Blue Hills Equestrian Estate | December 2021

FEATUR ES 30

6 WAY S TO R EF R ES H Y OU R B AT HRO O M WIT H SU BWAY T I LE S

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G I NG E R HOU S E R EC IPE

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G E T F E S T I V E F OR CHRI S T M A S

EQUESTRIAN

living

IS SU E 6 | D E C E MB E R 2021

P u b l i sh e r K-S t udio (P t y ) Ltd o n beh alf of B lue H ill s Eq u est r i a n E sta te A d ve rti si n g S al es Tobia tobia@k-st udio . co . za sales2@ k-st udio . co . za C alv in sales3@ k-st udio . co . za Ed i to r Tobia von Zwietr i n g Copy w ri te r / p ro o f r eader C hantel Venter De si g n & La y o u t K-S t udio (P t y ) Ltd e tobia@ k-st udio . co . za t 082 962 82 5 5 f Kreat iefS t u d i o

Disclaimer: This e-Magazine is produced especially for residents/owners of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate to provide updates and useful information. It is produced

by K-Studio on behalf of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of content, Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA and/or the Publisher, cannot be held liable for any inaccurate information, and may not agree with all opinions expressed in this publication.

contents ISSUE 6 | DECEMBER 2021

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FROM THE ESTATE M ANAGER

10

IM PORTANT INFORM ATION & CONTACTS

12

ULTIM ATE SENSE OF SATISFACTION

18 20

LOCAL IS LEKKER

22 26

PACE + PURPOSE= PERSERVERANCE

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ROLLS- ROYCE ANNOUNCES BLACK BADGE GHOST

RECIPE OF THE M ONTH

GREEN UP YOUR SPACE

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

Find us at Unit 34/36, Northlands Deco’ Park Shop 39, Brooklyn Mall, Pretoria Cradlestone Mall Unit 13, Corner Section Street & Platinum Drive, Northgate Estate, Brooklyn

Shop online www.morellirugs.co.za

Contact us info@morellirugs.co.za 2021 • I SSUE 6 4

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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

‘The client’s brief and aspirations are the core of our design ideas. This, together with our design experience and input sets up a harmonious working relationship with the client throughout the design process.

This is all capped with the excitement one sees on the client’s face as their dream becomes a reality on the building site’ - Paul Sduduzo Mtwa

Architecture - HIGH-END LUXURY HOMES - PUBLIC BUILDINGS - THREE DIMENSIONAL MODELLING (EXPERIENCE THE BUILDING BEFORE GOING TO SITE) - COMPLIANCE WITH ALL STATUTORY BODIES - WE ARE CURRENTLY WORKING ON 6 PROPERTIES IN BLUE HILLS COUNTRY ESTATE. AS SHOWN

Construction Management - ASSIST THE CLIENT IN SELECTING A CAPABLE BUILDING CONTRACTOR - ENSURING THE IMPLEMANTATION OF THE DESIGN ON THE BUILDING SITE - LIASON WITH ALL CONSULTANTS INVOLVED - SYNCHRONIZATION OF ALL SUPPLIERS AND SUB-CONTRACTORS

Inquiries: design@mtwa.co.za www.mtwa.co.za +27 72 252 6369 18 Riverbend lane Beverly ext 64 Johannesburg

2021 • I SSUE 6 6

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

From The

Estate Manager

Greetings Homeowners!

W

e’ve made it to the end of 2021 and it certainly has been quite a year. I do hope that we can take the positives from 2021 into the new year, grow from strength to strength and look forward to a new year with positivity and hope.

As construction actively continues around the Estate, a number of construction stands have reached the final stages of their build. We look forward to welcoming our new residents to the Estate and wish them many happy memories at the Estate.

Our landscaping company has been trying their best to improve and revamp the landscaping around the Estate. A landscaping sub-committee has been established and we are working on plan to address the concerns raised by homeowners at the AGM. The much-awaited rains have arrived, and our gardens are loving it! We request for stands to clean the roads in front of their stands regularly as there is lots of debris visible on the roads. Homeowners are reminded that you are responsible for the verges around your property.

As construction continues in the Estate, homeowners are requested to ensure that your contractors are aware of the rules of the Estate and that they comply with them. There are numerous contractors who are speeding within the Estate, who have caused damage to Estate property and who have a total discard for the Estate’s guidelines.

This is not acceptable.

Homeowners are kindly advised that the use of drones around the Estate is strictly prohibited.

Should you wish to fly your drone, you may do so only within the parameters of your ERF or stand. Flying drones or the like in any other area around the Estate, especially over other stands parameters without their consent is considered an invasion of a person’s privacy.

As you prepare for the holiday season, you are encouraged to be vigilant and take the necessary precautionary measures for your home, wellbeing and your possessions. Should you wish to entrust your home in the care of a third party during the holiday period, we encourage you to vet the person(s) worthiness with great care.

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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

The Estate is offering a “follow me home service” from 15 December 2021. Homeowners may call the security control room on 010 109 0935 or 076 904 5511 to arrange with a security reaction officer to follow them to the Estate entrance from an agreed location. Homeowners however will need to call at least 15mins in advance to arrange for the service unless in the case of emergency. Terms and conditions apply.

General consideration by all residents for each other will greatly assist in achieving a happy community and a pleasant environment. Harmonious community living is only achieved when residents can use and enjoy their private property as well as the public areas of the Estate while not negatively impacting fellow residents.

