Property OctObEr/NOvEmbEr 2012
Est. 2004, Issue 282
PrEtOrIA
decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate
Winner of 10 publishing awards
Behind the scenes
creative caPe town
sa’s iconic new Buildings
a sPecial getaway
aBalone house
9 771810 469028
Architects internAtionAl
12010
studio 3
RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Studio 3 Architects International. +27 (0)12 348 2005, studio3architects.co.za Atterbury Theatre.
>
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56
Contents
30
DecOr
Design
real esTaTe
13
18
16
hOt DecOr & Design Design goes virtual
TrenDs 11 12
HoT space
consTanTia Dreaming
Midrand campus makes
A rare share of the
learning sexy again
Constantia lifestyle comes under the hammer
classic in THe counTry
51
sloWly buT surely
An Irene home that’s built for
Koi restaurant in Lynwood
lazy summer afternoons and
Pam Golding Properties’
huge lunches on the patio
Retha Schutte on the state
HoT plaTe New places and new
30
of the Pretoria/Midrand
our Top 20 summer HiTs We bring you our favourite
living Why you should be living in Moreleta Park
56
Varsity College’s revamped
Swimming upstream at
products
41
24
eDucaTeD Design
items for outdoor living
36
TrenD WaTcH Fabulous outdoor lighting options
luxury
property market
52
preToria resiDenTial & commercial
neW HeigHTs
Introducing Centurion’s
We explore some of SA’s
Symbio City
iconic new buildings
47
creaTivly speaking Meet the new head of Creative Cape Town,
14
HoT inDulgence
44
an oDe To THe fisHerman
Farzanah Badsha
Indulging for a cause
A special getaway at Abalone House
On On the the cOver cOver
in Paternoster
TheAtterbury Kitchen &Theatre. TastingDesign Room @ Maison. by Studio 3 TurnArchitects to page 11 for International. the full story.See page 28 for details.
thepropertymag.co.za | 1
You tell us
Property involves us all. What’s your view? Email readers@medianova.co.za. Making a SPlaSh I fell in love with the featured bathrooms in your September issue. Wow, the bathroom overlooking the ocean is incredible! If that were my house, I would never leave that room. Thanks for the inspiration and for allowing me to daydream for a little while. AJ Akrone, Rivonia We aim to inspire – Ed.
Winning
Letter
DOWn tO eaRth I absolutely loved your Green issue and how it was filled with beautiful and quirky tips, designs and stories of sustainability. The article on land artist, Strijdom van der Merwe, was so inspiring, I felt I should go outdoors immediately! I was also very glad that you included the Oyster Box hotel, as I’m from Durban and it is one of my favourite spots when I go back home for visits. Congratulations on a magazine that is sure to make others green with envy! Amber Brown Just doing our bit for Mother Nature – Ed.
the Sky’S the liMit I never write in, but I thought some praise was well deserved, as The Property Magazine has certainly gone from strength to strength. It is such a good read, and the fact that it is free and delivered to my home every month is such a wonderful treat, especially in these hard times – I always have my mag to look forward to. Well done for keeping the good times rolling. K Stannard, Parkhurst That’s what we’re here for – Ed.
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Property EDITORIAL Editor Nicky Manson nickym@medianova.co.za Managing Editor Jennifer Platt jennifer@medianova.co.za KwaZulu-Natal Bureau Chief Anne Schauffer anne@medianova.co.za Chief Subeditor Yaron Blecher Features Writers Genevieve Fisher (Western Cape) André Fiore (KwaZulu-Natal) Gisela Nel (Pretoria) ART Senior Designer Keverne Morland Junior Designer Chané Joemat Senior Retoucher Tim Lake Brendan Body CONTRIBUTORS Candace King, Tammy Sutherns PhOTOGRAPhERS Val Adamson, Nic Baleta, Fiona Barclay-Smith, Sally Chance, Michael Glenister, Tim Lake, Candace Marshall-Smith, Gisela Nel
thepropertymag.co.za Western Cape Regional Sales & Marketing Manager Michèle Jones Western Cape Sales Susan Erwee Pretoria Sales Lorna MacPhail KwaZulu-Natal Sales Claire veitch Event Coordinator Bianca van Deventer Traffic Assistant Portia Mbele PUBLIShED BY MEDIA NOvA (PTY) LTD Managing Director Tony vaughan tony@medianova.co.za Project Manager Taryn Townsend Associate Publisher Pretoria Obed Sealetsa Associate Publisher Namibia Mynard Slabbert Financial Manager Leanne Cox leanne@medianova.co.za Finance Assistant Eleanor Scipio Credit Controller Anthea Odendaal Driver Joseph Khoza
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6 October/November 2012 |
2012/01/24 8:11 AM
THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE ONLINE VISIT thepropertymag.co.za for the latest features. FOLLOW US on Facebook
Photograph Grant Difford
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That summer feeling
twitter.com/thepropertymag 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
Looking forward to a sensory season
This month we celebrate summer and in doing so cast off our winter rags, throw open our doors and move outside. But how do we know when summer has begun? Obviously the months of the year have something to do with it, but how do we really know? For me it’s a combination of senses: sight, smell, touch, sound and taste. In fact, I can remember most summers from my life by evoking one of these senses. For example, hearing the melody of the song ‘Murder on the Dance Floor’ by Sophie Ellis-Bextor takes me straight back to a sexy summer in London where I was walking the city streets with a Starbucks Frappuccino in hand, while the tingling of ice-cold air on hot skin will always remind me of hanging out at 7-Elevens to beat the East’s muggy summer days. Sight is a fairly obvious one – as soon as I notice that the grass in surrounding parks and woodlands is being burned, I just know that new green grass is en route. Similarly when the trees start sprouting new leaves – you would be surprised at how many people don’t notice this until, one day, they find themselves sitting in the shade. Taste is easy, too. One word: Pimm’s. Tall glass, lots of ice and a mixture of strawberries, cucumber, lemon and mint. Pure summer. But my strongest sensory association with summer has
subscription offer.
to do with the smell of sunscreen. It’s a scent that picks me up and whisks me straight back to my childhood – a greasy and fabulous one. Holidays at the beach are my quintessential summer memories and sunscreen is my trigger. Even when I smell it on other people or apply it to my wriggly two-year-old, it immediately evokes a fond summer memory. This year I plan on basking in the summer light outdoors and adding a few new sensations to the menu: a good read (sight), a comfy throw for the lawn (touch), and Jack Johnson on the iPod (sound). Then, definitely more Pimm’s (taste). And smell? Well, in the words of Baz Luhrmann: ‘Trust me on the sunscreen.’
Nicky Manson, Editor
This month I really must have …
This sofa from the Modern Home Company. Called the
Créma Design’s new designers, Moooi, have some very
Ruan Hoffman’s latest bespoke tile range is available
Nuvola, it’s just begging to be jumped on.
sexy lighting. We love Dear Ingo, which is available in
from Tonic Design. Look out for the New Family and
modernhome.co.za
black or white. cremadesign.co.za
Garden Route series. ruanhoffmann.com; tonicdesign.co.za
8 | October/November 2012
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team laps around the lid of the dim sum basket as I lift it with great curiosity. Delicious fillings gleam through the perfect translucent dumpling skin. All is well with the world. Sipping the last
drop of green tea, i wonder when Sayuri, with her pale moon face and crimson-stained lips, will be around to refill my cup. ‘Jirre, oke, Pierre Spies is die meneer!’ These words burst my Zen bubble like only an Afrikaans guy in a Bulls shirt can. Darn. i am not a wealthy businesswoman and this is not Kyoto. it is Pretoria, and this teahouse is a little treasure named Koi, an exotic recent addition to Lynnwood Bridge Centre. Koi brings to mind scenes out of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, a fitting place for Samurai to speak out of sync, defy gravity and swish their katanas with the grace of a gymnast flicking her ribbon. Koi’s interiors remain true to minimalist Japanese design. Horizontal oak slats clad the walls with a calm simplicity reminiscent of Japanese teahouses. Paper screens divide the service area from the seating area and aged oak furniture in the upstairs lounge
‘If man has no tea in him, he is incapable of understanding truth and beauty,’ goes the Japanese proverb. So drink up, and appreciate Pretoria’s new hotspot, Koi
area adds a touch of informality. The colour scheme is peaceful and neutral, with accents of lime yellow adding
1
a playful energy to the space. Breaking the strong linear design, a helix of bamboo pendants floats in the doublevolume area. The focal point, a sculptural school of Koi accented by creative lighting, adds an organic element to an otherwise structured interior. For anyone who thinks Japanese food is all seaweed and California rolls, i urge you to take a page from Koi’s cookbook. The recipes are fresh, exotic, bursting with unusual flavours and quite unlike any other food in Pretoria. i highly recommend the dim sum starter and the sesame-crusted seared tuna with wasabi mayo as your main. Or take your pick from the wide selection of fresh sushi at the sushi bar. The tea menu – about as long as your arm – is served in traditional Japanese cast-iron pots. According to Japanese legend, if a koi succeeded in
Words Gisela Nel Photographs Gisela Nel and Koi
swimming up the falls at a point on the Yellow River called Dragon Gate, it would be transformed into a dragon. Because of this legend, koi became a symbol of worldly aspiration and advancement. we believe that successfully bringing Japanese fusion to Blue Bulls country is about as
2
3
upstream as it gets. Well done, little fish. +27 (0)12 348 5722, koirest.co.za
Bamboo pendant lights visually unify the dining area and the upstairs lounge at Koi restaurant.
Visit thepropertymag.co.za for other
1
outstanding restaurants in your area.
