the property magazine - kwazulu-natal october/november 2012

Propertydecor, trends, luxury, design & real estate

kwazulu-natalEst. 2004, Issue 280

winner of 10 publishing awardsOCtOBER/nOvEmBER 2012

RS

A R

34

.95 (

incl.

VA

T)

Oth

er

co

untr

ies

R21.9

0 (

excl.

Tax)

On S

ho

w –

Bre

ttenw

oo

d C

oast

al

Estate home.

Designer eDucation

TOP 20 suMMer Must-haves

varsity college’s midrand campus

ask theexPerts

outDoor living

On the cOverThe Kitchen & Tasting Room

@ Maison. Turn to page 11

for the full story.

22

On the cOverDesigner home on

Brettenwood Estate. See

page 24 for details.

Contents

18

DecOr

13 hOt DecOr & Design

Designer art books

TrenDs

11 HoT space Pressing pause at

Gwahumbe Game & Spa

12 HoT plaTe Sugar and spice and all

things nice

28 FresH ouTlook The go-to people for

outdoor furniture

36 new HeigHTs We explore some of SA’s

iconic new buildings

41 wHale oF a Time

Why you should be living

in Umdloti

56 TrenD waTcH Fabulous outdoor lighting

options for summer

luxury

14 HoT inDulgence Indulging for a cause

44 ODe tO the FisHerman

A special getaway at Abalone

House in Paternoster

55 socieTy Out and about in

KwaZulu-Natal

Design

18 eDucaTeD Design Varsity College’s revamped

Midrand Campus makes

learning sexy again

24 naTural excHange

A Gauteng couple relocate to

Brettenwood and gain a slice

of the wilderness

40 pracTice makes perFecT

How two of SA’s top

architectural firms are

making our world a

better place

30 Top 20 summer HiTs

We bring you our favourite

items for outdoor living

real esTaTe

47 slowly buT surely

Pam Golding Properties’

Retha Schutte on the

property market in the

Pretoria/Midrand area

48 kwaZulu-naTal resiDenTial

Introducing Chairman’s

Rest Estate

49 kwaZulu-naTal commercial

KZN’s retail offering booms

50 mauriTius Leisure choices on the

island, and we visit

Long Beach one year on

56

30

thepropertymag.co.za | 1

2 | October/November 2012

This month we celebrate summer and in doing so cast off our winter rags, throw open our doors and move outside. But how do we know when summer has begun? Obviously the months of the year have something to do with it, but how do we really know? For me it’s a combination of senses: sight, smell, touch, sound and taste. In fact, I can remember most summers from my life by evoking one of these senses.

For example, hearing the melody of the song ‘Murder on the Dance Floor’ by Sophie Ellis-Bextor takes me straight back to a sexy summer in London where I was walking the city streets with a Starbucks Frappuccino in hand, while the tingling of ice-cold air on hot skin will always remind me of hanging out at 7-Elevens to beat the East’s muggy summer days. Sight is a fairly obvious one – as soon as I notice that the grass in surrounding parks and woodlands is being burned, I just know that new green grass is en route. Similarly when the trees start sprouting new leaves – you would be surprised at how many people don’t notice this until, one day, they find themselves sitting in the shade. Taste is easy, too. One word: Pimm’s. Tall glass, lots of ice and a mixture of strawberries, cucumber, lemon and mint. Pure summer.

But my strongest sensory association with summer has

THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE

ONLINE

VISIT thepropertymag.co.za for the

latest features.

FOLLOW US on Facebook

and Twitter:

facebook.com/thepropertymagazine

twitter.com/thepropertymag

DOWNLOAD our National edition for

iPad and Galaxy tablets from Zinio:

zinio.com

SUBSCRIBE

Call 0860 100 209 (local) or

+27 (0)21 530 3112 (foreign)

to learn more about our special

subscription offer.

Nicky Manson, Editor

Pho

tog

rap

h G

rant

Diffo

rd

That summer feelingLooking forward to a sensory season

This month I really must have …

Créma Design’s new designers, Moooi, have some very

sexy lighting. We love Dear Ingo, which is available in

black or white. cremadesign.co.za

Ruan Hoffman’s latest bespoke tile range is available

from Tonic Design. Look out for the New Family and

Garden Route series. ruanhoffmann.com;

tonicdesign.co.za

This sofa from the Modern Home Company. Called the

Nuvola, it’s just begging to be jumped on.

modernhome.co.za

to do with the smell of sunscreen. It’s a scent that picks me up and whisks me straight back to my childhood – a greasy and fabulous one. Holidays at the beach are my quintessential summer memories and sunscreen is my trigger. Even when I smell it on other people or apply it to my wriggly two-year-old, it immediately evokes a fond summer memory.

This year I plan on basking in the summer light outdoors and adding a few new sensations to the menu: a good read (sight), a comfy throw for the lawn (touch), and Jack Johnson on the iPod (sound). Then, definitely more Pimm’s (taste). And smell? Well, in the words of Baz Luhrmann: ‘Trust me on the sunscreen.’

DURBAN FACTORY AND SHOWROOMDURBAN FACTORY AND SHOWROOM46 Buro Crescent, Mayville, 409146 Buro Crescent, Mayville, 4091

Tel: +27 31 208 4418 / +27 31 207 2868 Fax: +27 31 207 2869Tel: +27 31 208 4418 / +27 31 207 2868 Fax: +27 31 207 2869E-mail: [email protected]: [email protected]

PIETERMARITZBURG SHOWROOMPIETERMARITZBURG SHOWROOMCnr. Victoria & West Street, PietermaritzburgCnr. Victoria & West Street, Pietermaritzburg

Tel: +27 33 345 9805 Fax: +27 33 345 9901Tel: +27 33 345 9805 Fax: +27 33 345 9901

w w w . l e i s u r e l o u n g e . c o . z aw w w . l e i s u r e l o u n g e . c o . z a

hans coetzeea r c h i t e c t

Tel:Fax:�031�566�0007

Mobile:�+27�83�650�9775Web:

E-mail�:

031�566�5750

[email protected]

CommercialIndustrialResidential

Our�hallmark�is�the�unwavering�commitment�wehave�to�designing�environments�that�shape�the�waypeople�live,�learn,�work,�and�play.

”You�Fabricate�The�Dream,�We�Bring�It�To�Life”

For more information on this limited offer and how to save, contact us on (011) 800 4744 or [email protected] or visit our website at www.eskom.co.za/idm

Eskom building South Africa

With this new limited offer rebate, and your savings on energy

from day one, you will pay back your capital cost in 6 years or less.

Your solar installer will go through the easy claim process and

simple claim form with you before sending it off.

Now, can youafford not to?

“I can’t affordsolar water heating.”

especially since we’ll subsidise it

depending on the system you buy.up to the value of R8 900,

to your home has never beenmore affordable,Introducing solar water heating

Limited offer

Save up to R8 900

www.eskom.co.za/idm

MO

HLA

LEN

G_1

020_

ESK

D

For more information on this limited offer and how to save, contact us on (011) 800 4744 or [email protected] or visit our website at www.eskom.co.za/idm

Eskom building South Africa

With this new limited offer rebate, and your savings on energy

from day one, you will pay back your capital cost in 6 years or less.

Your solar installer will go through the easy claim process and

simple claim form with you before sending it off.

Now, can youafford not to?

“I can’t affordsolar water heating.”

especially since we’ll subsidise it

depending on the system you buy.up to the value of R8 900,

to your home has never beenmore affordable,Introducing solar water heating

Limited offer

Save up to R8 900

www.eskom.co.za/idm

MO

HLA

LEN

G_1

020_

ESK

D

NEW KUBUS UNDERMOUNT RANGEThe new Kubus undermount range offers a sleek, ultra-modern look within the kitchen. The Kubus range with iconic good looks, features deeper bowls and is the ultimate geometric shape for solid surfaces. Three different sizes are available, an assortment of bowls may be added to fully optimise your kitchen environment and to suit your requirements.

www.franke.co.zaCall Centre: 0861 372 653 [email protected]

KBX110-55

KBX110-20

KBX110-45

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

Property thepropertymag.co.za

TGE

EDITORIALEditorNicky Manson [email protected] EditorJennifer Platt [email protected] Bureau ChiefAnne Schauffer [email protected] SubeditorYaron BlecherFeatures WritersGenevieve Fisher (Western Cape)André Fiore (KwaZulu-Natal)Gisela Nel (Pretoria)

ARTSenior DesignerKeverne MorlandJunior DesignerChané JoematSenior RetoucherTim LakeBrendan Body

CONTRIBUTORSCandace King, Tammy Sutherns

PhOTOGRAPhERSVal Adamson, Nic Baleta, Fiona Barclay-Smith, Sally Chance, Michael Glenister, Tim Lake, Candace Marshall-Smith, Gisela Nel

DISTRIBUTIONEzweni Magazine Distribution

ADVERTISING Gauteng & KwaZulu-Natal Regional Sales & Marketing ManagerJenni McCallum

Western Cape Regional Sales & Marketing ManagerMichèle JonesWestern Cape SalesSusan ErweePretoria SalesLorna MacPhailKwaZulu-Natal SalesClaire VeitchEvent CoordinatorBianca van DeventerTraffic AssistantPortia Mbele

PUBLIShED BY TGE (PTY) LTDManaging DirectorTony Vaughan [email protected] ManagerTaryn TownsendAssociate Publisher PretoriaObed SealetsaAssociate Publisher NamibiaMynard SlabbertFinancial ManagerLeanne Cox [email protected] AssistantEleanor ScipioCredit ControllerAnthea OdendaalDriverJoseph Khoza

GAUTENG 49 6th Street, Parkhurst, Johannesburg, 2193.Phone +27 (0)87 230 0101

NAMIBIA Phone +264 (0)61 248 161 Fax +264 (0)61 245 942

SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES Email [email protected] Online magsathome.co.za Local Phone 0860 100 209 Fax 0866 704 101

International Phone +27 (0)21 530 3112 Fax +27 (0)21 530 3143SMS 41871 with reference ‘Property Magazine’ (R2/SMS) for subscription enquiries

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES General [email protected] Society [email protected].

Hot Property [email protected]

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 000Web Stats: Property Club Members – 24 884AMPS National Readership (2011A): 287 815

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.

ON ThIS MONTh’S COVERKwaZulu-Natal: Brettonwood house

NEW KUBUS UNDERMOUNT RANGEThe new Kubus undermount range offers a sleek, ultra-modern look within the kitchen. The Kubus range with iconic good looks, features deeper bowls and is the ultimate geometric shape for solid surfaces. Three different sizes are available, an assortment of bowls may be added to fully optimise your kitchen environment and to suit your requirements.

www.franke.co.zaCall Centre: 0861 372 653 [email protected]

KBX110-55

KBX110-20

KBX110-45


25584_340x245.indd 1 2012/10/10 2:59 PM

Property involves us all. What’s your view? Email [email protected].

You tell us

facebook.com/thepropertymagazine twitter.com/thepropertymag

Making a splashI fell in love with the featured bathrooms in your September issue. Wow, the bathroom overlooking the ocean is incredible! If that were my house, I would never leave that room. Thanks for the inspiration and for allowing me to daydream for a little while.AJ Akrone, Rivonia

We aim to inspire – Ed.

