The Property Magazine - Kwazulu-Natal December 2012/January 2013 by Medianova Publishing

Property

Est. 2004, Issue 286

KwaZulu-Natal

DEcEmbEr 2012 / JaNuary 2013

decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate

winner of 10 publishing awards

Festive

GIft GuIDE

liFe in 3d Party tiPs

Brettenwood Coastal estate

a propErty succEss story

RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Brettenwood Coastal Estate, +27 (0)32 525 4581, brettenwood.co.za

For 2013

Wealth & Investment

CRAIG HUDSON Investec Wealth & Investment Branch Head - Durban

The search for quality The search for quality can explain relative performance on the JSE over the past 12 months. However the more important issue for investors and their portfolios is whether or not considerations of quality will continue to dominate outcomes in equity markets. Or in other words, will stocks much more exposed to the business cycle, like the commodity price plays, have their day again? The state of the global economy and expectations for global growth do not yet appear much improved. While the risks of a financial collapse in Europe have greatly diminished, the prospects

Wealth & 1nvestment Ranked #1 by PricewaterhouseCoopers in Wealth Management Ranked #1 in the Business Day Investors Monthly Stockbroker Awards for Sophisticated Investors Our #1 rankings are testament to our select investment services for discerning clients. Backed by our seamless global investment offering, we cater for your individual investment objectives.

of faster growth in Europe, Asia or emerging market economies generally have not improved. If anything slower, rather than faster,

To find out more contact our Durban branch on 031 575 4000

global growth is being predicted. Better economic news from the

or Pietermaritzburg branch on 033 264 5800

US is being balanced by fears of a fiscal cliff that the economy may

www.investec.co.za/wi

fall over unless Congress and the President can agree on a mixture of expenditure reductions or tax increases before automatic cuts and increases are imposed on a fragile economy. It would appear that a strong recovery in commodity prices is not to be expected any time soon. Nor, consistent with the outlook for commodity prices, is there any reason to expect any upward pressure on global interest rates for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, dividends yields (and strong balance sheets to support dividends) are still likely to continue to command investor attention globally. Prof. Brian Kantor Contact Investec Wealth & Investment for more details. Durban 031 575 4000 or Pietermaritzburg 033 264 5800

Ranked #1

By Business Day/Investors Monthly Stockbroker Awards for Sophisticated Investors.

In the 2011 PricewaterhouseCoopers Banking Survey in Wealth Management.

Portfolio Management

Stockbroking

Wealth Management

Investec Securities Limited Reg. No 1972/008905/06. A member of the Investec Group. A member of the JSE Limited South Africa. An authorised financial service provider. A registered credit provider Reg. No. NCRCP262.

Contents

22 66

DecOr

luxury uxury

hOt DecOr & Design What’s new and happening in this stylish world

trenDs 7

Property

hOt plate

tOp agents

Fabulous foodie spaces and products

Celebrating the industry’s top real estate agents

Est. 2004, Issue 286

KwaZulu-Natal

DEcEmbEr 2012 / JaNuary 2013

decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate

winner of 10 publishing awards

Festive

GIft GuIDE

50 liFe in 3d Party tiPs

Brettenwood Coastal estate

a propErty succEss story

RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Brettenwood Coastal Estate, +27 (0)32 525 4581, brettenwood.co.za

For 2013

On the cOver On Brettenwood the cOver Coastal

starry, starry night A decadent bush getaway at Jaci’s Safari Lodge

Design 20

a penchant fOr paviliOns A Cape Town home with privacy and views

DOing them justice Just Property Group celebrates its successes

festive hOt inDulgence

lusciOus la lucia

it’s party time Our entertainment guide for New Year’s and beyond

Why you should be living in La Lucia

real estate

a game Of BriDge

Tongaat Hulett Developments celebrates Bridge City

KWaZulu-natal cOmmercial Hospitals equal big business

mauritius 63

heaDing aBrOaD

a tale Of paraDise

feeling all Wright An FL Wright-inspired farmhouse at the seaside

cycling intO the future Re/Max’s Adrian Goslett studies the past to get a glimpse of the future of property

Fabulous gifts for one and all

hOt space The Giant’s Castle vulture hide goes high-tech

Our first overseas Property Dinner

Exploring Ambre Hotel in Belle Mare

cOnstance rejuvenateD Constance le Prince Maurice gets a timely makeover

hOt manDates Select properties in Simbithi Eco Estate and Sheffield Beach

TheEstate. Kitchen See & Tasting page 36Room for @ Maison. details. Turn to page 11 for the full story.

thepropertymag.co.za

THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE dIGITAl VISIT thepropertymag.co.za for the latest features. FOllOW US on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/thepropertymagazine twitter.com/thepropertymag

Photograph Grant Difford

’Tis the season to be jolly …

dOWNlOAd our National edition for iPad and Galaxy tablets from Zinio: zinio.com SUBSCRIBE Call 0860 100 209 (local) or +27 (0)21 530 3112 (foreign) to learn more about our special subscription offer.

Looking forward to 2013

As Christmas trees surround us in various shopping centres and those damn Boney M lyrics haunt us as we hum along, it’s quite clear that the holidays are upon us. And thank goodness, as most of us breathe a collective sigh of relief in anticipation of long, lazy lunches and warm beaches. It has been an unpredictable year in terms of property and although we have no crystal ball, a number of industry stalwarts have had their say. Many believe the recession is still very much present and is here to stay for a little longer, while others see an upturn in the pipeline and encourage investment in property – residential and commercial – as next year will be a better one. We choose to follow the optimistic route too and look forward to a great year in 2013 and the opportunities it may bring. And we are not the only ones celebrating. This issue is brimful of festive Property Dinners: La Balise Marina in Mauritius celebrated its successes; Smith Tabata Buchanan Boyes Table View introduced its new loyalty programme; Tongaat Hulett Developments revealed its Bridge City development on Durban’s outskirts; and Just Property Group toasted a year of success at its awards evenings. The Property Magazine also has plenty to talk about, having hosted our very first international Property Dinner!

Yes, we have moved into international waters and we envision even more exciting times ahead for our magazine. In keeping with our celebratory mood we have a fabulous gift guide for those who love all things bright and beautiful, including a bit of seasonal inspiration for our foodie readers. We also have a party guide, including expert advice, that will keep you celebrating beyond New Year’s and far into 2013. To all our loyal readers and new friends, we wish you a merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous new year.

Nicky Manson, Editor

All I want for Christmas is …

These hols, visit the reopened Harties Aerial Cableway for 360° vistas of the Magaliesberg, Pretoria, Jozi and Harties. hartiescableway.co.za

The Fora lamp by Bover. Woven to look

The Victoria handbag, designed by

A Fugu! ‘Fu what?’ An inflatable

A Griffiths & Griffiths Antoinette

like basketwork, it’s simple design at its

Victoria Beckham and now available in

furniture piece inspired by Japanese

bed. Experience royal luxury

best. cremadesign.co.za

SA exclusively from Studio 8 The Origin.

blowfish, that’s what. Sleek, sustainable,

in this handcrafted bed.

studio8shop.com

mobile and perfect for chilling by the

griffithsandgriffiths.co.za

pool. skediaspaces.com

2 | December 2012/January 2013

Property

thepropertymag.co.za

EDITORIAL Editor Nicky Manson nickym@medianova.co.za Managing Editor Jennifer Platt jennifer@medianova.co.za Chief Subeditor Yaron Blecher Subeditor Leigh Andrews

DIsTRIBUTION

Western Cape Regional Sales & Marketing Manager Michèle Jones Western Cape Sales susan Erwee Pretoria Sales Lorna MacPhail Account Director KwaZulu-Natal Claire Veitch Sales & Marketing Assistant Bianca van Deventer Media Coordinator Portia Mbele

ART Senior Designer Brendan Body Senior Retoucher Tim Lake CONTRIBUTORs André Fiore, Genevieve Fisher, Candace King, Deborah Curtis-Setchell, Niki Moore, Gisela Nel, Tammy Sutherns, Stanley Zive PhOTOgRAPhERs Val Adamson, Fiona Barclay Smith, Ruvan Boshoff, Sally Chance, Stephen Cruickshank, Michael Glenister, Terry Haywood, Tim Lake, Dion Max Walters, Oomar Moidin DIsTRIBUTION Ezweni Magazine Distribution ADVERTIsINg Gauteng & KwaZulu-Natal Regional Sales & Marketing Manager Jenni McCallum

REgIONAL CIRCULATION The Property Magazine – KwaZulu-Natal The Property Magazine – Western Cape The Property Magazine – Johannesburg The Property Magazine – Pretoria (unaudited)

PUBLIshED BY MEDIA NOVA (PTY) LTD Managing Director Tony Vaughan tony@medianova.co.za Project Manager Taryn Townsend Associate Publisher Pretoria Letlhogonolo sealetsa Associate Publisher Namibia Mynard slabbert Finance Manager Leanne Cox leanne@medianova.co.za Finance Assistant Eleanor scipio Collection Clerk Casmia gysman Driver Joseph Khoza Housekeeper Nelly Dlamini

sAPOA Property Journalism Awards 2011: Winner – Best Property Publication Nedbank Property Association Awards 2010: Winner – Mover & Shaker Award (Tony Vaughan) PICA Awards 2009: Winner – Special Award, Overall Publishing Excellence PICA Awards 2008: Winner – Consumer Magazines, Largely Free Distribution, and Highly Commended: Editorial Excellence, Public Interest Writer of the Year (Ed Suter) 20th sAB Environmentalist of the Year & Environmental Journalists of the Year Awards 2008: Winner – Merit Award, Print & Internet sAPOA Property Journalism Awards 2008: Winner – Best Property Publication, and Special Mention – Property Feature Journalist (Ed Suter) PICA Awards 2007: B2B – Publishing Excellence, Leisure Mondi Magazine Awards 2005: Winner – Foresight sAPPI PICA Awards 2005: Winner – Philip Tyler Trophy for Innovation in Magazine Publishing Brandhouse Media Owners Challenge Awards 2005:Winner – Innovation in Publishing sAPPI PICA Awards 2005: B2B – Highly Commended Mondi Magazine Awards 2004: Industry – Finalist Launch Edition: April 2004

gAUTENg 49 6th Street, Parkhurst, Johannesburg, 2193. Phone +27 (0)87 230 0101 NAMIBIA Phone +264 (0)61 248 161 Fax +264 (0)61 245 942

sUBsCRIPTION ENQUIRIEs Email subs@ramsaymedia.co.za Online magsathome.co.za Local Phone 0860 100 209 Fax 0866 704 101 International Phone +27 (0)21 530 3112 Fax +27 (0)21 530 3143 SMS 41871 with reference ‘Property Magazine’ (R2/SMS) for subscription enquiries EDITORIAL ENQUIRIEs General editorial@medianova.co.za Society readers@medianova.co.za. Hot Property editorial@medianova.co.za Print edition published monthly in four regional issues: Western Cape, Johannesburg, KwaZulu-Natal and Pretoria Current ABC Audited Circulation (July-september 2012): Western Cape – 22 400, Johannesburg – 17 557, KwaZulu-Natal – 12 152. Total Nationally – 52 109 Pretoria print run – 10 000 Web stats: Property Club Members – 24 884 AMPS National Readership (2011A): 287 815

Property

est. 2004, Issue 284

johannesburg

Winner of 10 publishing awards

decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate

Festive

Property DEcEmbER 2012/JAnuARy 2013

Winner of 10 publishing awards

Est. 2004, Issue 284

PRETORIA

decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate

Property

ThE PROPERTY MAgAZINE KWAZULU-NATAL DIsTRIBUTION 8 925 copies free-to-home in the following areas (including residential estates): 4 529 copies to luxury outlets: Berea The Boat House Musgrave The Vineyard on Ballito Morningside Zimbali Lodge Windermere Fairways Lodge Beverly Hills Teremok Marine Cowies Hill La Bordello Waterfall/Kloof Madeline Grove B & B Hillcrest The Palms Guest House Maytime Essenwood House Upper Umhlanga The Balmoral Lower Umhlanga Phezulu Game Estate Upper La Lucia The Royal Hotel Lower La Lucia Riverside Hotel & Spa Prestondale Sica’s Guest House Broadway The Westville Hotel Mount Edgecombe Endless Horizons Boutique Hotel Hilton Quarters Hotel Wembley The Manor House Ballito Fairway Guest House Umdloti Docklands Hotel

The Property Magazine Pretoria! Now available free to select households, retailers and luxury outlets

NATIONAL DIsTRIBUTION Retail: CNA Exclusive Books (select stores) Spar Airport-based retailers

INTERNATIONAL DIsTRIBUTION Select services Showrooms Industry-related businesses and events Namibia-specific distributions

FREE VIP DIsTRIBUTION – NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL Airlines and Luxury Railways (Rovos Rail) Air Namibia – Domestic & International fl ights HRG Rennies Travel Premier Club Lounges South African Airways – Domestic & International Lounges Cape Aviation Business Centre BIDAir Premier Lounges

ADDITIONAL FREE DIsTRIBUTION – NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL Decor houses Banks Top industry-related businesses Golf clubs Restaurants Coffee shops

Plus free distribution to vips in these sectors: Property Media Advertising Marketing National and local government-related industries

Est. 2004, Issue 284

WESTErn caPE

DEcEmbEr 2012 / January 2013

Winner of 10 publishing awards

decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate

GiFt GuiDe

GiFt Guide

For 2013

RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Deloittes’ Office Pretoria

RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Galencia Properties, +27 (0)11 315 9113 galencia.co.za

For 2013

Deloittes’ GREEn SPAcE

Property

Party tiPs

For 2013

Party tiPs Galencia ProPerty

National Readership 287 815

Festive

Party tiPs

The besT value properTies in africa

Print run: 10 000

Festive

GiFt Guide

an urban tree house

RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Private Home, Upper Fernwood Estate

December 2012/january 2013

ABC Audited National Circulation (Jul.–Sept. 2012) 12 152 22 400 17 557

Est. 2004, Issue 286

KwaZulu-Natal

DEcEmbEr 2012 / JaNuary 2013

decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate

winner of 10 publishing awards

Festive

ON ThIs MONTh’s COVERs Johannesburg: Rosa Royale, galencia Properties, +27 (0)11 315 9113, galencia.co.za Western Cape: Urban Tree house, Upper Fernwood Estate KwaZulu-Natal: Brettenwood Coastal Estate, +27 (0)32 525 4581, brettenwood.co.za Pretoria: Deloittes Offices, Ashlea Gardens

GIft GuIDE

liFe in 3d

Disclaimer The publisher and editor of this magazine give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised within this edition. Copyright Media Nova (Pty) Limited. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be

Party tiPs

reproduced in any form without prior written consent from Media Nova (Pty) Limited. The publishers are not responsible for any unsolicited material.

a propErty succEss story

medianova.co.za

4 | December 2012/January 2013

RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Brettenwood Coastal Estate, +27 (0)32 525 4581, brettenwood.co.za

For 2013

Brettenwood Coastal estate

You tell us Property involves us all. What’s your view? Email readers@medianova.co.za. Great Ideas Loved your Summer Top 20! It actually gave me some great Xmas gift ideas to shop ahead of the hectic Christmas rush, so thanks for that - I am set. K Leeson, Woodstock

Win let ning ter

Ed:You are lucky; we still have to do our shopping!