Please be vigilant at all times and report any suspicions to the office or to security.

The Board and I would like to wish all our homeowners and their loved ones an incredibly happy and safe festive season and all the best for the new year.

Warm regards

Rashni Andhee-Shah Estate Manager

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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

IMPORTANT INFORMATION & CONTACTS BLUE HILLS EQUESTRIAN ESTATE MANAGEMENT BODY The Blue Hills Equestrian Estate management body has been developed to ensure that should you have a query or wish to address anything on the Estate, we have a team of individuals you can refer your concerns to. This Committee goes beyond our monthly Directors’ Meetings, and is instead aimed at ensuring that the running of this Estate is handled with all due care.

ESTATE MANAGER Rashni Andhee-Shah 083 703 9436 rashnia@trafalgar.co.za SALES MANAGER Musi Motsuenyane 082 806 1735 / musi@century.co.za SECURITY SITE MANAGER 076 771 9082/ 061 704 0111 Bluehills@thompsec.co.za CONTROL ROOM Primary contact for Security 010 109 0935 079 539 4499 EMERGENCY Eskom 086 0037 566 JHB Water 0860 562 874 Police 10111 Ambulance 10177 SPCA 011 265 9935 SNAKE CATCHER Mike 083 448 8854 2021 • I SSUE 6 1 0

THE BOARD IS MADE UP OF: • Andile Mtetwa • Jessica Hofmeyr • Joe Mahlangu • Nick Crow • Obakeng Mathibe • Ugesparan Govender • Tracy Fry THE COMMITTEE IS SUPPORTED BY TRAFALGAR WHO ARE REPRESENTED BY: • Michael Schaefer / Director of Trafalgar • Shahiem Carr / Director of Trafalgar • Carlos Pinto / Estate Portfolio Manager • Rashni Andhee-Shah / Estate Manager • Head office support Birdhaven

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

A COMMUNITY OF SCHOOLS OFFERING: CHOICE - 5 World Class Campuses

INDEPENDENCE - Managed As A Non Profit Company Kyalami Schools (NPC)

EXPERIENCE - 20 Plus Years

VISIT US ONLINE OR BOOK A CAMPUS TOUR

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Beaulieu Nursery School

www.beaulieuprep.org ADMISSIONS OPEN FOR 2021 | 2022 | 2023 admissions@kyalamischools.org | 010 591 11 ISSU E5004 6 • 2021

GARDENING GARDENING | THE BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

ultimate sense of satisfaction

T

he Summer is here, everyone is getting ready for silly season, a lot of people are getting ready to go to the coast, to the bush or some exotic location whilst others are getting ready to relax at home, If you are going to be at home why not start a vegetable garden, your health will thank you, but if you are going to the coast and you plan on starting a vegetable patch or you already have one, make sure that you have someone that can attend to your garden when you are away for the summer holidays.

As we all know the days can get very hot during summer in South-Africa, and a lot of vegetables and plants do not handle the heat that well, you might be wondering what vegetables to grow and what you can do to ensure they grow healthy and strong and produce as much as possible, get your green fingers ready because there are ways to beat the odds; 2021 • I SSUE 6 1 2

GARDENING

Summer vegetables are often planted in late spring when the soil temperatures are still a bit colder to ensure the plants are strong enough to bear the heat in South-Africa, But if you have not planted your veggies yet have no fear, there’s other ways to ensure a healthy crop in summer, You can buy seedlings from your local nursery that way you get stronger plants compared to when growing from seed.

GARDENING THE | GARDENING

BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

* Note You can also do a second planting of some crops during late summer when it starts becoming a bit cooler, vegetables such as lettuces, spring onions and radishes perform very well during these months, it’s all about working with nature and not against it.

So now that you know which plants you can grow here are some things you can do to ensure you get the most out of your vegetable garden:

• Use compost to enrich soil.

• Remove weeds.

• Check for pests and treat them as soon as possible.

• Prune plants when needed.

Artichokes, Bush Beans, Celery, • Use stakes to support plants such as tomatoes. fertilisers to ensure plants have all the Cabbage, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Leeks, • Add nutrients needed.

Lettuce, Melons, Onions, Potatoes, • Plant leafy greens in areas with shade.

Spring onion, Squash, Butternut, Sweet • Ensure plants get sufficient sunlight.

• Add mulch to soil around your vegetables to help corn, Sweet Potatoes and Tomatoes. with water retention.

These plants will grow well in the summer heat • Ensure the soil has proper drainage or absorbs water properly. and can be harvested throughout summer; however, some vegetables can only be harvested in Autumn such as Pumpkins, Eggplants and While the temperature may be warmer, you don’t other vegetables that take long to develop, don’t have to spend every moment of your free time worry! It will be well worth the wait; few things are watering your vegetables. it’s all about being smarter as rewarding as having a plate full of food grown about watering. If it rains enough, you don’t even have to water your garden, but when you are not in your own garden.

There are a lots of options when it comes to what vegetables you can grow in our blazing hot South-African summer, Your best options to start with is:

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GARDENING BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

sure; the typical rule of thumb is to water vegetable patch twice a week with plenty of water this will be more effective than watering them more frequently, with less water.

Keep an eye on your garden and remove any diseased, damaged, or dead debris as they block airflow and growth. Light pruning all year encourages steady growth and builds healthy plants.

