The Property Magazine - Pretoria September 2012

Property SEPTEMBER 2012

Winner of 10 publishing awards

Est. 2004, Issue 282

PRETORIA

decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate

WIN A SHAMWARI VISIT WORTH R27 000

CONOR MCCREEDY’S

SOHO APARTMENT

MODERN RETRO

12009

9 771810 469028

SA’S HOT SPACES PLUS: INSPIRATIONAL PRODUCTS & IDEAS

RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Pod Boutique Hotel, Camps Bay. pod.co.za

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

>

INSIDE A TRENDY PECANWOOD HOME

Excellence by Design

30

26 18

22

Contents DECOR 11

41

Anderson looks at the

Trendy antiques and

Private Property

market’s influences

52

LUXURY WIN A three-night stay at the five-

46

star Shamwari Game Reserve

IT’S ALL ABOUT ATTITUDE

DESIGN 18

AN ARTIST’S SANCTUARY

10

HOT PLATE

Revealing SA-born

A hidden deli delight

artist Conor Mccreedy’s

44

A CONVENIENT TRUTH

quirky SoHo apartment

Make your kitchen

26

spectacular

TREND WATCH Get the look! Inspiring ideas for bathroom and

30

kitchen makeovers

LUXURY HOT INDULGENCE

PRETORIA RESIDENTIAL Hatfield faces huge residential demand

47

PRETORIA COMMERCIAL A creative office space in Menlo Park

MAURITIUS Turn to the back of the

MODERN RETROSPECTIVE

magazine for our special

Modern living with a retro

commercial and leisure

touch at Pecanwood Estate

opportunities in Mauritius

report on residential,

SPACES THAT SPEAK VOLUMES South Africa’s top bathrooms and kitchens

REAL ESTATE 14

VALE OF DREAMS

@ Maison.

Turn to page 11 at Inspirational bathroom

Wines, clothes and

for Pod the full story. hotel. See boutique

other indulgences you

duplex in exclusive Higgovale,

should be exploring

Cape Town

page 30 for details.

Rabie Property Group Director Colin

Attitude Boutique Hotel

12

EYES WIDE OPEN

Kroon Country Estate with

The bold decor of Alpine

50

45

A Property Dinner at Kievits

TRENDS

ON THE COVER TheON Kitchen THE & Tasting COVER Room

WINING, DINING AND BOOMING

HOT DECOR & DESIGN modern twists

9

50

The perfect lock-up-and-go

thepropertymag.co.za | 1

ED’S LETTER THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE ONLINE VISIT thepropertymag.co.za for the latest features.

Photograph Grant Difford

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… renovate your kitchen. Or your bathroom

Two of the busiest rooms in our houses are undoubtedly the bathroom and the kitchen. Both get the most foot traffic, so it makes sense that these rooms should get the most thought and devotion when it comes to layout and features, design and decor, and appliances and accessories.

Kitchens are no longer a place to merely cook and eat.

They are now functional spaces where family and friends can congregate and engage, catch up, play, do homework, read the paper …

Today’s kitchen has evolved and therefore its design has too. Kitchens are now masterpieces of architecture and design, pieces of art if you will, that we showcase proudly.

High-gloss cupboards hide unsightly appliances, leaving gleaming surfaces uncluttered and allowed to shine in all their glory. Technology allows for us to call on espressos, ice, cold water – the list goes on – from a hidden machine at the simple touch of a button. Art and light installations merge until they are indistinguishable. Kitchens now boast TVs, wine coolers, bars, sofas … All within reach, meaning you may never need to leave the room.

The same can be said of the bathroom. Once merely a room to in which to cleanse ourselves, the bathroom now takes centre stage in the home. Bathtubs have grown, shower

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walls have disappeared and wet rooms have emerged. Views have become important and technology and green devices rule (you can save a Third World country’s water supply with the one-touch flush). Mouldy bathmats have been replaced by sexy concrete floors or natural wooden planks, sauna and steam functions are now par for the course, and you can have warming towel racks, warming loo seats and even underfloor heating installed. And yet, despite all these advances, the bathroom remains our sanctuary, a serene and calming space in which to wash away the day’s problems and renew our vigour.

So important are these rooms to us and to our readers that we have devoted 10 pages to SA’s top bathrooms and kitchens.We hope you are left awestruck, inspired and a tad envious. We were.

Nicky Manson, Editor

This month I covet …

The Benjamin Mirror by Egg Designs. Simply

A bathroom by Lavo Bathroom Concepts. When did

The Beluga Light by Fabbian, available from Pure

gorgeous. +27 (0)11 262 5940, eggdesigns.co.za

sanware get so sexy? +27 (0)21 461 0180, lavo.co.za

Light SA. +27 (0)82 576 2048, purelightsaonline.com

2 | September 2012

“1000 Nm strong�

ABSOLIFT

Manufacturers and suppliers of garage door s and folding sliding doors.

S u ppl ie rs of garage d oor hardware and automation.

Tel 012 8038348 Fax 012 8039331 Email : absolutedoor@mweb.co.za Website : www.absolutedoors.co.za

Wealth & Investment

SEAN CAVENEY Investec Wealth & Investment Branch Head - Pretoria

A case for the defence The continued marked preference for equities with defensive qualities remained a feature of the markets in the second quarter of 2012. On the JSE, our index of industrial hedges – a market cap weighted mix of companies with exposure to the global economy

Wealth & 1nvestment

and limited sensitivity to either SA interest rates or commodity prices – continued to move ahead. This universe includes British American Tobacco, SABMiller, Naspers, Richemont, Aspen and Steinhoff.

Ranked #1 by PricewaterhouseCoopers in Wealth Management Ranked #1 in the Business Day Investors Monthly Stockbroker Awards for Sophisticated Investors

Keeping pace with these defensive plays were a combination of

Our #1 rankings are testament to our select investment services for discerning clients. Backed by

SA plays, including interest rate sensitive stocks (banks, retailers,

our seamless global investment offering, we cater for your individual investment objectives.

listed property etc) that were greatly assisted by what proved to be surprisingly low interest rates with a growing sense that short-term

To find out more contact our Pretoria branch on 012 427 8300

rates were due to fall rather than rise in the months to come. The

www.investec.co.za/wi

distinct underperformers have been the resource stocks or what we call commodity price plays, which is resource stocks excluding gold mining. Unsurprisingly, given the global integration of equity markets, the same out- and underperformers have been registered on the FTSE – showing the relative performance of consumer goods and miners below. Clearly, it is the defensive stocks that have gained value in an anxious world and the cyclical stocks that have been punished.

Accordingly, it is the defensive companies on the JSE and FTSE that have provided very good returns over the past 12 months and have become very demandingly valued. These companies pay dividends and are expected to continue to do so, thanks to their strong balance sheets. The commodity plays are very undemandingly valued, as shown by their price/earnings multiples. The hedges trade at record multiples, the interest sensitive stocks at close to record multiples (though at significantly lower ratios than the hedges) and the commodity plays at close to recent lows.

Play defence? Or turn to attack?

The big question for allocating funds across the different equity classes is whether this now expensive taste for “cyclically defensive” companies over the “cyclically exposed” should continue to be

Ranked #1

Ranked #1

cultivated. Is it time to turn valuable defence into even more valuable

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

In the 2011 PricewaterhouseCoopers Banking Survey in Wealth Management.

attack? Our answer is not yet, though we remain alert to the possibilities.

Portfolio Management Contact Investec Wealth & Investment for more details.

Pretoria 012 427 8300

Stockbroking

Wealth Management

Investec Securities Limited Reg. No 1972/008905/06. A member of the Investec Group. A member of the JSE Limited South Africa.

An authorised financial service provider. A registered credit provider Reg. No. NCRCP262.

Property DISTRIBUTION THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE PRETORIA Print Run

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REGIONAL CIRCULATION ABC Audited National Circulation (Apr.–Jun. 2012) The Property Magazine – Johannesburg 18 633 The Property Magazine – Western Cape 23 001 The Property Magazine – KwaZulu-Natal 13 735 The Property Magazine – Combined 55 369

thepropertymag.co.za EDITORIAL Editor Nicky Manson nickym@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)

Western Cape Regional Sales & Marketing Manager Michèle Jones Western Cape Sales Chantal Barton, Susan Erwee Pretoria Sales Lorna MacPhail KwaZulu-Natal Sales Claire Veitch Directory Sales Lufuno Mudau Event Coordinator Bianca van Deventer Media Coordinator Tamlyn Pasqualie Traffic Assistant Portia Mbele

ART Senior Designer Keverne Morland Junior Designer Chané Joemat Senior Retoucher Tim Lake CONTRIBUTORS Deborah Curtis-Setchell, Candace King, Tammy Sutherns PHOTOGRAPHERS Val Adamson, Nic Baleta, Fiona Barclay-Smith, Sally Chance, Deborah Curtis-Setchell, Michael Glenister, Tim Lake, Candace Marshall-Smith, Gisela Nel DISTRIBUTION Ezweni Magazine Distribution ADVERTISING Gauteng & KwaZulu-Natal Regional Sales & Marketing Manager Jenni McCallum Gauteng & KwaZulu-Natal Sales Assistant Liezel Barnard Johannesburg Sales Milos Kovacevic, Tracey-Lee Schuster

PUBLISHED BY MEDIA NOVA (PTY) LTD Managing Director Tony Vaughan tony@medianova.co.za General Manager Mark Pettipher markp@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 Collections Clerk Casmia Gysman IT Coordinator Adrian Petro Drivers Themba Gumede, Joseph Khoza, Willem September

SAPOA Property Journalism Awards 2011: Winner – Best Property Publication Nedbank Property Association Awards 2010: Winner – Mover & Shaker Award (Tony Vaughan) PICA Awards 2009: Winner – Special Award, Overall Publishing Excellence PICA Awards 2008: Winner – Consumer Magazines, Largely Free Distribution, and Highly Commended: Editorial Excellence, Public Interest Writer of the Year (Ed Suter) 20th SAB Environmentalist of the Year & Environmental Journalists of the Year Awards 2008: Winner – Merit Award, Print & Internet SAPOA Property Journalism Awards 2008: Winner – Best Property Publication, and Special Mention – Property Feature Journalist (Ed Suter) PICA Awards 2007: B2B – Publishing Excellence, Leisure Mondi Magazine Awards 2005: Winner – Foresight SAPPI PICA Awards 2005: Winner – Philip Tyler Trophy for Innovation in Magazine Publishing Brandhouse Media Owners Challenge Awards 2005:Winner – Innovation in Publishing SAPPI PICA Awards 2005: B2B – Highly Commended Mondi Magazine Awards 2004: Industry – Finalist Launch Edition: April 2004 WESTERN CAPE 3rd Floor, 33 Bree Street, Cape Town, 8001.

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Property SEPTEMBER 2012

Winner of 10 publishing awards

Print edition published monthly in four regional issues: Western Cape, Johannesburg, KwaZulu-Natal and Pretoria Current ABC Audited Circulation (Q2 2012, April–June): Western Cape – 23 001, Johannesburg – 18 633, KwaZulu-Natal – 13 735. Total Nationally – 55 369 Pretoria print run – 10 000 Web Stats: Property Club Members – 24 884 AMPS National Readership (2011A): 287 815 Est. 2004, Issue 282

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INSIDE A TRENDY PECANWOOD HOME

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Disclaimer The publisher and editor of this magazine give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised within this edition. Copyright Media Nova (Pty) Limited. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from Media Nova (Pty) Limited.