Down to earthI absolutely loved your Green issue and how it was filled with beautiful and quirky tips, designs and stories of sustainability. The article on land artist, Strijdom van der Merwe, was so inspiring, I felt I should go outdoors immediately! I was also very glad that you included the Oyster Box hotel, as I’m from Durban and it is one of my favourite spots when I go back home for visits. Congratulations on a magazine that is sure to make others green with envy!Amber Brown

Just doing our bit for Mother Nature – Ed.

the sky’s the liMitI never write in, but I thought some praise was well deserved, as The Property Magazine has certainly gone from strength to strength. It is such a good read, and the fact that it is free and delivered to my home every month is such a wonderful treat, especially in these hard times – I always have my mag to look forward to. Well done for keeping the good times rolling.K Stannard, Parkhurst

That’s what we’re here for – Ed.

WinningLetter

FIRE DETECTION

For State of the Art

Security, by Design

We design a security solution around your lifestyle and

needs, ensuring that the design complements your architecture.complements your architecture.

People looking after people

Contact

Projects Department on 031 203 5200

ALARMS INSTALLA

TION

CCTVwinFour lucky readers stand a chance to win a bottle of Bisquit Cognac Vsop,

valued at r450.

Cognac producer Bisquit understands that true wealth is having time to enjoy life,

being the master of your own destiny.

Established by Alexandre Bisquit back in 1819, Bisquit Cognac is produced in the

Cognac region of France. It owes its exceptionally smooth and mellow finish to its

longer distillation time – 15% longer than any other cognac. Bisquit Cognac VSOP

offers a smooth and mellow taste with a satisfying finish, subtle with floral and

woody flavours on the palate. No wonder it was awarded gold for Best in Class at

the 2012 International Wine and Spirit Competition.

There are three variants, namely: Bisquit Cognac VS, Bisquit Cognac VSOP and

Bisquit Cognac XO. Best served neat or over ice.

facebook.com/BisquitCognac

Available at selected leading liquor outlets. Email your letters to

[email protected] to enter.


25584_340x245.indd 1 2012/10/10 2:59 PM

Property involves us all. What’s your view? Email [email protected].

You tell us

facebook.com/thepropertymagazine twitter.com/thepropertymag

Making a splashI fell in love with the featured bathrooms in your September issue. Wow, the bathroom overlooking the ocean is incredible! If that were my house, I would never leave that room. Thanks for the inspiration and for allowing me to daydream for a little while.AJ Akrone, Rivonia

We aim to inspire – Ed.

Down to earthI absolutely loved your Green issue and how it was filled with beautiful and quirky tips, designs and stories of sustainability. The article on land artist, Strijdom van der Merwe, was so inspiring, I felt I should go outdoors immediately! I was also very glad that you included the Oyster Box hotel, as I’m from Durban and it is one of my favourite spots when I go back home for visits. Congratulations on a magazine that is sure to make others green with envy!Amber Brown

Just doing our bit for Mother Nature – Ed.

the sky’s the liMitI never write in, but I thought some praise was well deserved, as The Property Magazine has certainly gone from strength to strength. It is such a good read, and the fact that it is free and delivered to my home every month is such a wonderful treat, especially in these hard times – I always have my mag to look forward to. Well done for keeping the good times rolling.K Stannard, Parkhurst

That’s what we’re here for – Ed.

WinningLetter

FIRE DETECTION

For State of the Art

Security, by Design

We design a security solution around your lifestyle and

needs, ensuring that the design complements your architecture.complements your architecture.

People looking after people

Contact

Projects Department on 031 203 5200

ALARMS INSTALLA

TION

CCTV

winFour lucky readers stand a chance to win a bottle of Bisquit Cognac Vsop,

valued at r450.

Cognac producer Bisquit understands that true wealth is having time to enjoy life,

being the master of your own destiny.

Established by Alexandre Bisquit back in 1819, Bisquit Cognac is produced in the

Cognac region of France. It owes its exceptionally smooth and mellow finish to its

longer distillation time – 15% longer than any other cognac. Bisquit Cognac VSOP

offers a smooth and mellow taste with a satisfying finish, subtle with floral and

woody flavours on the palate. No wonder it was awarded gold for Best in Class at

the 2012 International Wine and Spirit Competition.

There are three variants, namely: Bisquit Cognac VS, Bisquit Cognac VSOP and

Bisquit Cognac XO. Best served neat or over ice.

facebook.com/BisquitCognac

Available at selected leading liquor outlets. Email your letters to

[email protected] to enter.

25584_340x245.indd 1 2012/10/10 2:59 PM


HOT space

Wo

rds

And

ré F

iore

P

ho

tog

rap

hs

Sally

Chance a

nd

Gra

nt

Pit

cher

1A pool with a view. 2The lounge at the main lodge. 3Enjoying the spa, al fresco. 4Accommodation

to unwind in.Visit thepropertymag.co.za for other

fabulous getaways.

Situated among some of the

spectacular highs and lows of the

Eston valley in KZN, Gwahumbe

Game & Spa offers a bush break

that’s swift to get to yet still has that silent, far-

away feel that goes with arriving at a reserve.

The rows of aloes that lead the way along the

ridge towards the lodge hint at the design

style that’s echoed in the decor and detail that

follow. Here is a spot that works just as easily

for a Sunday outing as for a stay-over.

For many people, a break in the bush is

about pressing pause and doing as little as

possible, but Gwahumbe has a full line-up of

offerings and activities that push many other

buttons too. From game drives and birding

to hiking, fishing and picnicking (catered

or self-catered), visitors are encouraged to

spend as much time as they want enjoying the

scenery and seeing what they can of the game,

including rhino, hippo, wildebeest, giraffe,

zebra and antelope. For those seeking a little

more action, Gwahumbe offers challenging

4 x 4 trails through 740ha of riverine forest,

valley bushveld and grassland, and 18km of

fully marked mountain biking and trail running

routes that form part of the annual Husqvarna

Classic Mid-Illovo Challenge.

After-action satisfaction at Gwahumbe

includes a dip and chill in a selection of pools

with some of the most fabulous views in the

province, a meal or drink on the deck or a visit

to the spa. Recently extended to offer outdoor

treatments at the waterfall or in a protected

boma, the spa has a comprehensive menu of

Dermalogica and Esse treatments and treats

for women, men, couples and juniors, as well as

a steam room and hydro bath. Of course, after

a massage and wrap, those who didn’t book to

stay over will be looking to see whether they

can still check in, as the Sunday morning yoga

class promises a little more relaxation too.

Accommodation ranges from luxury

suites to rustic bush camps and is available as

catered or self-catered, making Gwahumbe

suitable for everything from romantic

getaways and family outings to conferences,

team building, special interest groups, product

launches and weddings.

For young explorers, there are Junior Game

Ranger Camps. For everyone else, the newly

opened shop, the restaurant and the wine

cellar offer pleasant experiences too.

+27 (0)31 781 1082, gwahumbe.co.za

3

4

1

PreSSpAuse

It’s not just the dramatic landscape that gives Gwahumbe its edge – getting there is as simple as fast-forwarding, and unwinding starts en route

42


We chat to food stylist, cookbook author and acclaimed international artist,

Natasha BarNes.

tell us about the relationship between

food and artistry. I studied for a

Cordon Bleu Grand Diplôme at Silwood

Kitchens in Cape Town, where it was

acknowledged that my creative streak

would take me beyond cookery. Food

styling or writing were options, and

when I joined Your Family magazine as

a cookery editor, those were important

aspects of the job. Food styling’s not as

easy as it looks: food’s not like paint –

you can’t go over it! Was the transition

from food stylist to artist an easy one?

Very. Only the tools are different. For me,

creating a wedding cake is like creating

a sculpture. Where else has your role

of chef/editor taken you? I spent five

years working alongside the Department

of Labour at Westville prison. What

began as a three-week course turned

into five years. I owned two cookery

schools, one at Lamontville Technical

College, the other at Westville prison,

where I reskilled prisoners by teaching

short cookery courses. What are you

busy with now? I recently did food

styling for Hirsch’s new cookbook, Living

the Modern Vegetarian Life. My current

project is my own cookbook, Journey of

Food. It’s a kind of ‘Jamie Oliver meets

Eat, Pray, Love’, a light-hearted account

of my extensive travels, narrated through

the medium of food. It begins with my

early life, growing up on a farm in Parys

in the Free State, and moves on to more

exotic destinations worldwide, places I’ve

experienced through my art. For years,

food took a back seat, but it’s come

full circle now. I’m writing again, and

although my art still keeps me very busy,

I sneak away while abroad and attend

cookery schools and courses.

+27 (0)83 770 4976, natashabarnes.co.za

Wo

rds

And

ré F

iore

Nata

sha B

arn

es

inte

rvie

w A

nne S

chauff

er

For the sWeet-toothedDaniela’s Deliciously Decadent has released its salted caramel macaroon, with sweetly

seasoned caramel ganache sandwiched between wispy almond meringue shells. The

quintessential union between sweet and salty is designed for the discerning palate that

appreciates a sensory blast. Pop past the Hillcrest store for Macaroon Monday, when you can

feast on these ethereal delights for just R6. 0860 266 266, danielas.co.za

Sugar and spice and all things nice

ham hotliNeStraight from the farm to the public,

Loving Hams, in Winterton, offers a direct

order system for pork lovers across KZN.

The meats are produced, cut and prepared

on the farm, bringing local-is-lekker ham,

bacon, sausage, roasts, even doggie treats,

to locals. Get a head start on festive-season

entertaining with a pre-ordered gammon or

two. +27 (0)83 364 0753,

lovinghams.co.za

hot plate

thai treatThai fans in the Ballito area will be delighted at the

brand-new addition to the Junction shopping centre –

the first Simply Asia Thai Food and Noodle Bar in KZN.

The restaurant prides itself on its authentic Thai cuisine,

prepared by authentic Thai chefs in theatre kitchens and

including fresh, flavoursome ingredients imported from

Thailand. +27 (0)32 586 3461, simplyasia.co.za

Fish delishThe brand-new Taco Sushi has opened in

Florida Road next door to lively Taco Zulu.

This glitzy spot flaunts some lovely fittings,

serves up super sushi and is offering half-

price off the belt every lunchtime and

every Wednesday night until the end of

November. +27 (0)31 303 9584,

tacozulu.co.za

hot pRopeRtY


HOT decOr & deSIGNFrom design art books to custom-designed furniture …

HOT PrOPerTY

More froM ArdMoreThe recently launched book title, Ardmore –

We Are Because of Others, tells the story of

this iconic ceramic art studio, from its humble

beginnings in a poverty-stricken corner of

South Africa to its fame as a producer of

artworks prized by collectors, galleries and

museums worldwide. It is also the story of the

indomitable Fée Halsted, the driving force

behind the enterprise, and the artists whose

inventive spirit and fearless creativity are at the

heart of Ardmore. +27 (0)11 484 3538,

randomstruik.co.za

Durban graphic artist MICHAeL VAN HeerdeN was designated

Emerging Creative at this year’s Design

Indaba Expo, where his weird and wacky

wood creations stole the coveted Most

Creative Stand Award.