Now that you have the basics, you should be able to grow some vegetables during the South-African summer, however reading one article about growing vegetables will not teach you all the tricks, Thus it is very important to educate yourself continuously, there are various websites and online forums where people from all over the year give guidance and advice on how to grow your vegetables, how to treat pests and how to create more favourable environments for different vegetables.

Best of luck with your vegetable patch and may you have a Festive Season.

Rudolph Maree

2021 • I SSUE 6 1 4

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

Landscape | Design | Installation | Maintenance

Our Main Expertise: Golf, Wildlife and Residential Estates Academic Institutions and Recreational Facilities Commercial and Industrial Facilities Office Parks and Security Complexes Lodges, Hotels and Resorts Retail Centres and Shopping Malls

Contact us: 012 804 1807 Website: www.gardengroup.co.za Find us on:

Proud Member of

15 ISSU E 6 • 2021

WELLNESS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

Blood Collection Costs

Thandeka Monageng’s Story Every time blood is donated it is tested and separated into its components, red blood cells, plasma and platelets.

Each of these components is potentially given to patients with different conditions. A lot of the blood goes to hospitals to treat gynaecological conditions.

Donor Services

33%

Processing, testing and laboratory services

One such patient, who received the blood, is Thandeka Monageng.

Distribution (supply chain logistics)

She received two units of blood which saved her life after she experienced complications during childbirth. Today, she is alive and well and enjoying spending time with her new baby boy Oresirelletse. Because of what we do, she can watch him learn to crawl, walk, be a great little brother to 2 year old Atlotlwe. What’s more, little Ore also shares his very special birthday (7 May) with his dad and Thandeka’s husband Keabetsoe.

35%

7%

Medical services

4%

Thandeka expressed her gratitude to blood donors by and said: “The thought of my child growing up without a mother made me realise how grateful I am to have another chance at life. Blood donations also gave my husband a chance to have a wife and gave my sons a chance to enjoy their lives with their mum.

So I’ll actually go all-out to encourage people to donate blood because of the positive impact they can make to our nation.”

Overhead expenses

21%

A unit of blood is drawn from a volunteer donor.

Blood is collected into a sterile bag and labelled.

Journey of blood

Local hospitals place orders with SANBS for blood products based on their needs.

Units are transported to the nearest SANBS testing and processing lab.

In the processing laboratory, blood is spun down in a centrifuge and then separated into it’s different components.

Plasma Contains proteins and clotting factors used to treat patients with massive bleeding or clotting factor deficiencies.

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Blood is transfused to patients in need. Just one blood donation has the potential to save three lives!

Your blood saves lives.

Blood products are stored prior to transfusion. The shelf life of blood is limited.

Platelets expire in 5 days.

Red blood cells expire in 42 days. Plasma has a 1 year shelf life from the day of collection.

Red Blood Cells Contain haemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen throughout the body. Used to treat patients with anaemia or blood loss due to trauma or surgery

Platelets Crucial in helping blood to clot. Patients with low platelet levels often suffer from bruising and bleeding.

Blood is tested to ensure that it is safe for transfusion.

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

p i l OuK Game Lodge

OuKlip Game Lodge consists of fourteen luxury self-catering tent houses each able to accommodate 2-4 guests. OuKlip Game Lodge is unique in the sense that it is possible to

spot the Big 5 from your own tent and boma.

Map 2,8km

3,9km

OuKlip

Game Lodge was named after popular rock formations in the area. It is situated in the malaria free Dinokeng Big 5 Game Reserve which covers an area of more than 20000ha in total. The reserve is approximately 50km north of Pretoria next to the N1 near Hammanskraal.

This privately owned eco-lodge will provide a memorable stay for tourists and families.

Discover comfort, personal attention and excellent value for money. It is perfect for getaways from the rush of city life. Enjoy an outdoor experience in beautiful indigenous bushveld that will help you relax and spend quality time with friends and family around a campfire under the cosmos of stars.

RUST DE WINTER RD HAMMANSKRAAL OFF RAMP EXIT 183

FISANT AVE

DE WAGENSDRIFT GRAVEL RD

lip OuK Game Lodge

GRA VEL

25km

PUMULANI TOLLGATE

N1 NORTH OF PRETORIA

GPS: 25°23'27.9"S 28°23'44.7"E

Telephone: 071 313 5380 / 082 476 6214 Email: info@ouklip.co.za Website: www.ouklip.co.za 17 ISSU E 6 • 2021

ESTATE TR AVEL NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

Local is

Lekker Yes, its holiday time, but due to the travel restrictions imposed by several countries, you may find yourself stuck at home. Why not explore our locall destianations like Dinokeng Game Reserve situated just outside Pretoria, You can still enjoy a fun-filled adventure with your family and create memories to last forever.

T

Situated within the boundaries of a large metropolis heir Story centers around conservation, as the Dinokeng Game Reserve has the potential to a project started through strategic initiatives become a model for future conservation where of Gauteng Provincial Government and the people and wild animals live in harmony. And efforts of enthusiastic more than 170 landowners. it is on the way to prove itself as an example for Together they developed the concept that eco- successful transformation with so far more than tourism could become the source for upliftment of 800 permanent jobs created for people living in the rural communities through sustainable employment. adjoining communities.

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TRAVEL BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

What to do at Dinokeng Game Reserve?

