 Lightly mix the first 6 ingredients plus 3/4 teaspoon paprika Then add sausage and mix lightly again
2 On a lightly floured surface, roll each pastry sheet into an 11x10-1/2-in. rectangle. Cut each lengthwise into 3 strips. Spread 1/2 cup sausage mixture lengthwise down the centre of each strip Fold sides over filling, pinching edges to seal then cut each log into 6 pieces [you may watch some videos on YouTube if you are not so sure about this part]
3 Place on a rack in a 15x10x1-in pan, seam side down Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 teaspoon paprika Bake until golden brown and sausage is no longer pink, 20-25 minutes
ROASTED PUMPKIN NACHOS
Ingredients
4 cups cubed fresh pumpkin or butternut squash
2 tbs oil
· 1/4 tspn salt
· 1/4 tspn pepper
1 pack tortilla chips
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
· 1 cup\jar salsa [readily available in food lovers or pick n pay shops]
· 1 Evenly coat your pumpkin or butternut with oil, salt n black pepper then transfer to an greased roasting pan Place the pan in a pre-heated oven (220 degrees) Roast until tender, 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
· 2Grease another baking pan and layer {half of each} chips, beans, pumpkin, salsa and cheese Repeat layers Bake until cheese is melted, 8-10 minutes And then serve immediately to really enjoy the melted cheese.
CORNED BEEF PIZZA SWIRLS
Ingredients
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
· 1 cup warm whole milk (110° to 115°)
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 teaspoons caraway seeds
· 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour\
· PIZZA SWIRLS:
350g thinly sliced corned beef
70g thinly sliced cheese
Directions
· 1 Stir sugar and yeast to warm milk and let stand for 15 minutes Whisk together yeast mixture, oil, salt and caraway seeds then mix in flour, 1/2 cup at a time, just until combined. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, it should take about 2 hours
2 Punch down dough To assemble pizza swirls, turn dough onto a well-floured surface; roll into a 15x10-in. rectangle. Arrange corned beef and cheese slices to within 3/4 in of edges Roll up jelly-roll style, starting with a long side; then pinch seam to seal and tuck ends under Cut crosswise into slices and place them on a lined baking sheet with their sides touching.
BACON CHEESE BURGER BALLS
Ingredients
4 cups mashed potatoes - chilled
6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
· 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
· 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsn minced chives
· 1/2 teaspoon salt
· 1/4 teaspoon pepper
1cup crushed crackers or crumbs
1/4 cup butter, melted
· 1 teaspoon paprika
Directions
1 In a large bowl, combine the first 8 ingredients
2. Scoop with an ice-cream spoon or a tablespoon and shape the mixture into balls Roll in cracker crumbs then place on lined baking sheets Cover and refrigerate for minimum 2 hours
3 Combine butter and paprika; drizzle over croquettes then bake at 220° until golden brown, 18-20 minutes. Serve with dipping sauce of your choice
· 3 Cover pizza swirls with greased foil; let stand 15 minutes Bake, covered in a pre-heated oven for 20 minutes then remove foil and bake again until golden brown, 15-20 minutes longer Serve warm with Thousand Island sauce ,ketchup or sweet chilli