The publishers are not responsible for any unsolicited material.

9 771810 469028

RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) Pod Boutique Hotel, Camps Bay. pod.co.za

>

INSIDE A TRENDY PECANWOOD HOME

SA’S HOT SPACES PLUS: INSPIRATIONAL PRODUCTS & IDEAS

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

ON THIS MONTH’S COVERS Western Cape: Meerendal Boutique Hotel.

Johannesburg: Designer bathroom with Cobra throughout – 0861 21 21 21, cobra.co.za.

KwaZulu-Natal: Beach house, Brittania Bay. Pretoria: Pod Boutique Hotel, Camps Bay. South Africa (National Digital Edition): Bathroom, The Glass House, Gauteng.

287 815

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HOT PROPERTY

HOT SPACE

1

W

alking into Alpine Attitude Boutique Hotel in Pretoria is like waking to the realisation that whatever you believed

style to be, it will probably never quite compare with this. The design is exquisite.

Alpine Attitude is situated at 522 Atterbury Road, Menlo Park, just off the N1 highway in the east of Pretoria. The owner, Charmaine Freyer, is a qualified quantity surveyor, but as you walk through the art-spangled interiors you get a strong sense that she might have missed her calling. She and her husband used to rent out the house. When the tenants moved out, Charmaine took it as a sign that she should pursue her dream of starting her own unique hotel. The hotel is the realisation of the creative vision of Charmaine, architect André Eksteen, who was responsible for the striking white tree entrance facade, and interior designer Sandra Bodard. André and Sandra are both from Earthworld Architects.

IT’S ALL ABOUT

ATTITUDE Bold decor and design choices pay off for the proprietors of Alpine Attitude Boutique Hotel

Charmaine’s brief was ‘keep it local and keep it fun’. The result is a playful style where modern local art and weather-beaten furniture effortlessly complement the charcoal-and-acidyellow colour scheme. A great supporter of young local talent, Charmaine regularly attends student art exhibitions at the University of Pretoria and has commissioned many young artists to create works for the hotel. These include Audrey Anderson’s mural of the city skyline and an Absa-L’Atelier-Award-winning photograph by Retha Ferguson. ‘When my daughter was a student I realised how hard it was for young artists pursuing their passion in

2

SA,’ says Charmaine. ‘They need our support if we don’t want them leaving the country.’

The ground floor houses the lounge, bar and Create restaurant. The lounge spills out onto the patio and modern landscaped gardens. Behind a glass wall is the infinity pool.

Hanging pod chairs from Weylandts add a laidback feel. Each of the guest rooms has been tastefully decorated by a South African artist according to one of seven themes: African, Black and White, Funky, Leather, Pebble, Transparent and Nature. You needn’t overnight to experience the hotel’s splendour. The award-winning Create restaurant, run by chef Chantelle Pfeiffer, regularly hosts food-andwine-pairing evenings, and the menu changes monthly, depending on the wine.

Few hotels have the fearless sense of style that makes Alpine Attitude a rare find indeed. ‘Creating something so unique was

Words and photographs Gisela Nel

also a marketing strategy,’ says Charmaine.

‘We believed something so extraordinary would market itself.’ This ingenious approach to interior design earned Alpine Attitude the

3

‘Best Hotel in Pretoria’ award.

+27 (0)12 348 6504, alpineattitude.co.za The steel tree structure sets the tone for exciting interior design. 2The luxurious lounge and

1

Visit thepropertymag.co.za for other

cocktail bar, with Create restaurant behind the screen. 3 Designed by Yda Walt and decorated

outstanding accommodation in your area.

with her craftwork, the joyful Funky Room is a celebration of Africa.

thepropertymag.co.za | 9

HOT PROPERTY

HOT PLATE

Excellent espressos and a hidden deli to make your morning, and a veg cookbook

‘Vibrant’, ‘bright’ and ‘engaging’ are words you’d expect to hear from your friend when he’s describing a girl he’s just fallen for. They are, however, also good words to describe Pure Café’s newest range of coffees.

Co- owner ELSABÉ VAN DER WALT explains why.

10 | September 2012

Sunrise special Wrap up in a blue tweed blanket and catch the early morning rays on the stoep of Deli-onDuncan’s new premises in Duncan Yard. Renowned for its freshly baked goods, the deli has a quirky, intimate atmosphere and is great for a pot of Earl Grey or lavender tea and some juicy gossip with friends. The menu changes daily. Specialities include tartlets, quiches, lamb pies, open tartlets, warm soup, freshly baked breads and sweet delights aplenty. For brunch or a light lunch, we highly recommend the hickory ham, Brie and apple phyllo tartlets or the home-made smoked salmon and spinach quiche. The baked cheesecake and top-heavy lemon meringue pie are sure to test your willpower and will keep you coming back for more. A moment on the lips will be well worth it. +27 (0)12 362 4054, duncanyard.co.za

Veg out Here’s a book that’ll have vegetarians – and others – heading straight to the kitchen.

Hirsch’s Living the Modern Vegetarian Life offers an appealing selection of meals that can be served as stand-alone dishes or used as accompaniments, for those wanting a little chicken, meat or fish on their plates, too. The focus on relaxed, unpretentious entertaining for family and friends has led to a collection of recipes that are easy to prepare and inexpensive. The fabulous food styling by Natasha Barnes and photography by Roy Reed provide oodles of inspiration. Available from Hirsch’s stores countrywide. hirschs.co.za

Words and Pure Café photograph Gisela Nel

Where does your new range of coffee come from? Our new range of coffee consists of Guatemalan (Finca Vista El Paternal), Ethiopian (Sidamo) and Brazilian (Santos) blends. We use these blends because they complement cappuccinos, and we are famous for our cappuccinos. How is Pure Café doing its part for the environment? Coffee beans differ from season to season, and we only buy the best seasonal coffee beans available. We purchase our coffee from certified-sustainable growers and purchase organically grown coffee where possible. At the café, we recycle all glass and paper and only use glass water bottles instead of plastic.

How would you describe Pure Cafe’s range of coffees? Roasted for the espresso lover, the range has complex, bittersweet flavours overlapping with thick and creamy textures and bursting with smoky and pungent aromas. Our dark roasted beans have a slightly floral, earthy fragrance with notes of chocolate and a caramel finish. Our coffee tastes clear and has a bold finish. However, tasting is believing, so you will have to come visit us and taste one for yourself. +27 (0)12 342 1443, purecafe.co.za

HOT PROPERTY

From antique trends to modern twists

HOT DECOR & DESIGN

VINTAGE CHIC If you are unable to get your hands on an original antique storage trunk, then get down to Weylandts. The Halo Classic Trunk Collection exhibits the detailed construction of luggage and travel goods of a bygone era, capturing the superb charm and enduring beauty of a period of romance and grace. Each piece has approximately 400 hand-applied finishing pins, and the traditional spring lock is of the finest quality. Every trunk typically requires 72 hours of labour to complete. The White Star trunk and the Watson with the Union Jack are a salute to Halo’s British heritage. The company was established by Major Philip Oulton in the UK in 1974. Perfect for storage or as an occasional table, this trunk with vintage leather trim makes an interesting statement. Available from Weylandts Brooklyn Mall Design Square. +27 (0)12 346 0418, weylandts.co.za

We chat to

MICHELE RAUFF of

St Leger & Viney about hot happenings in the world of fabric and wallpaper.

is for people who value style, individualism, quality and easy maintenance. Signature LVPs are warm and inviting as well as tough and water resistant. This resilient flooring surface is suitable for almost any interior. The luxury vinyl is faithful to the real hardwood colours and textures that inspired the designs, and the wide selection of colours – including Misty Grey, Antique Pine, Rosewood, Mahogany, Light Oak, Vintage Oak, Light Bamboo and Dark Bamboo – makes it easy to mix and match designs, to get the exact look you want. Signature LVPs are available in a selection of eight plank dimensions, and the foursided V-groove bevelled edges make installing or removing the floors a snap. Finishes include a ribbed, hand-scraped finish or registered embossing, for that authentic wood texture. Signature LVPs are attractive, durable, quiet underfoot and 100% recyclable. They represent a viable alternative to solid wood floors or other laminate flooring products.

Available from Pretoria Flooring in Pretoria West.

when they approached St Leger? The designers were looking for textures and plains that would lend themselves to a contemporary yet relaxed style.

Durability, relevance and soul were what they were aiming for. They made extensive use of textured wallpaper from Élitis, to help create the right look and feel. +27 (0)11 444 6722, stleger.co.za

+27 (0)12 327 7730, floorworx.co.za

thepropertymag.co.za | 11

Words Gisela Nel

BRAINS AND BEAUTY More than just flooring, the Signature range of luxury vinyl planks (LVPs) from Floorworx

What are the fabric and wallpaper trends for 2012? The inspiration for many new decorative fabric collections is based on past periods, such as the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s. These styles are updated in terms of colour, design and composition, to be relevant in today’s world. Neutrals still feature predominantly as platform fabrics, but certain colours remain firm favourites, such a duck egg blue, mustard, berry and royal blue. Going green is very trendy, so natural fabrics and wallpaper appeal, such as linen, wool and bamboo. There is also a new fascination with novelty fabrics and wallpapers, which are being used for a specific purpose. They provide great talking points and are fabulous for creatives and individualists. Tweed used to be associated with old men in rainy countries. Is it making a comeback?

Tweed, a classic menswear style, seems to be transitioning into the world of home decor. This trend features strongly within the Ralph Lauren range, which we distribute. We love your Road to Oxiana range. What inspired this design? It was inspired by Robert Byron’s travelogue, written in the 1930s. His journey followed in the footsteps of Alexander the Great, and the book has wonderfully evocative passages describing the souks, mosques and palaces along the old Silk Route.

The fabric designs were developed and printed in our design studio in England.

St Leger fabrics were used for the Slow Lounge. What was the designers’ brief

HOT PROPERTY

HOT INDULGENCE

Wines, destinations, fashion and toys to brighten up your winter days

A HITCH IN TIME Cape Town-based business Cowgirl Blues specialises in designer-crafted knitwear made from quality wool and mohair from the Karoo as well as from other natural fibres. Its range includes clothing, accessories and decor items. All the manufacturing is done by hand. Taking the personal touch a step further, Cowgirl Blues gives its products familiar names, such as Erika (loop-knit mohair/ wool chair seat cover), Eva (mohair/ wool blend shoulder bag), Chloe (kid mohair/silk shawl), Victoria (pure- wool snood) and Harry (woolen neckwarmer). +27 (0)83 445 1150, cowgirlblues.co.za

THE DARKER SIDE Kirsten Goss’ new Tough Luxe

LET IT OUT

collection screams ‘provocative’.