In addition to guided game drives, the reserve also has a self-drive route. Other activities include horse riding, hiking, quad biking, hot-air balloon rides, sunset boat cruises, guided bush walks, bush lunch picnics, bass fishing and luxurious spa treatments.

Where to stay?

The diversity of Dinokeng Game Reserve accommodation options means that there is an offering to suit every taste. Whether you want to pitch your own tent or come with your caravan, whether you want the camp atmosphere without the hassle to bring your own equipment, whether you want to feel home from home in a self catering chalet or want to be fully pampered in a luxury lodge, Dinokeng Game Reserve has something just for you.

Click here to find a directory of all accommodation in the malaria-free Dinokeng Game Reserve north of Pretoria, just a bit more than a one hour drive from OR Tambo International.

Entrance Fees 2021 A once off vehicle entrance fee of R50 is payable for day visitors. Self-drive guests need to purchase a permit upon entry, which includes the R50 entrance fee.

Permits are per vehicle • 1-day Permit: R250 • 2-day Permit: R380 • 7-day Permit: R450 Pensioners Permits: • 1-day Permit: R125 • 2-day Permit: R190 • 7-day Permit: R225 Conservation Fees applicable R80 per adult R50 per child (2-12 years).

Please note all gate entrances are cashless.

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PEACH & PINEAPPLE Froyo Squares

Makes approximately 6 - 8 squares INGREDIENTS - 1 cup coconut flakes - 2 ripe peaches (1 sliced and 1 diced) - 1 cup finely diced pineapple - � cup goji berries - 2 cups raw yoghurt or coconut yoghurt - 4 TBSP honey/maple syrup/agave (or more to taste) - 1 tsp cinnamon METHOD 1. Toast the coconut flakes in a dry pan, and allow to cool.

2. Add all the ingredients to a mixing bowl, and combine well.

3. Taste for sweetness, and adjust accordingly.

4. Pour into a lined square tin.

5. Place in the freezer until frozen (about 4 - 5 hours).

6. Cut into squares and store in an airtight container in the freezer.

SHOP THE INGREDIENTS IN STORE, OR SCAN THE QR CODE TO BUY THEM ONLINE

Excerpted from The Nutrilicious Kitchen, published by Nutrilicious Kitchen and available at www nutriliciouskitchen.co.za.

SA’s leading health retailer, Wellness Warehouse offers everything you need to live life well under one roof. Visit one of their 40 stores (and growing) nationwide or shop online to stock up on quality health supplements, organic and natural beauty products, real foods, eco home products and natural baby care, all offered with personal service and a 360° approach to health.

www.wellnesswarehouse.com 2021 • I SSUE 6 2 0

LIFESTYLE BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

BE REWARDED FOR LIVING LIFE WELL!

R E WA R D S M E M B E R S G E T

UP TO 3%

CASHBACK* TO REDEEM

in store and online

Join our new tiered Live Life Well Rewards community to enjoy...

• Up to 3 % in points to redeem in store and online • Triple rewards points for pensioners on Wednesdays • Our popular Wellness Magazine at half price • Exclusive partner offers • Automatic entry into our monthly lucky draw SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE & SIGN UP NOW If you already have a rewards card, you’ll be automatically upgraded to the new programme.

If you’re ready to join the family, simply sign up in store or online at www.wellnesswarehouse.com!

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ESTATE NEWS WELLNESS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

PACE + PURPOSE = PERSEVERANCE

By Nkulu Madonko

“Grit is passion and perseverance for very longterm goals. Grit is having stamina. Grit is sticking with your future, day in and day out, not just for the week, not just for the month, but for years, and working really hard to make that future a reality. Grit is living life like it’s a marathon, not a sprint,” says author and psychologist Angela Lee Duckworth, who has carried out extensive research on the subject.

In a sprint, the goal is always in sight. In a marathon, the runner has to trust what they cannot yet see. That is why so many marathoners call it quits around the 34-kilometre mark. They hit the proverbial wall, and the finish line is nowhere in sight.

What do you do when everything inside of you wants to give up? What do you do if you want to cross the finish line – whether it be in a

2021 • I SSUE 6 2 2

marathon, business, or some other area of life?

Perseverance requires two essential elements: pace and purpose.

Pace involves what you do before you hit the wall.

You have to focus on your ‘should’ pace, rather than your ‘could’ pace. Your ‘could’ pace is how fast you can run, but just because you can does not mean you should. In the early part of the race, you have to pace yourself, protecting your reserves for later. Your ‘should’ pace is slightly slower in the first 10 kilometres to ensure that you have appropriate reserves in the last 10 kilometres.

Purpose is the second element to remember when you hit the wall. Purpose is the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’. It is the reason you signed up for the marathon in the first place. Focusing on your purpose ignites your intrinsic motivation, and gives you the extra push you need to keep putting the

LIFESTYLE BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

proverbial foot in front of the other. When you feel completely depleted, purpose is often all you have left to get you across the finish line.

How is my current pace draining and depleting me? What shifts in my pace would make the greatest sustainable impact?

Naturally, pace and purpose also work together in other areas of life where you need to persevere. This may include your spiritual journey, your relationships with others, your finances, your health and your career, to name just a few. By practising pace and purpose, you will be prepared for when you hit the unanticipated ‘34-kilometre mark’, which will inevitably show up whenever you are doing anything worthwhile. It is important to develop a perseverance perspective before we are able to see the fruits of our labour. Again, this happens by identifying a clear purpose, and then initiating a sustainable pace. It’s simple, really - and a skill that you can apply throughout your life.