2
The wood-panelled sushi bar. 3Symbols of prosperity, koi fish are a recurring decor motif.
thepropertymag.co.za | 11
hot pRopeRtY
hot plate
New places, new products, new looks CreAting future Chefs Le Creuset’s new Junior range of kids’ cooking accessories comes in various gorgeous colours and includes a breakfast-making set, a cake-baking set and a pie-baking set. Available from Le Creuset Brooklyn Mall. +27 (0)12 346 2840, lecreusetshop.co.za
We chat to AneldA erken about Isabella’s – the hit cake and food shop that keeps customers coming back
Coming on streAm
for more
The SodaStream machine sports a sleek, new look and is available in a variety of sexy shades. New ranges of tasty
12 | October/November 2012
syrups have just been released too, including a sugar-free range and a sports range. 0800 00 22 91, sodastream.co.za
Pretty in Pink Purple accents pop like iTunes update notifications against the theatrical monochrome interiors of Stephnie’s restaurant at the newly completed Lynnwood Bridge shopping centre. This restaurant, with its twig ceilings and comfy outdoor seating, is perfect for date night or a glass of class with good friends. We recommend the delightfully rich oxtail or Norwegian salmon with Martini and basil, paired with one of the top wines on offer. And the crème brûlée is also worth the calories. Glam it up with a glass of pink wine, savour the tasty food and watch the kids frolic around the centre’s ‘wet donkey’. +27 (0)12 348 8943, stephnies.com
Cool summer The Brita Marella Cool Colour is a limited- edition water filter jug that’s available in red rose, lavender purple, mint green and orchid blue. Designed to fit in all fridge doors, it also has an electronic indicator for when the filter needs replacing. Available from Boardmans, Clicks, Checkers, Pick n Pay and Yuppiechef. brita-water.co.za
Add some flAvour We have discovered the award-winning Garlic Card from Swedish chef, Herman Rasmuson. It resembles a miniature skateboard, has a large grating area and is easy to clean. Available from Kitchen Passion Brooklyn Mall. +27 (0)12 460 6972, kitchenpassion.co.za; garliccard.com
Words Nicky Manson and Gisela Nel
When did the Isabella’s journey begin, and what was your vision? It was always a dream of mine to open up a girly coffee shop where women could get together for a good catch-up. We opened the first Isabella’s in August 2008, at our Groenkloof store. It was a tiny 30-seater, barely the size of a big dining room, but it was a great success. My vision was to touch the senses and to create a dining room away from home. Isabella’s has very quirky, very girly decor. Who designs the stores? One of the drawcards of starting this business was the creative expression it offered me. I design all my stores, and I have a passion for doing it. I like the idea of being daring with black, white and pink. Isabella’s has become synonymous with delicious cakes and baked goods. What is your favourite cake from the menu? Most people love our famous red velvet cake, but, believe it or not, I loathe ‘sweet’. Our carrot cake is definitely my favourite because it is not a sweet cake – it’s filled with pineapple and nuts, and is an old recipe from a friend. What is Isabella’s food philosophy? ‘Fresh, good-looking and made with love.’ Why do you think your restaurants have been such a success? I think when we first opened our stores, they had an original feel. People were drawn to the elaborate interiors and from there I believe our wide variety of cakes and friendly smiling staff kept people coming back for more. We have now grown from the one tiny dining room in Groenkloof to six shops countrywide. isabellas.co.za
HOT PROPERTY
HOT dEcOR & dESIGN
Pretty paper, virtual venues and a lust for La-Z-Boy
Chris PattiChides, director of Pattichides and Partners
PaPer PerfeCt
Architecture and Design, on house trends, his favourite project and why
Make your world beautiful with Kaalkop Studio’s recently launched decorative
you should have an architect design
paper products. Paper folding originated in China and swiftly caught on in Japan,
your home.
fortune and to adorn tables and bottles of sake at formal functions. The stark-white pretty range includes butterflies, hummingbirds, flowers, chandeliers, milk carton tea light holders, hanging birdcages, oriental blossoms and pop-up name cards for weddings and other events. The warm glow from the butterfly lamps make it top of our list. Made locally from either recycled paper or paper from sustainable sources, this playful decor is simplistic and pure. Stop by at Kaalkop Studio in Brooklyn’s Design Square and adorn your walls, ceilings and tables with a touch of Nataniël. +27 (0)12 460 4791, nataniel.co.za
design aWay Cobra’s designer ranges are locally manufactured and Cobra has become the go-to brand for kitchen and bathroom accessories. Pushing the boundaries of aesthetics and energy-saving products, the brand has a new 3D chrome logo and a new tag line, ‘A South African icon’, signalling the brand’s heritage as well as new beginnings. cobra.co.za
Pushing boundaries Caesarstone’s new online design tool, Visualiser, helps homeowners envision and create personalised decor. The Visualiser lets you drag and drop quartz surfaces from Caesarstone’s collections, to see what your space could look like. There are over 40 colours and various textures and styles to mix and match. caesarstone.co.za
KiCK baCK With a ClassiC Yes! The iconic American brand, La-Z-Boy, is back and is being manufactured locally. The back and footrest now move independently of each other, providing 18 levels of comfort levels to suit all ages and body types. La-Z-Boy also provides lumbar support, allowing you to lie completely flat with your legs slightly above heart level – the optimum resting position. A secure three-position locking footrest has been added too, for extra safety and support. Available nationwide from November. Contact Alpine Lounge for your closest stockist. +27 (0)21 951 7150, ashanticollection.co.za; lazboy.com
What trends are leading the residential market? Style preferences vary, depending on the area, age and ethnicity of the client, but we are finding a strong demand for modern, contemporary houses in the Gauteng area. This style is typically open plan, with the lounge and kitchen forming the heart of the home. With this style, the house is made up of bold framed cantilevering structures with vast expanses of glass and an interior that is physically and visually linked to the exterior. Natural finishes, such as stone and wood, are also used extensively in a modern application. How would you define CPA’s residential design style? Bespoke design. Every erf and every client is distinct, and we treat the design accordingly. We strive to design a house that fits the client’s lifestyle and personality. What has been your favourite project to date? Kream restaurant is my favourite project. It is a well-known restaurant set in a voluminous space and is elegant and understated – quite rare for Pretoria. The colour scheme is very neutral, but heavy texture in the use of sculptural forms in the staircase and walls, accentuated with the creative use of light, adds interest to the space. The client was also great to work with and gave us a lot of creative freedom. Why is it important to have an architect design your house? Using an architect is crucial to a well-designed house, as a good architect will ensure that the orientation, space planning and circulation of the house works with the surrounding natural elements as well as the needs of the client. If you are going to be spending money on building a house, getting a good architect should form part of that budget. It is a waste of money to build a house if the design is not done correctly from the start. +27 (0)12 346 0440, cparch.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 13
Words Nicky Manson and Gisela Nel
where it was used as an accompaniment to precious gifts, as a token of good
HOT PROPERTY
HOT INDULGENCE
Indulging for a cause, plus hot summer fashion, cool cocktails and refreshing wines CritiCally aCClaimed We’re all very aware of the rhino’s plight, but how many of us know about the almost extinct Table Mountain ghost frog, the threatened geometric tortoise or the disappearing golden protea? In an effort to raise awareness about these critically endangered creatures, luxury brand The Last Word (made up of Intimate Hotels and Intimate Rarities) has launched Living Endangered, a sophisticated collection of art and luxury products handcrafted by some of South Africa’s youngest and hottest artisans. The range was inspired by the little Table Mountain ghost frog, possibly the most endangered frog in the world. Growing to a maximum length of 60mm – the size of your thumb – the ghost frog is only found in the nooks and crannies of Table Mountain’s Skeleton Gorge. The Living Endangered range is comprised of ‘treasures of esteem’ and includes the golden protea neckpiece by Shelley Robertson; Cobus van Rooyen’s hand-stitched leather bags, inspired by the geometric tortoise; and the Table Mountain ghost frog haute parfum by perfumer Tammy Frazer. The pieces are made in Cape Town from local materials and The Last Word donates 5% of the profits from Living Endangered sales to the Wilderness Foundation. +27 (0)21 794 2036, thelastword.co.za
retro sPeCs Ray-Ban’s new range, Round, has been injected with a contemporary edge in the form of bright colours and hand-sewn leather details. Available from Luxottica. +27 (0)21 486 6100, luxottica.com
ClutChes and CoCktail rings Missibaba and Kirsten Goss have opened a boutique
Slip into summer with
store at 229 Bree Street,
The Candy Shop, Berry
Cape Town, showcasing their
Blast, Sunshine Soda and
handcrafted designer items.
So Citrus, the flirty flavours
Look out for Kirsten Goss’s
in Primi Piatti’s newly
new Signet collection of
launched Mainstay Soda
personalised charms.
Pop cocktails range.
+27 (0)21 424 3453,
primi-piatti.com
kirstengoss.com, +27 (0)21 424 8127, missibaba.com
14 | October/November 2012
Words Genevieve Fisher
PoP art
HOT PROPERTY
Worked to the core Based in Greenside, Johannesburg, Victoria Ashford-Smit’s En-Core studio has come up with an ingenious workout by blending Pilates with ballet. The combination of light weights and props, such as balls and Thera-Bands, helps tone, burn fat and sculpt muscles and provides cardio training. +27 (0)84 312 4059, en-core.co.za
canvassing For compliments Italian footwear brand, Superga, has recently opened its new concept store at Canal Walk, Cape Town. The store stocks all the classic Supergas as well as the new Editions collection, which is inspired and designed by some of SA’s best musical talent, including Freshly Ground, DJ Euphonik, Locnville, Danny K and Flash Republic. superga.co.za
party cruiser Discover Cruz candy and vodka infusion – it’s like bottled candy floss. Downed as a smooth shooter or used as a mixer, this burst of flavour is available from select liquor outlets nationwide. facebook.com/ CruzVodka
a girl’s nBF Patek Philippe’s new Ref. 7140 Ladies First Perpetual Calendar includes Travel Time models for two time zones, the World Time watch with 24 time zones and the famous Annual Calendar. These are worn on a hand-stitched alligator strap with a prong buckle in 18ct rose gold and adorned with 95 flawless Top Wesselton diamonds. Available from the Watch & Jewellery Gallery on Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton. Nationwide deliveries. +27 (0)11 784 2595; patek.com
Fine Wines This month we’re drinking Solms Delta’s Solms-Astor Langarm 2011 and Clos Malverne’s new flagship duo, Auret 2010 and Pinotage Reserve 2010. The Langarm is a blend of Pinotage, Touriga Nacional, Shiraz and Mourvèdre and is smooth and lasting on the finish, while the Auret 2010 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Merlot and Shiraz and is bold on the palate. Barrelled in French oak, the Auret 2010 can be kept for a few more years, but we drank ours right away, pairing it with a hearty stew. We enjoyed the Pinotage Reserve 2010’s bursts of berry flavours and found that it goes well with a dark chocolate dessert. +27 (0)21 865 2022, closmalverne.co.za; +27 (0)21 874 937, solms-delta.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 15
Hot property
Hot mandate
1
CONSTANTIA DREAMING
A rare share of the Constantia lifestyle comes under the hammer
2
W
ith four entertainment areas, conference facilities, a large wine cellar with unique artwork, various offices, and a finely designed swimming pool and Jacuzzi, Castle Rock offers an exclusive lifestyle to those wanting to enjoy the fine Constantia and Bishopscourt ambience. The three-level main house, built on a picturesque 4 262m² stand, has eight bedrooms with modern en-suite bathrooms. All bedrooms have the most outstanding mountain views that the Cape has to offer. The main bedroom has its own walk-in dresser, fireplace and patio and a unique strongroom as safety feature. 1
3 The main entertainment area was designed with two priorities in mind, entertainment and acoustics. With this you get a 180° view of the beautiful mountain. The ultramodern kitchen will leave anybody excited to spend time in this part of the house and combine it with the exceptional entertainment possibilities that this property offers. Large windows and skylights provide enough natural light throughout the house, while the combination of marble and wooden floors completes the upmarket presence of this highly respected property. The separate staff quarters have two bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen and lounge, while the lush, landscaped gardens provide a tranquil atmosphere for the entire family and friends. The new owner
4 will be on the doorstep of Kirstenbosch, one of the most-visited areas in Cape Town. UCT is 10 minutes’ drive away, just off the M3, and the CBD and V & A Waterfront are only 20 minutes away. This immaculate property will be sold on site at 8 Ridge Walk, Constantia, at 11 a.m. on 29 November. Prospective buyers will get viewing opportunities on Saturday, 17 November, and on Wednesday, 21 November, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. A refundable deposit of R50 000 is payable by EFT or bankguaranteed cheque for those interested in bidding. Buyers can register at the venue before the auction or online. For further information, contact SA Auction Group Western Cape Director Christo Boshoff on +27 (0)82 871 6066. saauctiongroup.co.za
Beautiful gardens provide a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. 2The pool and outside entertainment area has the most beautiful views of the
mountains. 3The combination of marble and wooden floors creates a theatrical atmosphere while the interior entertainment areas are multifunctional and can also be used as conference facilities. 4The overall presentation of this property speaks of luxury and style the Constantia way. If you would like to have your hot mandate featured, email editorial@medianova.co.za.