Pandora has a new jewel in its treasure

Think spikes, bullets and studs.

chest – an elegant, hand-finished Murano

Industrial designs have been

glass charm with pink ribbons. Pandora

wrought in rich 18 ct gold vermeil

donates 15% of the proceeds from the sale

and cool sterling silver. It’s edgy

of these charms to breast cancer awareness

yet sophisticated. Available from

organisations worldwide. The charm is

her Durban and Joburg stores

available from Pandora concept stores and

and online. +27 (0)31 312 7573,

from selected Edgars stores and jewellers

+27 (0)11 447 2234,

nationwide. +27 (0)11 706 2377,

kirstengoss.com

pandora.net

INGENIOUS WINEMAKING Nederburg’s new vintages of Ingenuity are now available, and they do not disappoint. We tried the Ingenuity White 2010, a combination of Sauvignon Blanc (39%), Chardonnay, Semillon, Viognier, Rhine Riesling and Gewürztraminer, and found it simply delightful from start to finish. It’s full of flavour, with a smooth finish. Paired with pork chops, it’s a treat.

The Ingenuity Red 2008 is presented in an interestingly shaped bottle, and the Barbera, Nebbiolo and Sangiovese blend is as intriguing, particularly the Sangiovese aspect, which contributes hints of cherry and plum. Try it with savoury dishes. The new Ingenuity range is available from liquor outlets nationwide. +27 (0)21 862 3104, nederburg.co.za

12 | September 2012

HOT PROPERTY

THE SKINNY ON FRANSCHHOEK Delicious Hotel is the no-frills younger sister of the boutique Le Quartier Français hotel. There are three room styles – Itsy Bitsy, Teeny Weeny and Bigger than a Bikini – and less fussing makes for a cheaper stay. But, guests may choose some little luxuries from the ‘Supe-Up My Stay’ menu. Side orders include breakfast at Le Quartier Français, World-Famous Sticky Buns, Devilish Daiquiris, gym access (to work it all off) and daily room cleaning (as opposed

DEFROST YOURSELF

to every three days). Delicious is listed among Elle UK’s Five Best

A visit to Life Day Spa Rosebank is ideal for dispelling

New Hotels 2012. +27 (0)21 876 4232, delicioushotels.com

the winter blues. Try the signature Sulis Relax Ritual, the perfect remedy for winter-dry skin. It begins with a full- body Neroli sugar scrub, followed by an hour-long oil massage that leaves your skin silky smooth and your muscles warm and relaxed. The deliciousness is enhanced with a warming eye pad and gloves and a blissful scalp massage. Other facilities include a steam room, heated pool, Rasul chamber and flotation chamber, where a halfhour treatment is the same as four hours’ sleep. Find your nearest Life Day Spa in Rosebank, Fourways or Cape Town. +27 (0)11 447 2255, lifedaysparosebank.co.za

STARS ABOVE This inflatable solar system set has us over the moon. The educational toy is available from The Toy Cupboard, Craighall, and is fun for children and adults.

Sarah Heurlin, the store’s owner, is passionate about games and toys that help children to acquire new skills. Available online; nationwide delivery. +27 (0)11 886 0715, thetoycupboard.co.za

SIZEABLE SIPPING

GET STROPPY

Holden Manz Big G 2009

The Revolution Barber is now open at Revolution

does not disappoint.

House in Maboneng Precinct and is said to give

Named after the

the closest shave in town. Late opening hours

Franschhoek wine estate’s

and a space pared down to the minimum (arcade

co-owner, Gerard Holden,

machines and couches – who needs more?) hammer

the wine is a blend of

home that macho feeling. +27 (0)84 280 3688

Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon and is bold and full of flavour,

HIGH FIVE

with a lingering finish. We paired it with braaied lamb

New to the Constantia Glen family is the 2008

chops and found them a

vintage of Constantia Glen Five. This gold-winning

perfect combination. The

blend (Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon,

winner of a Decanter wine

Petit Verdot, Malbec and Merlot) is elegant and

magazine gold medal, the

refined and ages well. We savoured ours with

Big G 2009 is available

beef, but winemaker Justin van Wyk says oven-

from boutique wine shops

roasted quail is the way to go. Available from

nationwide or at the cellar

boutique wine shops and restaurants nationwide.

door. +27 (0)21 876 2729,

+27 (0)21 795 6100, constantiaglen.com

holdenmanz.com

thepropertymag.co.za | 13

HOT PROPERTY

HOT MANDATE

1

dreams VALE OF

The perfect lock-up-and-go duplex has become available in an exclusive security estate in Higgovale, Cape Town

N

estling in a leafy corner at the foot of Table Mountain, sheltered from the summer winds, Higgovale is one of Cape Town’s premier suburbs, and within it is this superb apartment.

The spacious lower level of this modern home is an entertainer’s delight. It comprises a large lounge area, a comfortable dining section and a secluded TV room or study area that all lead onto a terrace with swimming pool. The fully fitted gourmet kitchen with scullery is ideal for catering for formal or informal meals and get-togethers.

The upper floor offers three bedroom suites, including a spacious main suite with walk-in wardrobes. The two other bedrooms are also large, and all three rooms have north-facing views over the city. Among this elite property’s other outstanding features are: an elevator providing convenient access, a double garage with space for an additional two cars in front and parking space for visitors.

The complex comprises two duplex units, two penthouses and the historic Higgo cottage. With access control and a guard on duty twenty-four-seven, the complex is completely secure.

2

On the market for R7,625 million, the home is described by Re/Max Living Broker/Owner Gerlinde Moser – one of the city’s leading property personalities – as ‘a prime investment in the very best area’.

The home is close to the city centre, ensuring a commute-free lifestyle, and is also a stone’s throw from the V & A Waterfront, opera and concert halls, shopping centres, and the many restaurants that are situated along Kloof and Long streets and just over +27 (0)82 569 4644, the Nek in Camps Bay. gerlinde@remaxliving.co.za

3

A heavenly place to call home. 2The expansive lounge and dining area flows to the pool terrace. 3North-eastern views over Cape Town and the

1

distant mountains. 4The state-of-the-art kitchen serves the entertainment area.

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

14 | September 2012

4

prime property

‘The knowledge ThaT I had roamed

free wITh lIonS Should have Served aS a red flag To any new york real eSTaTe broker

’

18 | September 2012

prime property

An Artist’s

sanctuary Conor Mccreedy magic has transformed a Lower Manhattan factory shell into an upmarket Chelsea home Words and photographs Deborah Curtis-setchell

thepropertymag.co.za | 19

prime property

A

cclaimed South African artist Conor Mccreedy has been equally obsessed with Picasso and the idea of New York for as long as his mom, Carole, can remember.

For Conor, the youngest artist in history to have a solo exhibition at the National Arts Club in Gramercy Park, a fixture in the New York art world, setting up home in the Big Apple was a natural choice: when you have slept at home on a South African farm for over a decade, with images of the iconic Chrysler and Empire State buildings swinging strategically above your headboard, complementing a naive display of your own school art, it is only a matter of time before your creativity and boyhood dreams manifest in bricks, mortar and the keys to a 3 000sq. ft (2 800m2) Chelsea penthouse and art studio above the meatpacking district in Lower Manhattan, with the real Empire State Building in triumphant view.

‘The knowledge that as a child I had roamed free with lions on several hundred acres of Tuli savannah on a Botswana game reserve should have served as a red flag to any New York real estate

20 | September 2012

broker saddled with a shoestring budget and the task of finding me living quarters spacious enough to accommodate my grand aspirations coupled with an entire collection of 9ft × 5ft paintings on the most densely populated island on the planet,’ says Conor.

‘But 50 “rejected’”apartment blocks later, Ron Malin was still standing and pointing Mom and me in the direction of an old glue gun and drill factory in the densest industrial suburb of Manhattan, bordering the High Line.’

The High Line was built in the 1930s as an elevated bridge above the cheek-by-jowl, smokebelching factories between 9th and 30th streets on the West Side and was used for railing milk, other dairy products and meat to the retail outlets, without congesting the residential streets or endangering the communities below. A group of landscape architects recently restored the High Line as a public park and walkway. It stands more than 9m above the still-seething streets, bridging the gap between old and new. Like the town planners, Conor saw the potential in rising above the stark streets and rough neighbourhood as

well as the charm in living in a factory warehouse, with its raw brick walls, ceilings littered with strips of aluminium drill hook rails, wooden pigeonholes, clusters of suspended industrial lighting and a red steel door with an illuminated exit sign above it.

‘What immediately sold me on this pad was one glimpse of that historic facade of the Empire State Building majestically framed by the floor-toceiling sash windows, and two skylights flooding the screed floors with this amazing light, the sort of surreal light that exhorted Monet and Manet to pick up their paintbrushes and embark on their respective masterpieces. Also, the sight of private helicopters landing across the gleaming Hudson River on the West Side Highway directly opposite could have been the opening scene of a Spielberg blockbuster and helped clinch the deal,’ says Conor. He had to do some serious blockbusting himself to break through the solid concrete dividing wall/cupboard, in order to create a brighter bedroom alcove, hitherto only separated from the open-plan living area by fringed red velvet theatre curtains.

prime property He also came up with a typically imaginative plan to convert a huge oak-framed gate into a giant screen for viewing his own digital blockbusters. He removed all the wiring, antique nuts, bolts and wooden frames and stretched canvas over the exposed framework and attached it to the living room wall. He then suspended a camera from one of the drill hooks to project onto this makeshift cinema screen.

The original glue gun factory shell was not without its hidden gems, including a vast marble countertop in the kitchen area, wall brackets for tool storage that could serve as bookshelves, a magnificent Victorian ball-and-claw bath and washstand, and the ‘Trump’ card, a wooden deck with 360° city views stretching as far as the New York Sound.

Conor embarked on a restoration job to rival the High Line in its ingenuity and creativity, transforming discarded items and garbage from the streets below into bespoke collectible accessories. There is a benefit to having your design-astute mother alongside you.

Carole – an accomplished architectural designer and a Pratt graduate in her own right – was unfazed by

being assigned the task of assembling two chandeliers from scratch.

Conor had talked a local antiques dealer into selling him the glass parts at a reduced price rather than the end product. Carole says it was one of the worst mistakes she’s ever made: ‘Three days and multiple wounds later, we hung the darn things up on the gun glue hook railings. But, I must admit, the blood, sweat and tears were worth it when I saw how spectacularly “Swarovski” they looked!’

There are other perks to residing downtown, if you can dispel any notions of elitism, and in spite of his private-school background, Conor has found every advantage in embracing his working-class neighbours, who have proven perhaps infinitely more loyal than the Park Avenue equivalent.

‘The first guy I befriended was the night watchman from the Gotham Wholesale Seafood Factory next door. Despite the lingering fishy smell on the threshold, Ellison, or ‘Elle’ as I called him, used to invite me into the factory fridges on nights when I was expecting mates around for dinner, to help myself

Al PAcino ‘ APProved of the scent of mAssed white orchids nestling in bots, flickering Jo mAlone cAndles And uncorked bordeAux sAint-Émilion

’

Opening page The Blue Lady hangs in the living room, which is filled with a mix of old and new finds. This spread, left Antique meets modern. Fresh lilies complete the effect. Above The view that clinched the sale. Below The marble for the kitchen counter was found on site.

thepropertymag.co.za | 21

prime property

‘LouiSe waS bLown away by my

“crazy JameS bond anticS”, and with a few SipS of champagne and the Sight of my paintbruSheS StaShed in a SiLver champagne bucket – it waS a 007 home run

’

22 | September 2012

prime property

to fresh crayfish and prawns straight out of the export crates. We ate like kings! I repaid him with a couple of my paintings, probably some of the most inspired Atlantic Waves I ever produced on a seafood diet. I knew my apartment was safe as houses, with Elle and his fish knives on the doorstep. In fact, I have him to thank in my quest to seduce my first girlfriend in New York, Scottish actress, Louise Lytton.