Your answers to these questions will help you pinpoint the adjustments you need to make to help keep purpose and pace in focus.

When we are young, we feel an endless supply of energy to do what we need to. As we get on in years, our pace naturally changes. There are obviously things we can do to take care of ourselves – but the longer we live, the more we will have to lean on purpose to keep us going.

A clear, inspired purpose is the ultimate fuel for long-term perseverance.

To leverage purpose and pace so you can finish the marathon in the most important areas of your life, consider these questions: Why did I begin this race in the first place?

What larger purpose is at stake if I quit now?

What are the benefits of completing this race?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Nkulu Madonko is the CEO for the Common Good Foundation, as well as a life, executive and team coach.

He is passionate about partnering with individuals who hold a deep desire for richer and more fulfilling lives, and who would like to know how to best move towards their goals. He is a qualified advanced practitioner coach with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and Coaches and Mentors of South Africa (COMENSA).

He also holds a Master of Business Administration in Executive Management through the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business, and draws on his 25 years of corporate human resources experience in his work as a coach.

When you hit the 34-kilometre mark, you will most likely be reminded of every reason you should quit.

You may long to return to an easier time, when you enjoyed comfort and convenience. But applying purpose and pace will keep you from looking back.

Pace will give you the energy to keep going, and purpose will give you the reason to keep going.

With these front of mind, you will be equipped to persevere up the steep hills that life will inevitably bring into your path.

SA’s leading health retailer, Wellness Warehouse offers everything you need to live life well under one roof. Visit one of their 48 stores (and growing) nationwide or shop online to stock up on quality health supplements, organic and natural beauty products, real foods, eco home products and natural baby care, all offered with personal service and a 360° approach to health.

www.wellnesswarehouse.com 23 ISSU E 6 • 2021

2021 • I SSUE 6 2 4

MTWA Concepts has been designing and involved in the construction of upmarket residences in and around Johannesburg’s upmarket estates.

These include Blue Hills Equestrian Estate, Waterfall Country Estate, Serengeti Golf Estate amongst others.

We have also been involved in corporate and industrial projects around the country some of which are ongoing.

Our aim is to create designs that are not obstructive to their setting but blend into it. Creating buildings that are self sustainable and can respond to the enviromental and energy challenges that face our country and globe at large.

This, together with pleasing aesthetics creates the complete concept of sustainable architecture.

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INTERIOR BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

Green up yourSpace Written by the gardener

2021 • I SSUE 6 2 6

ESTATE INTERIOR NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

A

s you may have noticed when strolling through interior shops lately, nature is a huge design trend. Increased interest in biophilia – the tendency of humans to seek connections with nature – has resulted in a wave of organic design elements appearing in shops across the country. A vital part of this trend is indoor plants, and for good reason. The science behind indoor plants shows how living decor can greatly benefit your mental health and wellbeing.

Thebenefits Air quality

In an industrialised world, completely clean air is becoming a luxury. Indoor plants assist in removing from the air toxins related to air pollution, paints or cleaning products. Volatile organic compounds (or VOC’s) can reach a concentration up to 10 times higher indoors than outdoors because of the harsh chemicals we use. These can have a negative effect on health, but just one indoor plant can help by improving your air quality.

• One indoor plant can improve air quality by 25%.

• Five indoor plants can improve air quality by 75%.

• 10 indoor plants provide the maximum benefits in an average sized room (4m x 5m).

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Wellbeing The impact of plants on overall wellbeing is well documented. Indoor plants can create a positive and relaxed space, improving mood, concentration and productivity. The saying ‘less is more’ definitely does not apply to the benefits of plants indoors, though. One indoor plant has a minor impact on wellbeing, with the benefits increasing exponentially with the number of plants. Five plants can improve wellbeing by up to 60%, but ten plants can help you reap the maximum health benefits. More complexity in size and species also leads to more wellbeing benefits (and design benefits too).

How many plants do you need?

Different rooms have different requirements. By spreading your indoor plants throughout your home you can achieve clean air and positive benefits in all rooms rather than concentrating them in one. These amounts are based on medium sized plants of about 30cm in height. The general rule of thumb is the bigger the leaves and roots, the greater the benefits.

What to choose While all indoor plants provide benefits, some are more adept at removing toxins than others.

There is a plant to match every indoor space and indoor gardener.

• Spathiphyllum (peace lily): This plant was declared the best living air filter in the world by the NASA Clean Air study! The shiny leaves and stark white flowers pair well with modern interiors. Keep the soil moist and place in low light – great for bathrooms or bedrooms.

• Chrysalidocarpus lutescens (bamboo palm): Bamboo palms are an indoor plant staple and immediately catch your eye, especially tall specimens. Bright rooms are best to bring 2021 • I SSUE 6 2 8

out the vibrant green colour, and the soil needs to be moderately dry before watering.

• Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’ (variegated snake plant): Nicknamed ‘mother-in-law’s tongue’ for its pointed leaves, Sansevieria trifasciata can provide a structural contrast to the softer indoor plants. An added bonus is that it requires very little water and medium sunlight.

• Peperomia ‘Zorro’: This compact houseplant has a deep red colour on the underside of the leaves and tall flower spikes for something a little different. They need medium amounts of sunlight and are also quite easy to care for, as long as they are not overwatered.