A passion for wood has led you down

a long and winding road … I’ve always

been intrigued by wood as a substrate,

and as a teenager I longed to be a

carpenter. When that didn’t happen,

I merged my graphic design background

with my love of wood and somehow my

work evolved into 3D graphic design. I’m

having a huge amount of fun. I see my

work as quirky and quite simple and I try

to add a sense of humour to whatever

I design. I don’t think life needs to be

too serious – there’s loads of negativity

out there and I don’t like to add to it.

What inspired your design Indaba stand

concept? I worked on the ‘nostalgia’

concept – there was a clear return to

things of old, most especially in wood, so

it was the perfect springboard for me to

try my hand at carpentry. I’m not inspired

by a single person, but rather by different

designers, different objects and everyday

life. Where to from here? I’d love to get

involved in furniture making or study

carpentry or industrial design, but for

now I’m going to keep on designing and

combining that with wood and maybe

other materials. I’m currently freelancing,

with the intention of making this type

of design a career that would filter into

the areas of interior and furniture design.

Which are your bestsellers? My most

coveted works to date are Tetris Africa,

Dear John, The Wonder Years and Foxes

Smell Their Own Holes. All of these are

light-hearted and fun pieces, and they

make people smile. +27 (0)72 534 2714,

behance.net/mikevanheerden

Wo

rds

And

ré F

iore

And

ré F

iore

Mic

hael v

an H

eerd

en in

terv

iew

Anne S

chauff

er

Pho

tog

rap

h W

arr

en G

old

swain

A sLICe of tHe MIdLANdsHere’s a little treasure of a store, packed with locally made and designed wooden

furniture. Corrie Lynn & Co. recently opened a showroom at Piggly Wiggly in the

Midlands, but have been creating custom-designed furniture for the past 15 years from

their nearby farm. All wood can be traced back to sustainable sources and is treated and

dried for a year or more before it is used. +27 (0)82 789 5990, corrielynn.co.za

tAkINg It eAsy Koop has just released its Slow chair and

daybed range, designed for lazy days

and a subtropical lifestyle. Crafted from

kiaat, with cushions for comfort, these

chairs come in a flat-packed dry-fit kit.

+27 (0)31 301 5718, koopdesign.co.za

HorsINg ArouNd For Carol Hayward Fell, art is as much about having fun and evoking a smile as it is about

creating something beautiful, and besides being collected worldwide, her intricately

patterned handmade stoneware and porcelain has recently won her the Premier Award

at the Annual Ceramics Southern Africa KZN Exhibition. Her new body of whimsical

work, Quirky Horses and Other Animals, is available direct or through the galleries listed

on her Facebook page. +27 (0)31 563 4347


HOT PROPERTY

HOT INDULGENCE

CritiCally aCClaimedWe’re all very aware of the rhino’s plight, but how many of us know

about the almost extinct Table Mountain ghost frog, the threatened

geometric tortoise or the disappearing golden protea? In an effort to

raise awareness about these critically endangered creatures, luxury

brand The Last Word (made up of Intimate Hotels and Intimate Rarities)

has launched Living Endangered, a sophisticated collection of art and

luxury products handcrafted by some of South Africa’s youngest and

hottest artisans. The range was inspired by the little Table Mountain

ghost frog, possibly the most endangered frog in the world. Growing to

a maximum length of 60mm – the size of your thumb – the ghost frog

is only found in the nooks and crannies of Table Mountain’s Skeleton

Gorge. The Living Endangered range is comprised of ‘treasures of

esteem’ and includes the golden protea neckpiece by Shelley Robertson;

Cobus van Rooyen’s hand-stitched leather bags, inspired by the

geometric tortoise; and the Table Mountain ghost frog haute parfum

by perfumer Tammy Frazer. The pieces are made in Cape Town from

local materials and The Last Word donates 5% of the profits from Living

Endangered sales to the Wilderness Foundation.

+27 (0)21 794 2036, thelastword.co.za

Indulging for a cause, plus hot summer fashion, cool cocktails and refreshing wines

PoP artSlip into summer with

The Candy Shop, Berry

Blast, Sunshine Soda and

So Citrus, the flirty flavours

in Primi Piatti’s newly

launched Mainstay Soda

Pop cocktails range.

primi-piatti.com

ClutChes and CoCktail ringsMissibaba and Kirsten Goss

have opened a boutique

store at 229 Bree Street,

Cape Town, showcasing their

handcrafted designer items.

Look out for Kirsten Goss’s

new Signet collection of

personalised charms.

+27 (0)21 424 3453,

kirstengoss.com,

+27 (0)21 424 8127,

missibaba.com

retro sPeCsRay-Ban’s new range, Round, has been injected with a

contemporary edge in the form of bright colours and hand-sewn

leather details. Available from Luxottica. +27 (0)21 486 6100,

luxottica.com

Wo

rds

Genevie

ve F

isher

HOT PROPERTY

Worked to the coreBased in Greenside, Johannesburg, Victoria Ashford-Smit’s En-Core studio has come up with an ingenious workout by blending

Pilates with ballet. The combination of light weights and props, such as balls and Thera-Bands, helps tone, burn fat and sculpt

muscles and provides cardio training. +27 (0)84 312 4059, en-core.co.za

Fine WinesThis month we’re drinking Solms Delta’s Solms-Astor Langarm 2011 and Clos Malverne’s new flagship duo, Auret 2010

and Pinotage Reserve 2010. The Langarm is a blend of Pinotage, Touriga Nacional, Shiraz and Mourvèdre and is smooth

and lasting on the finish, while the Auret 2010 is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Merlot and Shiraz and is bold

on the palate. Barrelled in French oak, the Auret 2010 can be kept for a few more years, but we drank ours right away,

pairing it with a hearty stew. We enjoyed the Pinotage Reserve 2010’s bursts of berry flavours and found that it goes

well with a dark chocolate dessert. +27 (0)21 865 2022, closmalverne.co.za; +27 (0)21 874 937, solms-delta.co.za

canvassing For complimentsItalian footwear brand, Superga, has recently opened its new concept store at

Canal Walk, Cape Town. The store stocks all the classic Supergas as well as the

new Editions collection, which is inspired and designed by some of SA’s best

musical talent, including Freshly Ground, DJ Euphonik, Locnville, Danny K and

Flash Republic. superga.co.za

Italian footwear brand, Superga, has recently opened its new concept store at

Canal Walk, Cape Town. The store stocks all the classic Supergas as well as the

new Editions collection, which is inspired and designed by some of SA’s best

musical talent, including Freshly Ground, DJ Euphonik, Locnville, Danny K and

a girl’s nBFPatek Philippe’s new Ref. 7140 Ladies First Perpetual Calendar includes Travel Time

models for two time zones, the World Time watch with 24 time zones and the famous

Annual Calendar. These are worn on a hand-stitched alligator strap with a prong buckle

in 18ct rose gold and adorned with 95 flawless Top Wesselton diamonds. Available

from the Watch & Jewellery Gallery on Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton. Nationwide

deliveries. +27 (0)11 784 2595; patek.com

party cruiserDiscover Cruz candy

and vodka infusion –

it’s like bottled candy

floss. Downed as a

smooth shooter or used

as a mixer, this burst

of flavour is available

from select liquor

outlets nationwide.

facebook.com/

CruzVodka


Living at Le Domaine means financial peace of mind. Due to the robust Levy Stabilisation Fund and its continued growth, future levy increases will be kept well below the rate of inflation.

Village Versailles, the final phase of this active adult community is now under construction, presenting the last opportunity to purchase here at off plan prices starting from R969 000, or on the life rights scheme.

Just two of the many good reasons to invest in your future at Le Domaine.

Sales Office: 031 716 8008 100 Acutts Drive, Hillcrest

www.ledom.co

WITH OUR SOLID

LEVYSTABILISATION

FUNDYOU WON’T BE IN FOR

ANY SURPRISES

EXCLUSIVE KITCHENS • BEDROOMS • BARSEXCLUSIVE KITCHENS • BEDROOMS • BARS

FIX YOUR FUTURE ELECTRICITY COSTS NOWPAY AS LITTLE AS 65C/KWH FOR THE NEXT 25 YEARS*

Every year millions of South Africans are increasingly aff ected by elec-tricity price hikes. Solar power from SolarWorld is the alternative. Self-produced solar power from your own roof is already cheaper than the electricity you buy from your power utility. Solar power solutions from SolarWorld are optimized to achieve maximum effi ciency through the highest quality, made in Germany.

Fix your future electricity costs now by visiting us at WWW.SOLARWORLD.CO.ZA

*Price has been calculated based on the following assumptions: 1. Off er consists of 1440Wp of SolarWorld modules with a 25 year linear performance guarantee, one SMA inverter (5 year guarantee) and installation accessories. 2. System price excl. fi nance cost, is valid for a standard roof installation within a 50km radius of the certifi ed SolarWorld distributor. 3. Electricity generated by this system must be utilized as it is produced. 4. Gene-ration price example is based on a system price of R36 000 incl VAT, installed at a 30 degree pitch, north-facing in the Gauteng region. 5. Please consult your municipality or power utility to ensure that you comply with legal requirements. 6. This off er is valid until the end of November 2012.

FIX YOUR FUTURE ELECTRICITY COSTS NOWPAY AS LITTLE AS 65C/KWH FOR THE NEXT 25 YEARS*

Every year millions of South Africans are increasingly aff ected by elec-tricity price hikes. Solar power from SolarWorld is the alternative. Self-produced solar power from your own roof is already cheaper than the electricity you buy from your power utility. Solar power solutions from SolarWorld are optimized to achieve maximum effi ciency through the highest quality, made in Germany.

Fix your future electricity costs now by visiting us at WWW.SOLARWORLD.CO.ZA

*Price has been calculated based on the following assumptions: 1. Off er consists of 1440Wp of SolarWorld modules with a 25 year linear performance guarantee, one SMA inverter (5 year guarantee) and installation accessories. 2. System price excl. fi nance cost, is valid for a standard roof installation within a 50km radius of the certifi ed SolarWorld distributor. 3. Electricity generated by this system must be utilized as it is produced. 4. Gene-ration price example is based on a system price of R36 000 incl VAT, installed at a 30 degree pitch, north-facing in the Gauteng region. 5. Please consult your municipality or power utility to ensure that you comply with legal requirements. 6. This off er is valid until the end of November 2012.


PRIME PROPERTY


PRIME PROPERTY

Words Anne Schauffer Photographs Roger Jardine

Durban-based graphic design studio, disturbance,has rebranded Varsity College and given the institute a gloriously fresh,

young and inspired Midrand campus

EducatEddEsign


PRIME PROPERTY

Opening page Well-considered typography plays both a graphic and informative role in the overall vision.

This spread, above Colours and textures combine cleverly to create niche areas, but not boxed-in spaces.

Inset When words become so much more.

Varsity campuses seldom look as though they were designed with real live students in mind, and although many are acclaimed as historic landmark

structures with majestic design elements, the student factor doesn’t appear to have been the design driver.

The initial interaction of disturbance with Varsity College was around a new visual language for the brand, something that would amplify its freshly articulated vision. Richard Hart, principal graphic designer, says, ‘We came up with something very loose, spontaneous and honest. Part of our early development of the brand identity included a proposal on how their campuses could be reimagined, to align with what we were doing.’ The new Midrand campus would be the first.