‘I arrived home on our first date, having forgotten my keys at a SoHo restaurant, and old Elle, armed with his forklift, came to my rescue, right on cue, and hoisted me 10 floors up the side of the building, through one of the sash windows. ‘Louise was blown away by my “crazy James Bond antics”, and with a few sips of champagne and the sight of my paintbrushes stashed in a silver champagne bucket, it was a 007 home run. She proceeded to bring Al Pacino around for crayfish a few weeks later.When I told him that in Scent Of A Woman he reminded me of my wild Irish grandfather, Francis William, he promptly adopted a heavy Irish accent for the rest of the evening and threw in the regular ‘hoo-hah!’ as he approved of the scent of massed white orchids nestling in pots, flickering Jo Malone candles and uncorked

This is my ‘ sancTuary from The ouTside world, and ThaT is one Tough ouTside world

’

Bordeaux Saint-Émilion. The outside smell of fresh fish didn’t seem to phase him at all.’

Streetwise Conor has a nose for a bargain as well as an eye for detail. He salvaged a solid partners’ desk – the ripped leather added character – off the street, a leather Ralph Lauren ottoman and chair from a second-hand store, and a Persian carpet and solid metal aviator chest from the famous Garage antique market between 25th and 27th. His only extravagances are brand-new navy Ralph Lauren silk cushions and leather trays and a mountain of African-themed coffee table books, his ‘most precious possessions’.

And who needs wall accessories when your uptown friends bring 20 bottles of Veuve Cliquot to a party, and you immediately recycle the bottles as a Damien Hirst-type wall display?

Right out of Boardwalk Empire comes another of Conor’s downtown mates, ‘Baby’ Sal, son to one of New York’s construction mogul’s, ‘Big Salvatore’

thepropertymag.co.za | 23

prime property

Previous spread A theatre curtain separates living room from the bedroom, which features the reconstructed chandeliers. This page, clockwise from top The living room doubles as Conor’s studio, where the famous silver champagne bucket holds his paintbrushes; sunlight streams through the skylight and washes over Conor’s quirky apartment; Conor’s beloved collection of coffee table books about Picasso, other artists and designers, and South Africa.

Termini. ‘Baby’ Sal helped Conor with all his domestic and exhibition installations and it was he who introduced Conor to the benefits of taking a short drive up the Connecticut coast to scour Montauk Beach in a rainstorm. They returned to 29 West Street with enough driftwood to make a fence for the penthouse deck, and enough starfish to hang decoratively alongside the potpourri of pots and

24 | September 2012

pans in the kitchen. ‘I love the sea and anything that reminds me of it,’ says Conor.

No Conor sanctuary would be complete without his trademark blue canvasses extending beyond the separate studio into the adjacent living area. His favourite, the Picasso-inspired portrait, The Blue Lady, hangs against the raw brick backdrop and is even more compelling than the Empire State Building’s

silhouette against the skyline. ‘This is my sanctuary from the outside world, and that is one tough outside world,’ says Conor contentedly, gesturing towards it.

‘At the end of the day, you have to be able to enter through that red door, feel surrounded by harmony and light and want to reach out immediately for your blue paint. Oh … And a few king prawns on ice!’ conormccreedy.com

ON SHOW

26 | September 2012

ON SHOW

IC Design, +27 (0)82 415 2224

I on Design Interior Design & Decor, +27 (0)82 847 1220

Modern retrosPective This home on Pecanwood Estate joins modern living with nature’s gift of tranquillity and a touch of retro design Words Candace King Photographs Nic Baleta

thepropertymag.co.za | 27

ON SHOW

Daikin, 0860-DAIKIN

Patio Warehouse, +27 (0)12 657 9400

Previous page, top IC Design manufactured and installed the staircase and the stainless-steel-and-glass balustrade, and laser-cut the detail for the lights. IC Design works with stainless steel, mild steel and glass to deliver custom-designed structural features, including frameless showers and glass bridges. They also offer an in-house interior design service that provides full and detailed design solutions. Previous page bottom I on Design Interior Design & Decor designed the entire interior decor scheme and executed it, from consultation to manufacture and installation. They also sourced or designed all the hard finishes in the home, including the floors, ceilings, water features and the staircase as well as the hard finishes in the bathrooms and bedrooms. This page, above Patio Warehouse provided the Capricorn outdoor furniture set. It is made from quality artificial wicker and its modular pieces can be arranged to suit a specific area (cushions are included in the price).

T

he splendid view of the landscape, with its lakes and hills, and the extended garden are what sold artist Cathy and her husband Gary Corke on this stand at Pecanwood Estate. Cathy then became intimately involved in the development of her dream home. ‘It was really like working with a blank canvas when we started,’ says Cathy. ‘With the help of my project manager, Grant Capper, architect Steff Marussi from Marussi Projects and interior decorator Estelle Hart from I on Design, everything came together.’

The experience was not without its difficulties.

‘One of the major challenges in the design was the cellar: we had to bring in so much soil to ensure that it was right. And the tanking and general process was a challenge,’ says Cathy. However, the reward is great: ‘The house is just as I envisioned it,’ Cathy enthuses.

The interior decor of the house is modern and simplistic, with key presentational decor pieces and

28 | September 2012

artworks adding a retro feel. ‘The style of the decor is contemporary,’ says I on Design’s Estelle Hart. Each room has been done in its own style, with different colours and motifs, but there is a synergy between them. ‘The aquamarine Murano glass sculpture that the client sourced from Italy was the starting point of our focal colour, and the client wanted to have it displayed singularly,’ says Estelle. ‘My favourite piece is the display unit that I on Design custom-designed and manufactured for the piece.’

Estelle used striking wallpapers and colours in the bedrooms and bathrooms in order to create juxtaposition in the home. ‘The client’s brief was that she wanted a predominantly white-and-light-grey scheme, but to avoid a bland palette we incorporated textured wallpapers and fun novelty papers to break the starkness.’ Curtaining has been used extensively, to make the home feel more inviting. She adds,‘The treads on the floating staircase are made from solid white oak,

which adds warmth to the area. We chose not to use tiling throughout the living spaces; instead we chose to incorporate a laminate square floor effect in the lounge in order to soften the space.’

Cathy says, ‘The house is special to me because I was able to envisage exactly how I wanted the end result to be, and I was able to achieve this in the decor and design. Each of my family members has a special space we can call our own, and it’s a comfortable clutter-free environment. The minimalistic nature helps us to keep things in their place easily, making it a pleasurable living space.’ She adores the living space, but her bedroom with en-suite bathroom is her favourite.

She also enjoys working in the study and spends most of her time there. But when it comes to design, it’s that labour of love, the cellar, which comes out on top.

Cathy says, ‘I love the distinct look it has from the rest of the house. It was built especially with Gary in mind and has given him his own space to enjoy.’

ON SHOW

Syam SA, 086-SYAM-SA

Above left Syam Distributors supplied the Designer 1 000 304 Stainless Gas Grate. Syam have quality and elegance in mind when designing their wide range of products. Their range includes gas mobile and built-in braai’s, charcoal built-in braai’s, gas and bioethanol fireplaces, outdoor gas firepits, designer gas grates as well as mobile tool chests/storage units. All of their products are manufactured from high-quality stainless and mild steels.

Centre left Lite Centre are direct importers, distributors and retailers of exquisite lighting. Their services also include on- site consulting and advice about creating ambience and mood lighting. They have been involved in many domestic projects and pride themselves on excellent service Cape Core Construction, (0)83 282 9285 Lite Centre, +27 (0)11 465+27 7574

and great value for money. Their boutique showroom is situated in Fourways.

Professionals List IC Design – Balustrades and Laser Cutting +27 (0)83 415 2224, info@ic-design.co.za, ic-design.co.za I on Design Interior Design & Decor – Interior Design and Project Management +27 (0)82 847 1220, iondesign@mweb.co.za, facebook.com/IODInteriordecor Lite Centre – Lighting +27 (0)11 516 0070, litecen@absamail.co.za, litecentre.com Patio Warehouse – Patio Furniture +27 (0)12 657 9400, mia@patiowarehouse.co.za, patiowarehouse.co.za Syam SA – Designer Stainless Steel Gas Grate 0861 792 672, sales@syam.co.za, syam.co.za

thepropertymag.co.za | 29

Centrepieces

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

SPACES THAT SPEAK

VOLUMES We bring you inspiring bathrooms and kitchens that excite the senses Words Genevieve Fisher and Nicky Manson

I

f done right, bathrooms and kitchens are guaranteed deal clinchers when it comes to the sale of a home – just ask any estate agent. Of all the rooms in a home, bathrooms and kitchens work the hardest, so functionality is key, but equally important are aesthetics that excite the senses. Here are a few remarkable bathrooms and kitchens that do just that.

QUANTUM OF SILENCE This spectacular en-suite bathroom belongs to the ‘James Bond House’ in Pezula Estate in Knysna. The remarkable setting is very much a defining feature of the home. The house was designed by Greg Truen Perfect Hideaways

of Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects (SAOTA), and no expense was spared in its design or

30 30||September September2012 2012

technologies. The bathroom is set off from the bedroom by a curtain instead of a door, creating a more intimate effect and keeping the suite open and airy. The free-standing oval bath is set against a glass wall, creating the effect of being suspended above both the Indian Ocean and the waves crashing against the dramatic cliffs below. What better way to enjoy a spectacle of nature than from a warm bath?

Head Interiors

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

RESTFUL RED The refurbishment of this bathroom was part of a broader renovation done to a home in Sandton, Gauteng. Sharon Fihrer of Head Interiors oversaw the design of this quiet, beautiful bathroom, where the client can indulge in their favourite pastime of reading in the bath, which naturally also forms the focal point of the room. The bathtub is located in the centre of view from the entrance of the room, underneath the skylight and close to a large window. The white of the bathtub is enhanced by the deep rust red of the walls. These colours combine to create a soothing, almost ethereal space.

thepropertymag.co.za | 31

Natural

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

MINIMALIST MAGIC Ever since she and her husband, Philip, decided to renovate, designer Regina Rüther has been collecting references and creating a mood board for her dream bathroom. The couple enlisted Lello Design, a young design lab in Cape Town, and briefed them to transform the pokey master bathroom into a minimalist space that wasn’t just functional, but also well Give It Bag

integrated with the new master bedroom. To achieve this, the designers at Lello Design have used Italian tiles of various shapes and sizes and brought them to life by flooding the bathroom with light. Wooden fittings have been used to add some warmth to the space and bring in a natural element.