Goodbye FashIon, hello decor I read with interest your October Hot Space, ‘Frankly Gorgeous’, about how Lindie Ferreira, one half of renowned designer duo Marion & Lindie, has left the world of fashion for the world of decor. I guess the two do intercept in more ways than one. Janet James, Fourways Ed:Visit the store – some fabulous items to whet your Xmas palate.

hot advIce Took your advice and went hot-potting at Wangthai’s new suki and noodle bar in Sandton. Fab, now when are they opening up in my hood? John Lowrie, Parkhurst Ed: Good question, but in the meantime check out Parkhurst’s new deli, Melissa’s.

WIn Write to us and you could win a case of FNB Top 10 winner, Simonsig Sunbird Sauvignon Blanc 2012! Open a bottle of Simonsig Sunbird Sauvignon Blanc 2012 and get a taste of this exceptional wine that clinched a spot in the highly contested 2012 FNB Top 10 Sauvignon Blanc Awards. Aptly named after the vivid Malachite Sunbird that is drawn to the Cape’s indigenousfynbos-blanketed hills, where superb Sauvignon Blanc is grown, this delicious dry white radiates concentrated gooseberries, white fruit and hints of green pepper. Its fresh yet silky acidity accentuates the fruit elements, leaving lingering notes of tropical flavours on the palate. Ts & Cs apply. +27 (0)21 888 4915, simonsig.co.za

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6 | December 2012/January 2013

twitter.com/thepropertymag

HOT PROPERTY

HOT space

Hide

AwAy

1 4

Artist’s impressions, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. Photographs, African Image Gallery. Words, Anne Schauffer

For bird and nature lovers from around the world, the refurbishment of the popular Giant’s Castle vulture hide is on the drawing board, offering visitors to the Drakensberg far more than ever before

ord is, it’s almost impossible

appropriate materials, and has devised a way

Coetzee, a passionate birder and enthusiastic

to get a foot in the door of

to accommodate those frustrated by the lack

hide devotee.

the hide at Giant’s Castle in

of access. Here’s the plan: a webcam set inside the

the Drakensberg.

For the simulated hide, materials sourced will be as green as possible, rock will also be

hide will beam visuals to a simulated vulture

simulated, actual grass and shrubs will be

because it’s packed to the rafters during

hide at Giant’s Castle Resort. This is going to

introduced, and all tech devices will be low

the winter open season. It’s on the bucket

be the hide’s virtual double and will be fully

energy and solar powered.

list of many international bird lovers and

integrated into the visitor centre.

It’s clearly the world’s worst-kept secret

The ‘windows’ of the simulated hide will

photographers, and even though it’s about

Matt Jackson, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife hospitality manager at Giant’s Castle Resort,

3 km from the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Giant’s

be LCD screens, so those previously left out in

explains, ‘Both of the hides are due to be

Castle Resort, you’ll be hard-pressed to beat

the cold will now be able to hunker down and

completed by the end of 2012, so you won’t

them to it.

watch the actual bird goings-on at the real hide

have far to walk from your chalet to enjoy an

kilometres away.

up-close-and-personal experience of a bearded

But all is not lost. Everybody’s about

Nobody’s taking this lightly, particularly

to get a good look inside. Ezemvelo KZN

vulture or two – and you won’t be disturbing

Wildlife is giving the tired old hide a brand-

as part of the funding for the project stems

them at all.’

new lease of life with a fresh eco design and

from a memorial fund set up for the late Mark

+27 (0)36 353 3718, ekznw.co.za

Artist’s impression of the refurbished lammergeier hide at Giant’s Castle. 2Bearded vultures

1–2

Visit thepropertymag.co.za for other

will enjoy a new sense of privacy thanks to the arrival of a virtual hide that will keep the throngs of

fabulous getaways.

humans away – though ardent birders will still be able to visit the real hide. 4Redwing starlings.

thepropertymag.co.za | 7

hot PROPERTY pRopeRtY HOT

hot plate Freedom reStored Freedom Café in Greyville has changed hands – and the very capable new hands belong to Lucy Markewicz, famous for her pastries and previously of Vanille Café. Lucy is giving the funky space a new menu, which includes touches of contemporary, cosmopolitan and Africa. They also have great things happening on ‘Freedom Fridays’, such as BYO, no corkage with dinner, boutique wine by the glass, breakfast specials, and themed evenings once a month. Freshly baked breads of all descriptions, crazy cakes and a wide menu of sundaes and shakes (spiked or unspiked) promise lots of fun. +27 (0)31 309 4453, tastefreedom.co.za

SpAce to plAy Recently opened at Musgrave Centre, Bertoua Café Lounge takes the place of what used to be Legends, and Andre Schubert, ‘the ‘man

is set to become a legend in its own right. The large space

who doesn’t do bad restaurants’, has

has been decadently done out in greys and greens with

treated food lovers over the years to Café

hints of gold, to create an interesting and inviting array of

1999 and Market Garden Café/Restaurant.

areas suitable for anything from a tête-à-tête to cocktails to a long and loud dinner. To best serve the variety, there

Where did your love of food and

are four menus to choose from, including a comprehensive

hospitality begin? My love for food

list of wine and cocktails. Open from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m.,

started with my Afrikaner mother’s

Bertoua also offers Durban’s late-night crowd a place to

cooking. I have vivid memories of her

snack and chat. +27 (0)31 828 1979, bertoua.co.za

chicken casserole with bacon, her beef stew with dumplings and her melktert. My love for the hospitality industry started when I finished national service and worked as a barman at a very busy Central Durban restaurant. After that I started university and waited part-time for the full length of my degree. I then went travelling around the world but always seemed to gravitate towards the restaurant industry. tell us about your first restaurant and two lessons you learned from it? In 1999, a friend and I bought Scoozi in Silverton Road, Berea, and renamed it Café 1999. We had hardly any money, no collateral and had to spin a coin for who was going to be the chef, but somehow we managed to pull it off. If I learned anything from stick to them no matter what and to always involve your staff. No one person

Squeeze in

is better than another and everyone

It didn’t take long for Stretta Cucina in

quick Fix

has a role to play to make a business

Hillcrest’s Heritage Market to outgrow its

For those wondering when the European-

successful. Do you keep abreast of

narrow quarters. And so, Stretta Cantina

style coffee bar was going to hit Durban,

global food trends or do you just do

has arrived. The industrial decor of the main

it’s arrived in the form of Love Coffee at

your own thing? I used to spend a lot of

restaurant is carried through but is now

484 Lillian Ngoyi Road. Housed in what

time following global trends and trying

more upscale, with pegboard cladding on

used to be a double garage, not only do

the different influences in our restaurants’

the walls, deep-buttoned booth seating and

they serve up coffee in every which way

food. What has always worked, however,

black mosaic tiles on the floor, creating an

at their signature bar – made from off-cuts

is food that is wholesome and simple

inviting bar area where patrons can wait for

– they also aim to be as sustainable as

without too many contradicting

a table or order light meals. The bar focuses

possible, using 100% Arabica, all-African

flavours, using fresh local ingredients.

on local craft beers and a selection of wines

coffee, fully compostable packaging, and

I still surf the Internet for what is new

and premium spirits with ‘duo craft beers

as little energy and water as they can.

but always end up being influenced by

for the price of uno’ from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. on

They also have an assortment of healthy

fresh, classic dishes.+27 (0)31 309 8581,

Tuesdays and Thursdays. The great Italian

and naughty light bites to tempt you.

themarketrestaurant.co.za

fare is always on offer. +27 (0)31 765 8862,

+27 (0)31 201 0219

stretta.co.za

8 | December 2012 / January 2013

Words André Fiore

those early days it was to set goals and

HOT PrOPerTY

HOT decOr & deSIGN lovely things We always love new spaces filled with lovely things, so the recently opened studio-cumshowroom belonging to Koop and Shaw Sisters at 200 Montpelier Road is a proper treat. It operates as a pop-up shop for invited events and also as a drop-in area for people who want to view the products first-hand. Call ahead. +27 (0)31 303 3922, shawsisters.co.za

tinks robinson-gibb of Peppergreen Interiors grew up in a home where creating beautiful living spaces with the skills and materials you had to hand really mattered.

Colour delight The pages of this collection of Carol Mangiagalli’s work open onto a riot of colour and whimsical scenery and cover everything from wine-tasting to fishing boats in Table Bay. Naïve artist Carol Mangiagalli lives in the Cape and her work is collected in SA and worldwide. For those who don’t yet own one of her works, here’s a stocking-filler that’s sure to lend a smile. +27 (0)21 424 8349

how did it all start? I started Country Living of Nottingham Road in 1992, which gave me a kick-start into the world of decor and home styling. Soon my customers were asking me to decorate their houses. I ran my shop as a retail outlet and also did decorating. In 2002 I sold Country Living and I now work from my loft studio in Kloof, concentrating mainly on interiors. tell us about your style. My style is ‘undone’, reflecting a casual, unselfconscious mood where styling has a relaxed, rustic charm that is comforting and seemingly unconsidered. I enjoy juxtaposing objects of faded grandeur from the past with more humble, honest pieces. I love natural linens, pure fabrics and

tea at two

splashes of unexpected colour. how

Loula at Two Acres Tearoom in Assagay – opposite the Hillcrest Private Hospital – opened earlier this year and offers visitors a treasure trove of shabby chic furniture, decor, accessories and gifts. Make it an outing by stopping at the Tearoom while you’re there and enjoy its garden setting, simple menu and freshly baked goods. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. +27 (0)73 111 1838

are global trends influencing decor? Global trends tend towards recycling and upcycling. The green element in home design is now being considered – solar power, eco-friendly fabrics and paint, and energy-efficient lighting. It’s about being resourceful and kind to nature. Consumers are looking for the authentic after a decade of mass

green Christmas

production. What’s your advice for

The newly launched Korol Christmas tree comes as an easy-to-assemble, portable kit of recycled star–shaped building blocks. ‘The tree offers a unique take on Christmas,’ says designer Andy Cartwright. ‘Not only is it eco-friendly (even the packaging is used as part of the finished product), but it also offers families the chance to get together and assemble the tree piece by piece, just like a puzzle, except in 3D.’ Available through various online stockists and galleries. andycartwright.biz

people doing their own homes? Don’t be shy to ask for help from a professional to get you on your way. You will save in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes. Keep your interiors simple and uncluttered and use the correct scale of furniture for the area being created. Paint, paint, paint! It’s critical to get that right! It forms the canvas on which you build your scheme. Also take Words André Fiore

your time when searching for the right piece. Don’t compromise and go the chain store route. +27 (0)82 850 8850, peppergreeninteriors.co.za

thepropertymag.co.za

HOT PROPERTY

Festive HOT INDULGENCE

Can’t think of good Christmas presents? We’ve done the hard work for you

Healing gift Mount Grace Spa in Magaliesburg. The muslin wrap contains a special

solar sensational

blend of herbs and natural ingredients with great healing powers.

Introducing the Seiko

+27 (0)14 577 5600, mountgrace.co.za

Astron, the world’s first

Treat someone special to a new African Poultice treatment at the

GPS solar watch. Able to receive GPS signals and identify time zone, time and date data using the global network of GPS satellites, it recognises all 39 time zones. seiko-astron.com

Alek Wek models the latest Rainbow collection from Melissa’s

Colourful fasHion

for tHe ladies

Shoes. melissaza.co.za

Tag Heuer has released its newest creation, the Link Lady collection, celebrating beautiful and rebellious women around the world. tagheuer.com

Plan for new Year The Michelangelo Towers Mall’s elegant bridal store Pronovias debuts its 2013 collection in South wedding? Pop by and be enveloped in a mist of tulle, silk and lace. pronovias.us

10 | December 2012 / January 2013

Words Genevieve Fisher

Africa. Planning a

HOT PROPERTY

here comes the sUn From genius creative director Frida Giannini comes Gucci’s new Spring/Summer 2013 collection. Available exclusively from Gucci boutiques in Cape Town and Johannesburg. gucci.com

Ultimate hangover indUlgence Perfect for the party gal, Thalgo’s hyaluronic eye-patch masks fill wrinkles and combat fatigue. They also hydrate the skin and reduce puffiness and dark circles. thalgo.co.za

good enoUgh to eat Yum by Charlotte Rhys is a new range

Best gift ever

of bath, body and lifestyle gifts in

Enmasse combines the

delicious fruit and flower fragrances.

massage culture of the

+27 (0)21 702 1338, charlotterhys.com

East with the comfort and familiarity of contemporary Western design. All treatments are performed without oil, in loose cotton clothing. After your massage, relax in the tea lounge and sample one of the 40 exotic tea blends. enmasse.co.za

east meets West Two designer sisters have joined forces and launched Black Betty, a range of jewellery inspired by the Indian city of Jaipur. blackbetty.me

frUitfUl Apple has released its new iPod Touch. The thinnest iPod Touch ever, it has a new ultrathin, ultra-light anodised aluminium design and is

coastal cocooning

available in five vibrant colours. apple.com

Suncoast Towers in Durban has sea views that go on forever. No wonder then that its spa’s signature treatments evoke the ocean. There are seven luxe en-suite treatment rooms, including dual rooms for couples. We love the Sea Whisperer signature treatment. +27 (0)31 314 7900, tsogosunhotels.com

thepropertymag.co.za | 11

HOT PROPERTY

Festive HOT INDULGENCE

Delicious delights for the connoisseur for thE hostEss with thE mostEst

win! Stand a chance of winning one of six bottles of Desiderius Pongrácz 2003! This singularly noble prestige cuvée of South Africa’s leading Méthode Cap Classique range brought home the trophy for Best Bottle of Fermented Sparkling Wine at

This Royal VKB suspended serving

the 2012 IWSC in the UK after clinching double

tray has been designed to balance

gold at the 2012 Veritas Awards. Inspired by

itself perfectly, so there are no more

Hungarian nobleman Desiderius Pongrácz, the

oopsies when serving drinks. Genius.

prestigious 2003 vintage flaunts a white-gold hue

yuppiechef.com

with a faint grey-pink tinge that complements its aroma of precious, delicate spices and wonderful crisp foaming mousse. Desiderius Pongrácz is an elegant blend of the classic champagne varietals, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and is set apart by its distinctive fluted bottle. pongracz.co.za To win, simply email editorial@medianova.co.za with your contact details and put ‘Pongracz’ in the subject box. Competition closes on 31 January 2013. Ts & Cs apply.

… it makEs mE happy … Get in the party spirit with Patrón XO Café Dark Cocoa Coffee

light essence of coffee with an

discrEEt drinking plEasurE

extraordinary chocolate flavour.