In addition to meshing the new brand image with the students’ on-campus experience, the design had to create an environment that resonated as much with parents as with young students. Working adults, too, needed to feel as comfortable as full-time students in the space, and staff needed a working environment that allowed for easy workflow and communication.

Carmen Kelly, a designer at disturbance, describes the original campuses as having a corporate feel and lacking in inspiration. The shell was a partially completed unit in a business park, not unlike other Varsity College campuses. Richard shrugs. ‘This presented us with numerous challenges, from having to overcome the generic architecture to dealing with the bald truth that the campus was essentially a single building rather than a group of them.’

The team was given free rein to work on the interior design. To develop an architectural philosophy, disturbance collaborated with architects designworkshop : sa, who facilitated a workshop among the key users specifically to analyse the inner workings of the campus. Carmen says, ‘We looked at a number of elements, such as the workflow process within the college and spatial relationships within the existing building, as in public versus office/lecture room space, and indoor versus outdoor. We questioned the requirements of the lecture rooms and how best to inspire the students while still allowing them to remain focused during a lecture. We examined the use of formal study spaces versus informal ones.’

‘A striking

element of the

cAmpus design

is the signAge –

it goes beyond

the functionAl

into Aesthetics.

eAch AreA is

signposted with

lArge Vinyl

lettering’

20 | october/november 2012

PRIME PROPERTY

‘WE QUESTIONED

THE REQUIREMENTS

OF THE LECTURE

ROOMS AND HOW

BEST TO INSPIRE THE

STUDENTS WHILE

STILL ALLOWING

THEM TO REMAIN

FOCUSED DURING

A LECTURE. WE

EXAMINED THE USE

OF FORMAL STUDY

SPACES VERSUS

INFORMAL ONES’


PRIME PROPERTY

For the designers, the overriding question was how to turn the campus into an environment that would allow young students to feel comfortable and inspired, as well as appeal to the older demographic of the School of Business students who generally attend courses after hours. Richard says that designworkshop : sa suggested that they break up the building into non-uniform spaces, echoing the structure of an actual campus. ‘This was the kernel around which all our design thinking revolved.’ He adds that ‘designworkshop : sa ‘were amazing’. ‘No matter how big the inevitable curve ball, they came back with brilliant workarounds every time. It’s easy to pull off great design when there are no budgetary constraints, but the true test is when there are. Add to that not one but numerous clients with, inevitably, different priorities and agendas.’

Intense solo and collaborative brainstorming sessions between architects and designers resulted in the overall plan and flow, and from there emanated the finishes and fittings, colour palette, furniture and graphics. Carmen describes elements of the process, starting at the concept for the entrance: ‘We wanted to create a transitional space where you come out of the hectic Midrand traffic and slow down into a calming space of a “forest” with a timber walkway and a clearing within the “woods”. This allows you to breathe a sigh of relief before engaging with the double-volume glass entrance of the reception area.’

A striking element of the campus design is the signage: it goes beyond the functional into aesthetics. Each area is signposted with large vinyl lettering laminated to the concrete wall and floor, engaging with the architecture and enhancing the environment. At the building’s entrance, leading up to the reception counter, is the word ‘Welcome’, written in all our national languages. All the seating in the waiting area is upholstered in the same fabric, but in subtle variations of tone, to create a layered colour palette. A chunky woollen carpet not only warms and softens the space, but also ensures that sound doesn’t echo.

‘IT’S EASY TO PULL

OFF GREAT DESIGN

WHEN THERE ARE

NO BUDGETARY

CONSTRAINTS,

BUT THE TRUE TEST IS

WHEN THERE ARE’

Top left The use of all 11 official languages in the design serves to strengthen the students’ sense of

belonging to this campus. Top centre Transparent, yet still private and quiet. Above Loud and clear signage

crawls from the floors up doors and walls. Bottom centre Different pops of colour signify each lecture room,

yet all are offset with calming tones of grey. Bottom right Mindfully selected photographic images are a

significant feature of the campus’s interior design.


PRIME PROPERTY

Each lecture room has a large number on the floor in front of the door and, in most cases, the numbers creep up onto the doors and walls. At the bottom of each door there is a small strip of colour providing a sneak preview of the colour found inside that lecture room. All other areas on campus are signposted in this fashion. As with the typography, wallpaper graphics play a major role in the interiors, each graphic carefully created for specific areas. The graphics and photography were designed in accordance with the brand’s attributes, so all the photographs were shot on film and have a warm, spontaneous feel to them.

The large wallpaper graphic to the rear of the building core is double volume and faces towards the outside back courtyard. When you look back at the building, the graphic is visible on both floors. Within the building, you only engage with half of it, giving you a strong sense that there’s more to come when you arrive in the same space on the next floor.

At every level, the complex detailing with which the team imbued the project gives the campus its youthful energy. Carmen describes the colour palette used for the lecture rooms: ‘The concept was that

each would be painted a light grey on the front and two side walls, while the back wall would have its own unique accent colour. We chose individual upholstery colours for each lecture room, and matched them closely to the specific accent colour. This resulted in a layering effect. Essentially, you walk into the lecture room and you’re greeted with a pop of bright colour, but as soon as you sit down and face forward, you’re presented with a muted minimal grey colour palette.’

Each wall within passages and public spaces is painted a different shade of grey, transforming what could be a rather bland, muted colour palette into something exciting and layered. Depending on the light quality in that particular space, the shades of grey change throughout the day, resulting in an ever-changing colour palette. The team clearly had fun in the study lounge and library. ‘We wanted to break away from the traditional furniture installation and rather explore a concept where the description of what the area is used for becomes the furniture of the room. That’s how the “Think” ottoman was born. The letters T, H, I, N and K are built up onto the wall in 3D relief, and as the letter hits the floor, the bottom of the letter extends in ottoman sections for student seating. The spacing between the letters also allows for booth-style seating, so students can pull up the custom-designed tables that cantilever over their lap and work in groups or individually.’

To accentuate that true sense of campus life, it was crucial to link indoors and out. The canteen opens onto the back courtyard with stack-back doors, so there’s an easy inside-outside connection. The canteen furniture is fun and fresh in tangerine and lime and a few tables have been given a bright graphic treatment, little speech bubbles with ‘Hello’ in all national languages. The canteen tables and chairs spill out onto a paved courtyard with a central fountain, which in turn spills down onto a tiered outdoor section of lawn and olive trees. People can gather on the wide concrete stairs or on the lawn, under the trees. The area has a tangible park feeling about it and invites students to spend time on campus outside lecture times, creating an on-campus life.

From the signage to the wallpaper, the colours to the concepts, Richard and his team at disturbance, together with designworkshop : sa, have created a stylish yet wonderfully playful Varsity College campus that offers all the players the functionality and fun elements so integral to a campus experience. +27 (0)31 303 5191, designworkshopsa.co.za;

+27 (0)31 202 0059, disturbance.co.za


PRIME PROPERTY

ON SHOW

Words André Fiore

Photographs Val Adamson

When these owners relocated from Gauteng to this Brettenwood home,

they found they’d gained a slice of wilderness

NAturAl exchANge


Set on a steep site opening onto thriving wetlands in Brettenwood Coastal Estate, here’s a home where one hears no hooters, no ambulances and no traffic. Instead, the

owners laugh about the raucous frogs and the calls of the teeming birdlife that start up just before the dawn pours in.

‘This is a morning home,’ says architect Peter Whitehouse of Whitehouse Designs, ‘that matches their healthy, get-up-and-go lifestyle.’

The homeowners agree: ‘When we wake up and look out through the huge vaulted windows in the main bedroom, we feel as if we’re in a tent.’

A luxury tent. Overlooking three wetland pools, yet just five minutes from burgeoning Ballito. The owners wouldn’t change places with kings.

It’s not a tent, though, and while they wanted their home to have a strong link to the magnificent surroundings, the owners had other criteria too, for the design: ‘We wanted a space that was comfortable and where every area was used. We also wanted a home that worked with our personalities and suited our entertainment needs. We love having people over, and our 12-year-old daughter loves having her friends around too. We gave these ideas, as well as a thick scrapbook of pictures we liked, to our architect and he got our sense of style, first time!’

The large ground-floor living area includes a lounge, kitchen, bar and dining spaces and, with stack-away doors opening onto the outdoor grill and a rim-flow pool that merges directly with the wetlands, it’s the first grand nod to the landscape. The double-volume spaces that run along most of the front of the house create a facade that is almost entirely of glass, adding to the impact. ‘There is a lot of glass,’ says Peter, ‘yet the house nestles so discreetly and privately into the surrounding bush that hardly a curtain has been used.’

Upstairs, another lounge area and large veranda also offer interaction with the landscape, and the bedrooms, with their huge windows and en-suite bathrooms flooded with natural light, are comfortable, welcoming spaces.

The estate’s design guidelines, which borrow from Frank Lloyd Wright, have been skilfully engaged in this home. The geometry, the organic nature, the terraces, the long landscape windows and clean skyline are all there. Peter has added high clerestory windows, to give the effect of a floating roof.

In line with contemporary demands, it is also an energy-efficient house. The large glass-encased stairwell at the ‘back’ of the house makes up for its south-east orientation, allowing in light and warmth and ensuring that it is cool in summer and warm in winter.

Throughout the home, sleek floors and a slightly industrial feel complement the minimalist, contemporary lines without compromising on home comforts and luxuries. Warmed by decor and accessories chosen for their play of texture and pattern, this is a neutral palette that is relaxing, interesting and unpretentious. Feature walls here and there, done in a green-grey that changes with the light, symbolise in their own way what this home has come to signify: new beginnings and a fresh start.

Wonderful in the mornings when the light bursts in, this home is no less enchanting in the evenings, when the dramatic skies over the ever-changing wetlands create a pageant of their own.

‘We left the hustle and bustle of Gauteng’ say the owners, ‘in search of quality of life. Words cannot express our satisfaction in what we have found.’

ON SHOW

Far left and below left The strong architectural

emphasis on long horizontal lines opens up the home

to its peaceful natural surroundings on Brettenwood

Coastal Estate. Below right The homeowners love to

entertain, and the outdoor living areas, including a rim-

flow pool and built-in braai, allow them to do so in style.


ON SHOW

M & M Trust, +27 (0)78 656 5264

Professionals List

M & M Trust – Building Contractor

+27 (0)78 656 5264, [email protected]

Top left M & M Trust specialises in spray-painting walls.

This method gives walls an ultra-smooth finish that’s

free of paint roller and brush marks. This, along with

the high attention to detail in the other finishes, skirting

and mouldings, gives the house an exceptional look

and feel. Right Bright-orange bar stools add a sense of

playfulness to the kitchen. Middle left A warm green-

grey feature wall links with the outside vegetation.

Centre The open-plan kitchen and dining area has a

chilled aesthetic. Bottom left to right Sunlight streams

in through a bathroom window; timber finshes give the

home a sense of warmth.

Professionals List

M & M Trust – Building Contractor

+27 (0)78 656 5264, [email protected]

Top left M & M Trust specialises in spray-painting walls.