ROCKING IT This Great Karoo guest lodge in the hills of the Sneeuberg Nature Reserve belongs to Charlotte Daneel of La Grange Interiors in Franschhoek.

With her expert eye for design, she oversaw the construction of the lodge in a reclamation project that saw as much of the original stonework as possible being retained and a lot of the construction materials being sourced from the immediate surrounds.

The lodge’s main-en-suite bathroom was one of the nodes to be rebuilt from scratch, and Charlotte wanted to give it a natural, earthy feel with a modern twist. All the stonework in this bathroom was made by local stonemasons. A standout feature is the recess above the basin, which has been hewn out of the dolostone from the original dwelling. Most of the first Perfect Hideaways

homes in the area were built from

32 32 || September September 2012 2012

stone, which is why the shelving in this bathroom has been crafted out of stone instead of wood. Concrete has been used along the walls and bath, to add a contemporary touch.

BATHROOMSAND ANDKITCHENS KITCHENS BATHROOMS

THE MARBLE EFFECT This bathroom forms part of a newly built home in Senderwood, Gauteng, undertaken by Nico van der Meulen Architects. It is called the Glass House, Nico van der Meulen Architects

and by looking at the main-en-suite bathroom, you can see why. On one side the bathroom is lined with floor-toceiling glass sliding doors that open up completely and overlook the garden, so that, in Nico’s words, the client can bathe al fresco. The sense of space is enhanced by the orientation of the room, which admits a lot of sunlight, as well as by the mirrors, which have gaps in them too, to let in even more natural light. A modern aesthetic has been achieved through the

MONOCHROMATIC MAGIC

laying of a light, bright marble floor and

Designed by MLB Architects and featuring interiors by Les Harbottle

the fitting of a clean-lined square bath.

Design, this bathroom belongs to the penthouse suite of Pepper Club

M Square Lifestyle Designs have added

Hotel. The double-storey suite has a modern, sophisticated look inspired

their touch, using interior accessories,

by the glam apartments of New York’s high society. Parquet flooring,

such as light-coloured vases that pick up

voluminous spaces and opulent chandeliers characterise the suite, and

on the shades in the marble and overhead

this aesthetic carries through to the main-en-suite bathroom, which

strips of sandblasted oak (the strips also

follows a monochromatic scheme and features classic consoles, oversized

accommodate the air-conditioning ducts).

oval mirrors, crystal light fittings, marble flooring and an oval jet-bath. The

Modern

Seeff

bathroom’s grandest feature, however, is its view of Table Mountain.

thepropertymag.co.za | 33

Pod Boutique Hotel

Chic

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

ALL INCLUSIVE Pod Boutique Hotel in Camps Bay is the accommodation of choice of visiting design aficionados.

Not only is it in a prime location – a few metres up from the Camps Bay strip – but it is also an example of exceptional contemporary design. Pod was designed by Greg Wright Architects (GWA), who were briefed to create a contemporary, elegant hotel brand. The minimalist design language of this penthouse’s bathroom has been softened by the use of natural materials, resulting in a large, airy space that’s characterised by the extensive use of natural stone, designer sanitaryware and an open shower.

34 | September 2012

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

A SERENE SPACE This master bathroom in a private home in Plett exudes sophistication and elegance while evoking feelings of calm and quiet. The objective of Head Interiors’ Shereen Firher was to create a serene, tranquil space where the views of the sea and the Head Interiors

mountains provide the drama. The all-white colour scheme and simple but luxurious interior reinforce this goal: nothing competes with the stunning vista.

BAREFOOT CHIC This uber-luxurious main-ensuite bathroom forms part of a five-star villa, 26 Sunset Avenue, Llandudno, which overlooks the beach and lies adjacent to Sandy Bay. The house itself was designed by well-known architect, Johan Slee, who drew inspiration from both the area’s light and its natural surrounds.

This bathroom is essentially a wet room, which is an indication of the overall philosophy that this property was built on: barefoot luxury. You don’t have to worry about walking around wet, as the water drains away through the rest of the home, this room has been designed to maximise on the 180° vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, as the glass and mirrors present you with a view from anywhere in

Living on Location

wooden floorboards. As with the

the room.

thepropertymag.co.za | 35

Modern

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

SEX APPEAL Designed by Fabrizio Cavazzuti from Chic Products, this kitchen in a Johannesburg home is the epitome of sophistication and chic design. The brief

Chic Products

called for a contemporary tailor-made boutique space that combined design

36 | September 2012

and functionality. And the result is awless. The Porto Cervo range that has been used for the cabinetry incorporates a dark wenge oak with transparent doors, creating a sleek and uncluttered space.

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

EFFICIENT BY DESIGN This contemporary kitchen forms part of a newly built home in Bryanston, Johannesburg, and was designed by Blu-Line, who specialise in luxury kitchens. The client wanted a modern, clean-lined, uncluttered kitchen – a space that would fit the overall design of the home. The house itself was designed by Nico van der Meulen Architects, and the interiors were done

by M Square Lifestyle Design. Makassar ebony timber, black glass, wall cladding, high-gloss lacquer, light quartz stone and an attractive island counter have been employed in the kitchen, to complement the luxurious, modern aesthetic evident in the rest of the home. The kitchen also features many functionalities not visible to the naked eye, such as non-slip rubber matting, stainless steel cutlery and utensil inserts, and knife blocks and steel spice Blu-Line

wracks and drip trays within the drawers. We love kitchens that not only have a bit of gloss and sparkle, but also work efficiently.

GRAND OPENING The owners of this new home on Linksfield Ridge, Johannesburg, worked with Aurelio Cimato of Cimato & Moroldo Architects Inc. on the design of the property. They wanted the kitchen to be the hub of the home, and so they decided on an open-plan, contemporary design that was light, clutter-free and allowed for easy access to all appliances.

There is a multifunctional central island where friends and family can socialise over drinks or informal meals. The scullery, work area, cold the kitchen. The entire space opens up directly onto a covered patio with braai area, pool and views of the Johannesburg skyline. High-tech designer Smeg appliances have been installed, as have natural stone floors, white Technistone countertops and timber, creating a space that epitomises luxurious modern living.

Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty

room and pantry are separate from

thepropertymag.co.za | 37

Natural

BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

WARMING WOOD Silverbay Villa on the West Coast is the holiday home of SAOTA’s Greg Truen. Its thatched roof allows it to blend in with the slopes leading down to the secluded Stompneusbaai. The villa’s spacious open-plan living/kitchen/dining area and the pool courtyard, separated by floor-toceiling glass sliding doors, are all on the top floor. The kitchen node is designed

Perfect Hideaways

for entertaining – the fridges, freezers and wash-up areas are concealed, leaving only the gas hob, microwave and faucet visible. The most striking feature of this kitchen is the use of timber and the overall natural aesthetic and colour palette, enhanced by the thatched roof, and light fittings that resemble birds’ nests. The long oak table (designed

by James Mudge) and wooden stools contribute to the warm look.

GETTING IT RIGHT WITH WHITE The kitchen of this modern home in Hyde Park, Johannesburg, is a great example of how you can soften a stark, clinical look by using natural finishings – in this case, wood.

White marble tiles for the floors and clean Jawitz Properties

white countertops have been contrasted with timber cabinets and a timber panel in the overhead bulkhead. The kitchen has been fitted with high-end appliances, including a Miele coffee machine and a free-standing, six burner gas hob and oven by Smeg.

With thanks to …

Blu-Line, 0860 548 464, blu-line.co.za Chic Products, +27 (0)11 325 2342, chicproducts.co.za Head Interiors, +27 (0)11 325 2700, headinteriors.co.za Give It Bag, +27(0)21 424 59 46, give-it-bag.com Perfect Hideaways, +27 (0)21 790 0972, perfecthideaways.co.za Pod, +27 (0)21 438 8550, pod.co.za Jawitz Properties, +27 (0)11 656 0888, jawitz.co.za Living on Location, +27 (0)21 439 0770, livingonlocation.co.za Nico van der Meulen Architects, +27 (0)11 789 5242, nicovdmeulen.com Seeff, +27 (0)21 481 1044, seeff.com Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, +27 (0)11 886 8070, sothebysrealty.co.za

38 | September 2012

CONOR MCCREEDY’S

SOHO APARTMENT

MODERN RETRO

EDY’S CONOR MCCRE

ENT SOHO APARTM

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PRIVATE PROPERTY DINNER

Wining, dining and booming Words Candace King Photographs Michael Glenister

C

Private Property raises a glass to its newest online strategy

hange is the buzzword in the Jacaranda City, where commercial and retail developments are in the fast lane. And with the big changes come the smaller ones that make a big impact on the whole.

Private Property started out in 1997, when the Web was still in its infancy. Private Property Listings registered the URL, privateproperty.co.za. ‘We were really just experimenting during the very early days of the Internet, when there were 100 000 people online,’ said the group’s founder and CEO, Justin Clarke. ‘It was only around 2004 and 2005 where we started seeing a tipping. The real complete flip over to Internet marketing for property happened in 2009.’

Justin explained that in the past three months the website’s emphasis had changed from unique users to leads. ‘What really matters to an estate agent or seller are leads. We measure ourselves on the number of leads we provide.’

He added that Private Property had also moved from operating as an exclusive website for property to a true classifieds portal where all stock could be listed.

(This move was based on a commercial website model from Spain.)

He also revealed the company’s new campaign, titled ‘Boom’. ‘For six months, we will allow

everybody on their current package to place as many slots as they like, so the number of leads will increase tremendously and will essentially create more value for the client.’

Mark Coetzee, national sales manager at Private Property, elaborated: ‘The point of the campaign is to put all the stock for sale in South Africa onto the website. After the six-month period, we hope to have learned some lessons and understand what works best for an estate agent. We will also decide if we want to continue with this model.’

Justin and Mark were speaking at a Property Dinner that was being held to celebrate these exciting initiatives. The dinner took place at Granita, the signature restaurant of Kievits Kroon Country Estate, Gauteng’s own ‘winelands’. They were joined by members of The Property Magazine and property professionals, who discussed the Pretoria property market while enjoying fine wine and fine food prepared by Granita’s innovative head chef Sammy Mashile and his team.

Conversations flowed across the dinner table and covered such as topics as the brouhaha over the renaming of Pretoria’s streets, and the vital role that technology plays in the day-to-day operations of real estate firms.

‘Over the last three years, we have seen incremental growth. Every month we see more browsers and more leads. There are 12 000 properties sold every month in South Africa, and we want to help improve on that number,’ said Mark.

Kathy East, relationship manager at Engel & Völkers South Africa, commented that when it comes to selling property, those dealing in the property industry needed to think on their feet and keep up to date with the latest trends, technology and current developments in order to prosper. She explained that Engel & Völkers makes use of chic retail-type shops instead of typical offices or branches. From the buildings’ facades to the furnishings and even the stationery, each of these real estate boutiques is unique, she said.

‘We have a 35-page shop manual that tells you how you need to build a shop,’ added Engel & Völker’s head of real estate, Riaan van Deventer.

Internet advertising and marketing in South Africa are growing and are essentially the way forward, said Mark. He explained that 80% of property searches begin online, and that property-based mobile and tablet applications are on the up.