4G Wines has revealed

patrontequila.com

its limited-edition

Liqueur, a delicious combination of Patrón Silver tequila and the

G. 2010 – ideal for making an impression as well as for drinking. peakofexcitement.com

simply intEnsifiEd With a perfect balance between purity and flavour, the new Belvedere Vodka Intense is regarded as the first super-premium luxury vodka brand that offers 100% proof vodka and contains 10% more alcohol than Belvedere Pure. belvederevodka.com

EnlightEnEd prEsEnts Woolies’ braai headlights make the perfect gift for your husband, dad, brother, uncle, nephew, mate … woolworths.co.za

EnErgisEd and rEady to go Keep your energy levels up while you’re partying the night away with one of three new flavours from Red Bull: The Red Edition (cranberry), The Silver Edition (lime) and The Blue Edition (blueberry). redbull.co.za

12 | December 2012 / January 2013

HOT PROPERTY

snazzy shiraz Solms-Astor Cape Jazz Shiraz now comes in a gift cylinder – perfect for a festive pool party. solms-delta.co.za

a taste of africa Amarula has geared up for Christmas with a range of gift options. We love the cylindrical tin lantern pack, which you can keep and use after you’ve removed the 750ml bottle of creamy Amarula. amarula.com

slice and dice Kitchen Passion’s traditional Japanese knife by Miyabi is the ultimate gift for the home chef. kitchenpassion.co.za

Winning flavour

get in the mood

Fleur du Cap’s award-winning

Visit Clico Boutique Hotel

available from Makro in a

in Rosebank, Joburg,

beautiful gift pack. Great

and indulge in their high

timing for that festive season

tea, including delectable

dinner party gift.

finger sandwiches, scones,

fleurducap.co.za

wine, Lazlo 2006, is now

scrumptious cakes, home-made macaroons and sparkling wine. clicohotel.com

Just cork it The Alessi Anna G corkscrew is a fabulous gift idea. Funky, fun and available in a variety of colours, it’s available from Yuppiechef. yuppiechef.com

thepropertymag.co.za | 13

HOT PROPERTY

Festive HOT INDULGENCE go-To guiDe

Cheers!

John Platter has added anecdotes to his Wine Guide 2013. With

Keep the wine and bubbly

reminiscences about SA’s cellars, people and brands, the latest

cool during summer

guide provides background information to the wines we love.

parties with Samsung’s

wineonaplatter.com

premium high-tech wine cellar. Roomier than before, with a sleek and sexy design, it will keep your party buzzing. samsung.com

Fresh bubbles Veuve Clicquot introduces its Christmas limited-edition box, Ponsardine, which houses a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label. veuve-clicquot.com

Drink anD Design Duo Contemporary design meets decadent drinking in the latest collaboration between American filmmaker and visual artist David Lynch, and Dom Pérignon. Lynch has designed The Power of Creation, a limited-edition bottle for Dom Pérignon 2003 and Dom Pérignon Rosé 2000. domperignon.com

go For golD Johnnie Walker’s premium blend, Johnnie Walker

Designer Drink

Gold Label Reserve, has just arrived in SA and is the

The Hennessy

perfect tipple for

VSOP blend has

the festive season.

a newly designed

johnniewalker.com

bottle created by American automobile designer Chris Bangle. An arty gift for the aficionado. hennessy.com

Twinkle, Twinkle liTTle sTar Moët & Chandon’s Twinkle Box is an elegant diamond prism holding a bottle of M & C Impérial. Sophistication in a bottle. moet.com

14 | December 2012 / January 2013

HOT PROPERTY

GiFts For the table Olive Pride’s cute premium extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar set for the discerning diner bursts with flavour. Available in 250 ml or 500 ml. Get them individually from Pick n Pay.

For the Cheese addiCt

olivepride.co.za

We love Woolies’ foodie gifts. You can’t go wrong with the cheeseboard set – four authentic acacia wood cheeseboards with various yummy cheese accompaniments. woolworths.co.za

beCome an expert the morning to a more indulgent

Clever ideas

level? Treat yourself or someone

We love this food-and-

special to a Zassenhaus coffee mill.

wine combo gift from

kitchenpassion.co.za

Avondale and chef

Fancy taking your first coffee in

Reuben Riffel. Buy a bottle of Avondale’s Viognier blend, Cyclus 2009, and be wowed by a surprise recipe designed to complement the wine. avondalewine.co.za

Festive nibbles Treat someone special to a picnic at Hartenberg Wine Estate. Think chilled wine and delicious local cuisine enjoyed on plush cushions in the shade of a garden tree. hartenbergestate.com

Cookies For santa Woolworths wows this year with gifts for those with a sweet tooth. The new range of fabulously designed biscuit tins housing Woolies’ signature shortbread and crunchy treats are a delight. woolworths.com

Ultimate braai book If you loved the television reality show then you will absolutely die for the just-released book. Following his Ultimate Braai Master TV series, bush cook Justin Bonello has published a book containing a culinary cook-up of over 60 braai recipes from across SA, braai tips, and his top recipes. From Matjiesfontein to Golden Gate, the book visits the country’s nooks and crannies and features mouth-watering recipes, such as snoek with spicy chimichurri, and Engine Stew, a hearty stew cooked on your car’s manifold when you’re on a road trip. penguinbooks.co.za

thepropertymag.co.za | 15

hot property

hot mandate

WHERE EAGLES NEST

A luxury home on the banks of Fish Eagle Dam in Simbithi Eco Estate, KZN

ituated on the main dam adjoining a beautiful wetland between two nationally protected forests and one of the most scenic areas of Simbithi Eco Estate, this Ewald Plekker Architects-designed home is just 1km from Ballito’s main beach. Styled like a lodge, the 861m2 home rests on a double erf of 2 719m2 overlooking the Fish Eagle Dam. High open-truss ceilings and 2,4m-high solid doors are complemented by natural fittings, such as unpolished marble and Rhodesian teak flooring throughout. A bridge over a flowing water feature separates the living areas from the bedrooms. The property has two entrances, a porte cochere and open guest/service parking bays with separate entrance to the guest wing. The lounge features a gas fireplace and an adjoining loo. The long, wide passage facilitates privacy, and the number of stairs has been kept to a minimum. The house has four spacious

bedrooms, all en suite, and each with its own private patio overlooking the dam. The main suite has a dressing room and an en-suite bathroom with private outdoor shower enclosure.The guest wing has double bedrooms and a 50m-long passage connects the recreation and bedroom areas. The spacious laundry is also in this wing and there is a separate drying yard. There is a separate staff shower, washbasin and toilet with an external entrance. The large country-style fitted kitchen is equipped with all major appliances, including a Smeg gas stove and extractor fan and two electric ovens. Cupboard space is plentiful, and there is a solid Rhodesian teak island that doubles as a breakfast area. Leading off from the kitchen are the pantry and fitted scullery. Stackable doors fold back, opening up the kitchen to the dining room and entertainment rooms and the 50m2 patio, to create a single large space that is ideal for entertaining guests. The main patio flows to a

front garden overlooking the dam and is fitted with a wood-fired pizza oven, a granite work area, sink and cupboards, while the back garden is set in a private enclosure that is perfect for smaller social gatherings and high tea. Leading off from the entertainment room is an office/studio with a deck that opens up to a secluded view of the dam and forest. The house’s facilities include three-phase power as well as 25kVA automated generator system against power outages.The entertainment area, studio and main bedrooms all have TV connections. A beam central vacuum system makes housework a breeze. The 300ℓ solar geyser and 5 000ℓ rainwater harvest tank tie in with the green principles the home is designed along. This exclusive estate is linked by footpaths and a golf cart track to the beach and country club amid serene natural surroundings. Darrell Abel, Seef Dolphin +27 (0)83 262 5322, +27 (0)32 586 0170, Coast darrell.abel@seef.com

Double-volume ceilings create a grand space. 2Views of the house at dusk. 3-4Charming decor meets modern amneties.

If you would like to have your hot mandate featured, email editorial@medianova.co.za.

16 | December 2012/January 2013

EXCLUSIVE KITCHENS • BEDROOMS • BARS

SPECIAL RATES (December 2012 - March 2013) Quarters Hotel Florida Road & Quarters Hotel Avondale Road

The two Quarters hotels are found in the trendy Morningside suburb. The Quarters Hotel Florida Road is a Victorian Durban landmark and is complimented by the award winning Brasserie restaurant.

R990 per room per night | Including Breakfast All rates are subject to availability

The Quarters Hotel Avondale Road is a newly renovated establishment that exudes style and elegance. These two hotels are the epitome

•

Year End Function Menus From R220 – R290 per person

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of service excellence and are the perfect locations for quality accommodation and intimate dining.

Tel: 031 303 5246 | Fax: 031 303 5269 | Email: gm@quarters.co.za

hot property

hot mandate

soak up the view

Prime beachfront home on Sheffield beach

his is a grand and impressive family home right on the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge. It is not often you lay your hands on a home of this calibre, where all you need are your suitcases. Decorated by top Durban designers, this open-plan 1

summery home with double-volume ceilings comes fully furnished with magnificent attention to detail. It features four and a half spacious bedrooms, all en suite, all with panoramic sea views and all opening front and back onto sparkling swimming pools. Two staff suites with an

excellent resident housekeeper, and four lock-up garages, complete the offering of this quiet property tucked away on an elite road in Sheffield Beach. At R14,75 million, To arrange a viewing, it represents excellent value. please call Kim Noyce on +27 (0)82 444 0221.

Sensational views from the poolside. 2A neutral pallete punctuated with seaside colours. Open spaces make for casual living. 4Plenty of space for the kids.

If you would like to have your hot mandate featured, email editorial@medianova.co.za.

18 | December 2012/January 2013

Summer View U U M M H H LL A A N N G G A A

R R II D D G G EE

prime property

20 | December 2012 / January 2013

prime property

A penchAnt for pAvilions A series of cleverly conceptualised pavilions enhance the exceptional views from this Higgovale home Words Genevieve Fisher Photographs Fiona Barclay Smith

thepropertymag.co.za | 21

prime property

ulling up to this home in Higgovale, the first thing you notice are the roofs, and you do a double take, because they seem to be suspended in empty space. The series of roofs are made of glass with an exposed steel covering and supported by steel posts that melt into the views of Table Mountain. In reality, the roofs sit atop four pavilions that make up this distinctive home by architect Paolo Deliperi. The client’s brief called for maximised views of the harbour, the City Bowl and Table Mountain, lots of natural light, privacy from the neighbours, and separate accommodation for the client’s children. This led Paolo to design a home with not much bulk under one roof. ‘My response was to break the building up into four separate pavilions, each with its own function, and to put these at the extremities of the site,’ says Paolo. ‘This creates a village-like feel, so that from the level lawn the neighbours are blocked out, and from any position you are only aware of your own building, the mountain, the city, the harbour and the sea. This gives you the sensation that you are the only one there, despite being surrounded by neighbours.’ A defining feature of this project is how dramatically the site of this 772 m2, four-bedroom family home changed. ‘It was a very steep site, which would have resulted in an unusable garden if we hadn’t taken great care in designing the external works in a sensitive manner so as to accommodate both a level lawn and a tennis court,’ says Paolo. When he first started working on the project, the 2 550 m2 site’s overgrown garden was filled with alien trees. The original house was built in the 1960s

“The materials used explore the structural concept of contrasting weight and lightness, solid and void” 22 | December 2012 / January 2013

prime property

â&#x20AC;&#x153;For the first time in many years, sunlight poured in and, together with the mountain and city views, which were once again apparent, became the anchor around which the concept was designedâ&#x20AC;?

thepropertymag.co.za | 23

prime property

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The house is blessed with incredible views of the harbour, the mountain and the Table Mountain Aerial Cablewayâ&#x20AC;?

24 | December 2012 / January 2013

prime property

“The client’s brief called for lots of natural light, privacy from the neighbours, and separate accommodation for the client’s children”

and, according to Paolo, it was unremarkable, to say the least. ‘It was dark and uninspiring and made no reference whatsoever to the incredible setting between mountain, city and sea.’ The steep site was cleared of all alien vegetation and the original house was demolished. ‘For the first time in many years, sunlight poured in and, together with the mountain and city views, which were once again apparent, became the anchor around which the concept was designed,’ says Paolo. Paolo chose to work with just a few materials: timber, glass, concrete and steel, the last used conceptually to reflect elements of the vistas onto which the home looks. ‘The house is blessed with incredible views of the harbour, the mountain and the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, and there is a loose connection to all the steel that is apparent in the form of pulleys, steel cables, cranes and vessels, which form part of everyday life in a working harbour and the cableway,’ he says. The steel also supports and protects the roofs, while

the abundance of glass lets in natural light and the timber adds warmth. ‘The materials used explore the structural concept of contrasting weight and lightness, solid and void,’ Paolo explains. ‘This was achieved by implementing a series of simple concrete fins and beams as the only resting structures for the various roofs, which in turn are supported on steel posts and enclosed entirely in glass. The four pavilions are linked with steel, glass and timber galleries, all culminating in a double-volume staircase of the same materials.’ The gallery-like space of the staircase node is the warm heart of this home, contrasting the ethereal exterior with earthy, warm timber cladding, and some of the client’s impressive artwork is on display there. However, if the word ‘pavilion’ is defined as ‘ornate structures designed as amusement or exhibit spaces’, then the artwork doesn’t stand a chance next to the panoramic exhibition of the New Seventh Wonder of Nature, Table Mountain, framed by the harbour and the city.

thepropertymag.co.za | 25

ON SHOW

Feeling all Wright A modern structure has been filled with classic furniture, paintings and antiques collected over a lifetime, creating a home where everybody has room to breathe Words Anne Schauffer Photographs Val Adamson

nn Proksch has a farming background, and it was this lifelong love of endless space and near isolation that she longed for in her new home. Not easy to achieve in a gated estate such as Brettenwood in Sheffield Beach, but architect Peter Whitehouse took Ann’s wish list and married it to the estate’s architectural guidelines, to create a house with a view that fulfils Ann’s brief for a home that ‘feels like a farm in Africa’. Enabling the realisation of this dream was the Prokschs’ choice of site, one that capitalises on the glorious inland vistas rather than sea views. From so many corners of the home, it’s green, green scenery that keeps on rolling into the distance. Brettenwood’s architectural language is based strongly on the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright’s