This method gives walls an ultra-smooth finish that’s

free of paint roller and brush marks. This, along with

the high attention to detail in the other finishes, skirting

and mouldings, gives the house an exceptional look

and feel. Right Bright-orange bar stools add a sense of

playfulness to the kitchen. Middle left A warm green-

grey feature wall links with the outside vegetation.

Centre The open-plan kitchen and dining area has a

chilled aesthetic. Bottom left to right Sunlight streams

in through a bathroom window; timber finshes give the

home a sense of warmth.


ASK THE EXPERTS

Freshoutlook

Photographs Val AdamsonLocation simbithi Country Club

Al fresco à la mode


Which aspects of outdoor living

do you specialise in? We

specialise in both commercial

and private landscaping, from

the initial design phase through

to the installation of all aspects

of the garden, including hard

landscaping, irrigation and water

features. We are currently

landscaping at Sasol on the Salt

Rock off-ramp, Umhlali, and the

clubhouse and main club area at

Umhlali Country Club. The major

trends in outdoor living this

season? The major trends at the

moment are your own

organically grown vegetable and

herb gardens, vertical gardens

and the use of natural stone

cladding for water features and

feature walls. One or two of your

must-have services? Our Garden

Care division’s services are a

must-have, if you would like your

garden to be in show condition.

Projects that truly showcase

your expertise? Umhlali Country

Club is a mature garden that we

landscaped and maintain. At

Mascor Salt Rock we did a new

garden on a tight budget and it

will mature into a fantastic

garden. And what is your

favourite outdoor plant? My

favourite plant at the moment is

Eriocephalus africanus (wild

rosemary) for sunny areas and

the genus Plectranthus and its

many flowering species – they

brighten up shady gardens.

outdoor living

+27 (0)32 947 0011

alifurn.co.za

+27 (0)31 566 5996

mobelli.co.za

What aspects of outdoor living

do you specialise in? We

specialise in what we are good at,

and that is, supplying quality

outdoor furniture to both the

residential and contract markets in

the most amazing, trendsetting

designs available, which we source

from various countries around the

world. It is not ethical to divulge

who our private clients are. But

from a hospitality perspective, you

will find our furniture in some of

the most sought-after and

discerning hotels in South Africa,

Africa, Mauritius and the Maldives.

The major trends in outdoor

living this season? Furniture, like

fashion, tends to change from

season to season. But there are

still the favourites which become

timeless functional pieces. In other

words, your must-haves would

include your modular pieces,

which can be moved around to

create a different look and feel for

an area. One or two of your must-

have products? There is so much

to choose from. The Orbit by

Dedon has always been a firm

favourite, and now it is available in

an even bigger size. Our two new

pieces, the City Camp daybed and

swing, are definite musts for those

long, lazy summer days. Projects

that truly showcase your

expertise? We have been busy

with a number of exciting

developments in Mauritius and

Dubai. One can see our range at

Eden Island, Seychelles, as well.

CAne TimeAli-Furn OuTdOOr

living drieFOnTein lAndsCAPing

+27 (0)21 510 1072

canetime.com


do you specialise in? Mobelli

Outdoor Furniture specialises

in outdoor living. Aside from

supplying the traditional

all- weather engineered wicker

furniture suitable for gardens,

patios, verandas and pools, we

also supply shade parasols, gas

and electric heaters, illuminated

planters and various accessories

that make outdoor patio living

a pleasant experience. We

do business in the retail and

commercial sector as well as

smalls – hotels, restaurants, guest

houses and homes – things to

make people’s outdoor lives

better. The major trends in

outdoor living this season?

Wicker is strong, specifically

white and brown. There is a shift

to aluminium with upholstery

and cushions (Lille, Salone) and a

trend towards nostalgia – vintage

products made from new-age

materials (Traliccio Collection).

One or two of your must-have

products? The Aliante Cocoon

and the Modena lounge set; Orb

Balls – fun and functional; Torre

stackable tables; and the One-

Touch Umbrella – the best shade

parasol in the world. Projects that

truly showcase your expertise?

The Hilton, Tsogo Suns Resort,

Maestro Sands Restaurant, Beira

Alta, 29º South office park. We’ve

also supplied to luxury homes in

Zimbali, Simbithi, Mt Edgecombe

Estate, Hillcrest, Richards Bay and

the KZN Midlands.

+27 (0)79 496 4294

dlandscaping.co.za

mObelli OuTdOOr FurniTure


do you specialise in? Elegant

and functional outdoor and

semi-outdoor furniture and

patio accessories made to

weather the harsh South African

sun. Everything is manufactured

at our factory in Ballito and

all frame components are

aluminium and therefore rust

resistant. We only use local

synthetic cane, which is UV

resistant and pigment dyed,

which allows us to offer a

three-year guarantee against

cracking, splitting and extreme

fading. We supply companies

such as Mica, Home Flair, Patio

Warehouse, Livingstone’s,

Simbithi Country Club, Salt

Rock Hotel, Olivia D Interiors

and Ground Floor Interiors

and, of course, we deal direct

with the public. One or two

of your must-have products?

The Hanging Egg Chair, which

we will be adding to our range

this summer, and the Cube

dining table set, which was very

popular at the Spanish furniture

fair and is ideal for smaller

spaces. Daybeds and loungers

in hollow, oval, organic colours,

with bright cushions. And what

is your favourite outdoor item?

Our corner suite, ideal for

lounging around while reading

a book on a summer afternoon.

It also has ample seating for

when you have friends over for

a braai.

Bradley JacobOwner

Tamsyn FerreiraManaging Director

Hylton AreliskyDirector

John Ditchfield Manager

Words Genevieve Fisher

We’ve fallen in love with the latest summer lifestyle products, including designer indoor/outdoor furniture, new paint colours and melamine crockery. The choices were vast and varied but, with much effort, we narrowed it down to our top 20 products, each of which has a certain something that makes our heart skip a beat.

20Summer colourSWhen preparing your home to welcome the new season,

nothing says ‘out with the old, in with the new’ more than

a slick lick of paint. Painting your walls is the first step

towards bringing in that summer feeling, and if Plascon has

anything to do with it, your hands will be full of brushes

dipped in the shades Hot ’n’ Spicy, Stardust and Namaqua

Daisy, among others. Launched at the recent Decorex

Johannesburg, the Plascon Colour Forecast 2013 is all

about balance. There are four ranges within this year’s

forecast, each exemplifying a different quality of the

concept of balance: Simplicity is made up of light, white

tones; Contrast consists of deep greys and blues with

accents of fuchsia pink and bright yellow; Pause comprises

light and feminine yet mature colours; and finally there’s

Dare, a theme that’s vibrant without being overwhelming.

0860 204 060, plascon.co.za

19

18

DeckeD outOne of the first things

to buy when the balmy

weather hits is a deck chair.

Portable outdoor furniture

has evolved to be light, easy

and, most important of all,

comfy. The newly launched

deck chair from Terrace

Living, then, is highly

evolved and also comes in

a chic candy-striped fabric

that epitomises summer.

The adjustable height bar

allows for total relaxation,

whether you’re reading,

snoozing or catching some

sun. The best part, though,

is that it comes with a

nifty zip-up carry bag and

shoulder strap, making

it easier to schlep about.

+27 (0)21 461 3552,

terraceliving.co.za

the Drama of a planterCreating outdoor living rooms is pivotal to outdoor furniture brand Dedon’s

philosophy. Its Babylon collection of planters, garden vases and stools was

created by Harry & Camila, the renowned design duo from Barcelona. Ribbed

and asymmetrical, these eye-catching pieces are available in black, olive and

grey. Available from Cane Time. +27 (0)21 510 1072, canetime.co.za

Summer Living

20Together with the turning of the season come many products and ideas geared towards making the most of the long and balmy days of summer

SummeR HITS

ToP

20

30 | october/November 2012

17LightLy does itBox Living’s new Decorum collection is designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Drawing

on many global influences, the range is a result of a design collaboration between Tristan Voss

and award-winning design duo, Maya Basyroel and Marcel Opstal. The attractive outdoor Kwal

Swart lamp is made from synthetic rattan with an aluminium ring, enabling it to withstand the

elements, and is available in three sizes. +27 (0)21 465 6480, boxliving.co.za

1516 ReLax and RecLine

Nothing says ‘summer living’ better than a sofa set that’s grand in size and comes

with full cushions. New to Okha’s collection is the La Plage sofa, which could easily fit

any beach house lounge or deck. The name is French for ‘the beach’, and just looking

at the sofa makes us feel instantly on holiday. +27 (0)21 461 7233, okha.com

gRowing waLLsVertical gardens are attractive and practical and allow owners of small homes to get the

garden they desire. Based in Cape Town, Wall Gardens specialises in vertical succulent

gardens that are low maintenance, hardy and indigenous. The frames used for these living

works of art are made from recycled materials. +27 (0)84 812 8382, wallgardens.co.za

14the magic of meLamineOne of the best things about summer

is the chance to entertain outdoors.

Whether we’re at a braai, a cocktail party

or an impromptu get-together, enjoying

the warm weather with a plate of

braaied kebabs and mielies is how South

Africans socialise when the temperature

rises. Woollies’ melamine plates, platters,

glasses and tumblers take the fuss out

of outdoor entertaining, as they’re easy

to clean, and light. They’re available

in attractive, bright colours and the

plates bear an exotic Moroccan motif.

0860 022 002, woolworths.co.za

Summer Living


13

Timber TimeWooden flooring is ideal if you

want a contemporary and inviting

outdoor living area. BestWood

Flooring’s jarrah timber has become

an industry favourite for external

applications, such as decking,

shutters, cladding and pergolas, not

only because it ages so beautifully,

but also because it is a sustainable

hardwood. Jarrah timber can be left

to oxidise, producing a distressed

grey colour, and requires very little

maintenance or oil to keep its rich,

dark look. +27 (0)21 465 1035,

bestwood.co.za

Ice, Ice baby!Let the party begin with the Icecube by

Extremis. This designer cooling box keeps

your tipple of choice cool during those hot

summer nights, while its built-in lighting

feature gets everyone in a party mood.

Optional extras include a drain and hose,

wheels, a cushion and a tray. Available from

Créma Design. +27 (0)21 434 0661,

cremadesign.co.za

12

GettInG fruItyAside from the bright pop colours of the Drop

Fruit Bowl by Menu, we love that it looks a

like a 3D paint splash. Made of summery-

coloured silicone, the delightful bowl can be

used to hold … anything, really, and will liven

up any room. Available from Yuppiechef.

+27 (0)21 702 4969, yuppiechef.co.za

11

Summer Living


In a flat spInWe love the idea of outdoor rugs – they show the great extent to which

outdoor areas have become another ‘room’. Resembling a masterpiece of

crotchet, the Spin rug by Paola Lenti will make a sexy addition to any outdoor

space. Because it is made of polyolefin, a synthetic fibre that doesn’t absorb

moisture, the Spin rug is well suited to the outdoors. Available from the

Modern Home Company. +27 (0)11 262 0258, modernhome.co.za

10Kosmos KudosThe Kosmos Parasol by Extremis is a great

example of innovative design. Opening

and closing like a fan, the Kosmos parasol

has two hidden magnets that keep it open

and enable it to withstand the wind. It

also has a light application that creates

a warming glow and transforms it into

more of a design feature than a mere

umbrella. Made from high-tech polyester

fabric, aluminium and stainless steel, the

Kosmos Parasol is extremely strong and

UV resistant. Available from Créma Design.