16 | October/November 2012
Prime ProPerty
18 | October/November 2012
Prime ProPerty
EducatEd dEsign
Durban-based graphic design studio, disturbance, has rebranded Varsity College and given the institute a gloriously fresh, young and inspired Midrand campus Words Anne Schauffer Photographs Roger Jardine
thepropertymag.co.za | 19
Prime ProPerty
V
arsity campuses seldom look as though they were designed with real live students in mind, and although many are acclaimed as historic landmark structures with majestic design elements, the student factor doesn’t appear to have been the design driver. The initial interaction of disturbance with Varsity College was around a new visual language for the brand, something that would amplify its freshly articulated vision. Richard Hart, principal graphic designer, says, ‘We came up with something very loose, spontaneous and honest. Part of our early development of the brand identity included a proposal on how their campuses could be reimagined, to align with what we were doing.’ The new Midrand campus would be the first. In addition to meshing the new brand image with the students’ on-campus experience, the design had to create an environment that resonated as much with parents as with young students. Working adults, too, needed to feel as comfortable as full-time students in the space, and staff needed a working environment that allowed for easy workflow and communication. Carmen Kelly, a designer at disturbance, describes the original campuses as having a corporate feel and lacking in inspiration. The shell was a partially completed unit in a business park, not unlike other Varsity College campuses. Richard shrugs. ‘This presented us with numerous challenges, from having to overcome the generic architecture to dealing with the bald truth that the campus was essentially a single building rather than a group of them.’ The team was given free rein to work on the interior design. To develop an architectural philosophy, disturbance collaborated with architects designworkshop : sa, who facilitated a workshop among the key users specifically to analyse the inner workings of the campus. Carmen says, ‘We looked at a number of elements, such as the workflow process within the college and spatial relationships within the existing building, as in public versus office/lecture room space, and indoor versus outdoor. We questioned the requirements of the lecture rooms and how best to inspire the students while still allowing them to remain focused during a lecture.We examined the use of formal study spaces versus informal ones.’
‘A striking element of the cAmpus design is the signAge – it goes beyond the functionAl into Aesthetics. eAch AreA is signposted with lArge Vinyl lettering’ 20 | october/november 2012
Opening page Well-considered typography plays both a graphic and informative role in the overall vision. This spread, above Colours and textures combine cleverly to create niche areas, but not boxed-in spaces. Inset When words become so much more.
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‘WE QUESTIONED THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE LECTURE ROOMS AND HOW BEST TO INSPIRE THE STUDENTS WHILE STILL ALLOWING THEM TO REMAIN FOCUSED DURING A LECTURE. WE EXAMINED THE USE OF FORMAL STUDY SPACES VERSUS INFORMAL ONES’
thepropertymag.co.za | 21
Prime ProPerty
For the designers, the overriding question was how to turn the campus into an environment that would allow young students to feel comfortable and inspired, as well as appeal to the older demographic of the School of Business students who generally attend courses after hours. Richard says that designworkshop : sa suggested that they break up the building into non-uniform spaces, echoing the structure of an actual campus. ‘This was the kernel around which all our design thinking revolved.’ He adds that ‘designworkshop : sa ‘were amazing’. ‘No matter how big the inevitable curve ball, they came back with brilliant workarounds every time. It’s easy to pull off great design when there are no budgetary constraints, but the true test is when there are. Add to that not one but numerous clients with, inevitably, different priorities and agendas.’ Intense solo and collaborative brainstorming sessions between architects and designers resulted in the overall plan and flow, and from there emanated the finishes and fittings, colour palette, furniture and graphics. Carmen describes elements of the process, starting at the concept for the entrance: ‘We wanted to create a transitional space where you come out of the hectic Midrand traffic and slow down into a calming space of a “forest” with a timber walkway and a clearing within the “woods”. This allows you to breathe a sigh of relief before engaging with the double-volume glass entrance of the reception area.’ A striking element of the campus design is the signage: it goes beyond the functional into aesthetics. Each area is signposted with large vinyl lettering laminated to the concrete wall and floor, engaging with the architecture and enhancing the environment. At the building’s entrance, leading up to the reception counter, is the word ‘Welcome’, written in all our national languages. All the seating in the waiting area is upholstered in the same fabric, but in subtle variations of tone, to create a layered colour palette. A chunky woollen carpet not only warms and softens the space, but also ensures that sound doesn’t echo.
22 | October/November 2012
‘IT’S EASY TO PULL OFF GREAT DESIGN WHEN THERE ARE NO BUDGETARY CONSTRAINTS, BUT THE TRUE TEST IS WHEN THERE ARE’
Top left The use of all 11 official languages in the design serves to strengthen the students’ sense of belonging to this campus. Top centre Transparent, yet still private and quiet. Above Loud and clear signage crawls from the floors up doors and walls. Bottom centre Different pops of colour signify each lecture room, yet all are offset with calming tones of grey. Bottom right Mindfully selected photographic images are a significant feature of the campus’s interior design.
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Each lecture room has a large number on the floor in front of the door and, in most cases, the numbers creep up onto the doors and walls. At the bottom of each door there is a small strip of colour providing a sneak preview of the colour found inside that lecture room. All other areas on campus are signposted in this fashion. As with the typography, wallpaper graphics play a major role in the interiors, each graphic carefully created for specific areas. The graphics and photography were designed in accordance with the brand’s attributes, so all the photographs were shot on film and have a warm, spontaneous feel to them. The large wallpaper graphic to the rear of the building core is double volume and faces towards the outside back courtyard. When you look back at the building, the graphic is visible on both floors. Within the building, you only engage with half of it, giving you a strong sense that there’s more to come when you arrive in the same space on the next floor. At every level, the complex detailing with which the team imbued the project gives the campus its youthful energy. Carmen describes the colour palette used for the lecture rooms: ‘The concept was that
each would be painted a light grey on the front and two side walls, while the back wall would have its own unique accent colour. We chose individual upholstery colours for each lecture room, and matched them closely to the specific accent colour. This resulted in a layering effect. Essentially, you walk into the lecture room and you’re greeted with a pop of bright colour, but as soon as you sit down and face forward, you’re presented with a muted minimal grey colour palette.’ Each wall within passages and public spaces is painted a different shade of grey, transforming what could be a rather bland, muted colour palette into something exciting and layered. Depending on the light quality in that particular space, the shades of grey change throughout the day, resulting in an everchanging colour palette. The team clearly had fun in the study lounge and library. ‘We wanted to break away from the traditional furniture installation and rather explore a concept where the description of what the area is used for becomes the furniture of the room.That’s how the “Think” ottoman was born.The letters T, H, I, N and K are built up onto the wall in 3D relief, and as the letter hits the floor, the bottom of the letter extends in ottoman sections for student seating. The spacing between the letters also allows for booth-style seating, so students can pull up the custom-designed tables that cantilever over their lap and work in groups or individually.’ To accentuate that true sense of campus life, it was crucial to link indoors and out. The canteen opens onto the back courtyard with stack-back doors, so there’s an easy inside-outside connection. The canteen furniture is fun and fresh in tangerine and lime and a few tables have been given a bright graphic treatment, little speech bubbles with ‘Hello’ in all national languages. The canteen tables and chairs spill out onto a paved courtyard with a central fountain, which in turn spills down onto a tiered outdoor section of lawn and olive trees. People can gather on the wide concrete stairs or on the lawn, under the trees. The area has a tangible park feeling about it and invites students to spend time on campus outside lecture times, creating an on-campus life. From the signage to the wallpaper, the colours to the concepts, Richard and his team at disturbance, together with designworkshop : sa, have created a stylish yet wonderfully playful Varsity College campus that offers all the players the functionality and fun elements so integral to a campus experience. +27 (0)31 303 5191, designworkshopsa.co.za; +27 (0)31 202 0059, disturbance.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 23
ON SHOW
Build Inn, +27 (0)12 804 3595
Sterlings, +27 (0)12 998 6713
ClAssiC in the Country Lazy summer afternoons and huge lunches on the patio are what this Irene house was built for Words Gisela Nel Photographs Michael Glenister
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nimated shrills ring out from the backyard of Pieter and Cornelia’s shiny new home. Cornelia smiles reassuringly. ‘By the second child, you learn which calls to react to,’ she says. The laid-back attitude of this young family stems from the farm-like atmosphere that Irene offers its residents. The couple used to live in Irene Farm Villages but moved to a boomed area of Irene for the space and privacy it offered them. The houses in this area are almost all old and spacious, built from locally quarried stone on narrow, tree-lined streets and have a rather intimidating cat on every corner. In the yard, pots of organic herbs line Pieter and Cornelia’s English garden. ‘We love to cook with fresh herbs,’ says Cornelia, comfortably propped up in an oversized outdoor lounge chair. From the garden it is clear that this family enjoys quality time together. Winding stone pathways, a boma for evening gettogethers with friends, a lap pool and an outdoor living space blurring the line between interior and exterior create a home for a rich private and social life. Mireille Koster and Mona Schoonbee of Archiway Architects designed the classic American-style house,
which features voluminous open-truss ceilings, solidoak flooring and moulded architraves. The house was built just fives months ago, but it already feels like home from the moment you enter through its tall navy-blue front door. Light and space flow organically from one room to the next, each revealing a different yet equally important function. ‘It was important to have a special space for each member of the family, where they can enjoy their hobbies,’ says Mona. For Cornelia, a self-confessed sentimentalist, it was important to bring her German heritage and family history into the home with antique heirloom furniture, her grandmother’s glassware hanging over her beloved piano and postcards she and her brother bought in Switzerland. ‘This is my favourite room,’ she says, beaming across the airy formal lounge. ‘It is my happy place.’ Pieter’s happy place (aka ‘man cave’) is his study: floor-to-ceiling bookshelves with rows of novels together with stately leather armchairs make his choice a no-brainer. Their children, Lara and James, have bright and playful bedrooms with mini garden balconies covered in ‘grass’ made from recycled plastic. Mona says the interior is a combination of classic and modern – a fusion of the couple’s personal styles.