26 | December 2012 / January 2013

principles: the integration of house and landscape. Wright’s ‘I believe in God, only I spell it “Nature …”’ philosophy is embodied in every aspect of the structures and lifestyle at Brettenwood. Peter had visited the Prokschs on their farm in Mtubatuba and so he had insight into the sort of lifestyle and interaction between spaces they love. The brief called for a comfortable home from home for the children and grandkids. The issue of capacity extended to other areas of the home. Ann explains: ‘We have three married children and five grandchildren, and that requires a large dining room as well.’ The farmhouse kitchen is also large and equipped to cope with making mega-meals for many. Peter describes his design intent: ‘The client had already acquired the site with magnificent inland

views, so that was a given. We designed the house on an X- and Y-axis around the entrance, the staircase used as the focal point, the “pinwheel”– a principle of the Wright style of architecture. ‘To further accommodate the client’s desire to view the magnificent African sunsets over the sugar cane and bushveld, large landscape windows were chosen to capture the full majesty of those views to the west. That selfsame Wright principle allowed the layout of the house to flow to the north, south and east wings, which provide private facilities for each of the client’s children for weekend accommodation. It’s the perfect design to unite the family as often as possible while giving everybody their own private space.’ Materials such as stone cladding and slate, colours in a limited palette, strong horizontal lines with low

ON On SHOW shOw

pitches and cantilevers and the use of design elements that consider the extremes of a subtropical climate not only work within the parameters of Brettenwood’s visual and practical guidelines, but also contribute significantly to the overall ethos of blending the manmade structures into the landscape. There isn’t uniformity, but similarity, so the structures in the estate are linked naturally; nothing jars. The vast patio ties in with one of Ann’s observations about the location. She says, ‘I was sitting on the site platform, looking out at the glorious view, and thought, hey …’ In response, Peter designed the entertainment area to flow out onto the patio, creating the perfect setting for chill time and sundowners as the sunset reflects off and sinks beyond the infinity rim-flow pool. (Falling water is another FL Wright

mantra adopted by Brettenwood Coastal Estate). The Proksch patio makes it feel as if half the house is outdoors, and thanks to its niches and solitary corners, much of the living takes place there. Ann laughs and says she did the decorating herself with ‘stuff gathered from auctions and family over the years’. She has a passion for art. Walls covered in paintings draw the eye to the innumerable pockets of interest in every corner of the home. And perish the thought that she should run out of wall space! ‘If I find another painting I love, I’ll simply move all the others about, until I can fit it in.’ This home is not precious, yet it’s ultra-stylish, with the placement of every item carefully considered and artistically planned. Ann has integrated all the things she loves – the glorious antiques, the breathtaking

chandeliers, the family photos – into these new spaces, and has made it all work so well. Textures abound, from glossy mahogany wood to shot silks to velvet. Colours lean towards naturals, with glam hints of silver and gold threads that catch the light cast by the chandeliers. There’s a sense of layered luxury created by the deep pile carpets, fur throws and the wealth of framed art. And yet at the same time it is a home – comfortable and eminently liveable. Collectibles from international travels, hints of Africa without rusticity, and living spaces curated by a homeowner with an innate sense of artistry, symmetry and for what makes a house a glorious home. Ann, so deeply passionate about South Africa and the landscape in which she lives, says, ‘This is my African dream.’

thepropertymag.co.za | 27

ON SHOW

Afridecks, +27 (0)74 102 2075

Above Under the direction of Des Hobart (owner), Afridecks, a local company operating out of Ballito, undertakes all forms of timberwork, including decks, balustrades and stairways, and all other types of exterior design work. Afrideck’s portfolio includes work done for Fairmont Zimbali Hotel, Dunkirk All-Suite Hotel (DASH), Durban municipal projects on the beachfront and in the harbour, and private homes in and around various upmarket estates in Ballito, Umhlanga, La Lucia and Port Shepstone. Afridecks now also supplies new eco-friendly composite decking. For the Prokschs’ home, Afridecks transformed a previously underutilised portion of the garden into a luxurious entertainment area that the homeowners use at every opportunity. Below left Suda West Interiors has serviced the Dolphin Coast market for the past 10 years. Its satisfied clients are from the exclusive estates and boutique hotels. Helen Byloo, the interior decorator, has a bold, unique and colourful style. Her extended list of highly satisfied homeowners bears witness to her skill and passion. Be it world-famous wallpapers, fabrics, decor accents or bespoke furniture items, Suda West provides it all.

Professionals list Afridecks – Decking +27 (0)74 102 2075, des@afridecks.co.za, afridecks.co.za Suda West Interiors – Interior Decorating Suda West Interiors, +27 (0)32 946 0968

28 | December 2012 / January 2013

+27 (0)32 946 0968, info@sudawest.co.za, sudawest.co.za

LUXURY FOR WORK OR PLAY A warm and friendly welcome awaits guests at this stylish, custom-designed, contemporary and conveniently located five-star guest house, Auberge Hollandaise Guest House. Offering a ‘Taste of Europe’ in the heart of Durban North, the guesthouse is within easy driving distances to the renowned and popular landmarks of KZN.

views overlooking the swimming pool and the Indian Ocean or lush garden views. All rooms offer air conditioning, tea- and coffee-making facilities, selected DSTV channels, laptop safes and free WiFi. The bathrooms are roomy and elegant with large showers, imported Italian basins and heated towel rails. The bathtubs are Victorian-style and the soft lighting provides a perfect way to unwind.

Auberge’s suites are spacious, featuring king size or twin beds, either with balconies or beautiful

Check in and check out times are normally: 2pm check in and 11am check out.

TOP AGENTS

Re/max Panache Top Agents Shoot shot on location at Auberge Hollandaise Guest House Photographer Val Adamson

chaRmaine lingaRd +27 (0)82 324 8099 and sandy Rankin +27 (0)83 456 8456 Property consultants ‘Our energetic and unique team combines the strength of mutual trust with a shared vision. We have caring, lasting relationships with our clients, and these together with our combined experience of 19 years in real estate and our passion to excel keep us breaking new sales records year after year.’

managhee naickeR Property consultant +27 (0)83 786 5249 ‘I have been with RE/MAX Panache for seven years and operate mainly in La Lucia and have been a member of one of the top teams in KZN for many years. As a resident agent of Ilala Ridge Estate I am motivated to serve my clients and continue my success in real estate.’

molly wilson +27 (0)83 679 1767 and keRRy bailey +27 (0)82 418 9666 Property consultants ‘We are a motherand-daughter team who work in a very successful partnership. We both grew up and reside in Durban North and have been in real estate for 17 and 10 years, respectively. The secret to our success is a passion for real estate – allowing us to help families find their dream home – plus lots of hard work.’

30 13 ||December December2012 2012//January January2013 2013

TOP AGENTS hot property

grant gavin Broker/owner +27 (0)82 458 4083 ‘2012 has been a recordbreaking year for RE/MAX Panache – in fact, the best in our 16year history, and this is a real credit to our team, agents and admin staff included. We have been the No. 1 RE/MAX office in KZN since 2008, and with 60 outstanding agents, we remain the No. 1 real estate team in the Durban North suburbs and a destination of choice for top-producing agents.’

Deanne hamilton Property Consultant +27 (0)82 563 4280 ‘My team’s success is due to the wonderful support of my family, friends and clients. I have built a very successful business with RE/MAX, being awarded as the No. 1 RE/MAX agent in KZN for the past seven years, and being consistently placed second in RE/MAX of Southern Africa for the past five years.’

feliCity sherratt Property Consultant +27 (0)82 349 8360 ‘I joined the real estate industry 12 years ago and my main focus since 2006 has been Izinga Ridge. As a past and present resident I strive towards providing my clients with a professional service, and my continued success, for which I am extremely grateful, is a tribute to the amazing support I receive from my community.’

vimla naiDoo Property Consultant +27 (0)83 270 0239 ‘I have 21 years’ experience in the real estate industry and have specialised in the Durban North and Umhlanga Rocks areas for the past 19 years. I am proud to have been part of changing trends and the growth in these areas, and look forward to assisting future clients.’

thepropertymag.co.za | 14 31

TOP AGENTS

seeff dolphin coast kelvin isaac palm lakes & sectional Title Specialist +27 (0)82 339 1136 ‘Entering the property profession with a background in hospitality and sales brings a fresh perspective to the market. I have chosen to focus on first-time and investment buyers and as a result I have become a sectional title specialist in the area. Joining the excellent Seeff Dolphin Coast team was a smart and savvy move.’

Yvonne Wicks seaward estates & Ballito Specialist +27 (0)82 333 1799 ‘I am privileged to be part of the dynamic and successful Seeff team. I come from a proud family of real estate professionals and have been in the industry for eight years. My success is based on teamwork, passion, customer service and specialisation. My passion for the industry is something I hope to project to all my clients.’

December 2012 2012//January January 2013 2013 32 15 || December

michael schuit commercial agent +27 (0)79 606 3244 ‘I am proud to be associated with Seeff, which is a dynamic and professional company. At Seeff Commercial we see ourselves as dealmakers, facilitating wise investment choices. We strive to go the extra mile for our clients and are confident in and excited about commercial property’s growth prospects in Ballito and the surrounding areas.’

tammY messitertooze Westbrook & Beachfront Specialist +27 (0)72 541 8822 ‘I have 18 years’ experience selling real estate, of which 11 have been dedicated to the North Coast. I specialise in Westbrook, where I built my home, as well as Ballito, where I began my career. Together with the dynamic Seeff team, I hope to make more dreams materialise for my clients and me.’

tim johnson sales director +27 (0)82 424 6202 ‘Seeff is a brand on the move in KZN and our Dolphin Coast team is leading the way. The real estate industry is evolving and we’re keen to challenge perceptions, constantly innovate and offer an educated, professional and ethical service to our clients. We call it “the Seeff Difference” and we invite you to experience it for yourself.’

melanie parnell rental agent +27 (0)82 556 2416 ‘I’ve been in the property industry in the Ballito area for over 10 years. I am passionate about people and property and have watched the rental market evolve. I jumped at the opportunity to join Seeff Dolphin Coast to get their rental side up and running in early 2012 and have not looked back.’

TOP AGENTS hot property

ryan hunt Palm Lakes & Prince’s Grant Specialist +27 (0)82 786 4170 ‘I have one simple philosophy: that a person’s decision to invest in property is one of if not the most important decision he or she will ever make. I am very proud to represent Seeff Dolphin Coast and I’m passionate about Palm Lakes Estate.’

kim baiLey Simbithi Specialist +27 (0)83 448 2632 ‘I live in Simbithi and my knowledge of the area together with my passion for my clients has enabled me to achieve pleasing results. Working for Seeff has been the highlight of my 10-year property career. They have dynamic and hard-working agents and have instilled in us a value system that benefits our clients.’

andreas wassenaar Principal and Zimbali Specialist +27 (0)82 837 9094 ‘I am delighted with the outstanding sales performance of our Seeff Dolphin Coast Team for 2012 and looking forward to a positive 2013. Having won Seeff Licensee of the Year 2011 and increased our sales by 70% in 2012, our team is dedicated to professional service delivered in a fresh and savvy way. Our strategy of specialisation has proven successful and ensures that each Seeff agent becomes the absolute authority on property within his or her area.’

Gail Kuhlmey Salt Rock & Sheffield Beach Specialist +27 (0)82 680 4858 ‘I have 10 years’ experience in real estate. I recently relocated to Ballito and am thrilled to be associated with Seeff Dolphin Coast and am excited to be specialising in the Sheffield Beach, Salt Rock, Chaka’s Rock and Thompson’s Bay areas, which offer everything from breathtaking beachfront homes and apartments to value-formoney family homes.’

darreLL abeL Simbithi Specialist +27 (0)83 262 5322 ‘After 10 years in property sales, five of which focused on Simbithi Eco-Estate, there is no doubt that a combination of area specialisation and being in the Ballito area have contributed to the successful career I have enjoyed in this vibrant, ever-changing industry.’

saLLy edLmann Zimbali Specialist +27 (0)79 773 6431 ‘Zimbali is a unique and exclusive environment best complemented by the representation of one of South Africa’s leading brands. I am passionate about the estate and matching buyers to properties, thereby fulfilling my clients’ mandates.’

thepropertymag.co.za thepropertymag.co.za || 33 16

TOP AGENTS

PROGRAMME SYNOPSIS

3 Days

The ICPP is a 3 day programme targeted at people who have no experience or formal knowledge of the Commercial or Industrial Property Industry.

4 Days

The ECPP targets people who have had some experience or formal knowledge of the Commercial or Industrial Property Industry. This 4 day programme deals with introduction of property developments, valuations, feasibility studies, property finance and financial calculations.

PFP

TBA

This programme applies accounting concepts in the property sector. It will look at ratios and trends and teach delegates how to interpret the financial statements and manage trust accounts. It is a key career enhancing course for those employed in financial departments in commercial property.

Property Management Programme

PMP

1 Year

The PMP provides participants with a comprehensive overview of processes and decision making in the property management work environment.

Certificate for the Commercial Property Practitioner

CCPP

1 Year

CCPP is a one year correspondence programme and is for practitioners and brokers involved in office, retail and industrial leasing, management and investment.

2 Weeks

This intensive resident two-week course, held at the GSB in Cape Town, is South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier management programme on property finance, valuation, property law, negotiation, investment, development, marketing and management. The caliber of participants is traditionally very high and the standard of instruction is therefore pitched at senior management and industry professionals.

4 Months

The International Property Leadership Programme (IPLP) offered by SAPOA in partnership with Wits Business School (WBS) and includes an International Study Tour. The Programme has been designed for senior executives in the Property industry.

ICPP

Essential Commercial Property Programme

Property Financial Programme

ECPP

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COURSES

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WWW.SAPOA.ORG.ZA FACILITIES MANAGEMENT Facilities Management Programme

Intensive Project Management Programme for the Built Environment

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FMP

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BCTP

1 Week

The FMP is an intensive course of facilities management which is held over five days.

1 Week

This course held over five days is designed for participants in first level and middle management positions. It covers proven generic areas of project management and introduces more innovative and novel practices in project management in the build environment.

1 Week

The course is structured to satisfy the needs of many property practitioners who take responsibility for the erection, maintenance, redevelopment, facilities management, project management of existing buildings and building projects and who never had formal training or education in building construction technology.

TOP AGENTS

2 Brettenwood Lakes

Elegantly designed this 272m2 executive villa has beautiful lake frontage in a tranquil setting. This North-East facing home has 3 bedrooms with 2.5 bathrooms and comes fully furnished with quality fittings throughout. This designer home is also close to one of Brettenwood Coastal Estate’s many walking trails. Offered at R3 250 000

198 Kingfisher Boulevard

257 Ibis Crescent

This site has the perfect blend of sea, lake and forest views and couldn’t be more perfectly situated. It is a level 1116m2 stand with potential for a double storey family home. With lots of hiking trails nearby and access to some wonderful facilities on the estate, this plot won’t be around for very long. Offered at R995 000

118 Red Bishop Close

This perfectly positioned 323m2 family home has 3 beautiful bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a study and a spacious double garage. With views overlooking the lush green belt on the estate this property also has a flat level garden that’s great for the kids. Offered at R3,750,000

This hassle-free investment option has been architecturally designed to maximise the the natural elements of sunlight and sea breezes with the flexibility of tailoring this home to suit your individual needs. The contemporary open plan design of 432m2 boasts 3 spacious upper level bedrooms, all en-suite plus a 4th bathroom, and the lower living level flows onto the entertainment patio and pool with a pub. Offered at R5 107 600

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Residents of Brettenwood Coastal Estate enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, indigenous forests, acres of space and views that will take your breath away... and that’s just the start. The Estate offers a number of lifestyle options in which to build your dream home and a new elegantly designed clubhouse is currently under construction. Located on KwaZulu Natal’s magnificent North Coast, this secure, upmarket housing estate is conveniently located close to King Shaka International Airport and is just a stone’s throw away from Ballito and its stunning beaches. No short term letting is allowed on the Estate, ensuring maximum privacy and tranquility over the holiday periods. Land offered from R700 000.