With change come new opportunities. What more could the real estate industry ask for?

Guest list Justin Clarke Private Property, Mark Coetzee Private Property, Genevieve du Preez Private Property, Kathy East Engel & Völkers SA, Candace King The Property Magazine, Annette Louw Aïda North, Nicky Manson (Editor) The Property Magazine, Joey Maritz Harcourts Centurion, Piet Maritz Harcourts Centurion, Riaan Maritz Harcourts Centurion, Jenni McCallum The Property Magazine, Lorna MacPhail The Property Magazine, Johalna Minnaar Rawson Property Group, Joleen Stapelberg Dick & Sue Properties, Sue Stapelberg Dick & Sue Properties, Helen Taylor Aïda East, Jacques van der Merwe Jacques van der Merwe Maja Inc., Riaan van Deventer Engel & Völkers SA, Nico van Rooyen Century 21 Pretoria East, Steve van Wyk Seeff Centurion, Cobus Welgemoed Lombard Muller & Vennote.

thepropertymag.co.za | 41

PRIVATE PRoPERTy dInnER

1 3

Winter Gourmet menu Amuse-Bouche Duck breast served with spiced pear, blue cheese quenelle and a Merlot aniseed reduction.

Paired with Kanonkop Kadette 2010 (Stellenbosch).

Vegetable soup – Chef’s choice.

Seared scallops in a seafood dill velouté served with pickled lemon, red cabbage

7

2

and saffron froth.

Paired with Darling Cellars Bush Vine Sauvignon Blanc 2011 (Darling).

Granita Pistachio, garlic and mint-stuffed lamb noisette with braised lentils, mushroom spring roll and port wine reduction.

Paired with Hartenberg Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2009 (Stellenbosch).

Chocolate mousse cake served with crème anglaise.

Paired Beyerskloof Pinotage Rosé 2010 (Stellenbosch).

Coffee and friandise.

12

GrAnitA restAurAnt Kievits Kroon Country estate reier road, Kameeldrift-east, Pretoria.

0860 543 8487, kievitskroon.co.za

Jenni McCallum 2Justin Clarke 3Sue Stapelberg

1

4

Nico van Rooyen 5Kathy East 6Genevieve

du Preez 7Anette Louw 8Lorna MacPhail 9Piet Maritz 10Joleen Stapelberg 11Steve van Wyk Cobus Welgemoed 13Helen Taylor 14Johalna

12

Minnaar, Nicky Manson (Editor) 15Mark Coetzee Jacques van der Merwe 17Joey Maritz 18Riaan

16

van Deventer 19Riaan Maritz.

42 | September 2012

13 14

8

PRIVATE PRoPERTy dInnER

4

9

15

5

6

10

11

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17

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19 thepropertymag.co.za | 43

ASK THE EXPERTS

A CONVENIENT

TRUTH

The experts on how to get the best out of your kitchen Photographs Michael Glenister Location Le Châtelat Boutique Guest House, Sandton

FRANKE KITCHEN SYSTEMS

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Clinton Soutter National Sales Manager

Brennan Menday Deputy Managing Director

What’s the quickest way of making over a kitchen? The quickest way to renovate your kitchen would be to replace the external cupboard doors and handles and to replace the countertops with either a granite or synthetic top accompanied by one of the latest Franke sinks and sink mixers.

Stainless steel does not date and, most importantly, it is very hygienic. What’s considered a luxury purchase for a kitchen?

The ZIP HydroTap is the ultimate in convenience, offering the homeowner instant chilled, filtered water and instant boiling water on tap. The ZIP HydroTap, with its five-micron filter system, removes impurities but leaves essential fluoride, giving you healthy boiling or chilled filtered water instantly.

Impurities such as dirt, rust, chlorine and microorganisms are not good for your health. They also affect the taste of what you eat and drink. If someone could add just one of your products to his or her kitchen, what would you recommend? The Franke Waste Disposer, as it offers a hygienic and effective disposal of waste within the home, in turn minimising waste and odours, and the Kubus Filterflow water purification sink mixer, as our water source is under scrutiny and water filtration systems are becoming essential to ensuring the health of your family.

44 | September 2012

What look is hot in kitchens right now? Of course, from my point of view, Miele appliances, with their timeless design and absolute luxury, enhance the appearance of any kitchen. On the cabinetry side, however, white or gloss white remains a key colour influence in modern open-plan kitchens. And having an island in this open-plan environment, with a counter-type eating area included, is all about modern in-kitchen entertaining.

What’s the quickest way of making over a kitchen? Change the panelling of the cupboard doors and replace cupboards with soft closing drawers instead of shelves for better use of space. Add good lighting. What’s considered a luxury purchase for kitchens? The finishing touches, such as your choice of tops, hinging and runners, which provide soft closing and no rattling for both cupboards and drawers. Miele as a luxury purchase? No. Miele cooking appliances are a necessity, as their performance is outstanding. If someone could add just one of your appliances to his or her kitchen, what would you recommend? One of our ovens – for perfect cooking results every time. We call it ‘performance meets function’. As one of our customers said, ‘My Miele oven has turned me into a superb chef.

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R O IT son ED er T nd ES A U lin G Co

Real estate

residential & commercial

EyEs widE opEn

Rabie Property Group Director Colin Anderson explains why the group has renewed its development activity and why it’s focusing on sustainable building

T

he commercial property market is cyclical and is influenced by three main factors, namely the investment market, the occupier market and the development industry. The investment market is generally outside the industry’s direct control, as it is influenced by the risk and returns of all asset classes and the global financial markets. The occupier market is driven by supply and demand and overall economic growth.The development industry is the third and most influential market, as it controls the production of new space.

The property market experiences peaks and troughs, and these are directly related to the supply and demand for new space. This cycle is further influenced by the fairly long lead-time necessary for bringing new stock to the market (18 to 24 months, assuming the land is appropriately zoned). As vacancies start to drop, increasing rents start to support new developments. Therefore, if one waits too long to begin a new development, it is possible that the project could be delivered as demand starts to slow down and development reaches its maximum.

So the million-dollar question is, where are we now in this cycle? The answer depends on the vacancy

figure in the specific node in which the development is to be situated. One also needs to consider the quality and size of the available premises that make up the total vacant space.

Using Century City as a case study, we find that the vacancy figure has come down from a high of 13% in 2008 to the current figure of below 6%. It is generally believed that when the vacancy level moves below 6% it is an indication that the market is moving out of a slump towards a period of higher demand, if not a boom.

I am also often asked whether or not all new developments should be Green-Star rated. I think we are still a while away from that situation, because there will always be occupiers who are extremely cost sensitive. Having said that, I do not believe that green buildings are that much more expensive – certainly not when compared with a corporate office building.

Because property is a cash-flow business, anything that improves that cash flow should make commercial sense. Internationally, green buildings are achieving higher rentals than lower-rated buildings because there is strong demand for them. More tenants are starting to understand the principle of ‘total cost

of occupation’ and are therefore not using the rateper-square-metre as the sole yardstick for choosing new premises. Rental is only on one of a tenant’s overheads (the single largest contributor to overheads is probably salaries).

Not only does the Green Star rating process strive to make buildings far more efficient, but it also encourages architects and other professionals to design buildings which are more desirable and productive spaces to work in.

A Green-Star-rated building is more likely to be a ‘future proof ’ building, namely a building that will deliver improved rental growth and higher capital values, as compared with unrated buildings, which may experience longer vacancy periods and could become obsolete.

Colin Anderson, Director, Rabie Property Group

thepropertymag.co.za | 45

PRETORIA Residential

Insecurity complex Many homebuyers are cautious of buying properties in open suburbs, because they feel they offer less security than boomed areas and security estates. However, their confidence in boomed areas may be misplaced, says Willie van der Merwe, owner of the RealNet WaterMeyer franchise in the east of Pretoria. ‘In our franchise area, which stretches from Brummeria to Murrayfield, crime statistics show that crime is sometimes more prevalent in closed suburbs and boomed estates than in open suburbs with other security measures in place, such as community patrols and observant residents.’ Through his involvement with community forums and neighbourhood patrols in his franchise area, Willie has found that alert residents and patrols which act as the eyes and ears of the SAPS are excellent and often better crime deterrents than a boomed entrance to a suburb. ‘Active community associations also ensure that residents are aware of exactly what is going on in their area,’ he says. He advises buyers who have security concerns to consider their options before committing to buying any property. +27 (0)83 263 7262, realnet.co.za

Continued investment by property funds clearly shows confidence in the property sector as a viable investment option – Colin Anderson, Director, Rabie Property Group

Hats off Universities countrywide are faced with an ever-increasing problem as their students struggle to find suitable accommodation. Many institutions have now reached crisis level in student accommodation. According to the Department of Higher Education, out of a student population of 530 000, there is only enough accommodation for 100 000, barely 18% of demand. This situation has created excellent buy-to-let opportunities. ‘With most of the old houses in the Arcadia and Hatfield areas having been converted into student communes, and with new developments targeting student rental accommodation only becoming available later in the year, the shortage for student accommodation has become dire. The situation has been further aggravated by the fact that the development of Hatfield as Pretoria’s new CBD, as well as the opening of the Hatfield Gautrain station, has led to young professionals competing with the students for sectional title units, either to rent or to purchase. As a result, residential property prices and rentals in Hatfield remain high and are predicted to increase,’ says Pieter Bezuidenhout, a property consultant at Seeff Pretoria East. +27 (0)82 927 6535, seeff.co.za

Big plans ahead Centurion is growing quickly, and City of Tshwane Executive Mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa has announced that the city plans to raise R750 million on the capital market during the next financial year and R10 billion over the next five years, to fund infrastructure development. Businesses in the area stand to benefit from this, as will homeowners. Bruce Swain, MD of Leapfrog Property criteria, making now the time to buy a home – especially in an area that has got so much in its favour.’ +27 (0)12 663 9000, leapfrog.co.za

46 | September 2012

Words Gisela Nel

Group, says, ‘More good news is that the banks have relaxed their lending

Pretoria Commercial

Get the drift Menlo Park is home to many unique smaller structures, but none more so than this new building in Hazelwood Road. Built on a subdivided stand of only 400m2, the building occupies primarily the first floor, leaving the ground floor open for parking and garden areas. It was designed as a private house with the potential of being turned into office space. In contrast to most other suburban structures, this building engages with and opens up to the pavement and the street. Instead of a solid brick wall, the boundary of the building is a transparent security screen, allowing the inviting manicured lawns to roll right up to the main road. From inside the building, extensive views of Pretoria’s Eastern Suburbs are framed by concrete walls, and the space seems to extend far beyond the boundaries of the property. The main construction materials were unfinished off-shutter concrete, steel, aluminium and glass.

Thanks to these materials, the surprisingly skew support columns and a large stinkwood tree, the building seems to float. The architects, W Design Architecture Studio, addressed everyday challenges of planning and construction methods in a unique and contemporary way, concealing bathrooms and kitchens in more solid volumes of the structure and leaving the main space of the building completely open, creating an illusion of endless space on the ‘floating’ first floor. This building is ideal for a business that values creativity. +27 (0)83 445 0424, wdas.co.za

Menlyn mania Growthpoint Properties has acquired the R210-million office building, Menlyn Corner. Situated at the corner of Atterbury Road and Lois Avenue, the property offers 10 000m2 of triple-A-grade office space.