+27 (0)21 434 0661, cremadesign.co.za

BucKet ’n’ gladeSummer often has us focusing on our health and well-

being and we believe it should also give us pause to

consider our natural environment. Enter the Chef’n

EcoCrock, the coolest, simplest way to compost.

This nifty little device is designed to sit patiently

and unobtrusively in your kitchen, waiting for you to

dispose of organic scraps. It can hold up to 3,3 litres

of material and can be safely left on the countertop

for days, thanks to its odour-absorbing charcoal

filter. Once it’s full you simply tip the compost into

your veggie patch or rose garden. Available from

Yuppiechef. +27 (0)21 702 4969, yuppiechef.co.za

9

8

Summer Living


7A mAtter of scAtterBig, fluffy scatter cushions with eye-catching designs are a

great way to add new life to your sofas, ottomans and chairs

after a long winter. How about this scatter cushion with koi

motif from Malibu and Resort Interiors, with its Japanese

influence and nautical aesthetic? +27 (0)21 419 3533,

malibusofts.co.za

fAbric fAntAsticAside from wall paint, another way to give your home a dose

of summer accents is to use fabric. From throws to curtains,

reupholstered chairs to scatter cushions, summery fabrics can be

incorporated in a variety of ways to charming effect. Lula Fabrics’

newest range, The Silk Road, is inspired by the East. Did someone

say ‘Indian summer’? +27 (0)31 208 9520, lulafabrics.co.za

6fAbric fbric fAntAstic

5 swing timeThis endearing swing by Paola Lenti glows with summer romance. Its light structure includes stainless-

steel cables, allowing it to be hung easily from any ceiling or beam. The cushions have removable

covers padded with a waterproof polyester fibre with an anti-mould and anti-bacteria treatment.

Swinging into summer just got real! Available from the Modern Home Company. +27 (0)11 262 0258,

modernhome.co.za

Alien resurrection Goet Furniture Design has been wowing us with its

reclaimed, recycled and sustainable timber furniture

for some time now. The turned stools shown here

are handmade from solid timber stumps of alien

trees, such as jacaranda, eucalyptus and pine. They

can be left natural or finished in any paint application

you desire. Common uses for them are as side tables

or as extra seating for indoor and outdoor spaces.

+27 (0)82 877 1132, goet.co.za

4

Summer Living


63 Rock on!

These wire rockers by Egg Designs are an ideal way to spend

lazy summer days with a G & T in hand. Incorporating the same

steel mesh technology used for shopping trolleys, and coated

to prevent erosion, they’re perfectly suited to the outdoors. We

also think they’d be a welcome addition to enliven an interior

reading room. +27 (0)31 783 4953, eggdesigns.co.za

A diffeRentkettAl of swishThere is a move towards making furniture

and accessories adaptable to both indoor

and outdoor nodes. We believe that it’s

about time outdoor areas were given

the same attention as our indoor areas,

especially in sunny SA, and it was a

similar line of thinking that inspired Italian

architect and designer, Rodolfo Dordoni,

to design Kettal’s latest outdoor furniture

collection, Bitta. The name means

‘bollard’ in Italian, and the thick braiding

is reminiscent of the ropes used for

mooring boats. Available from Marlanteak.

+27 (0)21 425 3817, marlanteak.com

2in hot wAteRThe Duravit Sundeck is one of the biggest design splashes you can make outside

the bathroom. Created by the Viennese design team, EOOS, the Sundeck can

be set up wherever there is a hot-water connection. This chic mobile tub’s cover

can be folded back and used as a backrest or stretched out to form a relaxing

lounger. Available from On Tap. +27 (0)12 665 9200, ontap.co.za

1

Summer Living



architecture

Alexander Forbes BuildingA GBCSA Four-Star Green Star building that employees never want to leaveWhen we came across the new Alexander Forbes building in Sandton, our eyes nearly popped out of our heads. Built on a R1-billion budget, this building looks like some sort of other-worldly fort. The state-of-the-art GBCSA Four-Star Green Star building was built by Paragon Architects on behalf of Zenprop Holdings. Housing 2 500 employees, it is by any standard a dream office environment to work in.

Facilities include a crèche, gym, six parking levels, prayer rooms, a beauty parlour, a health studio with physiotherapist in attendance, a 200-seat auditorium, meeting rooms featuring high-tech AV equipment, staff training rooms, fully integrated caterer’s kitchen and canteen, as well as a coffee shop, bar, and wine cellar.

Design-wise, capturing natural light was important, hence the two atria, and the imposing scalloped elements of the north-west orientation capture northern and southern light while protecting


When it comes to awe-inspiring feats of architecture, South Africa can compete with the best of them, and our growing social

environmental awareness is inspiring architects to ensure that each iconic new building is worth its weight in reduced carbon emissions.

We present you with six building that we believe are redefining the way South Africans think about their cities.

Alexander Forbes Building, Sandton

NEW HEIGHTSA few jaw-dropping buildings that are changing our cityscapes have popped

up on our radar.We explore some of SA’s iconic new buildings


architecture

Alexander Forbes BuildingA GBCSA Four-Star Green Star building that employees never want to leaveWhen we came across the new Alexander Forbes building in Sandton, our eyes nearly popped out of our heads. Built on a R1-billion budget, this building looks like some sort of other-worldly fort. The state-of-the-art GBCSA Four-Star Green Star building was built by Paragon Architects on behalf of Zenprop Holdings. Housing 2 500 employees, it is by any standard a dream office environment to work in.

Facilities include a crèche, gym, six parking levels, prayer rooms, a beauty parlour, a health studio with physiotherapist in attendance, a 200-seat auditorium, meeting rooms featuring high-tech AV equipment, staff training rooms, fully integrated caterer’s kitchen and canteen, as well as a coffee shop, bar, and wine cellar.

Design-wise, capturing natural light was important, hence the two atria, and the imposing scalloped elements of the north-west orientation capture northern and southern light while protecting


When it comes to awe-inspiring feats of architecture, South Africa can compete with the best of them, and our growing social

environmental awareness is inspiring architects to ensure that each iconic new building is worth its weight in reduced carbon emissions.

We present you with six building that we believe are redefining the way South Africans think about their cities.


NEW HEIGHTSA few jaw-dropping buildings that are changing our cityscapes have popped

up on our radar.We explore some of SA’s iconic new buildings


architecture

employees from the harsh light coming from the east and west. +27 (0)11 482 3781, paragon.co.za

GAUTENGProtea Court, Sandton CityOur national flower interpreted as a grand, domed roofWhen the big reveal of Sandton City’s extension, Protea Court, took place in November 2011, Johannesburg’s reputation as a world-class shopping hotspot was confirmed. Managed by Liberty Properties, which also

“Protea Court is not only home to 70 retailers – many of them world-

renowned brands – but is pretty, majestic and intelligent too – pretty, because its

crowning glory, the dome, takes inspiration from our national flower, the protea”

Soweto Theatre

Protea Court, Sandton City



architecture

Urban-Hub, Cape Town Unilever Indonsa Plant, exterior, KwaZulu-Natal

Tshwane University of Technology Architecture Building

manages the rest of the Sandton City complex, Protea Court is not only home to 70 retailers – many of them world-renowned brands – but is pretty, majestic and intelligent too – pretty, because its crowning glory, the dome, takes inspiration from our national flower, the protea; majestic, because the dome, a steel structure that’s 42m in diameter and 24m high, is a landmark feature on Sandton’s skyline; and intelligent, because the dome is an African first – an innovative application of the eco-friendly, 100%-recyclable transparent material called Texlon, which is tipped as the building material with the second-lowest energy coefficient in the world. The Texlon clads the dome, offering full protection from the elements while welcoming in natural light from the sun by day and the moon by night. It’s impressively lightweight too.+27 (0)11 408 5111, libertyproperties.co.za

Soweto TheatreContextually sensitive and visually arresting The newly built Soweto Theatre in the Jabulani CBD precinct, Soweto, is fast becoming a talking point in SA’s design circles. Executed by the architectural firm, Afritects, this theatre complex is a wonderful example not only of how architecture and design can respond to the needs of a community, but also how this can be done in a conceptual and artistic way, all the while remaining sensitive to the history of the area and the legacy of theatre. The main incentive behind the project was the delivery of an appropriate, versatile venue for the sharing and improvement of arts and culture in the area, in line with the Jabulani Precinct Plan, to redevelop the area as a high-density, mixed-use, vibrant neighbourhood.

The starting point for the design was the notion of the ‘black box’, a term used to define a theatre as something that is cut off from the outside world, a sealed box that holds an audience and performers. Under apartheid, the performance spaces in Soweto were makeshift, temporary venues with an accessible,

unintimidating ambience, and so the notion of a ‘black box’ did not apply.

Afritects has fused the ‘black box’ concept with the casual, communal feeling of the Soweto Theatre’s predecessors, keeping it as an inviting space for light-hearted entertainment. The new theatre is bright, bold, interesting and eye-catching. There are three venues within the complex, seating 430, 180 and 90 patrons respectively. Each performance space takes the form of a block with rounded corners and is clad in shimmering red, blue and yellow ceramic tiles, respectively, so they

are immediately distinguishable from each other from the outside, while the traditional notion of a ‘black box’ remains intact within each block. +27 (0)21 438 2300, afritects.com

Tshwane University of Technology Architecture BuildingA building that teaches its studentsAs a building that facilitates higher education, every part of the Tshwane University of Technology’s new Department of Architecture building aims to educate


architecture

Tshwane University of Technology Architecture Building

Unilever Indonsa Plant, interior, KwaZulu-Natal

the students who occupy it in all green-building matters. The brief executed by Crafford & Crafford Architects entailed a building that is as environmentally sustainable as possible, functions even when the electricity goes downs, is light, airy and comfortable in hot or cold weather, utilises solar power as far as possible, does not make use of air conditioners, and enables students to explore its functionality and learn from it.

With theory comes hands-on experience, and this building, comprised of two wings and a central core housing a studio space, an office and an auditorium, allows for this. By occupying the building, students can see how sun angles work and learn how to manage ventilation, utilise solar heated water for space heating, and how the building services work.

Niel Crafford, founder and director of Crafford & Crafford Architects, explains, ‘The building allows students to experience the systems built into it

directly. They can see how electricity is reticulated, how water for firefighting is boosted and circulated, how a lift works … In fact, they have to assist some of the systems to work; for example, there will be times when they need to “flush” the auditorium with large volumes of fresh air, which can be done by opening huge louvres on the southern side.’ The end result is that this building is a living, breathing, experiential example of sustainable design, something Niel believes is fundamental to the discipline of architecture.+27 (0)12 362 3992, ccarchitects.co.za

CAPE TOWNUrban-Hub, Cape TownRespecting what has gone before while impressing with the newWe love old/new hybrids, especially commercial buildings. Property investment company, Urban Lime, has converted five old adjoining buildings – some

of them dating as far back as the 1800s – to prime commercial office space in what was essentially a restoration project in Cape Town’s oldest suburb, Bo- Kaap. InHouse Brand Architects was responsible for the conversion and was sensitive to the original structures, uncovering hidden design treasures every step of the way while adding some contemporary sparkle to the interior architecture and finishes.