Contact our sales team today to get a taste of Designer Living… naturally

The

PArty

Whether you’re hosting Christmas lunch, an all-night New Year’s Eve bash or just a summer gathering of friends, read these pages and yours will be a party to remember Words Genevieve Fisher

t’s official: the party season is upon us! Luckily for us, our festive season occurs at the height of summer, giving us the option of taking our Christmas, New Year’s or cocktail parties outdoors. Here we bring you the latest in food and beverage products, ideas and trends as well as advice from a top caterer and stylist, not to mention innovative ways to deck out your pad. Dim the lights, turn the music up and toast to balmy summer days and nights.

Food and drink are two of the most important factors of a good party. Here we get tips from a caterer, and present new foodie and drink products and ideas

last minute. The more time you give the caterer to put together your event and visit your house, the better your result will be. Make sure the caterer is given the exact time your guests will be arriving and that the caterer arrives a minimum of two hours ahead of your guests, to set up and to brief staff. Clear your kitchen of your personal items ahead

What the caterer SayS

of time. If your event is for more than 80 guests, a tasting is essential.

Joburg’s doyenne of event catering, Karen

If you have a colour scheme, make sure the caterer is aware of this, to

short, from by Word of Mouth, gives us her

match up garnishes or other small touches.

top tips for catering a home party.

• Create an atmosphere: light candles, dim the lights, put on some great music. If you are seating guests at dinner, don’t seat partners

• Plan your party thoroughly and well in

next to each other, and definitely plan and pre-seat your guests, as

advance. Know what menu will suit your

this encourages guests to talk and makes for a far more interesting

guests, the weather and the type of party result you want to achieve.

evening. Take time to focus on small details – these are always noticed.

For example, don’t do a sit-down dinner if you want guests to mingle

Arrange some flowers, make an effort with an arrival drink, and

or dance. Make sure when planning the menu that you are aware of all

perhaps have a great serviette detail. Don’t forget to place flowers

the dietary requirements. If you are cooking, prepare whatever you

or candles in the guest bathroom; there’s nothing worse then a dirty,

can in advance.

messy bathroom.

• Staffing a function is to me one of the most important things that a

• Make sure you have all the correct drinks to match the food, or a

host must not skimp on. If you employ barmen and waiters and brief

special drink that only some VIp guests drink. Make sure you have

them thoroughly, you and your partner are freed up to mingle with

enough ice and lemons for the bar and that all your drinks are properly

your guests. Another benefit of this is that at the end of your event,

chilled. If you are planning a big party, have a reputable taxi company

your house is clean.

close by to arrange safe transport home for those guests who

• If you are bringing in a catering company, choose seasonal items for

are over the limit.

the menu – it will be more cost effective. Don’t book a caterer at the

+27 (0)11 553 7600, bywordofmouth.co.za

Perfect Hideaways

NIbbles aND tiPPles

SteP-by-SteP parTY DelIghTs Need expert guidance on

Party Dogs

party treats? get a copy of

To keep guests satiated well

Celebrate by the acclaimed

into the early hours, every

Tina bester, chef-proprietor

party needs at least one of

of Cape Town’s Queen

these. The Fairground hotdog

of Tarts. her latest book

Warmer heats the ‘dogs’ within

is filled with delectable

five minutes – simply screw

step-by-step recipes

them onto the rollers while

and beautiful imagery

they’re rotating and they’ll

of treats for all different

keep warm until ready to be

types of celebrations.

eaten. The best part is that

+27 (0)21 461 6808,

it’s so easy to clean – the rollers detach individually for washing.

quivertreepublications.com

available online from Yuppie gadgets. yuppiegadgets.co.za

38 | December 2012 / January 2013

2013 ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

the Cool fAcTor This is our favourite innovative way

CoCktail JAM

to get the party started. Silicone

Soco Share Jars by Southern comfort are the

ice Shots are silicone moulds that

best way to share cocktails with friends this party

allow you to make 44 ml shot glasses

season. Based on the ‘jam jar’ concept of mixing

out of ice. Up the cool factor and

cocktails in a big glass jar and popping straws in

create multicoloured shot glasses

for friends to share, the 750 ml Soco Share Jars

by sprinkling a few drops of food

have four holes in the lid to dunk your straws

colouring into the water before

through. Purchase Southern comfort original

freezing. Available online from Yuppie

from selected Tops stores nationwide and receive

gadgets. yuppiegadgets.co.za

a complimentary Soco Share Jar at the till point upon presentation of the peel-and-read sticker attached to the bottle. southerncomfort.com

Moooi cool! This container Vase by Marcel Wanders for acclaimed Dutch design house Moooi is not just pretty, but also useful. Use it to cool your party bubbles. Just pack it with ice, pour and sip away! +27 (0)83 276 7978,

Pastry high

moooi.com

Pastry lifts are an essential part of any entertainment arsenal. The Protea pastry lift by Aboda is modelled on protea leaves and twigs and is available in gilded silver, brass and bronze from online shopping portal Meekel, which specialises in South African design. aboda.co.za; meekel.co.za

tuMbler TAPAS We love these revol crumpled Tumblers. resembling disposable paper cups, they are in fact made of glazed porcelain. Perfect for serving tapas, olives, dip and condiments, they’ll definitely be a talking point at your next drinks party. Available from Entrepo. +27 (0)21 462 2063, entrepo.co.za

For Civilised PArTY-goerS if your idea of summer entertaining is a fabulous tea party with cucumber sarmies,

suMMer SerVeD UP

quiche and sweet treats, then Yswara luxury

When it comes to serving festive food,

African teas should be on your shopping list.

nothing says ‘luxury and quality’ quite like

This exclusive range of precious and rare

le creuset. We love this summery al fresco

blended African teas and teatime accessories

spread of serving vessels. Done in fresh

are now available from The Wish collection

blue and green shades, they accentuate the

in Sandton city. +27 (0)11 784 0408,

scrumptiousness of the food served in them.

thewishcollection.co.za; yswara.com

+27 (0)861 773 321, lecreusetshop.co.za

thepropertymag.co.za | 39

A top Cape Town stylist helps you get your pad party-ready. Add to the fun with innovative products and ideas.

cluster in oversized vases, sometimes with only one branch per vase. Other options, including proteas and other types of indigenous flowers, can be found in abundance at the flower markets all year round. Another way to display your flower is by casually hanging several

WHat tHe stylist says

strings of flowers from a rustic rod, creating a flower curtain. You can

Kerstin Eser of Plascon Design Centre

make these strings of flowers out of paper, if you require a little more

in Cape town has many years’ industry

longevity from your flower curtain. These curtains can be used in the

experience. She shares her tips on adding

centre of a room as a screen, or in a doorway, or above your table, or

that wow factor to your home decor and

even against a blank wall, creating instant art.

styling when you host a party.

• Another great idea is to create a wall or ceiling of white balloons. White is best because when light shines through the balloons it creates

• Without sounding too formal, the first

a soft ambient light. in order for it to have an impact you need to use

place to start is your colour palette. i would suggest a palette

as many large balloons as possible, strung tightly together.

(and decor at that) which could possibly last longer than your party.

• If you don’t go with the balloon idea, try a cluster of Chinese

Why does your party need to end after the night? Choose decor

lanterns or paper hanging flowers indoors and outdoors. These are

that doesn’t need be taken down after the actual event, and let

very inexpensive and create a dramatic effect when many are used

the merriment linger for a little longer than a few hours. White and

together. they also create a lovely soft ambient light. You could also

monochromatic tones, such as greys and black, are safe starting

hang clusters of them (using white ribbon to suspend them) from a

points and won’t fight with your existing home decor. Plus, if you add

string of fairy lights. And if you require something more striking than

a splash of bright colour to your palette, the monotones will provide

the plain white shades, then paint them – in black-and-white stripes, or

the perfect backdrop for it to stand out. Mint or apple greens are great

gold, or silver.

against black and white. Turquoise blue looks very strong against

• Floor cushions and makeshift swing beds are great for

shades of grey. Soft pink, soft grey, and black-and-white work really

accommodating lots of people and give a casual and easy atmosphere

well together.

for after-dinner festivities. Creating this setting outdoors is fantastic,

• Flower arrangements will make your home come alive and look

with fairy lights and candles placed around the garden and in the trees.

festive, whatever the occasion. I like informal arrangements of

And to take this theme even further, hang a sheet or a white screen in

branches or sprigs of seasonal flowers from your garden, such as

the garden and make your very own outdoor cinema, with cushions

magnolias and blossoms. i love to place these long branches in a

and candlelight. +27 (0)21 427 8918, plascondesigncentre.co.za

Hanging out

PimPing Your PAd

What we love about these Christmas decorations by Skinny laMinx is that they are great additions to your home decor even after the festivities are over and the tree has come down. they are laser-cut from birch plywood, and you can hang them from just about anywhere: door handles, coat hangers, and drawer and cupboard handles. You can even create a wall feature by hanging them from nails. +27 (0)21 424 6290, skinnylaminx.com

going DutcH Add a touch of international flair to your dinner party table with these 17th-century-Dutch-style sculptural glasses by deon Viljoen Fine Art in Stellenbosch. nationwide shipping available. +27 (0)21 882 9996

Festive lights these Jar lights by let there Be light will add

We Heart gArlAndS

a romantic ambience to a hot summer evening

These coloured card garlands make for easy,

gathering. Whether you’re dining al fresco,

attractive decor accessories. hang them from lights,

or partying in the garden, you’ll want these

door handles and chairs, or loop them around pot

hanging from the trees. Each jar is filled with a

plants to add a playful touch. they last much longer

curl of delicate fairy lights, a hanging chain and

than their floral ancestors. Available from Meekel.

a lid-fitted battery. Available from Meekel.

meekel.co.za

40 | December 2012 / January 2013

2013 ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

coasteR CHIC We love these sets of felt coasters by touchy Feely. For the more civilised dinner party, there are the pretty yet dramatic black doily coasters, and for the more flamboyant celebration there are the No Feet on the table coasters – just in case your guests need reminding. Available from meekel. meekel.co.za

Rocking remotely one of the most essential ingredients to a rocking party is great sound. the new outCast loudspeaker system from the HFX Group is portable, wireless and made for outdoor use. It talks to your iPod as well as cellphones, laptops and home computers. +27 (0)861 000 861, hfxsystems.co.za

solaR StArS

the giFt that KeePS oN GIVING

offset your carbon footprint with

A great gift idea for guests at your dinner party is recipe cards

these solar powered decorative rope

printed with the recipe for one of the dishes at the table. these

lights from the lighting Warehouse.

recipe cards by essie letterpress come in a box of 20 and are

their soft glow will add to the mood of

printed on thick ivory paper. every time your guests make that

any party, indoors or out. Five hours’

dish, they’ll think of you. Available from meekel. meekel.co.za

charging in direct sunlight provides an eight-hour glow. +27 (0)11 201 2621, lightingwarehouse.co.za

PoP Art these novel pop-up Christmas cards by Keri muller of Simple Intrigue have been cut from playing cards. Use them as Christmas cards or as impressive table settings. the red-and-white cards are apt for the festive season, but at r25 each, we recommend you buy a few more and use them throughout the year. +27 (0)74 194 2288, © rynophoto

simpleintrigue.blogspot.com

Festive NeStS these porcelain bird nests by Helen Vaughan are another example of festive decor with longevity. Use them as tea light on the festive season, or to hold small plants or jewellery. +27 (0)83 631 3458, helenvaughan.co.za

thepropertymag.co.za | 41

Travel

Starry, starry night The African bush beckons from Jaci’s Safari Lodge Words Nicky Manson

ou enter Jaci’s Safari Lodge in Madikwe

providing special noodles for the kids’ dinners on request

Game Reserve in North West Province via

to supplying babysitters free every evening, it’s the special

an old-fashioned wooden swing bridge. It

care and attention to details that make the lodge and its

hangs over the brush and swings tentatively

staff stand out.

with every step – an exhilarating start to your African bush

Only eight suites (luxury tents) are available, so it is

adventure. The bridge leads to the main lodge, where ‘old

an intimate experience. These large canvas villas are of the

fashioned’ ends abruptly.

Out of Africa variety and sit on concrete slabs with under-

The lodge is beautiful. It is divided into separate areas

floor heating. The bathtub is also made from concrete and

and the furniture and upholstery are bold and proudly

can fit the whole family, while the outside showers allow

African, with bright, colourful printed fabrics covering the

you to engage with nature at will. The front flaps of the tent

sofas and classic armchairs in the lounge area and blocks of

remain open throughout the day so that you’re looking out

colour used for the dining room chairs in the restaurant area.

onto nature at all times until evening falls. On your return

The main lodge is made up of an upstairs bar, curio shop,

from the evening game drive, you find your room has been

and open-plan kitchen and dining area, which extends out

zipped up – you don’t want to sleep with the monkeys – and

onto the wrap-around deck and cosy lounge area. A large

the deliciously romantic mosquito nets have been dropped

fireplace takes centre stage and the comfortable pillows that

(Madikwe is a malaria-free area).

surround it ensure that it’s a popular chill spot between meals.

Of course, you would not be visiting Jaci’s if you were

Jaci’s Safari Lodge prides itself on putting guests first

not a fan of wildlife. Jaci’s boasts one of the biggest wild dog

and the staff try to accommodate your every whim. From

populations in SA. The Big Five is also present. We saw four

42 | December 2012 / January 2013

Travel

“Of course, you would not be visiting Jaci’s if you were not a fan of wildlife. Jaci’s boasts one of the biggest wild dog populations in SA. The Big Five is also present”

of the Five on our first day, including being greeted by a large herd of elephants before we’d even reached camp. Kids can join in the fun too on a Jungle Drive just for them – we learned first-hand about various animals’ prints, what they eat and so forth (yes, we trailed along, but it’s great fun to view animals with a bunch of enthusiastic youngsters). Some mid-afternoon snacks, with cold beers for the adults, ensured the drive home was comfortable and relaxed – apart from the four female lions who crossed our path and appeared to be stalking their evening meal … Or us. Besides the two daily game drives, there are also two swimming pools for the warmer months as well as a spa and a kids’ play area, but we recommend just chilling, because you couldn’t choose a more beautiful destination. Dining out is somewhat different here. Brunch is served after the morning game drive (rusks and coffee are mandatory accompaniments) and then dinner after the evening game drive. Three-course meals are the name of the game. You will certainly not go hungry, and on special evenings the camp offers buffets and entertainment in the bomas. What’s not to like? Eat alongside an open fire under the stars and then fall asleep to the sounds of hyenas laughing in the distance. It is a genuinely African experience. +27 (0)83 700 2071, madikwe.com

thepropertymag.co.za | 43

Travel

Opening page, clockwise from top The exclusive Nare Suite; Jaci’s by night; the bridge leading to camp. This page, clockwise from top Raised dining boma among the trees; wooden stairs to the bar in the main lodge; bursts of colour in the lounge; a spacious double tent hybrid – more than enough room for families; rhino – one of the Big Five you can see on safari at Jaci’s.