The open-plan kitchen, by Sterlings, done in soft shades of duck-egg blue and white taupe, is the heart of the home. The adjoining glass conservatory is the perfect room for Pieter and Cornelia to sip their weekend morning coffee in their gowns and slippers while reading the paper. Sterlings was also responsible for the bathrooms and kitchens. ‘The classic old charm of the house is combined with modern lines and finishes in the bathrooms. This is why we used the Murano range in walnut and white taupe finish,’ explains Santa Botha of Sterlings Pretoria. ‘I guess you could say we are traditionalists,’ says Cornelia. ‘We like a classic style, and when we met Mona, we all had the same vision for the house.’ Bertus van Niekerk, project manager and main contractor from Umphati Projects, was responsible for the construction of the house. ‘The biggest challenge in a project is to coordinate all the tradesmen and make everyone work as part of a team. Our aim is to provide a fast and high-quality service, and the biggest pleasure is to have a client that understands the construction process and a good architectural team.’ It is clear that Bertus had the A-Team to make this dream home a reality.
Wetherlys, 0861 300 159
Opposite above Build Inn has been supplying high-quality, durable wood, steel and aluminium garage doors to discerning builders, architects and homeowners in Gauteng and surrounds for almost 30 years. The company supplied and fitted the automated low-maintenance pressed-woodgrain steel garage doors to enhance the beauty of this grand home. Build Inn also supplies European aluminium security shutters and a comprehensive range of industrial doors and is the Pretoria agent for Xpanda Security. Opposite below An aesthetically pleasing yet functional kitchen in a traditional-meets-contemporary design is the centrepiece of the home. Sterlings has combined walnut, white-painted wooden panels and glass doors and allowed for essential niches and shelving in this modern kitchen. Above The deep-buttoned Theresa headboard is fast becoming a modern classic. Artfully combining the classic Chesterfield deep-buttoning technique into a contemporary form, it makes a big style statement. The Nakuru tables (by the two chairs) beautifully finished for added character. The substantial turned base allows for generous legroom. Because of its timeless, classic styling, the Nakuru range coordinates effortlessly with a wide variety of other furniture ranges in the Wetherlys fold. The range is locally crafted from responsibly harvested timber and features solid table tops.
thepropertymag.co.za | 25
Mathéo Blinds & Awnings, +27 (0)83 629 4493 Sterlings, +27 (0)12 998 6713
Above right and opposite, bottom These Luxaflex Polyresin Shutters come with a 20-year guarantee on the material. Some of the best features of these shutters are that they are energy efficient, waterproof, child safe, fire retardant and Greenguard certified. Mathéo Blinds & Awnings, a Luxaflex gallery, uses only experienced installers who have over 10 years’ experience in the industry. Servicing clients in the Gauteng area, Mathéo Blinds & Awnings supplies only the best top-quality shutters, blinds, screens and awnings. This page, above right Operating according to its motto, ‘Living with the Best’, Sterlings is a specialist in the design and layout of bathrooms and Italian kitchens and is celebrating 20 years of service excellence. In this beautiful bathroom, a modern slipper bath has been installed, in keeping with the Old World charm of the house. Left This beautiful 9-piece, 12-drawer farm console was handcrafted in India, from where it was imported to South Africa exclusively by Wetherlys. Available in a size of 2 000 x 840 x 380, it matches any dining setting perfectly. Below The understated, elegant Plantation collection is a perennial, clean-lined Wetherlys classic. With its colonial look and feel, this versatile collection is well suited to the entire home.
Wetherlys, 0861 300 159
26 | October/November 2012
Wetherlys, 0861 300 159
Italtile Pretoria, +27 (0)12 348 8700
Above Italtile has been in the industry for over 40 years, delivering service with great passion. It specialises in exclusive imported and local floor and wall tiles as well as sanitaryware, taps, accessories, decor and bathroom furniture. Italtile now also carries a wide selection of product that promotes eco-friendly living.
Professionals List … Build Inn – Automated Pressed-Steel Garage Doors: +27 (0)12 804 3595, sales@buildinn.co.za, buildinn.co.za Italtile Pretoria – Interior and Exterior Floor Tiles: +27 (0)12 348 8700, italptabm@italtile.co.za, italtile.co.za Mathéo Blinds & Awnings – Blinds, Shutters, Screens and Awnings: +27 (0)12 991 5767, sales@matheoblinds.co.za, matheoblinds.co.za Sterlings – Bathrooms and Italian Kitchens: +27 (0)12 998 6713, living@sterlings.co.za, sterlings.co.za Wetherlys – Exclusive Home Furniture: 0861 300 159, info@wetherlys.co.za, wetherlys.co.za
Mathéo Blinds & Awnings, +27 (0)83 629 4493
thepropertymag.co.za | 27
ADVERTORIAL
building pretoria Studio 3 Architects International has been building landmarks in its home city for 25 years
C
elebrating 25 years of contributions to the built environment indicates an understanding of and continuous ability to adapt to changing market forces, clients requirements, and challenges and interventions posed by software development. ‘Success can only be achieved by applying the best expertise and by understanding the specific requirements of clients, who, through their support, ultimately form the basis of the survival of any practice,’ say Studio 3 Architects International’s directors, Dirk Henzen (founder), Erich Hough and Rufus Viljoen. ‘Apart from being architects,’ they continue, ‘we acknowledge our role of developing people, by being instrumental not only in uplifting their levels of expertise, but also in developing their human relationships within the office environment.’ During the past two-and-a-half decades of practising architecture, Studio 3 Architects has proudly and successfully executed numerous flagship projects in Pretoria and surrounds. These projects range from upmarket private residences, campus office developments, and lodges and guest houses to motor dealerships, the refurbishment of diverse retail centres, the conversion of redundant office blocks to residential landmarks, and the design of large mixed-use commercial developments. department of trade & industry office campus Located in Trevenna, Pretoria, the Department of Trade & Industry Office Campus is part of the greater Mandela
28 | October/November 2012
Development Corridor that was initiated by the City Council of Tshwane in conjunction with the private sector. Studio 3 Architects gave consideration to the commercial norms required for robust office building design, but also took into account the urban context, public open space, cultural matters and timelessness. Public open space thus became the focus of the campus, creating an accessible precinct that is rich in activity. The covered internal street is the main activity route, featuring public entrance cores to the seven buildings and the related activity courtyards. The building has a multivalent meaning that includes symbolic and spatial reference to the historic settlement of Mapungubwe. The Department of Trade & Industry Office Campus manifests the required social responsibility of being a truly accessible, culturally appropriate building within its urban context. tHe fields HigH-rise residential and retail deVelopment The Fields is a residential and retail development geared primarily towards the university student demographic in Pretoria. The development takes up an entire city block in the heart of the Hatfield precinct, a stone’s throw from the University of Pretoria and the Hatfield Gautrain Station. The Fields includes 700 residential units, ranging from bachelor flats and one-bedroom and two-bedroom units
to duplexes and penthouses at the higher levels of the buildings. A central axis runs through the site, from south (Burnett Street) to north, connecting the current project with future phases, which are being designed to augment and complement the precinct even further.This axis and the tributary walkways flanked by retail and external spaces are landscaped, adding richness and interest to the pedestrian experience from one end of the precinct to another. The development is anchored to the east by a City Lodge hotel and two commercial office buildings. design sQuare retail deVelopment Design Square is an upmarket retail centre in Brooklyn, Pretoria, adjacent to Brooklyn Mall. The decision was taken to rename the centre from ‘Brooklyn Square’ to ‘Design Square’ because of the type of tenants there, who focus mainly on the decor industry. The pedestrian movement through the centre has been greatly improved. A new mall has been created from the new parking area on Middle Street, opening up towards the piazza. The existing open-air centre space, which was restricted by water ponds, stairs and ramps on different levels, has been redesigned. The newly created piazza now occurs on one level, allowing each restaurant to extend with outdoor seating. This has greatly improved the public activity and experience throughout the new mall. New escalators provide access from the lower level parking directly into the open-air piazza, which is further
ADVERTORIAL
Opposite The Department of Trade & Industry Office Campus. This page, clockwise from top left The Fields development in Hatfield offers ideal student accommodation as well as commercial office and retail space; funky Angus Taylor donkey statues grace the piazza at Lynwood Bridge Retail Centre; posh Design Square caters for the decor industry’s sophisticated clientele; an architectural glass cylinder forms the focul point of the Adams & Adams building.
linked vertically by a central glass observation lift. The chosen material and colour palette provide the centre with a more contemporary feel, and the landscaping within the new piazza is minimalistic, enhancing the design features of the new centre. TREVENNA OFFICE CAMPUS AND TREVENNA URBAN SQUARE Located in Pretoria and neighbouring the Department of Trade & Industry Campus, the Trevenna Office Campus forms part of the greater Mandela Development Corridor. Trevenna Urban Square forms the heart of the campus, affording a pleasant landscaped public breathing space and spatially linking the campus with the Department of Trade & Industry development’s ceremonial entrance. The buildings are arranged as open perimeter blocks. The importance of the historic Voor Street axis, juxtaposed with the urban grid layout and organic landscape lines, is emphasised, anchoring the precinct. They reflect simple, rational forms, with organic shapes for pedestrian circulation, contrasted with the regulating lines of the urban context. Pretoria has a long tradition of face-brick work, dating from the establishment of the town and the subsequent influence of architects such as Wierda and Norman Eaton, who designed many public buildings in Pretoria. The Trevenna buildings continues this tradition. LYNNWOOD BRIDGE MIXED-USE URBAN DEVELOPMENT PRECINCT This mixed-use development, consisting of corporate offices, a City Lodge hotel, the Atterbury Theatre and ultramodern integrated retail, is situated at the newly constructed traffic node of the N1 highway and Lynnwood Road, offering prime connectivity to all parts of the city. This development will soon prove to be a very welcome addition to the area, as well as to the city as a whole, by responding positively to its context and keeping in mind its neighbours as well as the people who visit it.