• Kalanchoe blossfeldiana ‘Calandiva’: For those who like a bit of colour, the multitude of calandiva flowers can quickly brighten a room or even be used as a quirky accent colour.

Like other succulents, this plant needs a lot of sunlight so only choose a spot with direct sunlight or very bright indirect sunlight.

• Ficus lyrata (fiddle leaf fig): The giant glossy leaves of this tree can really bring the outdoors in as they grow super tall.

They need bright, indirect sunlight for good height and perky leaves.

To avoid rot don’t overwater or let the tree sit in water.

• Bromeliad species: In tropical South African climates, bromeliads provide exotic textures and colours in your indoor space. These bright plants are good for humid climates and have a wide range of light tolerances depending on the variety.

Although they may only last a couple of years indoors, they will produce offsets you can use to start new plants.

ESTATE INTERIOR NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

• P h i l o d e n d r o n s c a n d e n s (sweetheart creeper): The sweetheart creeper is a h o u s e p l a n t favourite, especially in a hanging basket, as it is easy to care for and grows quickly. It can be kept bushy and full or left to grow long single stems that look wonderful above the kitchen or tumbling down a shelf.

buy plants

https://www.facebook.com/organicmattersa Sources: RMIT University, University of Melbourne, plantlifebalance.com.au

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ESTATE NEWS DECOR BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

6 WAYS TO REFRESH YOUR BATHROOM WITH SUBWAY TILES Originally published by Visi

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DECOR BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

With the ‘personalisation of space’ being a leading interior trend for 2021, Decobella‘s extensive range of Subway tiles will help you turn your bathroom into a creative space.

The appeal and versatility of the humble Subway tile is endless – from clever layouts to simple grouting tricks – their sleek silhouette matches just about every aesthetic. Here, six exciting ways to use the style in your bathroom (or kitchen) design.

Mix ‘n Match Don’t be afraid to combine styles – a mix of Subway tiles and finishes can bring interest to an otherwise neutral space. These Manacor Metro tiles in Grey set against the white tiled floor create the perfect contrast.

Set It Against Wood Want to give your bathroom a ‘country’ feel? Warm touches like wood set against Subway tiles will give the room rustic appeal.

Try A Different Finish There’s more so Subway tiles than a glossy, smooth finish. If you want to infuse a dose of character into a bathroom renovation opt for a tile with a hint of texture like the Riviera Metro in Wheat.

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Create Your Own Pattern Arrangements and finishes are an ideal way to add character to a space (or even a kitchen backsplash)

Create a focal Point Highlight your bathroom with a feature wall. These Manacor Metro tiles in Glacier make a bold statement without overpowering the space.

Decobella’s Catalogue With yearly tiling trends switching between hexagons, subway and speciality tiles; patterned tiles are here to stay. Visit Decobella’s website to download their latest catalogue.

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Tel: 021 205 6250 info@decobella.co.za www.decobella.co.za

MOTORING BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

GHOST BOLDER IN BL ACK A powerful force emerging from the shadows.

Discover Black Badge Ghost.

Call Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Johannesburg on 011-301-7000 .

JOHANNESBURG [DEALER LOCATION] Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost: WLTP combined: CO 2 emissions: 359 g/km; Fuel consumption: 15.8 mpg / 17.9 l/100km.

The values of fuel consumptions, CO 2 emissions and energy consumptions shown are based on the new WLTP test-cycle and determined a ccording to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable at the time of type approval. The figures shown consider optional equipment and the differen t size of wheels and tyres available on the selected model.

Changes of the configuration can lead to changes of the values.

For vehicle related taxes or other duties based (at least inter alia) on CO 2 emissions the CO 2 values may differ to the values stated here. They do not relate to any one particular vehicle, nor are they part of any offer made, rather they are solely for the purpose of comparing different kinds of vehicle.

Further information about the official fuel consumption and the specific CO 2 emissions of new passenger cars can be taken out of the “Guide to Fuel Consumption, CO 2 Emissions and Electricity Consumption of New Passenger Cars”, which is available at all selling points and at https://www.gov.uk/co2-and-vehicle-tax-tools/ in the United Kingdom, https://www.dat.de/co2/ in Germany and or your local go vernment authority. © Copyright Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited 2021 . The Rolls-Royce name and logo are registered trademarks.

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ROLLS-ROYCE ANNOUNCES BLACK BADGE GHOST THE PUREST BLACK BADGE YET

Black Badge, the highly successful alter ego of Rolls-Royce, now represents more than 27% of commissions worldwide and is codified by the mathematical symbol that represents a potential infinity, which is found within the motor car’s interior. This graphic, also known as the Lemniscate, was applied to Sir Malcolm Campbell’s record-breaking Rolls-Royce-powered Blue Bird K3 hydroplane and the marque’s designers nominated this hallmark for Black Badge motor cars to reflect their own unrelenting pursuit of power.

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MOTORING BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

Rolls-Royce debuted Black Badge with Wraith and Ghost in 2016, followed by Dawn in 2017 then Cullinan in 2019. Today, a new, Post Opulent expression of Black Badge joins the family. The purest and most technologically advanced Black Badge motor car yet, Black Badge Ghost.

THE DARK SIDE OF POST OPULENCE

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onceived in response to a group of clients who requested a RollsRoyce that was agile, discreet, highly connected and free of any superfluous design, the new Ghost is not just the most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce yet, but also the most aesthetically pure. In the twelve months since this motor car has been available, it has become one of the fastest-selling products in the marque’s history, representing more than 3,500 commissions worldwide.