44 | December 2012 / January 2013

Just ProPerty GrouP KZN awards eveNiNG

Doing them justice Just Property Group hosted a dazzling awards evening in celebration of its top-achieving agents in KwaZulu-Natal Words André Fiore Photographs Terry Haywood

sense of sparkle was in the air almost before the bubbles started travelling up the fluted glasses. This was the first Just Property Group Awards Evening to be held in KwaZulu-Natal, with 80 or so of the group’s most valued staff members, clients and partners attending the function at the gracious Riverside Hotel & Spa in Durban North. The mix was ideal for a splendid evening, and as the doors opened onto a glittering blue-and-silver function room, there was no doubt that everything was going to be just perfect. A smooth Sean Dercksen, aka ‘Jean Jacques the World-Famous Fighter Pilot’, took his place as MC while guests settled at tables decked with heavy silver candelabra and silver bowls of yellow flowers. On behalf of Just Property Group CEO, John Roberts, and Financial Director, Paul Stevens, Sean welcomed the guests, extending a special thanks to sponsors and VIP guests, including Private Property, Prop Data, Woodhead Bigby & Irving Inc., Integrated Insurance Administrators, and The Property Magazine. Great business achievements are strengthened by great support systems and working relationships, the above being some that Just Property Group truly values. Great business achievements were also, of course, what the evening was about, and John told us a little more about the extraordinary growth and success of

Just Property Group: ‘Just 10 years ago, Just Letting was launched, at a time when nobody wanted or spoke about the rental industry and other real estate companies ditched their inferior rental stock. Now, 10 years later, at a time when the property industry is suffering widespread stress and other companies are consolidating businesses or shrinking, Just Property Group is in a position to celebrate its very first regional awards evenings across the country. ‘We have believed in ourselves, partnered with the right partners, and have grown to become a force to be reckoned with. We do not stand back for any real estate company in the country,’ added John. ‘In 12 months we will be the leading property company in the country.’ John thanked his staff and guests for buying into the bigger picture. ‘We can be the greatest, as long as we believe we can do it, and tonight’s function is a solid prediction of this.’ With divisions including Just Letting, Just Residential, Just Commercial, Just Finance and Just Invest, it was of great interest to see just how well the group has been performing. Substantial growth has been recorded and the group can boast over 150 owner-operated franchises, with new franchises added in the last six months in Brooklyn, Grahamstown, Hermanus, Welkom, Cradock, East London, Harare, Motherwell, Paarl, Swakopmund and Newcastle.

But, of course, it is the people behind the franchises who make it happen, the people who believe in the group, and the impressive figures and achievements mentioned during the awards ceremony were certainly a testimony to those who had gone the extra mile. Moving moments were shared too, when Lloyd Robinson, principal of Umhlanga Just Letting, accepted a posthumous award for Maureen Stinton for her exceptional contribution. Part of any function of this calibre is a magnificent meal and some well-deserved relaxation and, fittingly, guests were treated to a glorious buffet spread, including roast rib of herb-encrusted beef with demi-glace and horseradish, roast chicken pieces, roast paprika potatoes, savoury rice, seasonal mixed vegetables and salads, and a truly decadent dessert. Thereafter, the lights were turned down, the music turned up, and it was time to unwind. Just Property Group Head Office 51 Old Main Road, Gillitts. +27 (0)31 765 6609, justpropertygroup.co.za The Riverside Hotel & Spa 10 Northway Road, Durban North. +27 (0)31 563 0600, riversidehotel.co.za

thepropertymag.co.za | 45

Just ProPerty GrouP KZN awards eveNiNG

The Sponsors

privateproperty .co.za

Private Property National Sponsor – Mark Coetzee Private Property continues to ensure that the Just Property Group brand has a strong presence on its website, and this has definitely aided the growth of the Just Property Group. +27 (0)31 583 2870, privateproperty.co.za

Prop Data National Sponsor – Scott Allnatt Prop Data has been instrumental in growing the Just Property Group’s online presence via Just Property Group’s website as well as on Facebook and, just recently, on Twitter. As a web design company and ISP, Prop Data is a one-stop shop for all of Just Property Group’s Internet and online requirements. +27 (0)31 266 0035, propdata.net

Woodhead Bigby & Irving Inc. Regional Sponsors – Allison Schoeman, Ian Johnson, Bedver Irving, Russell MacDonald Woodhead Bigby & Irving (WB & I) Inc. has assisted us immensely this year, not only by providing us with stateof-the-art training facilities, but also by sponsoring our KwaZulu-Natal Awards Evening. WB & I Inc. has been rated as the top KZN law firm in its category in a recent survey of the Top 800 South African companies. The firm offers expertise in all aspects of business and commercial law, property, trusts and estates, labour, maritime, banking and tax law. +27 (0)31 560 7400, woodhead.co.za

Back: John Roberts, Carol Heyns, Shelley Slee, Michelle

Moore, Shaun du Bois, Paul Stevens. Front: Lloyd Robinson, Lee Greef, Anne-marie Cornelius 2Willie van der Spuy, Nic Warrington, Scott Allnat 3Ian Johnson, Bedver Irving, Russell MacDonald 4Sharlee and Trevor Good 5Mark Coetzee, Natasha Grobbelaar, Heather and Earl Gabriel 6Niki Cornelius Nakita Elmira 8Rumba Naicker, Hester Burger 9Roger

Naidoo, Shashika Lahldas 10Rentia and André Klaassen, Mari and Lloyd Robinson 11Wendy Allnatt, Sharon Harvey, Carol Heyns, Priscilla Naidoo 12Charné Terr’blache, Shelley Slee van Deventer 13Back: John Roberts, Ian Johnson, Paul Stevens, Willie van der Spuy, Scott Allnatt. Front: Jenni McCallum, Mark Coetzee, Bianca van Deventer, Allison Schoeman Samantha and Mark van As 15John Roberts 16Paul Stevents

Andrea Tietz, Hanje Joubert 18Tammy and Shane Wepener

Sean Dercksen

46 | December 2012 / January 2013

Just ProPerty GrouP KZN awards eveNiNG

19 thepropertymag.co.za | 47

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Living

Luscious

La Lucia

Once a ritzy little residential suburb with a thick green belt of dense natural bush, La Lucia is no longer little, and that belt is paved with gold Words Anne Schauffer

t was the ‘La’ in La Lucia which always caused at least one raised eyebrow from those who lived outside the enclave. There’s something about giving your address as ‘Lady Ellen Drive in La Lucia’. Nobody seems to know whom Lucia was, or indeed, La, but the suburb was always considered elitist, and of course, in estate agent speak, ‘desirable’. Cosily wedged as it was between the family suburb of Durban North, suburban entry-level pockets such as Sunningdale to the west and the privileged northern plots of Umhlanga, La Lucia was perceived as ‘upmarket residential’, yet relatively low-key and self-contained.The lush green ridge running through it gave it a softer, more gracious appeal than its glitzier northern neighbour, and these were real homeowners with pets and kids, not holiday pads. That green valley appears to be more of a strip than a ridge today, but it is a protected environment and it’s not unusual to drive along this green lung and enjoy the sight of mongoose families sunning themselves on the verge or vervet monkeys eyeing the fruit on the surrounding properties. Looking up the slopes of La Lucia towards its western boundary of Umhlanga Rocks Drive, you’ll see that the wide green landscape is now visually more of a wall-to-wall puzzle of plain to plush gated estates

50 | December 2012 / January 2013

and ultra-glam homes. From its reputation as ‘pure residential’, the area has diversified in recent years into a number of distinctly different aspects, particularly since large tracts of no-go land were released and commerce came to town. Now La Lucia includes large residential homes strung out along the seafront and then, a hop across the M4, numerous little residential estates and freestanding homes surround everybody’s favourite shopping complex, La Lucia Mall, a retail centre not too big to frighten or exhaust, but big enough to satisfy all needs. Most of the older plots are of a family size and since much of the suburb is built on a slope they’re elevated and so have sensational views up, down and around the coast. Homes perched on roads such as Ellingham Drive have 180º views along the coastline, with the distant lights of Durban a magnificent sight to behold on a clear night. Other properties face north, enjoying the twinkle of the Umhlanga coastline or skyline. The major growth area for La Lucia is northwards on La Lucia Ridge, a vast area of designer commercial office parks, estates and standalone buildings for both major corporations and smaller enterprises. For those who live in any of the northern suburbs, this ridge together with Umhlanga’s is where much of the city’s business is done.The joy of the location

is its proximity to all the northern suburbs, and as the commercial aspect grows, so too does the infrastructure in terms of roads and amenities. Denis Davidson of Lighthouse Property Group says there are about 12 gated office parks in La Lucia, in which there are seven or eight different office buildings occupied by blue-chip tenants, including banks, attorneys and accounting firms. ‘There’s only one vacant commercial site left, and this is currently being developed,’ says Denis. The average valuation of residential property in La Lucia, according to Lightstone data, is close on R3,2 million. Obviously it depends on whether you can find a tired home in need of renovation or whether it’s already had its nip and tuck. It’s still possible to find a free-standing home in the R2,5-million range, if you’re prepared to roll up your sleeves. Renting is a different story. As Chris Tyson of Tyson Properties says, ‘There is a huge demand for rental properties in La Lucia and there are not many apartments in the area. There simply isn’t enough stock. Entry-level one-bedroom apartments are rented out for R7 000 per month. Rentals always depend on the value of the property. Generally, for a new apartment, you look at 0,8% of the purchase price for rentals. So for a R1-million new apartment, the investor

Living

can expect to receive about R8 000 per month in rent; on a R2-million apartment, R15 000 to R16 000 per month. The executive two-bedroom apartments should be rented for about R12 000 to R15 000 a month. The average three-bedroom home is R15 000 to rent.’ La Lucia and its ridge are within easy reach of King Shaka International airport and Dube TradePort (15 minutes on a good day) and are close to the M4, which leads straight into Durban City or north to Umhlanga village.There’s also direct access to the M41, which forms the northern border of the suburb and leads to the N3 ring

Living

road that covers all points of the compass. For a substantial retail injection, La Lucia Ridge is a few minutes away from the vast Gateway Theatre of Shopping and other adjacent shopping centres, hotels and good restaurants. And then there’s the beach and, indeed, the entire coastal strip. Whether it’s wind- or kite-surfing, strolling along the Umhlanga promenade with your pooch or simply sitting on your patio with the braai fire alight as you enjoy the ever-present sea breeze, the breaking waves, dolphins and shipping, a home and office on the ridge is certainly a good reason to get up in the morning.

Five things to do on La Lucia Ridge 1. Shop. La Lucia Mall and Gateway are a few litres of fuel away and together they carry most brands available to man. And woman. 2. Go to a good school. The Northern Suburbs have numerous great schools, right from government pre- to high schools to the likes of esteemed private co-ed schools Crawford La Lucia and Umhlanga College. 3. Beach it. From the quieter beaches stretching from adjacent Glenashley through to La Lucia right to those of the Umhlanga coastline, you can learn to kite-surf, deep-sea fish or wallow in the waves under the watchful eye of lifeguards at key spots. 4. Eat out. Gateway has a plethora of popular chains and restaurants, but outside the centre there’s a wide range of cosmopolitan eateries, both swish and slip-slops, such as Plaka, Al Firenze, Indian Summer, and Mamma Luciana’s. 5. Get thee to a spa. This is look-afteryourself country, so you’ll find some sensational spa experiences, from the rooftops of The Square Boutique Hotel & Spa on the Ridge to Teremok Boutique Hotel and the hammam experience at The Oyster Box (both Umhlanga).

thepropertymag.co.za | 51

Living

the agent speaks We chat to Chris Tyson of Tyson Properties about life in La Lucia. What’s changed in La Lucia over the past five years? The suburb is so centrally situated between Umhlanga and Durban, with easy access to the airport, that it’s a key area for development of commercial and residential property. With the growth of office space on the ridge, and the new Riverside commercial node, residents literally have work on their doorstep and have no traffic or time issues. This has made the region a very popular one in which to put down residential roots. tell us more about the commercial component of La Lucia? Our commercial division is very busy. It has become a very sought-after area for business properties. La Lucia also offers excellent retail facilities with the exclusive La Lucia Mall boasting most department and chain stores. What are the most recent developments in La Lucia? La Lucia is a very stable area which is almost completely built up. There is very little land available, so homebuyers generally need to renovate or demolish Opening page Oceana Views within The Executive is an exclusive complex of six apartments available

to build new houses. The last few

through Tyson Properties. Opening page Bottom Right SA Homeloans’ new building on the Ridge.

developments have now taken place,

Below Point Vista at The Executive. above La Lucia home.

with the demand for land reaching close to the R4-million mark. The final office blocks are now also under construction. The exclusive Executive development will house 60 homes and four apartment blocks, bringing the total number of homes available to 120. It’s a secure petfriendly estate and we currently have apartments available within Oceana Views and one apartment at Point Vista. There are only 12 sites remaining in the Executive to build a free-standing home. What makes it a desirable place to live? Well-sited La Lucia is an upmarket family-orientated area with beautiful treelined streets. It is one of the few areas which offer everything from upmarket shopping centres to good restaurants and a Virgin Active gym, not to mention its close proximity to a range of excellent schools and the airport. Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Umhlanga Hospital (and another new hospital just coming out the ground) and some of the finest beaches

With thanks to …

in Umhlanga make it an ideal area for

Denis Davison (Commercial) and Dawn Latham (Residential), Lighthouse Property Group,

families. It also has a very low crime rate.

+27 (0)31 561 5838, lighthouse.co.za Chris Tyson, Tyson Properties Umhlanga, +27 (0)31 561 6100, tysonprop.co.za

52 | December 2012 / January 2013

TongaaT HuleTT DevelopmenTs properTy Dinner

A game of Bridge

It was a (mostly) guys’ night out at Brasserie Restaurant, where Tongaat Hulett Developments’ Bridge City was the drawing card Words Niki Moore Photographs Sally Chance

hen we got together with Tongaat Hulett Developments (THD) and guests at Brasserie Restaurant at Quarters on Florida, the talk was all about elections (four more years for US President Barack Obama) and erections (the wildly ambitious Bridge City development on the outskirts of Durban). THD’s Cyril Gwala said,‘Bridge City is like a fivestar hotel just ready for the guests to arrive.’ The vast project is going to scramble Durban’s demographics with its bus and rail hub, shopping centres, hospital, magistrate’s court, 500-bedroom residential blocks, pedestrian malls and industrial zone. It’s already half snapped up by developers keen to serve the 1 million or so residents of Phoenix, Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu. ‘If I were white, I would be tickled pink,’ Cyril exclaimed. Guests were tickled pink by the signature cuisine of Quarters’ chef Denbigh Schlebush too. The serried ranks of Waterford crystal were filled with nectar from Dieu Donné estate as winemaker Stephan du Toit had us riveted with his accounts of winemaking.