LYNNWOOD BRIDGE RETAIL CENTRE The new Lynnwood Bridge Retail centre anchors the eastern portion of the Lynnwood Bridge precinct. Due to the layout of the urban design of the precinct, and more specifically, the location and shape of the hotel, as well as the site gradient and vehicular access points, the design of the retail component was always considered a challenge. Apart from the above, the brief from the client indicated a product that had to be non-traditional, funky and modern, but not over the top. The center was therefore designed with sweeping lines for the shopfront edge as well as slick, detailed walkway canopies. The piazza not only forms the spilling-out area of the adjoining restaurants and creates a buzz, but also accommodates the central fountain and quirky donkey sculptures created by Angus Taylor. Unlike traditional retail centers, there is no back elevation. All elevations are well designed with respect to proportion, articulation and elements of interest. ThE ATTERBURY ThEATRE The Atterbury Theatre is a superb classic concert hall and at the same time is optimally ‘tuned’ in respect of the spatial acoustical properties required for good functioning of the sound systems employed in modern shows, presentations and conferences. The theatre in its mapped position has become a landmark within the suburban tapestry and is defined by its neon-lit auditorium punch-out and the neon signage on the aluminium-clad curved wall along Lynnwood Road. Indoors, a large curved feature wall of slanted glass panels extends vertically to depict the scale of the auditorium behind, while horizontal LED light strips create banding along each row of glass panels. Selected colours (based on those found in the carpet) allow for colour-changing to suit the occasion. The auditorium also boasts facilities for the disabled, providing two rows of seats with a phonic ear teleloop induction system for the deaf, and dedicated wheelchair bays.
The ceiling comprises a spread of board panels with depth, tapering in modulating rows.This allows patrons to look beyond the ceiling and take note of the workings of service catwalks. This application was entered into the Saint-Gobain Gypsum International competition in the UK, after winning the national award in SA.The Atterbury Theatre was born out of a vision and passion that was put into play by a trust established by the client. ADAMS & ADAMS BUILDING The architectural focus of the Adams & Adams building is its main entrance, which faces away from the outside world into the development and leads off from the central urban space of the precinct. The entrance has a prominent glass cylinder that encases the quintuple-volume lobby and is framed by a threestorey rectangular panel of polished sandstone tiles.The lobby is an upmarket, airy space with a good deal of natural light as well as effective, low-energy lighting. This glass structure is flanked by two rectangular wings, the western wing and the southern wing.The north face of the building’s western wing, which faces onto the N1, was intentionally designed with a curved facade to enhance and emphasise its exposure to the busy highway. The minimalistic design, simplistic use of materials and emphasis on practical spaces has given rise to a classiccontemporary building. The contemporary architecture of this development has altered the surrounding landscape and created an environment with a trendy atmosphere in which to work and shop. Studio 3 Architects International (Pty) Ltd Lynnwood Bridge Office Park Atterbury Building, Ground Floor, c/o Lynnwood and Daventry roads, Lynnwood Manor. +27 (0)12 348 2005, info@studio3architects.co.za, studio3architects.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 29
Summer Living
20 ToP
20 SummeR HITS Together with the turning of the season come many products and ideas geared towards making the most of the long and balmy days of summer Words Genevieve Fisher
W Summer colourS
e’ve fallen in love with the latest summer lifestyle products, including designer indoor/outdoor furniture, new paint colours and melamine crockery. The choices were vast and varied but, with much effort, we narrowed it down to our top 20 products, each of which has a certain something that makes our heart skip a beat.
20
DeckeD out One of the first things to buy when the balmy
19
weather hits is a deck chair. Portable outdoor furniture
has evolved to be light, easy and, most important of all,
When preparing your home to welcome the new season,
comfy. The newly launched
nothing says ‘out with the old, in with the new’ more than
deck chair from Terrace
a slick lick of paint. Painting your walls is the first step
Living, then, is highly
towards bringing in that summer feeling, and if Plascon has
evolved and also comes in
anything to do with it, your hands will be full of brushes
a chic candy-striped fabric
dipped in the shades Hot ’n’ Spicy, Stardust and Namaqua
that epitomises summer.
Daisy, among others. Launched at the recent Decorex
The adjustable height bar
Johannesburg, the Plascon Colour Forecast 2013 is all
allows for total relaxation,
about balance. There are four ranges within this year’s
whether you’re reading,
forecast, each exemplifying a different quality of the
snoozing or catching some
concept of balance: Simplicity is made up of light, white
sun. The best part, though,
tones; Contrast consists of deep greys and blues with
is that it comes with a
accents of fuchsia pink and bright yellow; Pause comprises
nifty zip-up carry bag and
light and feminine yet mature colours; and finally there’s
shoulder strap, making
Dare, a theme that’s vibrant without being overwhelming.
it easier to schlep about.
0860 204 060, plascon.co.za
+27 (0)21 461 3552, terraceliving.co.za
18
the Drama of a planter
Creating outdoor living rooms is pivotal to outdoor furniture brand Dedon’s philosophy. Its Babylon collection of planters, garden vases and stools was created by Harry & Camila, the renowned design duo from Barcelona. Ribbed and asymmetrical, these eye-catching pieces are available in black, olive and grey. Available from Cane Time. +27 (0)21 510 1072, canetime.co.za
30 | october/November 2012
17
Summer Living
LightLy does it
Box Living’s new Decorum collection is designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Drawing on many global influences, the range is a result of a design collaboration between Tristan Voss and award-winning design duo, Maya Basyroel and Marcel Opstal. The attractive outdoor Kwal Swart lamp is made from synthetic rattan with an aluminium ring, enabling it to withstand the elements, and is available in three sizes. +27 (0)21 465 6480, boxliving.co.za
16 15
ReLax and RecLine
Nothing says ‘summer living’ better than a sofa set that’s grand in size and comes with full cushions. New to Okha’s collection is the La Plage sofa, which could easily fit any beach house lounge or deck. The name is French for ‘the beach’, and just looking at the sofa makes us feel instantly on holiday. +27 (0)21 461 7233, okha.com
the magic of meLamine One of the best things about summer is the chance to entertain outdoors. Whether we’re at a braai, a cocktail party or an impromptu get-together, enjoying
14
the warm weather with a plate of braaied kebabs and mielies is how South Africans socialise when the temperature rises. Woollies’ melamine plates, platters, glasses and tumblers take the fuss out of outdoor entertaining, as they’re easy to clean, and light. They’re available in attractive, bright colours and the plates bear an exotic Moroccan motif. 0860 022 002, woolworths.co.za
gRowing waLLs
Vertical gardens are attractive and practical and allow owners of small homes to get the garden they desire. Based in Cape Town, Wall Gardens specialises in vertical succulent gardens that are low maintenance, hardy and indigenous. The frames used for these living works of art are made from recycled materials. +27 (0)84 812 8382, wallgardens.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 31
Summer Living
Timber Time Wooden flooring is ideal if you want a contemporary and inviting outdoor living area. BestWood Flooring’s jarrah timber has become an industry favourite for external applications, such as decking, shutters, cladding and pergolas, not only because it ages so beautifully, but also because it is a sustainable hardwood. Jarrah timber can be left to oxidise, producing a distressed grey colour, and requires very little maintenance or oil to keep its rich, dark look. +27 (0)21 465 1035,
12 bestwood.co.za
13 Ice, Ice baby! Let the party begin with the Icecube by Extremis. This designer cooling box keeps your tipple of choice cool during those hot summer nights, while its built-in lighting feature gets everyone in a party mood. Optional extras include a drain and hose, wheels, a cushion and a tray. Available from
11 GettInG fruIty Aside from the bright pop colours of the Drop Fruit Bowl by Menu, we love that it looks a like a 3D paint splash. Made of summerycoloured silicone, the delightful bowl can be used to hold … anything, really, and will liven up any room. Available from Yuppiechef. +27 (0)21 702 4969, yuppiechef.co.za
32 | October/November 2012
Créma Design. +27 (0)21 434 0661, cremadesign.co.za
Summer Living
Kosmos Kudos The Kosmos Parasol by Extremis is a great example of innovative design. Opening and closing like a fan, the Kosmos parasol has two hidden magnets that keep it open and enable it to withstand the wind. It also has a light application that creates a warming glow and transforms it into more of a design feature than a mere umbrella. Made from high-tech polyester
10
fabric, aluminium and stainless steel, the Kosmos Parasol is extremely strong and UV resistant. Available from Créma Design. +27 (0)21 434 0661, cremadesign.co.za
9 BucKet ’n’ glade
In a flat spIn We love the idea of outdoor rugs – they show the great extent to which outdoor areas have become another ‘room’. Resembling a masterpiece of crotchet, the Spin rug by Paola Lenti will make a sexy addition to any outdoor space. Because it is made of polyolefin, a synthetic fibre that doesn’t absorb moisture, the Spin rug is well suited to the outdoors. Available from the Modern Home Company. +27 (0)11 262 0258, modernhome.co.za
8
Summer often has us focusing on our health and wellbeing and we believe it should also give us pause to consider our natural environment. Enter the Chef’n EcoCrock, the coolest, simplest way to compost. This nifty little device is designed to sit patiently and unobtrusively in your kitchen, waiting for you to dispose of organic scraps. It can hold up to 3,3 litres of material and can be safely left on the countertop for days, thanks to its odour-absorbing charcoal filter. Once it’s full you simply tip the compost into your veggie patch or rose garden. Available from Yuppiechef. +27 (0)21 702 4969, yuppiechef.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 33
Summer Living
7 5
6
A mAtter of scAtter
fAbric bric fAntAstic f
Big, fluffy scatter cushions with eye-catching designs are a
Aside from wall paint, another way to give your home a dose
great way to add new life to your sofas, ottomans and chairs
of summer accents is to use fabric. From throws to curtains,
after a long winter. How about this scatter cushion with koi
reupholstered chairs to scatter cushions, summery fabrics can be
motif from Malibu and Resort Interiors, with its Japanese
incorporated in a variety of ways to charming effect. Lula Fabrics’
influence and nautical aesthetic? +27 (0)21 419 3533,
newest range, The Silk Road, is inspired by the East. Did someone
malibusofts.co.za
say ‘Indian summer’? +27 (0)31 208 9520, lulafabrics.co.za
swing time This endearing swing by Paola Lenti glows with summer romance. Its light structure includes stainlesssteel cables, allowing it to be hung easily from any ceiling or beam. The cushions have removable covers padded with a waterproof polyester fibre with an anti-mould and anti-bacteria treatment. Swinging into summer just got real! Available from the Modern Home Company. +27 (0)11 262 0258, modernhome.co.za
Alien resurrection
4
Goet Furniture Design has been wowing us with its
reclaimed, recycled and sustainable timber furniture for some time now. The turned stools shown here are handmade from solid timber stumps of alien
trees, such as jacaranda, eucalyptus and pine. They can be left natural or finished in any paint application you desire. Common uses for them are as side tables or as extra seating for indoor and outdoor spaces. +27 (0)82 877 1132, goet.co.za
34 | October/November 2012
3
in hot wAteR The Duravit Sundeck is one of the biggest design splashes you can make outside the bathroom. Created by the Viennese design team, EOOS, the Sundeck can be set up wherever there is a hot-water connection. This chic mobile tub’s cover can be folded back and used as a backrest or stretched out to form a relaxing lounger. Available from On Tap. +27 (0)12 665 9200, ontap.co.za
Summer Living
Rock on! These wire rockers by Egg Designs are an ideal way to spend lazy summer days with a G & T in hand. Incorporating the same steel mesh technology used for shopping trolleys, and coated to prevent erosion, they’re perfectly suited to the outdoors. We also think they’d be a welcome addition to enliven an interior reading room. +27 (0)31 783 4953, eggdesigns.co.za
2 A diffeRent kettAl of swish There is a move towards making furniture and accessories adaptable to both indoor and outdoor nodes. We believe that it’s about time outdoor areas were given the same attention as our indoor areas, especially in sunny SA, and it was a
1
similar line of thinking that inspired Italian architect and designer, Rodolfo Dordoni, to design Kettal’s latest outdoor furniture collection, Bitta. The name means ‘bollard’ in Italian, and the thick braiding is reminiscent of the ropes used for mooring boats. Available from Marlanteak. +27 (0)21 425 3817, marlanteak.com
thepropertymag.co.za | 35
architecture
NEW HEIGHTS
A few jaw-dropping buildings that are changing our cityscapes have popped up on our radar.We explore some of SA’s iconic new buildings
Words Genevieve Fisher
W
hen it comes to awe-inspiring feats of architecture, South Africa can compete with the best of them, and our growing social environmental awareness is inspiring architects to ensure that each iconic new building is worth its weight in reduced carbon emissions. We present you with six building that we believe are redefining the way South Africans think about their cities.