This motor car also started a new design conversation in its relentless pursuit of minimalism and purity. Named ‘Post Opulence’

by Rolls-Royce designers, this aesthetic movement is characterised by reduction and substance. In service to this, exceptional materials are selected and celebrated while overt design is limited, intelligent and unobtrusive.

However, within this group of clients – who celebrate minimalism and material substance – a rebellious subset sought to create a disruptive expression of Ghost by permanently cloaking it in a shade so pure that its very classification as a colour remains a subject of debate: black.

Black Badge Ghost reflects these clients’ desires. It is the dark side of Post Opulence: minimalism in extremis.

EXTERIOR Clients are free to select any of the marque’s 44,000 ‘ready-to-wear’ colours or create their own entirely unique Bespoke hue. However, the overwhelming majority of women and men who requested this darker expression of Ghost have selected the signature Black. To create what is the motor car industry’s darkest black, 45kg of paint is atomised and applied to an electrostatically charged body in white before being oven dried.

The motor car then receives two layers of clear coat before being hand-polished by a team of four craftsman to produce the marque’s signature highgloss piano finish.

At between three and five hours in duration, this operation is entirely unknown in mass production, creating an intensity simply unattainable elsewhere in the automotive industry. It is this depth of darkness that serves as the perfect canvas for clients to add a high-contrast, handpainted Coachline, which has done much to create the Black Badge ‘black and neon’ aesthetic that has come to characterise this vivid family of RollsRoyce motor cars.

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To match this dramatic coachwork, the marque’s Bespoke Collective of designers, engineers and craftspeople collaborated to create an entirely customisable process that allows Rolls-Royce hallmarks such as the high-polished Spirit of Ecstasy and Pantheon Grille to be subverted.

Instead of simply painting these components, a specific chrome electrolyte is introduced to the traditional chrome plating process that is co-deposited on the stainless-steel substrate, darkening the finish. Its final thickness is just one micrometre – around one hundredth of the width of a human hair. Each of these components is precision-polished by hand to achieve a mirror-black chrome finish before it is fitted to the motor car.

The exterior treatment resolves with a Bespoke 21-inch composite wheelset. Designed in the Black Badge house style and reserved for Black Badge Ghost, the barrel of each wheel is made up of 22 layers of carbon fibre laid on three axes, then folded back on themselves at the outer edges of the rim, forming a total of 44 layers of carbon fibre for greater strength. A 3D-forged aluminium hub is bonded to the rim using aerospace-grade titanium fasteners and finished with the marque’s hallmark Floating Hubcap, ensuring the Double R monogram remains upright at all times.

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MOTORING BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

INTERIOR Advanced luxury materials have been meticulously created and crafted for a unique ambience in the interior suite. While recalling the dramatic mechanical intent of Black Badge Ghost, the materials are true to Ghost’s Post Opulent design philosophy – one defined by authenticity and material substance rather than overt statement. In this spirit, a complex but subtle weave that incorporates a deep diamond pattern rendered in carbon and metallic fibres has been created by the marque’s craftspeople.

Multiple wood layers are pressed onto the interior component substrates, using black Bolivar veneer for the uppermost base layer.

This forms a dark foundation for the Technical Fibre layers that follow. Leaves woven from resin-coated carbon and contrasting metalcoated thread laid in a diamond pattern are applied by hand to the components in perfect alignment, creating a three-dimensional effect.

To secure this extraordinary veneer, each component is cured for one hour under pressure at 100°C. This is then sand-blasted to create a keyed surface for six layers of lacquer, which is hand-sanded and polished before being incorporated into the motor car.

been applied to dramatic effect in the Black Badge Ghost timepiece design: only the tips of the hands and the twelve, three, six and nine o’clock markers are picked out, in a subdued chrome finish, creating a remarkably minimal clock. Additional timepieces are available within Black Badge Ghost to suit the client’s aesthetic preference.

The timepiece is flanked by a world-first Bespoke innovation that debuted with Ghost: the Illuminated Fascia, which displays an ethereal glowing Lemniscate, surrounded by more than 850 stars. Located on the passenger side of the dashboard, the constellation and motif are completely invisible when the interior lights are not in operation. As in Ghost, the Lemniscate motif is illuminated via 152 LEDs mounted above and beneath the fascia, each meticulously colour-matched to the cabin’s clock and instrument dial lighting. To ensure the Lemniscate is lit evenly, a 2mm-thick light guide is used, featuring more than 90,000 laser-etched dots across the surface. This not only disperses the light evenly but creates a twinkling effect as the eye moves across the fascia, echoing the subtle sparkle of the Shooting Star Starlight Headliner.

If specified in the client’s commission, the Technical Fibre ‘Waterfall’ section of the individual rear seats receives the Black Badge family motif: the mathematical symbol that represents potential infinity known as a Lemniscate. Rendered in aerospace-grade aluminium on the lid of Black Badge Ghost’s Champagne cooler, it is applied between the third and fourth layer of a total of six layers of subtly tinted lacquer, creating the illusion that the symbol is floating above the Technical Fibre veneer.

Aesthetes from the marque’s design team elected to further enhance the noir ambience of Black Badge Ghost by subduing the brightwork.