Future plans for Urban-Hub include a restaurant, a rooftop garden and retail stores, all perched above Cape Town’s city centre and enjoying panoramic views of Table Mountain. +27 (0)82 836 9333, urban-hub.com

KWAZULU-NATALUnilever Indonsa PlantA green industrial park with a focus on saving waterLooking at the pictures of Unilever’s Indonsa Plant is enough to convince anyone of its iconic status, especially considering that it’s a production facility comprising a dry-food plant and an office building. Unilever Chief Supply Chain Officer, Pier-Luigi Sigismondi, describes the building as ‘industrial art’, and Durban-based Elphick Proome Architects is behind it. The designers took the metaphor of a production conveyor belt as their inspiration, and the result is an aluminium sheeting edged with glass-reinforced plastic fasciae that flow over the roof and down the sides of the building, resembling the movement of a conveyor belt. Curved concrete ‘shelves’ along the sides of the office building merge with polished concrete paths running around the front. The machine imagery is completed by the horizontal and vertical perforated aluminium solar louvres running along the sunny south-western side of the office and warehouse.

Every effort has been made to design a plant that is as sustainable as possible, especially when it comes to water efficiency. The 22 000m2 rooftop is used to harvest rainwater, which is then stored in a 1 500 000L underground water recovery tank. Other water efficiency technologies have been employed too, such as biological and reverse osmosis treatments, which are used for recycling 70% of all water used in the production process as well as grey shower water back into drinking water. +27 (0)31 275 5800, eparch.co.za


Suppliers of Outdoor Furniture

www.canetime.com | [email protected]

12 Kramer Road Kramerville Johannesburg | Tel: 011 2622752

Cell (Durban): 0824104969

Indoor/Outdoor Suite

LEVECO ArChitECts

Established in 2007, LevEco Architects is a professional architectural practice based in Ballito. This does not confine LevEco Architects – the practice’s portfolio includes work done on Gowrie Estate in Nottingham Road and a shopping centre in Richmond, Pietermaritzburg. However, the relaxed outdoor lifestyle of the North Coast is what inspires the team, whether they’re designing commercial buildings or residential homes.

LevEco Architects aims to maximise every client’s investment by integrating the entire site into the design. The practice’s philosophy is that weather and lifestyle are integral to holistic design, that its designs must be comfortable all year round, with usable indoor and outdoor spaces, and that a building must belong to a site rather than impose on it. When approaching a site, the team take into account its unique weather patterns, including sunlight and wind, and carefully combine their observations with their understanding of the client’s dream lifestyle and budget. ‘What inspires us is the idea that architecture can create solutions to environmental issues and that by challenging ourselves we can increase the value of sustainable design and sustainable living,’ says Principal Architect Tracy Levinson.

LevEco Architects strives to achieve a practical, integrated, holistic and – importantly – South African design aesthetic by creating not just beautiful buildings, but healthy, sustainable lifestyles.

+27 (0)83 635 4466,

[email protected],leveco.co.za

BVA ArChitECts In 2008, two of the firm’s directors, Leanne Alexander and Wayne Allen, took over Basil Vogas Architects, based in Umhlanga, building on their experience with the practice since its inception in 1995. In 2011, they transformed the company into BVA Architects, with a new logo as well as a new home at Bellevue Campus in Kloof. The firm specialises in health care facilities, with Hillcrest Hospital being one of the its proudest achievements.

BVA Architects has been involved in over 300 private health-care projects across the country, including new hospitals and the refurbishment and expansion of existing facilities. Current projects include a major expansion of the Kingsway and Richards Bay hospitals and Umhlanga’s Gateway Private Hospital, which is under construction.

‘We have the experience to provide top-quality design, but developing relationships with our clients is key,’ says Leanne. ‘Trust is everything.’

The company has high ambitions and is dedicated to seeing those dreams made a reality. This is ingrained in BVA Architects’ mission statement: ‘We strive to be the leading firm of architects in South Africa and a world-class professional practice. We always try to exceed our clients’ expectations by providing unparalleled service through the focused and combined efforts of all our staff.’ This includes conceiving innovative and original designs, and delivering projects on time and, crucially, within budget.

+27 (0)31 717 2670,

[email protected], bva.co.za

From left: Wayne Allen,Leanne Alexander

Tracy Levinson

How two of South Africa’s top architectural firms are making our world better

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT


This glorious little coastal village, seasonally frenzied, is now top of everybody’s favourite places to put down permanent roots

Words Anne Schauffer

Whale of a

Living

time

The thing about Umdloti is that there’s only one

access road. And it’s a single lane to boot. The

rocketing popularity of the town means it’s

outgrown much of its infrastructure, and in the

case of ‘The Road’, there’s currently no alternative – on the

approach to Umdloti along the M4 from the south there’s a

traffic circle at Sibaya Casino, with one of the arms leading to

a very dead end. It’s clearly heading for Umdloti and the sea,

but not just yet. It’s waiting for the green light.

There’s an irony here: as a village, Umdloti itself has

very little room left in which to grow anywhere, but it’s

surrounded by vast tracts of Tongaat Hulett’s land, long

destined for a whole new world, all waiting on EIAs and

other approvals.

The 850ha of the Sibaya Precinct, as the project’s

known, lies behind Umdloti, between the Ohlanga River

and the Umdloti M4/Main Road interchange, and between

the N2 and M4 freeways. The project’s three areas include

one inland, behind Umdloti, between the conservancy area

and the M4; the area south of Sibaya Casino, designated

as a tourist area; and one north of the casino, likely to be

residential, potentially for the region’s employees. It’s a

phased development. Still, it’s not surprising that Umdloti

residents are anxious about the impact that a project of

such magnitude will have on their town. Tongaat Hulett has

consistently acknowledged its obligations to all sectors of the

affected communities to take and propose a long-term view

of every aspect of the area, ‘to get it right’ for the good of all.

Time will tell, but the group’s great green intention is to

retain about half of that land for wetlands and natural forests,

and it is committed to the mantra of ‘sustainability as a way

of life’. The approvals process has been incubating for years,

and it’s expected that news will soon be forthcoming.

Umdloti was always a seaside spot that only poked

its head out of its shell in holiday season. The handful of

permanent residents adored their out-of-season, best-kept-

secret status, and the hordes which descended with buckets

and spades in the holidays loved the sandy simplicity of the

town – one gritty supermarket, a charmless laundromat and

an active letting agency. They came for the 5km of truly

glorious sandy beaches guarded by shark nets.

It’s north beach for the massive natural tidal pool

complete with lifesavers, south for rock pools and paddling,

and almost anywhere for sensational diving, fishing and

surfing. It’s a surfer’s paradise, say those who live for the sport.

Mussels and oysters are plentiful on the rocks off North

Beach Road at Selection Beach and at the far end of South

Beach Road, and crayfish can be found too.

To complete the perfect holiday picture: dolphins and

whales. Umdloti’s renowned for its year-round sighting of

dolphins – about 800 of them are resident there, a figure

which rises to over 15 000 during sardine season, from July to

August. And to top that, from July to November, humpback

and southern right whales are daily sightings during this,

their calving season. Sitting with your morning coffee at

dawn or with a tall G & T on your patio or somebody else’s

as the sun sets – it really doesn’t get much better than this.

Talk about Umdloti and it’s inevitable that water activities

feature first, but it’s well worth noting that Umdloti is a

coastal conservancy and wildlife habitat which comes with

rules and regulations not taken lightly by the community.

Many, if not most, choose to live in Umdloti because of the

environmental diversity, and there are numerous individuals

and groups who prioritise the protection of habitats, plants,

wildlife and even the tidal pool, the enforcement of fishing

licences and the cleaning up of alien plants and even more

alien day-trippers.

The natural attributes of the town are not all on display

at first glance, but for residents, the beauty of the flat crown


and Natal mahogany trees lining Bellamont Road, or

the grove of wild fig trees along Bently Trail, are part and

parcel of the magic of the area. There’s a mangrove swamp

along the southern bank of the Umdloti Lagoon, accessible

via a footpath from North Beach. Hawaan Forest Reserve

lies south of Umdloti and can be reached on foot only, either

from the beach or via a pathway from the M4 to Peace

Cottage. (It’s remote, so it’s not advisable to walk alone.)

The town’s name is derived from the Zulu word, mdloti,

a species of wild tobacco growing on the banks of the

Mdloti River. It has so many natural assets associated with

beach and bush that it’s almost by the by to say it now has

two of KZN’s top-rated restaurants, both redolent with sea

spray and seafood.

As one resident says, ‘It’s like being on holiday every day

of the year.’

Living

Five things to do in Umdloti

1. Eat out at the fine-dining restaurants

with glorious sea views, Bel Punto

(a family-run Italian restaurant with

emphasis on seafood) or Mundo Vida (Don

Wilkinson’s ‘world food’). Or go casual at

the family-run La Casa Nostra Trattoria.

2. Get wet. For surfing, Jappies, on the

north side; Peace Cottage, further south of

Umdloti, also ideal for fishing and diving;

Newsel Beach, south side, a quieter beach

that’s perfect for sunbathing, surfing,

paddling and snorkelling; Selection Beach,

south side, a great dive site with a shallow

dive reaching 8m on the outside edge and

a reef that’s renowned for garrick (leervis)

and Natal snoek.

3. Go horse riding on the beach, courtesy

of Wellesley Riding School.

4. Do some birding. Visit Umdloti Lagoon,

Sweetwaters Stream and the nearby

Umhlanga Ponds. Then, in October, about

three million barn (European) swallows

arrive at Mount Moreland. Their roosting

habitat at the Lake Victoria Wetland is

now recognised as a world-famous Barn

Swallow Site and International Birding Area

(IBA). This spectacle, occurring half an

hour before sunset every night, is managed

by the Mount Moreland Conservancy.

5. Take to the sea for some dolphin

watching and whale watching by boat.

opening page A five–bedroom Balinese-style tropical retreat on South Beach Road with two

self- contained storeys and glorious ocean views. Available through Brett Botsis, Seeff Umhlanga.

this spread, top and right Bantry Bay sectional title, two self-contained units in one, on First

Avenue; the units for sale at Club Mykonos, Bellamont Road, range from bachelors to much

bigger. All properties available through Brett Botsis, Seeff Umhlanga.


the agent speaksWe speak to Brett Botsis, director of

Seeff Umhlanga, as Umdloti is on his turf.

Which is Umdloti’s prime area?

The entire Umdloti beachfront, including

South Beach Road, 1st Avenue and

Margaret Bacon Avenue. On the top of

the hill, Bellamont Road is also prime.

What percentage of homes/flats are

permanent residential?

Umdloti’s stock comprises about 1 620

properties. Of this, sectional title units

make up 85%, freehold 15%. The ratio

is about 60% residential and 40%

holiday homes.

has the market remained static?

In 2009, the average price of a

freehold home was R4,3 million, in

2011, R4,6 million, and currently, about

R4,4 million, which indicates that prices

are pretty static. But, having said that, we

are experiencing a higher level of buyer

activity. There’s increased foot traffic

on our show days as well as online and

office queries. Demand seems to be on

the increase.

What can buyers expect to pay for a

townhouse, a flat or a house in Umdloti?