36 | October/November 2012
Alexander Forbes Building A GBCSA Four-Star Green Star building that employees never want to leave When we came across the new Alexander Forbes building in Sandton, our eyes nearly popped out of our heads. Built on a R1-billion budget, this building looks like some sort of other-worldly fort. The state-of-the-art GBCSA Four-Star Green Star building was built by Paragon Architects on behalf of Zenprop Holdings. Housing 2 500 employees, it is by any standard a dream office environment to work in.
Facilities include a crèche, gym, six parking levels, prayer rooms, a beauty parlour, a health studio with physiotherapist in attendance, a 200-seat auditorium, meeting rooms featuring high-tech AV equipment, staff training rooms, fully integrated caterer’s kitchen and canteen, as well as a coffee shop, bar, and wine cellar. Design-wise, capturing natural light was important, hence the two atria, and the imposing scalloped elements of the north-west orientation capture northern and southern light while protecting
architecture
Protea Court, Sandton City
Alexander Forbes Building, Sandton
employees from the harsh light coming from the east and west. +27 (0)11 482 3781, paragon.co.za GAUTENG Protea Court, Sandton City Our national flower interpreted as a grand, domed roof When the big reveal of Sandton City’s extension, Protea Court, took place in November 2011, Johannesburg’s reputation as a world-class shopping hotspot was confirmed. Managed by Liberty Properties, which also
Soweto Theatre
“Protea Court is not only home to 70 retailers – many of them worldrenowned brands – but is pretty, majestic and intelligent too – pretty, because its crowning glory, the dome, takes inspiration from our national flower, the protea” thepropertymag.co.za | 37
architecture manages the rest of the Sandton City complex, Protea Court is not only home to 70 retailers – many of them world-renowned brands – but is pretty, majestic and intelligent too – pretty, because its crowning glory, the dome, takes inspiration from our national flower, the protea; majestic, because the dome, a steel structure that’s 42m in diameter and 24m high, is a landmark feature on Sandton’s skyline; and intelligent, because the dome is an African first – an innovative application of the eco-friendly, 100%-recyclable transparent material called Texlon, which is tipped as the building material with the second-lowest energy coefficient in the world. The Texlon clads the dome, offering full protection from the elements while welcoming in natural light from the sun by day and the moon by night. It’s impressively lightweight too. +27 (0)11 408 5111, libertyproperties.co.za Soweto Theatre Contextually sensitive and visually arresting The newly built Soweto Theatre in the Jabulani CBD precinct, Soweto, is fast becoming a talking point in SA’s design circles. Executed by the architectural firm, Afritects, this theatre complex is a wonderful example not only of how architecture and design can respond to the needs of a community, but also how this can be done in a conceptual and artistic way, all the while remaining sensitive to the history of the area and the legacy of theatre. The main incentive behind the project was the delivery of an appropriate, versatile venue for the sharing and improvement of arts and culture in the area, in line with the Jabulani Precinct Plan, to redevelop the area as a high-density, mixed-use, vibrant neighbourhood. The starting point for the design was the notion of the ‘black box’, a term used to define a theatre as something that is cut off from the outside world, a sealed box that holds an audience and performers. Under apartheid, the performance spaces in Soweto were makeshift, temporary venues with an accessible,
Tshwane University of Technology Architecture Building
unintimidating ambience, and so the notion of a ‘black box’ did not apply. Afritects has fused the ‘black box’ concept with the casual, communal feeling of the Soweto Theatre’s predecessors, keeping it as an inviting space for lighthearted entertainment. The new theatre is bright, bold, interesting and eye-catching. There are three venues within the complex, seating 430, 180 and 90 patrons respectively. Each performance space takes the form of a block with rounded corners and is clad in shimmering red, blue and yellow ceramic tiles, respectively, so they
Urban-Hub, Cape Town
38 | October/November 2012
are immediately distinguishable from each other from the outside, while the traditional notion of a ‘black box’ remains intact within each block. +27 (0)21 438 2300, afritects.com Tshwane University of Technology Architecture Building A building that teaches its students As a building that facilitates higher education, every part of the Tshwane University of Technology’s new Department of Architecture building aims to educate
Unilever Indonsa Plant, exterior, KwaZulu-Natal
architecture
Tshwane University of Technology Architecture Building
the students who occupy it in all green-building matters. The brief executed by Crafford & Crafford Architects entailed a building that is as environmentally sustainable as possible, functions even when the electricity goes downs, is light, airy and comfortable in hot or cold weather, utilises solar power as far as possible, does not make use of air conditioners, and enables students to explore its functionality and learn from it. With theory comes hands-on experience, and this building, comprised of two wings and a central core housing a studio space, an office and an auditorium, allows for this. By occupying the building, students can see how sun angles work and learn how to manage ventilation, utilise solar heated water for space heating, and how the building services work. Niel Crafford, founder and director of Crafford & Crafford Architects, explains, ‘The building allows students to experience the systems built into it
Unilever Indonsa Plant, interior, KwaZulu-Natal
directly. They can see how electricity is reticulated, how water for firefighting is boosted and circulated, how a lift works … In fact, they have to assist some of the systems to work; for example, there will be times when they need to “flush” the auditorium with large volumes of fresh air, which can be done by opening huge louvres on the southern side.’ The end result is that this building is a living, breathing, experiential example of sustainable design, something Niel believes is fundamental to the discipline of architecture. +27 (0)12 362 3992, ccarchitects.co.za CAPE TOWN Urban-Hub, Cape Town Respecting what has gone before while impressing with the new We love old/new hybrids, especially commercial buildings. Property investment company, Urban Lime, has converted five old adjoining buildings – some
of them dating as far back as the 1800s – to prime commercial office space in what was essentially a restoration project in Cape Town’s oldest suburb, Bo- Kaap. InHouse Brand Architects was responsible for the conversion and was sensitive to the original structures, uncovering hidden design treasures every step of the way while adding some contemporary sparkle to the interior architecture and finishes. Future plans for Urban-Hub include a restaurant, a rooftop garden and retail stores, all perched above Cape Town’s city centre and enjoying panoramic views of Table Mountain. +27 (0)82 836 9333, urban-hub.com KWAZULU-NATAL Unilever Indonsa Plant A green industrial park with a focus on saving water Looking at the pictures of Unilever’s Indonsa Plant is enough to convince anyone of its iconic status, especially considering that it’s a production facility comprising a dry-food plant and an office building. Unilever Chief Supply Chain Officer, Pier-Luigi Sigismondi, describes the building as ‘industrial art’, and Durban-based Elphick Proome Architects is behind it. The designers took the metaphor of a production conveyor belt as their inspiration, and the result is an aluminium sheeting edged with glass-reinforced plastic fasciae that flow over the roof and down the sides of the building, resembling the movement of a conveyor belt. Curved concrete ‘shelves’ along the sides of the office building merge with polished concrete paths running around the front. The machine imagery is completed by the horizontal and vertical perforated aluminium solar louvres running along the sunny south-western side of the office and warehouse. Every effort has been made to design a plant that is as sustainable as possible, especially when it comes to water efficiency. The 22 000m2 rooftop is used to harvest rainwater, which is then stored in a 1 500 000L underground water recovery tank. Other water efficiency technologies have been employed too, such as biological and reverse osmosis treatments, which are used for recycling 70% of all water used in the production process as well as grey shower water back into drinking water. +27 (0)31 275 5800, eparch.co.za
thepropertymag.co.za | 39
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www.franke.co.za
Living
The winding road Whether you’re looking for a secure town house or something grander, Moreleta Park has a property that’s just right for you Words and photographs Gisela Nel
thepropertymag.co.za | 41
Living
T
he quiet suburb of Moreleta Park, one of the
surrounded by homes that are primarily built in the Tuscan
most easterly suburbs of Pretoria, developed
or Balinese styles.
‘Our statistics show that average buyers are around 37 year of age, mostly with young children,’ says Callie
in the 1980s as the logical extension to the
At Woodlands Lifestyle Estate, the houses follow the
Louw, principal Realnet agent for Moreleta Park. Families
established suburbs of Garsfontein, Faerie
American colonial architectural style, with A-frame roofs,
are attracted to the good schools in the area, including
high ceilings, vast windows and pastel-painted exteriors
Woodhill College and Doxa Deo. Convenience is also
Town house complexes and full title and sectional title
offset by white shutters. Encouraging healthy living and a
a drawcard: recreational and retail offerings, such as the
homes constitute this upmarket suburb, making it attractive
close-knit community, Woodlands Estate has its own squash
popular Woodlands Boulevard and Parkview and Menlyn
to a variety of homebuyers. Another drawcard is the quick
courts, tennis courts, clubhouse, volleyball courts, cricket
Park shopping centres, are plentiful, and Netcare Pretoria
access it allows its residents to Centurion and Johannesburg,
field and state-of-the-art gym. Weaving through the estate
East hospital is situated in Moreleta Park.
thanks to its proximity to the N1, the N4 and the R21.
are 25 km of walking trails that are dotted with ponds, dams
Glen and Constantia Park.