Menlyn is turning into a strong banking and financial hub, with Investec, Alexander Forbes, Nedbank, RMB and FNB, among others, moving into this node. Menlyn Corner’s prominent glass facade makes the best use of the views to the east, and its wide frontage on Lois Avenue gives businesses enviable signage visibility on this busy road. Rudolf Pienaar, Growthpoint Properties’ divisional director for offices, says, ‘Menlyn offers many unique benefits for the Pretoria office market.

This investment has allowed us to further our green building drive and enhance our portfolio of quality investments.’ The five-level, multitenant office development features an elegant, airy reception lobby on ground level. It has access control and round-the-clock security with CCTV. Offices at Menlyn Corner range from 330m2 to 10 000m2 and can be tailored to tenants’ needs. Energy-efficiency measures include a specially designed glass facade, heat pump temperature control and air-conditioning that allows for small-zones activation. The building also features natural stone finishes and water-wise landscaping.

Construction of Menlyn Corner began in late 2011, and the offices will be complete in early 2013. +27 (0)11 944 6000, growthpoint.co.za

thepropertymag.co.za | 47

PRETORIA OFFICE 012 365 9000 FAX 012 365 2887 EMAIL pretoriaeast@pamgolding.co.za

WOODHILL GOLF ESTATE

R3.67 Million

BAILEYS MUCKLENEUK

R7.9 Million

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R3.65 Million

A one-of-a-kind 3 bedroom, 2 en suite, home. The unique floor-plan along with an

5 Bedrooms, 3 en suite, a modern kitchen with a separate scullery and laundry, a

Picture perfect. Exclusive, glamorous living combined with the perfect location. A

expansive covered patio with spit-braai facility and pizza oven that overlooks the lush

studio en suite with a private entrance and an entertainment area with a fireplace.

stunning home hidden behind high walls. 2 Lovely receptions and an open plan

garden and pool, make this a worth while property. Other amenities include 3 living

Pool area with a deck and boma. 3 Domestic quarters, 3 garages and 2 undercover

gourmet kitchen. 3 Bedrooms, 2 good bathrooms and a study. Landscaped garden.

areas, a study, staff accommodation and a double garage. Web Access PT530225

parking bays. Situated on a large sub-divisible stand. Web Access PT1096843 Danie Theron 072 600 6986, Betty Poggiolini 082 559 8178

Immaculate staff accommodation. Double garage. Web Access PT1091714

Ida Meintjes 082 563 4489, Prescilla Rootman 083 282 5386

WAPADRAND

R1.99 Million

MORELETA PARK

R2.44 Million

Stienie van den Berg 082 870 7214, Ria de Clercq 082 557 5161

RIETVALLEIRAND

R1.48 Million

A neat spacious home with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a study and open plan kitchen/

This magnificent home is filled with charm and character. Impressive features

Beautiful, full title home in a 24 hour security estate. 3 Open plan living areas,

living area. Large entertainment areas, plus a family/TV room with a built-in braai and

are 4 spacious bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and a gourmet kitchen. Open plan living

separate laundry and scullery, a study, sunroom, undercover patio, 3 bedrooms, 2

fireplace. 4 Automated garages plus a carport large enough for 3 cars. On a busy road

areas create an entertainer’s extravaganza. A sparkling pool is the highlight of this

bathrooms and upstairs balcony. Easy to maintain garden. Double motorized garage.

- ideal for a home business. Web Access PT1097548 Nonnie Coetzee 083 259 5588

landscaped garden. Web Access PT1093368

Communal pool in the estate. Web Access PT1097331

Nadia Vermeulen 083 370 4322, Diann Conway 082 771 1267

Colin van Scheltema 072 288 4818

BLUE VALLEY GOLF ESTATE

R5.9 Million

TWIN RIVERS ESTATE - IRENE

R5.95 Million

MIDSTREAM ESTATE

R1.89 Million

Home for an executive golf estate lifestyle. Blue Valley Golf Estate remains resilient,

Architect-designed and well-constructed home that provides comfortable living. This

A modern double storey in a security estate for this price? Near a green park area.

showing continued growth. Impeccably appointed cellar fitted with state-of-the-art

Top Billing award winning property, is situated on a 1 ha landscaped garden next

Open flowing living areas with a beautiful stainless steel balustrade. 3 Bedrooms,

facilities. Luxury beckons at every turn. Comfort and regal elegance surround you while

to a river. 4 Bedrooms, main en suite, spacious living areas plus an art studio, staff

2 bathrooms, a study, guest cloak room and a double garage.

sweeping fairways compliment the architecture. Web Access CN489955 Liesl Maddock 082 411 9888

accommodation and 3 garages. Web Access CN543700

Web Access CN1097943

Nico West 082 331 5057, Mercia Havenga 082 335 5378

Michael Flack 083 609 0080

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Petra Davidan 082 490 6329 Web ref 481328

State of the art North facing property with spectacular sea views.

3 Bedrooms. Wine Cellar. Rim flow pool. Double garage. Superb high end finishes throughout.

Gracious family home on 2 levels set in manicured gardens. Sparkling pool. Ideal for lavish entertaining. Superb main bedroom leads to patio.

Lounge, dining room, o/plan kitchen & family room. 3 Beds, 3 baths.

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A unique contemporary 3 bed home with all the mod cons in prime position. Stunning mountain & City Bowl views. The perfect home for a professional couple. Ideal for a couple scaling down for easy living on 1 level. A magical place to call home.

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WarrenLeslie 0827136624 -PeterJohnAndrianatos 0832586850 RE/MAX Property Associates 021 521 3100 Web ref 3003 53135

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TREND WATCH

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thepropertymag.co.za | 51

LUXURY WIN

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Winter special: 50%-Off Five-Star Safari Special Book and pay within seven days and get 50% off. Travel must take place before 30 September 2012. Rates include all game drives, meals, and selected beverages and accommodation. Phone and quote code ‘50/50’. Please note: Offer cannot be used in conjunction with other offers. Full payment required on confirmation of booking. All payments non-refundable. Offer based on availability at the time of booking.

*Terms and conditions: Flights and transport to and from the reserve are not included. Extras, such as additional spa treatments, alcoholic beverages and gifts from the curios store, are for the winner’s expense. The prize cannot be used on long weekends or public holidays. Accommodation depends on availability. Prize not transferable and not exchangeable for cash.

Competition closes on 30 September 2012.

52 | September 2012

M

of international business executives and exclusive residential estates overlooking both the ocean and the golf courses.

World-class services have followed, including medical tourism, where tourists can combine affordable health care, wellness and leisure in a single trip to Mauritius, and undergo treatments ranging from cosmetic surgery to dentistry in private health centres and clinics. The contrasts in architecture and cuisine born of Mauritius’ multicultural society add to the wonder of this business and tourism destination. And in the evenings the trendy bars, restaurants and nightclubs come alive against unparalleled sunsets.

But it’s the image of Mauritius as an exotic family vacation destination that remains foremost in people’s mind. The azure waters are warm, the beaches white and pristine. The large lagoons are calm, allowing for tranquil, safe pastimes. The east is wilder, and nature is the marvel that people come to see as part of the island’s eco-tourism offering. The southeast is known for its high cliffs and exotic scenery where mountain and ocean meet on white beaches. On the west coast, visitors can enjoy deep-sea fishing. Surfers also love it there, particularly Tamarin, the surfing centre of Mauritius. The island’s kite-surfing conditions are rising in fame too as kitesurfers discover the joys of Le Morne.

experience only, and the island was often seen as an extension of Sun City.

Today we see a multilayered, fully integrated and sophisticated country with a flourishing tourism industry. No longer is it only about lying on the beach and catching a tan. Today’s Mauritius is a fusion of highend resorts and more affordable ones, and thrown into the mix is a wide variety of sports and other activities. In 1844, under British rule, Mauritius became the third country in the world to be introduced to golf. Today it offers numerous exotic golf courses, most of them situated close to the hotels. The clubs’ names are equally exotic: Anahita, Heritage, Le Touessrok, Belle Mare Plage, Shandrani, Paradis, Le Saint Géran and Tamarina. In 2008, Mauritius was named ‘Golf Destination of the Year – Africa, the Indian Ocean and the Gulf States’ by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators.

The island offers diverse beach activities, and the north is famous for water sports, such as waterskiing, windsurfing, parasailing, deepsea fishing, sailing and cruising. Professional scuba diving is offered by the Mauritian Scuba Diving Association, which oversees the 30 or so diving centres that are spread across Mauritius and provide access to exotic dive sites. Mauritius is now also on the map of European cruise specialist Costa Croisières, whose liner, the MV Costa Romantica, docks

in Port Louis every year, from December to March, and offers cruises in the south-west Indian Ocean from Mauritius to Réunion, Madagascar, Seychelles and East Africa.

The recent economic boom has transformed Mauritius into a cosmopolitan destination, giving rise to modern business infrastructure as well as homes

auritius, named after the Prince of Orange, Maurice de Nassau, has come a long way since 1975, when Sol Kerzner introduced South Africans to the romance of tropical island vacations. In those days, vacations to Mauritius were reserved for the wealthy, and focused on the beach

PROMOTION

tourism-mauritius.mu

thepropertymag.co.za | 11

PROMOTION

SMOOTH SAILING When it comes to paradise, why look any further?

Words Albert van Rensburg

10 | September 2012

VOTED ONE OF THE ‘100 BEST HOTELS IN THE WORLD’

BY THE SUNDAY TIMES TRAVEL MAGAZINE

AS FROM EUR 230 000 15 UNITS STILL AVAILABLE

ONLY

INVEST IN A LONG BEACH IHS ROOM AND ENJOY THE PRIVILEGE OF BEING ONE OF THE OWNERS OF A 5 STAR HOTEL PROPERTY IN MAURITIUS • A powerful sales and distribution network which guarantees very strong financial returns for the owner.

• 21 days of personal use at Long Beach or to be exchanged in any other Sun Resorts property in Mauritius or the Maldives.

• Access to all Sun Resorts hotels and 25% discount on Food and Beverages and Spa. • The scheme is open to Mauritian residents and foreigners.

• Hotel 100% completed and fully operational.

For more information, please contact: Rhoy Ramlackhan rhoy@thepropertyannex.com, +230 729 8822 www.longbeachmauritius.com

LEISURE

The colour of paradise Le Touessrok in Mauritius delivers a diverse and exotic holiday

Tucked away beneath banyan trees that are littered with birdcage lamps, Le Touessrok on Île Maurice offers guests colourful splendour.

From the white frangipani flowers floating in the pool and the vibrant orange sea urchins to violet sunsets framed by ice-blue water and lush green grass, this is the hotel of your dreams.

The facilities and features are as colourful as the scenery. Guests can relax on the beaches, or go canoeing, kayaking, laser sailing, boating or snorkelling. There is an 18hole Bernhard Langer-designed golf course as well as tennis courts, a jogging track, yoga studio and nature trails.