Morgan Bird of Redefine Properties said his company was excited about Bridge City. Redefine had already taken the unusual step of investing in another greenfield project, THD’s Cornubia. ‘There’s a lack of industrial space in Durban,’ he said, mopping up his starter of duck crêpe with plum dipping sauce. This lack was commented on by many at the table, but THD Head of Sales, Soo Meyer, reassured them by describing the group’s nine projects, some of which have an industrial aspect. Soo was seated beside Lance Meyer (no relation), manager of property development at Eris, who is overseeing Mpumalanga New Town Centre in Cato Ridge. ‘Bridge City has huge potential. ‘It is going to diversify the business and service hubs in Durban,’ Lance commented through his starter. Ithala Executive, Beston Silungwe (former town planner for Greater Johannesburg, though he ‘takes no responsibility whatsoever for the mess it is currently in!’), told us about the 39 projects Ithala is running across SA, including mixed-use, shopping centre, industrial park and residential developments,

and said he was looking forward to finding out what Bridge City has to offer. Anton Maroun of QS and property development firm FWJK agreed. ‘Seeing it all together had a big impact. It’s a great location, well priced. This is a massive development and a new opportunity in a very affordable package,’ he said. Anton enjoys mountain biking, apparently the sport du jour among property developers. Investec’s Ian Burns lives in Cape Town but commutes regularly to Durban. ‘You can’t spend just one day here.You might have your meetings, but you also have to take in some cycling and surfing,’ he said. Bridge City is an iconic commercial site, he added. ‘The pipeline in Durban is the best for 20 years.’ Another biking fanatic is Stephen de Vries of Stefcon Projects. ‘Umkomaas Valley is one of the best biking venues in the world,’ he enthused. Stefcon built the suites and condos around Fairmont Zimbali Hotel, owns property in Riverhorse Valley and Ridgeside and is interested in Bridge City’s potential, he added. THD MD, Mike Deighton, showed off several roasties, a broken wrist and a fractured collarbone, the result

Guest list Morgan Bird Redefine Properties, Ian Burns Investec, Greg Cryer Key Developments, Mike Deighton Tongaat Hulett Developments, Stephen de Vries Stefcon Projects, Sixolile Dlomo Tongaat Hulett Developments, Stephan du Toit Dieu Donné Vineyards, Ken Forbes Tongaat Hulett Developments, Cyril Gwala Tongaat Hulett Developments, Brian Ive Tongaat Hulett Developments, Anton Maroun FWJK QS, Jenni McCallum The Property Magazine, Lance Meyer Eris Property Group, Soo Meyer Tongaat Hulett Developments, Niki Moore The Property Magazine, Doug Ross JT Ross, Beston Silungwe Ithala Group Properties, Moses Tembe Bridge City Spur, Tony Vaughan Media Nova, Claire Veitch The Property Magazine

thepropertymag.co.za | 53

TongaaT HuleTT DevelopmenTs properTy Dinner

of falling off his bike (he had since taken up road running, to give motorists a more challenging target.) THD Marketing Manager, Sixolilie Dlomo, said Riverhorse Valley was the pioneering development that had made Bridge City possible: ‘Riverhorse Valley was unique in many ways, and its success paved the way for us to proceed with the new development.’ By the time the main course arrived, the manne were sharing photos on their phones. Ken Forbes, development director at THD, displayed snaps of his recent visit to the Kruger, while Greg Cryer of Straight Line Properties gave us his idea of a wild time – snuggling up with his property prospectus: ‘We have acquired a site at Bridge City and have financing to build about 200 apartments.We have also introduced a unique financing model whereafter four years of paying rent the accrued rental becomes the deposit for purchase.’ Entrepreneur Moses Tembe was upbeat about Bridge City and Durban: ‘I predict that the country will grow at 3% over the next seven years, but Durban will grow at about 7%. We are only at the beginning of massive growth.’ THD Development Executive Brian Ive, a town planner who had recently returned from a visit to Australia, was excited about what he’d seen in Brisbane. ‘They’ve retrofitted the town centre to make it pedestrian-friendly,’ he said, tucking into the dessert of strawberry and white-chocolate tiramisu.‘We could do that too. In fact, at Bridge City we want to make the whole precinct pedestrian-friendly.’ With a business centre that’s 40% sold, and a half-sold-out shopping centre with footfall of 100 000 a day, Bridge City town centre is marching towards success.

Menu Starter Avo, herbed buffalo mozzarella, croutons, sun-dried tomato salad with pumpkin seed brittle, french dressing. Peking duck crêpe served with plum dipping sauce. Main Dorado line fish served with a lemon and caper butter cream and tempura-battered potato slices topped with mango and Peppadew salsa. Grilled lamb loin on a sweet potato and butternut rösti and grilled baby marrow and mange tout topped with a thyme and sherry jus and served with home-made mint sauce. Dessert White-chocolate and strawberry tiramisu. Assorted cheese platter served with seasonal fruit. Preserves and griddled French bread. Wine Dieu Donné Vineyards Maingard Brut Dieu Donné Brut Rosé Dieu Donné Sauvignon Blanc Dieu Donné Chardonnay Dieu Donné Noble Late Harvest

The Brasserie Restaurant at Quarters on Florida 101 Florida Road, Morningside, Durban. +27 (0)31 303 5246, quarters.co.za

Anton Maroun, Tony Vaughan, Greg Cryer 2Morgan Bird,

Doug Ross 3Iain Burns 4Tony Vaughan 5Jenni McCallum Sixolile Dlomo 7Stephan du Toit 8Lance Meyer 9Cyril Gwala

Greg Cryer 11Claire Veitch 12Moses Tembe 13Mike Deighton

Beston Silungwe 15Niki Moore 16Stephen de Vries 17Doug

Ross 18Morgan Bird 19Soo Meyer 20Brian Ive

54 | December 2012 / January 2013

TongaaT HuleTT DevelopmenTs properTy Dinner

thepropertymag.co.za | 55

R O IT lett ED os T G ES an U ri G Ad

Real estate

residential & commercial

Cycling into the future

Studying the property market cycles of the past is perhaps the only way of catching a glimpse into the property market of the future, writes RE/MAX of Southern Africa CEO, Adrian Goslett

ouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t we all love to be able to see into the future? In 1903, the president of the Michigan Savings Bank advised Henry Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lawyer not to invest in the Ford Motor Co. His reasoning was that the car was merely a novelty, a fad that would soon pass. I wonder what he would have said today. Although there is no sure-fire way for property investors to know what will happen in the property market in the future, sometimes the best way to look forward is to look backwards and see what lessons there are to be learnt from the past. Timing is crucial to the return on an investment property, although property is far more forgiving than other forms of investment. While purchasing investment property is not for the faint-hearted, knowing what to look for and when to buy will make the process far less daunting for the novice investor, and, once mastered, could lead to financial reward. If we look at the property cycles of the past few decades, we will see that there is a definite pattern that can be followed over a period of nine years. Every nine years there is an economic downturn, which takes an average of 10 months to complete from the top of the cycle to the bottom. The bottom of the cycle usually lasts approximately 24 months, followed

by a slow, solid upturn to the top, with a recovery period of about 64 months. Currently the South African property market is in this phase of recovery. The prevailing conditions of this phase of the cycle, such as interest rates at a low that we have not seen in the past 39 years, along with more affordable property pricing, make this an ideal time to invest. Since the beginning of 2011 there has been a marked increase in activity in the property market because of stronger demand from buyers and because financial institutions are showing a greater appetite for risk. The increased demand for property has continued into 2012, as more buyers are able to meet the criteria required for bond approval. And while there are still opportunities in the market in general, some regions have reported a shortage of certain types of property. Those investors who want to make the most of their property investment should strike while the iron is hot. When the market turns, property prices will begin to rise, and those who stood by idly without making the most of the current market conditions will lose out. It goes without saying that more profit can be made from buying property in a recovering market and selling in a boom period than if the property were bought and sold in the boom period.

Although an emerging property market is the ideal time for investors to buy, the same rules should still apply: investors should not rush into any transaction without conducting the necessary research. Having considered all the necessary aspects, such as the location and the type of property, wellinformed investors will be able to recognise a good deal when they see one. Firm knowledge of the market, as well as having an idea of what properties are selling for in certain areas, will allow investors to identify and differentiate between an overpriced property and one whose price is market related. Purchasing a property that is priced outside the marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current parameters will only erode the chances of seeing a healthy return in the long term. The cyclical aspect of the property market means that investors will always have to contend with the lows, and make the most of the highs. However, despite the peaks and troughs, property continues to be a sought-after asset that appreciates in value over the long term.

Adrian Goslett, CEO, RE/MAX of Southern Africa

thepropertymag.co.za | 57

Kwazulu-natal Commercial

Three new hospitals show that health care can still yield heathy returns for property developers

Facing forward Addington Children’s Hospital on Durban’s beachfront was built from 1928 and was for many years the only facility on the African continent solely dedicated to child and infant health care. In 1984, at the peak of the struggle against apartheid, the hospital was closed by the government of the time because it offered services to children of all races within its seven buildings, which spanned 1,4 ha and had four road frontages. It remained closed for the next 28 years. Now, 80-odd years after it was built, renovation has started on this historic facility, which has been renamed the KwaZulu-Natal Children’s Hospital. Aims are to re-establish the hospital as a world-class, cost–effective, transdisciplinary, environmentally friendly, sustainable child and adolescent health hub for treatment, prevention and care. This includes rehabilitation, psychological and social benefit support services, and community outreach and training, all of which are relevant to South Africa and to the African continent. The re-established hospital will include a number of specialised paediatric outpatient clinics, short-stay wards, training and research facilities, care-giver accommodation, counselling and rehabilitation facilities, a children’s health ‘exploratorium’ and a museum. The hospital will also be used to build the local capacity of health workers and researchers, as well as support community mobilisation and development. It will be part of a provincial ‘first’ health precinct and proposed inner city regeneration project that will address adult and child health and welfare issues, poverty and urban renewal in Durban’s inner city. The KZN Department of Health owns the property and has pledged a minimum of 25% towards the overall infrastructure costs of renovating the children’s hospital over a five-year period and will budget for the operational costs overall, including maintenance costs of the hospital. The KwaZulu-Natal Children’s Hospital Trust has been established as a non-profit public benefit entity to be the fundraising and project management arm of the re-establishment of the children’s hospital. The team of consultants on the project includes, among others, Ruben Reddy Architects (lead architect) and Heritage architects Rodney Harber and Trish Emmett. The renovation is expected to take between three and five years, with the total infrastructure cost estimated at R230 million (excluding equipment). The entire block will be restored, one building at a time. Phase 1 started in February this year with the reconstruction of the old outpatients building, which was built in 1956. The design of the new building distinguishes it as a contemporary facility dedicated to child health care, while remaining restrained and unobtrusive to the architecture of the main hospital building. The addition of a first floor to the building will allow for a new training centre, including a training venue for 50 people, paediatric skills-building laboratories, telehealth / telemedicine facilities and a resource centre, and the KZN Children’s Hospital Trust offices. It is expected to be operational early in 2013. Phase 2, includes bulk services development (with electrical substation, sewage and IT connections) as well as repairs to the roof and external facade of the old children’s hospital. Phases 3 and 4 will comprise renovations to the old nurses’ home, the old administration block, the central nurses’ home, the Prince Wing, the central museum and the old dining hall as well as landscaping and external work on a playground for children of all abilities. The KwaZulu-Natal Children’s Hospital Trust welcomes any monetary donations as well as volunteers offering their time and services. The new construction offers many opportunities for corporates or individuals to increase name recognition by contributing to this building effort. A range of options exist for sponsorship of naming rights at the hospital for a range of options, including consulting rooms, clinics, wards and buildings as well as the naming rights to the landmark clock tower and bell tower in the historic old building, says Dr Arthi Ramkissoon. +27 (0)82 410 5709, kznchildrenshospital.org.za

58 | December 2012 / January 2013

KWAZULU-NATAL Commercial

Gateway Private Hospital Construction has started on the new Gateway Private Hospital, which is scheduled to open in mid 2014. The hospital is a joint venture between JT Ross and Simphiwe Dingaan and Edith Sayo Skweyiya of Amoricare, Doctors YT Singh and Dirk Pretorius, and Tropical Paradise, a women’s investment group. It will be situated on the corner of Aurora Drive and Umhlanga Ridge Boulevard within Umhlanga New Town Centre. The 160-bed hospital will boast six theatres, including a cardiac catheterisation theatre and vascular theatre, and will offer ICU and high-care facilities. The focus will be on high-end specialities, including cardiology, vascular surgery, neurosurgery, cardiothoracic surgery, a specialised spinal unit with specialist rehabilitation, plastic surgery with a burns unit, oncology and pulmonology. On-site services will also include a casualty department, a pharmacy with in-patient and retail outlet as well as radiology and pathology departments. The facility aims to offer patients a selection of top specialists and will be equipped to the latest standards, to ensure patients receive the highest level of health care. The facility will be managed by JT Ross Hospital Management Services in association with Amoricare. +27 (0)31 372 9700, jtross.co.za

Inkosi Bhambatha Private Hospital The first private health care facility in Greytown, Inkosi Bhambatha Private Hospital is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2013 and will offer 60 beds, three theatres and high levels of specialised health care. Developed by the PG Mavundla Group, the R100 million project is just one of the group’s substantial investments in the Greytown area and is set to have a strategic influence on community development and economic empowerment in the region. Situated 70 km from Pietermaritzburg and midway between Pietermaritzburg, Empangeni and Stanger, the new hospital will provide a muchneeded service, as the only other hospital in the area is a 207-bed government facility. The hospital will be managed by Healthshare Health Solutions. +27 (0)33 413 1090, healthshare.co.za

thepropertymag.co.za | 59

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SPACIOUS FAMILY HOME

Says Anne Proksch, owner of 7 Sunbird Lane, Brettenwood Coastal Estate: “Maxine is consistently professional, ethical and helpful. She is proactive and very knowledgeable and I recommend her and her agency to anyone wanting to buy or sell their property”.