Two of the most popular estates in the area are Woodhill
and indigenous gardens.
If you are a visitor looking for an easy-going, homely place to stay in Moreleta Park, look no further than Oxnead
Those hankering after the spaciousness of full-title
Guest House. This Cape Georgian-style guest house was
Built on what was a dairy farm, Woodhill Residential
stands, the charm of old suburbs and security will find
one of the first to be built in Pretoria and has been popular
Estate still retains a country feel, but exudes charm and
them in one of the boomed areas, such as Glossa Estate and
from the start, catering for guests from Parliament and
classiness.The 18-hole Woodhill championship golf course is
Emperors Estate, which are becoming increasingly popular.
visitors from all over the world.
Residential Estate and Woodlands Lifestyle Estate.
Five things to do in and around Moreleta Park 1.
Watch a show at the Parkview Barnyard theatre.
2. Practise your swing at the 18-hole Woodhill championship golf course. 3. Wine and dine at one of Woodlands Boulevard’s many great restaurants. 4. Find inner peace on a nature trail in Moreleta kloof nature reserve. 5. go shopping at Parkview Centre or Woodlands Boulevard.
opening page A winding walking trail in Moreleta Lifestyle Estate. this page, below The quiet suburban life is one of Moreleta Park’s most attractive aspects. Bottom left Beautiful landscaping and glassy ponds can be found around every corner of Woodlands estate. Bottom right The clean lines of the American colonial architectural style typifies Woodlands estate. opposite, top to bottom Interconnecting pathways create a sense of community; the streets are safe for walking in.
42 | October/November 2012
Living
What the agEnts say We ask Dee Prentice, resident property specialist at Woodlands Lifestyle Estate, and Callie Louw, principal agent of Realnet Moreleta Park, why Moreleta Park is such a sought-after area. Describe a typical Woodlands Lifestyle Estate residential property. DP: There are 278 houses, including townhouses and duets. Residents take pride in their homes, and all the houses have beautiful gardens. The houses and gardens are not enclosed by high walls or electric fences, but rather are open and inviting, adding to the sense of community. What is the average size and price range of properties in Moreleta Park? CL: Sectional title stands start at 300 m2 and sell for between R500 000 and R950 000. Full title stands start at 1 000 m2 and sell from R2,2 million to R2,6 million. The average size of a duet stand is 600 m2 to 700 m2 and they sell for between R1,3 million and R1,6 million. What facilities, schools, attractions and recreational areas are available to residents of the area? DP: Moreleta Park is home to excellent schools, such as Woodhill College and Doxa Deo. Woodlands Lifestyle Estate is also a stone’s throw from Constantia Primary. We are close to Woodlands Boulevard and Parkview Centre and are on the doorstep of the beautiful Kimiad and Woodhill golf courses. How has Moreleta Park developed in the past 10 years? CL: Moreleta Park has grown, resulting in new retail malls being developed in the area. Emphasis has also been put on security, with new, secure residential estates and boomed suburbs becoming a trend. Why would you encourage people to invest in Woodlands Lifestyle Estate? DP: Since its establishment, the popularity of Woodlands Lifestyle Estate has gone from strength to strength. Aside from being an excellent financial investment, it’s an investment in a healthy lifestyle for you and your family. Properties With thanks to …
here retain their value because
Dee Prentice, Prentice Property Estates, +27 (0)82 565 6900, woodlandsnet.co.za
people are so willing to buy into the
Callie Louw, Realnet Moreleta Park, +27 (0)82 802 1916, realnet.co.za
Woodlands’ lifestyle.
thepropertymag.co.za | 43
TRAVEL
fisherman AN Ode tO the
Like the fishing village of Paternoster, Abalone House radiates soul and charm Words Tammy Sutherns
44 | October/November 2012
TRAVEL
Opening page The view from the upper deck of Abalone House, Paternoster. This page, clockwise from top Abalone House’s thatched roofs and whitewashed exterior walls match the traditional architectural vernacular of the fishing village; the fireplace in the lounge makes for cosy evenings; ‘Tea by the Sea’ is served in the pretty Orchid Room.
Y
ou’d be forgiven for thinking you’d slipped into another time zone as, bleary-eyed from the two-hour drive from Cape Town, you blink at the whitewashed little cottages dotted along Paternoster’s beach. There’s not a shopping mall in sight, and next to no traffic – only clear skies, fishing boats resting on the beach and local children smiling gleefully at their handcrafted decorative hearts made from seashells and wire. To stay in Paternoster is to rejoice in the rustic. You can walk the streets in peace, from the quaint Jem & Pantoffels shop to the beautiful Stone Fish Art Gallery, passing by local fishermen selling sea-fresh,
juicy crayfish at street corners and exhorting you to buy a few to cook on the braai at home. Beach restaurants and pizzerias tempt with simple but tasty food.You can drag out a canoe out and brave the icy Atlantic waves or jog along the kilometres of beach and breathe in the salt air. But it’s still nice to return from all of this to your five-star lodgings at Abalone House. Seen from the outside, the hotel maintains the modest whitewashed look of the rest of the buildings in the village, but its interiors speak a far more comfortable and luxurious truth. With its crackling fire in the lounge and an entrance hall, bar and dining area that are rich in art,
colour and textures, Abalone House makes it difficult for you to decide if it’s preferable to be drinking in the magnificent views from the deck, or drinking a glass of sherry by the fire. Inspired by owners’ Johan Jansen van Vuuren and Stef Venter’s vibrant and indulgent taste, the furniture is warm, inviting and trendy. The bar and entrance hall lead out onto a fantastically lit courtyard with outside furniture, candles and two plunge pools. And just when you can’t imagine the views in Paternoster getting any better, the upstairs deck proves that they can indeed, thanks to cosy loungers, a Jacuzzi and deck chairs.
thepropertymag.co.za | 45
TRAVEL
Clockwise from top left Tretchikoff prints hang on the walls of the reception room and set the tone for the rich and vibrant decor theme that carries through to the rest of the hotel’s rooms; meals are taken amid the opulence of Saffron Restaurant; the fragrant courtyard with swimming pool and deck.
The bedrooms open either onto the upper deck or the courtyard below and provide guests with every comfort – under-floor heating, television, Wi-Fi, mini-bar, and a bed that is sure to hold you captive for a few hours longer in the morning. (The evening turn-down service and the chocolate next to your pillow are just Abalone House showing off!) But it’s the food that really puts Abalone House on the map. Saffron Restaurant’s Executive Chef Darren Stewart has compiled a menu laden with West Coast seafood and local delicacies while adding gourmet twists, such as beetroot soup with goat’s cheese ravioli
46 | October/November 2012
and hake risotto with pickled carrot and the Saffron house salad. Guests may pair these dishes with a wine on Saffron’s Platinum-rated list, which includes wines from the West Coast and surrounds, South African MCCs, French champagnes and the world’s top six single-malt whiskeys. The Tea by the Sea proves how far Abalone House will go to spoil its guests. The tea is served daily in the Orchid Room conservatory overlooking the bay. Darren whips up his signature Gâteau St Honore, strawberry cream disks and savoury pancake roulades along with other snacks and a selection of fine teas.
The village friendliness that characterises Paternoster is apparent in Abalone House’s staff and adds to the homeliness of your stay. Paternoster is a place where you can imagine walking your dogs or letting your children ride their bikes down to the beach for the day. Perhaps you could use the retreat to hole up in winter and work on that novel you never got round to writing. Family time or soul time, this is the place to escape to, not only to rest, but also to get back to basics. +27 (0)86 722 7973, abalonehouse.co.za
DESIGN profIlE
y l e v nG i t i a k e a r e C sp er
e
iev
sh Fi
v ne
e
sG
d or
photograph courtesy of lisa Burnell
W
As the new head of Creative Cape Town, Farzanah Badsha is generating space for creativity to flourish in the streets of the city
‘C
reative people are known for taking few resources and maximising them, something that businesses and their employees would do well to learn from,’ says Farzanah Badsha, the newly appointed programme manager of Creative Cape Town (CTT). This kind of non-traditional thinking is one of Farzanah’s most intriguing qualities. Here is a lady with exceptional ideas, all underpinned by a positivity that’s bound to put you in a good mood. Her articulation of and confidence in these ideas would make anyone, no matter their background, think, ‘Wow, that’s cool!’ She is a Capetonian who’s young enough to recognise that, with the right regulations in place, skateboarding can provide an eco-friendly alternative to driving, yet wise enough to have a deep sensitivity towards the city’s historical legacies and ongoing social problems. Describing herself as a lover of art in all its forms, Farzanah was primed for her current role through a degree in visual history with a focus on photography, and by being part of the curatorial team that brought 2010’s Spier Contemporary biennale exhibition to City Hall. She says, ‘Over the years, I’ve developed
a strong belief in the greatness of this city and that through public space, art and culture it can really work for everyone who lives in it. Because of my background in history I understand historical trajectories, and how they are reflected in a contemporary city, through culture, really interests me.’ CCT was founded in 2006 as a subsidiary of the Cape Town Partnership (CTP), a public-private partnership which aims to uplift and transform the central city. CTP has always been concerned about the overall well-being of the City of Cape Town. Farzanah explains, ‘The creative industries have been identified as a way to boost economic development and Creative Cape Town provides a platform for this. We want to expose and bring awareness to the exciting initiatives that creative people are undertaking in the city.’ One of CCT’s means of achieving this is based on the concept du jour: information sharing. CCT has people who are dedicated to Twitter feeds, Facebook updates and regular newsletter publishing. When describing the other concept inherent to the success of the organisation, collaboration, Farzanah’s eyes twinkle: ‘We’re a node of info gathering and I spend much of my time listening to individuals and
groups pitching their projects and ideas. This is great because I find out about so many interesting things and am able to link the right people together to make these projects happen. Enabling collaboration and making connections between people in the creative sector and those in, say, the financial one or even government, makes creativity sustainable. Every creative needs a financial advisor, web developer or accountant, no matter how small their business is.’ After taking up her current role at the end of July (the other project she’s spearheading is the ongoing series of mainly musical events, City Hall Sessions), Farzanah put a lot of her energy into the annual Creative Week Cape Town (CWCT), which took place at the end of September this year. CWCT is where creativity as a means to transform public space in the city is greatly realised, and this year it worked through an online ‘crowd-sourced calendar’ on the CWCT website, where individuals or organisations could upload an event or initiative that they had already conceptualised and funded. CCT then promoted these to its immense database.
thepropertymag.co.za | 47
48 | October/November 2012 © Bruce Sutherland
© Steve Gordon
© Lisa Burnell
© Jacques Marais Media
© Sarah Scott
© Caroline Jordan
DESIGN ProfIlE
DESIGN profIlE
‘EvEry
Courtesy of 99 Harrington
crEativE nEEds a financial advisor, wEb dEvElopEr or accountant’ Opening page ‘Design storming’ in Khayelitsha. This spread, clockswise from top left Heath Nash’s Alley Project at CWCT 2011; CCT’s Walking on Walls graffiti tour; roof garden at 99 Harrington Street, The Fringe; Walking on Walls; The Fringe Handmade Market; wall mural by Jacques Marais Media; The Fringe Living Labs Spaza; a City Hall Session in full swing; Lwanda
© Lisa Burnell
© Sarah Scott
Gogwana performs at a City Hall Session.