Dining options include the restaurants Three-Nine-Eight, Safran and Barlen’s Bar. They serve Mauritian, Indian, Chinese, Thai and French cuisine, and the beach service means you won’t have to give up your prime spot on the sand.

Accommodation options include deluxe rooms, junior suites, ocean suites, the royal suite, and villas. All rooms are stylish and modern. Some of the suites have private dining areas and secluded terraces.

End a perfect day by climbing into a turneddown bed strewn with bougainvillea petals in Le Touessrok’s rainbow of luxury.

A spoonful of sugar Sugar Beach is the pudding of Mauritius’ feast of getaway spots

The postcard-pretty Sugar Beach Resort has it all: beautiful contemporary buildings, white beaches, thatch umbrellas, stylish restaurants and bars, an energetic nightlife and a spa. Set amid lush tropical vegetation, the resort is styled on traditional plantation architecture.

Guests may play a game of tennis or engage in water sports or simply laze in the deck chairs by the bright-blue pools or submit to treatments at the spa. Dining options include Citronella’s Café and Tides Restaurant, among others. Citronella’s serves pizzas, salads and other Italian cuisine and is ideal for a light lunch. Tides is a sophisticated seafood restaurant on the beachfront, and its thatched roofs, wooden flooring and neutral decor let it blend in perfectly with its idyllic surrounds. In the evening the adjacent Tides Bar turns into a festive night spot with vibrant music, dancing, and bonfires on the beach.

Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation, which includes the Manor House and 16 villas. Four of the villas have 10 to 12 rooms. The other six have 6 to 10 rooms each. Too much of Sugar Beach Resort can never be a bad thing.

For reservations or information on either hotel, contact World Leisure Holidays on 0860 954 954, res@wlh.co.za, wlh.co.za

Words Tammy Sutherns

8 | September 2012

Safe Heaven.

Why are increasing numbers of SA’s wealthy elite choosing to invest, live and work out of Mauritius? s 2ANKED IN THE 4OP @"EST 0LACES IN THE 7ORLD TO ,IVE

s ! SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR FAMILY s ! SECURE HOME FOR YOUR ASSETS s "USINESS TAX RATE AS LOW AS PERSONAL TAX ONLY s .O FOREIGN EXCHANGE CONTROLS OR INHERITANCE TAXES s 7ORLD CLASS INFRASTRUCTURE EDUCATION AND HEALTH s YEARS OF POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC STABILITY s /NLY A HOUR m IGHT

International award-winning Villas Valriche is the island’s premier lifestyle estate, offering Championship golf, 5* hotels, Beach Club, activities and sports for all ages and luxury freehold golf villas with spectacular sea views. *Daily Telegraph, UK (Nov 2010)

Ryan Proksch

+27 73 392 3233

info@villasvalriche.com I www.villasvalriche.com

COMMERCIAL

MAURITIAN

STATE PROPERTY SALE A prime property bidding bonanza takes centre stage Words Candace King

T

he Government of Mauritius has decided to sell some of its prime commercial and industrial assets in order to create more economic space for investment on the island. The focal assets include Le Caudan Waterfront, Belle Mare Tourist Village, Lakepoint Complex and Domaine Les Pailles.

As announced in the 2012 budget, the strategic divestment programme is being implemented by the State Investment Corporation, the investment arm of the Mauritian government, and offers an opportunity for investors to own prime Mauritian properties with attractive commercial potential.

In the past 30 years, the Mauritian economy has transformed itself tremendously, becoming one of the fastest-growing economies in sub-Saharan Africa, and has opened its doors to several business and development opportunities. A variety of infrastructure projects as well as high-end luxury property developments have boomed over the years, and it is expected that Mauritius will undergo further significant changes in the next decade. Looking back on 2010, the Mauritian government notes that property development accounted for 19,3% of total GDP and experienced a growth rate of 10%.The industry attracted investment of $745 million (about R6,2 billion) of which FDI accounted for $165 million (about R1,4 billion).

Popular development projects on the island include upmarket residential properties, office parks and retail

centres. There is also huge potential for the setting up of marinas to meet the future mooring requirements of yacht owners, and the government has already identified potential and sustainable sites around the island for marina development.

The first of the properties to be divested is Le Caudan Waterfront (above). Situated in Port Louis, the 17 800m2 Caudan Waterfront is built on land leased from the Mauritius Ports Authority and consists of 5 307m2 of commercial space and 12 493m2 of public space. On the site is a two-storey coaster shed divided into two blocks, with seven units in Block A and 11 commercial units in Block B. The double-storey, 1 450m2 Astrolabe Building also forms part of the site. It offers 18 commercial units at ground level and 13 units on the first floor. Le Caudan Waterfront also features food stalls covering an area of 46m2 (excluding a paved area of 248m2) as well as outbuildings covering an area of about 30m2.

The Belle Mare Tourist Village is set on 21 000m2 of land leased from the Mauritian government.

Located in an area of hotels, apartments, and tourism developments, the site covers 1 131m2 of Le Pas GĂŠomĂŠtrique de Belle Mare as well as 19 869m2 of government reserves. With its high-tech, 5m-high, single-storey buildings of modern design, the village accommodates retail and on-the-spot manufacturing tourists shops, a recreation centre, a food court and an arts exhibition space. The 4 780m2 complex is

surrounded by stone walls and is accessed via a security-controlled gate. It also offers ample parking for cars and buses.

The Lakepoint Complex is situated within the commercial centre of Curepipe in the Plaines Wilhems district and is leased from the Municipal Council of Curepipe. The site is 5 852m2 in size. The complex includes a two-storey, 2 770m2 leisure and commercial building. The foundation of the complex lies on an artificial island above a rehabilitated lake.

The 1 310m2 ground floor of the complex comprises 15 commercial units, a reception area and offices, while the first floor is 1 460m2 in size and features three commercial units.

The final site is Domaine Les Pailles, in the Moka district in north-west Mauritius. With a total area of 328 000m2, the site consists of three plots.

The development has been linked to the northern side of Port Louis via the construction of a new ring road. Plot B (37 986m2) consists of a reconstructed sugar mill and is surrounded by a nature reserve. It features four restaurants and two conference rooms, banqueting facilities and an administrative block.

Located opposite Le Grand Casino, Plot C (61 500m2) has great potential for real estate development, while Plot D (228 514m2) is the perfect location for a commercial development.

At the time of going to print, all four properties were still for sale. +230 202 8900, nrel.mu

6 | September 2012

Need property in Mauritius?

With 35 years of experience - talk to us.

Tel No. (021) 762 2617 mauritius@pamgolding.co.za www.pamgolding.mu

BUSINESS Rehm Grinaker (partially owned by Aveng Grinaker-LTA), Group Five and others have entered Mauritius, to capitalise on the building construction and infrastructure expansion programmes. Nowhere is this more evident than in the look and feel of the new shopping malls changing the shopping landscape on the island. Atterbury, for example, has assumed

a leading position by partnering with local Mauritian partner, ENL, and developing Bagatelle Mall of Mauritius. A similar modern mall has been co-developed by another South African company, Retail Africa, in a joint venture with local company, Medine.

Living and working in Mauritius has become commonplace among foreigners. The

government changed its legislation in 2004 to allow foreigners to own property on the island, and property developers have since built numerous gorgeous housing estates against the backdrop of golden beaches, coral reefs and blue lagoons.

Today, 2 172 South Africans live or work in Mauritius.

Centre The Port Louis skyline. Mauritius is fast emerging as a business hub. Bottom Le Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis offers high-street shopping and entertainment as well as accommodation in world-class hotels.

Island hoppIng There are 11 return flights to Mauritius a week: seven from OR Tambo International Airport in Johanesburg, and two each from Cape Town and Durban. The flight lasts for a reasonable four hours. investmauritius.com

4 | September 2012

BUSINESS

Words Albert van Rensburg

Clockwise from top left Le Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis offers extensive mooring capabilities; Mauritius remains an idyllic holiday destination; aerial view of the Champ de Mars horse racing track in Port Louis.

I

mages of beaches, palm trees, turquoise lagoons and honeymoons have become synonymous with the name ‘Mauritius’, and its government and beautiful resorts do not mind this one bit. But a major mind shift is needed today as the country positions itself as a player on the world’s business stage and employs phrases such as ‘business hub’, ‘springboard to the region’ and ‘leading investment destination’.

There is a plethora of multinationals setting up shop in the capital city of Port Louis and in Ebene, the new modern corporate district. South Africans are leading the way, having invested more than R1,7 billion in Mauritius since 2006, with the investments increasing yearly. The economic slowdown in the US and Europe has international businesses looking to Africa for growth and, similarly, South African companies have started to expand into Africa, the Middle East and Asia. South Africa has for a long time

been a popular base of operations on the continent, but in some cases the distances are too vast to include East and North-East Africa and destinations beyond, such as the Gulf and Asia. Enter Mauritius, and yes, the same beach images appear.

The country has taken a leaf from Singapore’s positioning itself as the gateway to Asia. A springboard into a region needs a sophisticated and profitable business hub and equally sophisticated living conditions.

Like Singapore, Mauritius is a small island economy, strategically located, dependent on international trade and boasting a multiracial English-speaking population. Flattered by what it saw, Singapore signed an economic agreement with Mauritius in 2011. But this should come as no surprise. After all, the World Bank has rated Mauritius ‘First in Africa’ in the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ category.

South African companies are following suit, albeit in a different direction, using

Mauritius as a market as well as a springboard to Eastern Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Substantial business linkages exist, in particular with India, thanks to Mauritius’ large Indian population.

Financial institutions focusing on this trend include the likes of AfrAsia Bank, which serves the Mauritius market and the ‘dynamic Africa/ Asia trade and investment corridor’. AfrAsia has opened branches in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town to help drive South African business via Mauritius.

Big South African and international financial houses which have become part of Mauritius’ business fibre include Investec, Standard Bank, PwC, HSBC, Alexander Forbes and KPMG. South African retail and restaurant brands setting up shop in Mauritius include Woolworths, Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Famous Brands (Steers, Debonairs and Wimpy) and Spur. South African construction and development companies, such as WBHO,

thepropertymag.co.za | 3

BUSINESS

B2B – Mauritius style B2B stands for ‘beaches to business’ on paradisal Mauritius

2 | September 2012

Contents

22

D DOWNLOA NAL OUR NATION EDITIO FOR iPAD from Zinio

This month we debut our Mauritius mini-mag. Interested in the business climate there or planning a holiday? We reveal why Mauritius is the go-to destination in both these realms 2 6 8 10

B2B – MAURITIUS STYLE Contrary to popular belief, there is more to Mauritius than pristine white beaches and turquoise waters

A STATELY SALE A bidding bonanza begins as the Mauritian Government auctions off some key properties

THE COLOUR OF PARADISE We showcase two World Leisure holiday resorts

SMOOTH SAILING The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority on how the island has changed for the better for business and pleasure purposes

ON THE COVER ON THE COVER The Kitchen & Tasting Room @ Maison. Turn to page 11 for the full story.

Le Caudan Waterfront is up for grabs. See page 6 for details.

thepropertymag.co.za | 1

Mauritius SEPTEMBER 2012

le caudan

waterfront for sale

tourisM at a new high

The colour of paradise

Mauritius

africa’s new trading hub