Air vent surrounds on the dashboard and in the rear cabin are darkened using physical vapour deposition, one of the few methods of colouring metal that ensures parts will not discolour or tarnish over time or through repeated use. The Post Opulent principles of simplicity have also 37 ISSU E 6 • 2021

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MOTORING FESTIVE BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

GINGERBREAD HOUSE TIME: 2 hours | MAKES: 15 – 20 houses

There’s something about Christmastime that brings out the kid in me. One of my favourite activities was building a gingerbread house with my mother on Christmas Eve (and trying not to eat it until the next morning), and I always found it so sad that our little tradition stopped when I got older.

Well, that was without a doubt the inspiration behind these cute little gingerbread houses — for children of all ages — but their size makes them just perfect for a nice hot drink laced with a little something special.

These gingerbread houses are so adorable & easy to make! They’re fun to give as a gift or for the family to enjoy over the holiday season.

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FESTIVE BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

Ingredients for the gingerbread houses 125 g (135 ml) butter 125 ml golden syrup 1 egg, beaten 375 g (670 ml) Snowflake Cake Flour 15 ml ground ginger 5 ml bicarbonate of soda 2 ml salt 200 g (250 ml) sugar 40 ml milk Ingredients for the royal icing 1 egg white ± 500 g icing sugar

Method for the gingerbread houses

the fridge. Roll the dough (in batches) between two sheets of baking paper – the bottom piece Heat the oven to 190 °C. Melt the butter in a of baking paper must fit on your baking tray. saucepan and add the golden syrup. Mix well Roll into an extremely thin layer of dough (about and let this mixture cool. Add the egg and mix. 1 mm). Place the bottom piece with the dough Sieve the flour, ginger, bicarbonate of soda on a baking tray. Use the cutters and cut out the and salt together in a mixing bowl. Add the dry shapes. For one house you need press out two ingredients, alternating between the milk, syrup shapes from each cookie cutter. and butter mixture. Mix well.

This is a wet dough, but it will harden after it has Carefully remove the excess dough and keep to rested in the fridge for 30 minutes. one side – the off cuts can be used again. Place in the oven for 8-10minutes. Take out and let it Wrap the dough in baking paper and place in cool on the baking tray.

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FESTIVE BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

Method for the royal icing Place the egg white in a mixing bowl. Sift your icing sugar. Lightly beat the egg white, then start adding the icing sugar and mix well after each addition. Add the icing sugar until you have a nice piping consistency. Fill the piping bag with the icing sugar and cut a very small tip of the bag.

Place your cool gingerbread house shapes on your work surface. Decorate your roof and the sides of the house with the icing sugar. Let it dry completely before you assemble the house.

Attach the sides of the house first with icing sugar and let it dry. Attach the rood with icing sugar and let it dry.

Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

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LIFESTYLE ENVIRONMENT BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

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ENVIRONMENT DECOR BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

get festive for

Christmas Written by: Lynne Blumberg Interior Design

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hristmas 2021 will inspire feelings of hope and happiness more than ever before.

Here are some of the latest trends for your inspiration whether you are going all out with glam décor or just doing a minimal Christmas décor: Mini wreaths as napkin rings, ie. Plat long soft branches around a serviette with a few leaves and a pointsettia tucked into the platted wreath.

2. Glass jars as a centre piece. Take 3 or 4 large glass jars and fill the basis with Epsom salts and top with either a large votive candle or top with fake cranberries and juniper leaves.

Alternate the jars across the centre of the table and voila – you have created a beautify centre piece.

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DECOR BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

How about a traditional heirloom table?

Use a fabulous plaid/tartan piece of fabric as your table cloth. Add floral crockery and in the centre of the table place loads of shimmering candles.

Add to your centre piece a few fake or porcelain colourful birds and some little gifts wrapped in red and green and strewn around the table. Luxury cold Christmas crackers on the side plates and of course your favourite heirloom cutlery.

An informal table setting for a casual celebration. If you have a wood or glass table, use a beautiful scarf, scrunched up as a runner across the centre of the table. Set your table with paper placemats. Work with the colours of the scarf. If you can’t find paper placemats a fun idea would be to let your kids draw on A3 paper and use that as your placemats. I would keep it simple and use white plates. For your centre piece add white candles of varying height or use battery operated candles. Between the candles add some greenery ie., mini bushes in different containers but keep them in small to medium sizes. Add some battery-operated string lights in between hiding the battery in on of the bushes.

Use beautiful paper napkins with black, silver of gold cutlery. Simple but effective!

If you are an avid collector and lover of vintage, here is a great way to decorate your table. Once again, take a large colourful scarf slightly scrunch it and use this a table runner. Use all your favourite bronze, pewter or silver candelabra and candle holders and add different coloured long thin candles interspersed with single glass bud vases of brightly coloured flowers like poppies, roses, carnations, daisies. Add all the different shaped and coloured crockery you have been collecting for ever and add animal print serviettes and there you have a boho style Christmas table that could be in a movie set.

Chic modern Christmas table. For this table you can not beat black, white and green. Use black placemats and gold cutlery and underplates, black or white dinnerware and you centre piece would be black long candles in preferably black candle stick holders and short stubby white candles 2021 • I SSUE 6 4 4

randomly interspersed placed straight onto the scarf. Lace greenery and a few pinecones in between. Simple cloth napkins in black or white elegantly folded. Scatter Lindor black and silver wrapped chocolates around. Simple and always a winner.

ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e

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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate

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