CCT is also playing a major role in supporting Cape Town as the World Design Capital for 2014 (WDC 2014). CTP has been mandated to set up the infrastructure for the organisation of the projects of the WDC 2014, by managing the selection of board members and a CEO who will manage the official programme. CCT will be supporting the work of the WDC 2014 board with grassroots initiatives aimed at showing what Cape Town and its people can do. They’re already on the go with events that Farzanah calls ‘design storming’, which she describes as forums to connect members of the public from certain communities with designers to solve inherent community problems. For Farzanah, the importance of design storming lies in bringing design to the people as a viable means to solve a service delivery problem. ‘Both designers and individuals from communities such as Khayelitsha are benefitting from this process. People in such communities don’t usually have access to design and the solutions it can provide; likewise, designers don’t often get to understand the issues that people from such communities are dealing with,’ she says. Farzanah believes that these design storming forums were key to Cape Town’s successful WDC 2014 bid. ‘Our bid provided something that other cities haven’t done yet – reconceptualising design so that it becomes about a city’s people, not its beautiful products.’ For many South Africans putting the words ‘design’ and ‘social upliftment’ together in the same sentence seemed almost illogical. But with 2014 looming and with organisations such as CTT being helmed by people such as Farzanah, who are facilitating a new way of thinking about creativity, we’re starting to get the idea. Farzanah says, ‘I hope design becomes more democratic and accessible and that people start to see that it can improve the way they live. Most of all, I hope that the legacy of WDC 2014 is one of Capetonians, – no matter their socioeconomic situations – demanding well-designed things that will address their day-to-day needs.’ +27 (0)21 419 1881, creativecapetown.net
thepropertymag.co.za | 49
R O IT tte ED hu T Sc ES a U th G Re
Real estate
residential & commercial
Slowly but SuRely Pretoria’s residential property market is showing signs of a slow recovery, says Pam Golding Properties Regional Executive Pretoria, Retha Schutte
T
aking economic and other prevailing fundamentals into account, I believe that the residential property market of Pretoria, Centurion and surrounds will remain relatively flat for the remainder of 2012 as compared with the growth levels of 2011, because the demand for upmarket homes is generally low. However, there are some areas of the market which are performing strongly. In February, the property research organisation, Lightstone, named Woodhill as the top golf estate in terms of value for 2011. One of the most upmarket golf estates in Pretoria, Woodhill’s annual property price appreciation was 34%. It is worth noting that this increase was for properties in the R2,4 million to R3,4-million bracket. Most of the properties sold overlook the greens or are situated around the golf course. Affordability was a major driver.The proximity to major routes and amenities, excellent security, the golf course, tennis and squash courts, the country club and the nearby Woodhill College also fuelled buyers’ interest levels. Woodhill is not the only golf estate that’s doing well. Security and golf estates throughout the Pretoria region are in demand, particularly as safety remains a major concern. I believe that estate properties will remain in demand well into the foreseeable future.
In recent months we have seen an increase in activity in areas such as Waterkloof Ridge, Waterkloof and Brooklyn. These areas are among the most exclusive residential suburbs in Pretoria and are home to embassy personnel, high-profile business executives and sports celebrities. A shortage of stock in the price band of R2,8 million to R4,5 million is being experienced in these areas and we view this as a most welcome development. However, it is too early to say with certainty whether this signals a turning market. Another positive development is the increase in the number of first-time homebuyers entering the Pretoria region as a direct result of the banks relaxing their lending criteria coupled with lower interest rates. The high demand for rental properties across the Pretoria region has been noted and is pushing up rental prices across the board. Consequently the buyto-let market is slowly but steadily coming back into its own as investors re-enter the market. Challenges are being experienced in the residential property market countrywide and the Pretoria and Centurion areas are no different. But just how does this affect buyers and sellers? In my view, approaches to today’s property market must be practical and level headed. Buyers and sellers should seek out sound advice that will enable them to make informed decisions based on comparative values, the
state of the market and future projections. There is always much debate around whether sellers should grant property agents sole mandates. Generally speaking, a sole mandate ensures a better marketing plan, a more concerted effort, wider media exposure and a much greater level of commitment from the agent. Competition is healthy, but it needs to be between interested buyers rather than between estate agents. Selling a property is a process, and price counselling from an experienced and responsible agent is vital. From the buyer’s perspective, it is imperative to explore the market thoroughly, set aside time to visit properties and glean as much marketrelated information as possible. A practical approach to buying and selling property is therefore essential. A word of caution in closing: when it comes to property, settle for nothing less than the best possible professional advice.
Retha Schutte, Pam Golding Properties Regional Executive Pretoria
thepropertymag.co.za | 51
Pretoria Residential & Commercial
Room to grow The newest branch of self-storage company, Stor-Age, has opened its doors in Centurion. It is located on the corner of Samrand Avenue and Rietspruit Road, close to the N1. ‘Breaking into the Pretoria market has always been a long-term plan of Stor-Age’s,’ says Property Director Steven Horton. ‘Although originally a Cape-based company, we are pleased to be strengthening our presence in Gauteng, and particularly in Pretoria, with Stor-Age Centurion.’ Stor-age plans to expand to Durban and Port Elizabeth too. 0861 18 18 18, stor-age.co.za
Serene excellence Overlooking the quietly babbling Walker Spruit lies the new Walker Creek office development, designed to be simple and unobtrusive in its natural surroundings. The CJ Irons development, designed by Francois Bredenkamp of Boogertman & Partners Architects, has a dominant east/west facade that forms the periphery of Francis Ribeiro Street. The South African Revenue Service is the first tenant of this shiny-new A-grade office block, which consists of two basement levels and three storeys. The main facade is solid, to absorb sunlight and define the street edge, and understated sandstone cladding creates a warm glow in the late afternoon sun, highlighting subtle texture variations in the facade, while the entrance courtyard creates a visual connection to the streetscape. Two more phases of the development are in the pipeline. +27 (0)12 429 7300, boogertman.com
Coughing up Private tenants are becoming more diligent about paying rent.
Centurion Symbio-City in the City of Tshwane has been given
The Tenant Profile Network credit bureau reports that 81% of all
the green light. It will include Africa’s tallest building and will be
residential rent was paid in the first quarter of 2012. That’s up
built at an estimated cost of R18,2 billion. According to the City
from 79% in the second quarter of 2011 and well up on 2009’s
of Tshwane, ground will be broken in late 2012. The development
percentage of 71%. ‘If we break it up into rental segments, the
will be built on and around the central Centurion Lake, on 10ha of
worst tenant rental payment behaviour appears to be in the
land. The main tower will be a staggering 110 storeys high, with two
minus-R3 000 per month and below segment, where one saw a
shorter twin towers on either side. The tallest tower will pierce the
lowly 72% of tenants being in good standing in the first quarter,’
skies of Centurion at 447m. The development will consist of two
says Lighthouse Property Group CEO, Greg Harris. ‘Back in early
office towers and one residential tower, which will include a hotel
2011, the highest-priced rental segment, starting at R12 000-plus per
and leisure and retail facilities. According to Councillor Kgosientso
month, was every bit as poorly performing as the below-R3 000
Ramokgopa, executive mayor of the City of Tshwane, Centurion
segment. However, this appears to have changed, with the higher
Symbio-City will create over 10 000 jobs during the construction
rental segment’s percentage at 77,5% by the first quarter of 2012,
phase and more than 4 000 sustainable jobs post-construction.
from 64% a year ago.’ +27 (0)31 561 5838, lighthouse.co.za
52 | October/November 2012
Words Gisela Nel
Symbiosis in Centurion
We sold R66million in 60 days in
Brooklyn and Waterkloof.
If you are not listed with us to sell your property WHY NOT? Contact your GoldClub area Specialists: Ria de Clercq 082 557 5161
www.pamgolding.co.za
Stienie van den Berg 082 870 7214
trend watch
Bat SigNalS
As living moves outdoors, we shed some light on how to keep the party going even when the sun goes down Sexy SwimminG
liGht lite
New to Spanish manufacturer,
Placed correctly, LED lights can
Bover’s, outdoor range is the
deter intruders, light up a space
Fora Mesa lamp. The stands are
and highlight architectural features.
made from graphite and the
They’re also energy efficient, long
light source is protected by a
lasting and cheap to run.
medium-intensity polyethylene
0861 LIGHTING,
globe and UV protection, making
lightingwarehouse.co.za
the lamp water-resistant and safe to use around the pool. The Fora Mesa lamp is part of Pure Light SA’s Fabian collection.
SittinG pretty
+27 (0)11 465 4232, purelightsaonline.com
We love this pot plantstyled lighting feature. Delicate, pretty and subtle, the Rasmus tree is available from Sirius Living & Lighting. +27 (0)11 786 4487, siriusliving.co.za
SuSpended Style The Aliba Big Suspended Light from the Modern Home Company’s (MHCO) Karman collection is an edgy addition to any patio. An Italian product, it’s made from fibreglass and suspended with wire. Available from MHCO’s Cape Town and Joburg showrooms. +27 (0)21 434 0611, +27 (0)11 262 0258, modernhome.co.za
Gated Glamour Eurolux’s outdoor lamps take lighting up your garden to another level. The Lorena lamp’s cage is made from steel and holds an opal glass lens. Stores
on the ball
nationwide. eurolux.co.za
Mobelli’s Orb light packs a punch when it comes to creating a lighting focal point outside. Water resistant, wireless and rechargeable, it’s activated by remote and alternates between four colours. Showrooms in Cape +27 (0)21 512 2662, +27 (0)31 566 5996, +27 (0)11 268 6956, mobelli.co.za
56 | October/November 2012
Words Nicky Manson
Town, Durbs and Joburg.