Maxine Poisson Principal Agent Cell: 083 799 9333 Email: maxine@mpea.co.za

Patti Smith Agent and Brettenwood Coastal Estate resident Cell: 083 253 9630 Email: patti@mpea.co.za

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We are KwaZulu Natal North Coast Property Specialists. Speak to us today about your options. Land • Property • Lifestyle • Investment

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www.umdonisites.com Prices from R250 000 to R700 000 This development offers the discerning investor the unique opportunity to invest in an exclusive eco reserve with wonderful natural beauty, situated close to Durban and the amenities of the Kwazulu Natal South Coast. The Umdoni Point Beach Estate is a pristine, exclusive residential estate situated on the edge of Pennington village. The Reserve, which has been held in trust for the last 118 years, is one of the last undeveloped pieces of coastal land on the Kwazulu Natal South Coast....

DONT MISS OUT! Rob le Sueur: +27 (0)82 450 9641 Chris le Sueur: +27 (0)84 555 0982 Office Tel: +27 (0)31 701 1069

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Ryan Proksch

+27 73 392 3233

info@villasvalriche.com I www.villasvalriche.com

Mauritius ProPerty Dinner

Heading abroad A property dinner like no other Words Nicky Manson Photographs Oomar Moidin

recent Property Dinner surpassed expectations. Firstly, it was a red-carpet event, attended by the who’s who of luxury realty, stalwarts of industry and business, diplomats and hotel general managers, members of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA), and the ministers of Tourism & Leisure and Youth & Sports. Secondly, the food, expertly paired with wines from near and far, delighted.We feasted on smoked marlin and pan-fried line fish. Throw in a number of specially concocted cocktails and it was certainly a memorable occasion. But more importantly, the venue is what set this dinner apart – after all, property is about location, location, location. The setting was Tides restaurant at Long Beach resort in Mauritius. Yes, you read that right: Property Dinners have moved across international waters to pure paradise. Set in Belle Mare on the eastern side of the island, Long Beach is only a year old but has already carved itself a niche in the holiday market,

catering to one and all, families and honeymooners, against a devastatingly beautiful backdrop. Imagine turquoise waters lapping at white sands while palm trees wave at you and you certainly have a magnificent setting for a special Property Dinner. The occasion was the hosting of friends of the magazine as well as new Mauritian contacts as The Property Magazine moves widely into the Mauritian market. Mauritius has long been a favourite holiday destination for South Africans and now it’s becoming a business investment hub too as many hotels and residential developments are offering South Africans the chance to buy their very own slice of heaven, at accommodating prices. Throw Mauritian residency into the deal and the opportunities are endless. We had representatives from Azuri,Villas Valriche, Anahita and La Balise Marina, all fairly new, upmarket developments that are throwing open their arms to South African investors. Business certainly is booming in Mauritius, as evidenced by the increasing number of hotels popping up there to meet escalating demand.

‘One of the nicest beaches in Mauritius,’ commented Tourism & Leisure Minister, Honourable Michael Yeung Sik Yuen. ‘Uniquely sheltered from the east’s renowned winds.’ Long Beach is popular for having its own government Invest Hotel Scheme (IHS). Of the 90-odd rooms set aside for purchase, 82 have already been sold to South African expats as well as to Mauritians, said Nicolas de Chalain, the hotel’s GM. People who buy into an IHS have full use of all the hotel’s facilities, and if you have ever visited Long Beach you will know that this is a huge perk. Some of our guests were visiting Long Beach for the first time and were taken aback by its grandeur. Jonathan Tagg of Pam Golding Properties Mauritius told us that Long Beach is the island’s biggest project to date and that they are so impressed with it that they have decided to hire its interior designer, Keith Mehner of Keither Interior Design, for one of their own projects. The construction of Long Beach incorporated many green building principles,

Guest list Bilal Adam Investec Mauritius, Nicolas de Chalain Long Beach, Robert Desvaux Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, Dominic Dupont La Balise Marina, Timo Geldenhuys Villas Valriche, Damian Hamp-Adams Azuri, Hugues Jannet Ciel Properties, Stéphane Jean Long Beach, Nicky Manson (Editor) The Property Magazine, Faaizah Marden Clin d’œil, Jenni McCallum The Property Magazine, Dr Karl Mootoosamy Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, Dr Nomvuyo Nokwe Former South African High Commissioner to Mauritius, Daniel Poupinel de Valencé Re/Max Mauritius (Moka), Nassir Ramtoola Investec Mauritius, Jonathan Tagg Pam Golding Properties Mauritius, Hon. Sylvio Tang Wah Hing Mauritius Minister of Youth & Sports, Clyde Vacher Sun Resorts, Nicolas Vaudin PwC Mauritius, Ivan Vosloo South African High Commissioner to Mauritius, Diane Watkins La Balise Marina, Hon. Michael Yeung Sik Yuen Mauritius Minister of Tourism & Leisure.

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including the recycling of plastics and electric cables and rubble from Le Coco Beach Hotel that once stood there. The only thing holding back the Mauritian holiday industry is that the flights cannot keep up with the number of visitors every day, but according to the minister this problem will soon be rectified as the airport is being revamped and Air Mauritius is extending its routes to Moscow, Poland and Shanghai and introducing more flights to South Africa. The evening certainly wasn’t all business. Daniel Poupinel de Valence, broker/owner of Re/Max Mauritius (Moka), taught us all about ‘Mauritian time’, where 6.30 p.m. for 7 p.m. really means any time after 9 p.m. South African expats Bilal Adam and Nassir Ramtoola from Investec Mauritius entertained us with their many anecdotes of their time in Mauritius and revealed which islands are must-visits, which catamaran tour cannot be missed and where to go for the snorkelling trip of a lifetime. There was some disagreement over Mauritius’s best dive sites – there are many – but it was agreed that it doesn’t matter how or where you end up, it’s the journey that counts. And with those prophetic words, the evening slowly wrapped up with some live music and a few more signature Long Beach cocktails. With flying fish, whales, and the gems of the Indian Ocean lingering in our memories, we dreamed of paradise – we dreamed of Mauritius.

Menu Starter Smoked marlin on lemon and chives whipped cream and blinis. Deep-fried scallop bonbon with citrus dressing. Sherbet Long Beach mojito sherbet. Main Red snapper fillet with ginger and lemon confit crust. Calamari risotto and foie gras red-wine sauce. Dessert Bitter chocolate sphere, cocoa nibs tuiles and ice cream, hibiscus flower jelly.

Tides Restaurant Long Beach Mauritius Coastal Road, Belle Mare, Mauritius. +230 401 1919, longbeachmauritius.com

Jenni McCallum, Nicky Manson (Editor) 2Hon. Michael Yeung

Sik Yuen 3Stéphane Jean 4Dr Karl Mootoosamy 5Dominic Dupont 6Damian Hamp-Adams 7Clyde Vacher 8Hugues Jannet Nassir Ramtoola 10Bilal Adam 11Diane Watkins 12Ivan Vosloo

Nicolas de Chalain 14Robert Desvaux 15Timo Geldenhuys

Daniel Poupinel de Valencé 17Nicolas Vaudin 18Hon. Sylvio

Tang Wah Hing 19Jonathan Tagg.

64 | December 2012 / January 2013

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prime property

Paradise a tale of

Imagine a blue belt of sky, a startling expanse of the Indian Ocean, sunkissed beaches and shady palms, and you have the setting for Ambre Words Nicky Manson

66 | December 2012 / January 2013

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mbre is a four-star hotel situated on one of the most beautiful beaches of Belle Mare on the east coast of Mauritius. Following its €10 million (about R12 million) revamp, the hotel had its official opening in October and is a breath of fresh air and a lick of new paint on the Mauritian resort scene. A Sun Resorts hotel, Ambre is all about families, and it’s worth considering for your next holiday spot, not just because it’s affordable, but also because of its beauty and serenity. It’s also full of facilities and activities, so if you choose the adventurous path, there is never a dull moment. Ambre’s striking feature is its pool area.You notice it as soon as you walk through the lobby. There is just no missing the mix of archways, comfy

seating, and the sparkling blue waters of the 735m2 swimming pool. This is the hub of the hotel and is very welcoming. It’s kiddie-friendly too, thanks to its cornered-off swimming area. From the pool area, the hotel branches off in two directions, leading respectively to various restaurants, the reception area, the pub, the nightclub and a teenagers’ club. Yes, you see – you will never be bored. Amenities include a fitness centre, two floodlit tennis courts, a functions room, a curio store, and access to Le Touessrok Golf Course and its golf academy down the road. Dining is a strong focus in Mauritian resorts, and Ambre is no exception.You can go upmarket at the lovely Indigo to enjoy Indian, Chinese and Creole specialities and other international

cuisine, or you can dress down in casual beach gear at the beach restaurant, La Plage (feet in the sand compulsory). Dolce Vita offers Italian dining, and Coral Bar offers fresh juices, exotic cocktails and snacks. Coral Bar’s interiors show a strong nautical influence, with blue-and-white striped cushions sitting alongside colourful floral prints. Above, a display of woven baskets creates a dramatic talking point. The bar comes alive in the evenings with shows, a DJ and a dance area. Add to the mix a Beach Bar, 24-hour room service, and beach- and poolside service, and you’ll see it is truly impossible to ever go hungry at Ambre. Accommodation is comprised of 297 guest rooms, including standard, superior or family rooms, to match the size of your budget or the size of

Opening page The open-air lobby and swimming pool greet you on your arrival at Ambre. This page, clockwise from top Ocean views from the swimming pool; long beaches to walk on, with plenty of shade provided too; family room patio with sea views.

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your family. The hotel’s wings extend along both sides of the pool, sitting on the white sands and overlooking the beautiful waters. The rooms have a wonderful island feel to their design and are fully equipped with a flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi access and air conditioners. The beaches are pristine and beg to be walked on, their sheer length allowing breathing room and making it impossible to ever feel crowded, regardless of occupancy levels. It’s there where you can really relax and breathe in the Mauritian air, which is punctuated with the lingering floral scents of frangipani. The beach is also a hub of water

sports and there is plenty to get involved in, from sailing and trips in glass-bottom boats to diving, snorkelling, windsurfing and volleyball. For the lazier, or should we say ‘more indulged’, guest, Ambre’s lovely spa is on hand to soothe away any stress that may still linger. The spa also has an outdoor Jacuzzi, a hammam, sauna and beauty parlour. World Leisure Holidays, +27 (0)60 954 954, res@wlh.co.za, wlh.co.za

Kids love it Ambre’s Sun Kids’ Club for 4-to-11-yearolds organises hikes, tennis, swimming clinics, eco excursions and special dining experiences, while the Sun Generation Club for 12-to-17-year-olds organises sport, recreation, and adventurous outings, such as beach braais and pizza nights. Ambre also has its own teens’ club.

Clockwise from top left Dolce Vita Restaurant; a chef holds out prime seafood; a young guest shows her approval of the safe kids’ swimming area; Le Touessrok Golf Club. Opposite A guest gets a massage in the hotel’s heavenly spa.

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10 x weekly Johannesburg flights: From 28 October, 2012, Air Mauritius will operate 10 X weekly flights out of Johannesburg, and additional supplementary capacity during peak holiday season. Increased frequencies direct from Cape Town to Mauritius: From 28 October, 2012, Cape Town flightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; capacity will also be simultaneously boosted with three flights direct to Mauritius, return, per week. Network connectivity: Furthermore, and also effective as of 28 October, 2012, Air Mauritius will offer network connectivity within six hours to all destinations, beyond Mauritius. These include highly competitive rates offered via international routes inclusive of: Australia, Malaysia; Singapore; London; Paris, India; China, Reunion, Kenya, Madagascar and more. For more information, go to: + 27 (0)11 601 3900, +27 (0)87 151 1848, airmauritius.com, smarttravel.co.za Many thanks to the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA); a parastatal organisation established in 1996 to promote Mauritius as a tourist destination. tourism-mauritius.mu

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decor & design

Constance rejuvenated Constance Le Prince Maurice has been refurbished, ensuring that it stays feature rich and ahead of the pack Words Tammy Sutherns

88 | October 2012

decor & design

auritius has fast become a pool of beautiful hotels, exotic getaway retreats and luxury resorts. To stay ahead

of the competition, the well-established Constance Le Prince Maurice has undergone a remarkable refurbishment. Revealed to the public in September, the additional features and magnificent upgrades have put this hotel on the tourist map all over again. ‘We are very excited about the changes at the Prince Maurice. It has always been considered one of the finest six-star hotels in Mauritius and we believe that the refurbishment will take it to a new level and set it apart from the competition,’ says General Manager Christophe Plantier.

In addition to the refurbishment of all the hotel’s suites and villas, its spa and its main restaurant, L’Archipel, new key features include a second heated swimming pool, a cellar with storage capacity for more than 15 000 bottles of wine, a floating bar near the Barachois floating restaurant, a sushi bar and golfing facilities. The reinvigorated spa menu includes yoga sessions for children, the Rum Spirit treatment, and treatments from the Sisley brand, which combine massage rituals from around the world with aromatherapy. Despite the many changes made to the hotel, Christophe says the architectural feel has not changed. ‘We have always focused on natural elements, light and space, with an emphasis on thatch, stone, marble, wood and water, and natural as well as intelligent lighting,’ he explains. A standout feature of the hotel is the lobby area, which, he says, never fails to take visitors by surprise. ‘The exclusive decor, cathedral-inspired roofing and infinity pool all combine for maximum dramatic effect.’ Christophe says the hotel group is

planning on maintaining its traditional markets while developing new markets. ‘The core elements of service, culinary excellence, firstclass spa facilities, family-friendly travel in its truest sense, sublime accommodation, passionate sommeliers, and a variety of activities and entertainment options all combine to make the Constance Hotels experience a stand-alone one. Where better to experience all of that than at the newly refurbished Constance Le Prince Maurice?’ The hotel has 64 junior suites, 12 family suites, 12 villas and one ‘Princely’ suite set on 60 ha of tropical gardens running alongside the beach.

+230 402 3636,

princemaurice.constancehotels.com

The seductive shoreline at Constance Le Prince Maurice. 2The enticing main swimming pool. 3–4Views of the refurbished junior suites. Like

the rest of the hotel’s architecture, the suites are built along the principles of feng shui. The beds, for instance, are elevated, to allow for the circulation of chi (life force). Overall, the hotel remains as romantic as ever. 5The tropical gardens lead directly onto the beach.

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Need property in Mauritius? With 35 years of experience - talk to us. Tel No. (021) 762 2617 mauritius@pamgolding.co.za www.pamgolding.mu

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2012/08/06 4:08 PM

2KEEPABREAST

MTB Challenge

Thank y

STBB wishes to thank all mountain bikers and visitors who supported our second annual 2KEEPABREAST MTB CHALLENGE held at Overgaauw Wine Estate, Stellenbosch on 27th November. The day was a huge success, as evidenced by the glowing feedback from participants, and we are grateful that the publicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support of this event for the promotion of breast cancer research and awareness, has enabled us to make a substantial donation to CANSA.

www.stbb.co.za

Ryan Proksch

+27 73 392 3233

info@villasvalriche.com I www.villasvalriche.com