An entry-level price for an apartment

is around R800 000. Expect to pay

about R1,95 million for a three-bedroom

townhouse of approximately 150m2.

A three-bedroom apartment of 200m2

will set you back around R2,75 million

and a three-bedroom house up on

Bellamont Road about R5,5 million.

the town always had a very active

ratepayers association. Is this still the

case in Umdloti?

Yes. They work closely with the

municipality to assist it in certain areas,

such as the upkeep and cleaning of the

beaches as well as the road leading into

Umdloti. They also work very closely

with Tongaat Hulett on the development

of the various nodes in and around

Sibaya. The ratepayers are in the process

of appointing a manager who will

take over the required voluntary roles

previously filled.

One of the other important objectives

of the manager is to build and grow

the Umdloti Improvement Project

(UIP) or the Special Rated Area (SRA)

concept. The UIP has been instrumental

in appointing the security service that

patrols the southern area of Umdloti,

and it had some rather positive results.

Members of the ratepayers association

are also active SAPS Community Policing

Forum members. One of the members

is also a member of the Umdloti Beach

Conservancy. In short, they’re working

for a greener, safer and better Umdloti.With thanks to …

Brett Botsis, Seeff Umhlanga, +27 (0)84 583 1961, seeff.com


TRAVEL

fishermanAN Ode tO the

Words Tammy Sutherns

Like the fishing village of Paternoster, Abalone House radiates soul and charm


TRAVEL

You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d slipped into another time zone as, bleary-eyed from the two-hour drive from Cape Town, you blink at the

whitewashed little cottages dotted along Paternoster’s beach. There’s not a shopping mall in sight, and next to no traffic – only clear skies, fishing boats resting on the beach and local children smiling gleefully at their handcrafted decorative hearts made from seashells and wire.

To stay in Paternoster is to rejoice in the rustic. You can walk the streets in peace, from the quaint Jem & Pantoffels shop to the beautiful Stone Fish Art Gallery, passing by local fishermen selling sea-fresh,

juicy crayfish at street corners and exhorting you to buy a few to cook on the braai at home. Beach restaurants and pizzerias tempt with simple but tasty food. You can drag out a canoe out and brave the icy Atlantic waves or jog along the kilometres of beach and breathe in the salt air.

But it’s still nice to return from all of this to your five-star lodgings at Abalone House.

Seen from the outside, the hotel maintains the modest whitewashed look of the rest of the buildings in the village, but its interiors speak a far more comfortable and luxurious truth.

With its crackling fire in the lounge and an entrance hall, bar and dining area that are rich in art,

colour and textures, Abalone House makes it difficult for you to decide if it’s preferable to be drinking in the magnificent views from the deck, or drinking a glass of sherry by the fire.

Inspired by owners’ Johan Jansen van Vuuren and Stef Venter’s vibrant and indulgent taste, the furniture is warm, inviting and trendy.

The bar and entrance hall lead out onto a fantastically lit courtyard with outside furniture, candles and two plunge pools.

And just when you can’t imagine the views in Paternoster getting any better, the upstairs deck proves that they can indeed, thanks to cosy loungers, a Jacuzzi and deck chairs.

Opening page The view from the upper deck of Abalone House, Paternoster. This page, clockwise from top Abalone House’s thatched roofs

and whitewashed exterior walls match the traditional architectural vernacular of the fishing village; the fireplace in the lounge makes for cosy

evenings; ‘Tea by the Sea’ is served in the pretty Orchid Room.


TRAVEL

The bedrooms open either onto the upper deck or the courtyard below and provide guests with every comfort – under-floor heating, television, Wi-Fi, mini-bar, and a bed that is sure to hold you captive for a few hours longer in the morning. (The evening turn-down service and the chocolate next to your pillow are just Abalone House showing off!) But it’s the food that really puts Abalone House on the map.

Saffron Restaurant’s Executive Chef Darren Stewart has compiled a menu laden with West Coast seafood and local delicacies while adding gourmet twists, such as beetroot soup with goat’s cheese ravioli

and hake risotto with pickled carrot and the Saffron house salad. Guests may pair these dishes with a wine on Saffron’s Platinum-rated list, which includes wines from the West Coast and surrounds, South African MCCs, French champagnes and the world’s top six single-malt whiskeys.

The Tea by the Sea proves how far Abalone House will go to spoil its guests. The tea is served daily in the Orchid Room conservatory overlooking the bay. Darren whips up his signature Gâteau St Honore, strawberry cream disks and savoury pancake roulades along with other snacks and a selection of fine teas.

The village friendliness that characterises Paternoster is apparent in Abalone House’s staff and adds to the homeliness of your stay.

Paternoster is a place where you can imagine walking your dogs or letting your children ride their bikes down to the beach for the day. Perhaps you could use the retreat to hole up in winter and work on that novel you never got round to writing.

Family time or soul time, this is the place to escape to, not only to rest, but also to get back to basics. +27 (0)86 722 7973,

abalonehouse.co.za

Clockwise from top left Tretchikoff prints hang on the walls of the reception room and set the tone for the rich and vibrant decor theme

that carries through to the rest of the hotel’s rooms; meals are taken amid the opulence of Saffron Restaurant; the fragrant courtyard with

swimming pool and deck.


TRAVEL

The bedrooms open either onto the upper deck or the courtyard below and provide guests with every comfort – under-floor heating, television, Wi-Fi, mini-bar, and a bed that is sure to hold you captive for a few hours longer in the morning. (The evening turn-down service and the chocolate next to your pillow are just Abalone House showing off!) But it’s the food that really puts Abalone House on the map.

Saffron Restaurant’s Executive Chef Darren Stewart has compiled a menu laden with West Coast seafood and local delicacies while adding gourmet twists, such as beetroot soup with goat’s cheese ravioli

and hake risotto with pickled carrot and the Saffron house salad. Guests may pair these dishes with a wine on Saffron’s Platinum-rated list, which includes wines from the West Coast and surrounds, South African MCCs, French champagnes and the world’s top six single-malt whiskeys.

The Tea by the Sea proves how far Abalone House will go to spoil its guests. The tea is served daily in the Orchid Room conservatory overlooking the bay. Darren whips up his signature Gâteau St Honore, strawberry cream disks and savoury pancake roulades along with other snacks and a selection of fine teas.

The village friendliness that characterises Paternoster is apparent in Abalone House’s staff and adds to the homeliness of your stay.

Paternoster is a place where you can imagine walking your dogs or letting your children ride their bikes down to the beach for the day. Perhaps you could use the retreat to hole up in winter and work on that novel you never got round to writing.

Family time or soul time, this is the place to escape to, not only to rest, but also to get back to basics. +27 (0)86 722 7973,

abalonehouse.co.za

Clockwise from top left Tretchikoff prints hang on the walls of the reception room and set the tone for the rich and vibrant decor theme

that carries through to the rest of the hotel’s rooms; meals are taken amid the opulence of Saffron Restaurant; the fragrant courtyard with

swimming pool and deck.


Real estateGUEST EDITO

R

Retha Schutte

residential & commercial

Pretoria’s residential property market is showing signs of a slow recovery, says Pam Golding Properties Regional Executive Pretoria, Retha Schutte

Retha Schutte, Pam Golding Properties Regional

Executive Pretoria

Taking economic and other prevailing fundamentals into account, I believe that the residential property market of Pretoria, Centurion and surrounds will

remain relatively flat for the remainder of 2012 as compared with the growth levels of 2011, because the demand for upmarket homes is generally low. However, there are some areas of the market which are performing strongly.

In February, the property research organisation, Lightstone, named Woodhill as the top golf estate in terms of value for 2011. One of the most upmarket golf estates in Pretoria, Woodhill’s annual property price appreciation was 34%. It is worth noting that this increase was for properties in the R2,4 million to R3,4-million bracket.

Most of the properties sold overlook the greens or are situated around the golf course. Affordability was a major driver. The proximity to major routes and amenities, excellent security, the golf course, tennis and squash courts, the country club and the nearby Woodhill College also fuelled buyers’ interest levels.

Woodhill is not the only golf estate that’s doing well. Security and golf estates throughout the Pretoria region are in demand, particularly as safety remains a major concern. I believe that estate properties will remain in demand well into the foreseeable future.

In recent months we have seen an increase in activity in areas such as Waterkloof Ridge, Waterkloof and Brooklyn. These areas are among the most exclusive residential suburbs in Pretoria and are home to embassy personnel, high-profile business executives and sports celebrities. A shortage of stock in the price band of R2,8 million to R4,5 million is being experienced in these areas and we view this as a most welcome development. However, it is too early to say with certainty whether this signals a turning market.

Another positive development is the increase in the number of first-time homebuyers entering the Pretoria region as a direct result of the banks relaxing their lending criteria coupled with lower interest rates.

The high demand for rental properties across the Pretoria region has been noted and is pushing up rental prices across the board. Consequently the buy-to-let market is slowly but steadily coming back into its own as investors re-enter the market.

Challenges are being experienced in the residential property market countrywide and the Pretoria and Centurion areas are no different. But just how does this affect buyers and sellers? In my view, approaches to today’s property market must be practical and level headed. Buyers and sellers should seek out sound advice that will enable them to make informed decisions based on comparative values, the

state of the market and future projections. There is always much debate around whether

sellers should grant property agents sole mandates. Generally speaking, a sole mandate ensures a better marketing plan, a more concerted effort, wider media exposure and a much greater level of commitment from the agent. Competition is healthy, but it needs to be between interested buyers rather than between estate agents. Selling a property is a process, and price counselling from an experienced and responsible agent is vital. From the buyer’s perspective, it is imperative to explore the market thoroughly, set aside time to visit properties and glean as much market-related information as possible. A practical approach to buying and selling property is therefore essential.

A word of caution in closing: when it comes to property, settle for nothing less than the best possible professional advice.

Slowly but SuRely


kwazulu-natal Residential

CTT C D E S I G N A R C H I T E C T S

w w w . t c d e s i g n . c o . z a

Proposed new residential development on Erf 1150, Simbithi Golf Estate

Tee off Jacana is the latest and last sectional title development to be

launched on Simbithi golf and residential estate. The development

comprises 50 units and two freehold sites. There are three types of

units, including simplexes and duplexes. Architect Philip Thornhill of

TC Design Architects, a resident of Simbithi Eco-Estate, has designed

a development that is not only aesthetically appealing, but also

maximises on the space of each site. Jacana is the closest development

to the clubhouse, offers access to the pool and restaurant, and is within

walking distance of the first tee. The development is already 40% sold

and prices start from R2,495 million. +27 (0)82 449 3882,

jacanainsimbithi.co.za

Can doEmzini Mews in Athlone Park, Amanzimtoti, has just been launched

by Tyson Properties and offers buyers the option of one-, two- and

three-bedroom apartments at prices starting from R499 000 as well

as five penthouses with sea views, priced from R1,1 million. The

apartments will be fully tiled and will have modern finishes.

Amenities in the complex will include a gym, pool, play area, laundry,

and visitors and disabled parking. Emzini Mews will be ideally

situated within walking distance of the Galleria and Arbour Crossing

shopping centres, a medical centre and a primary school and will be

easily accessible from the freeway and only a five-minute drive from

the main beach. The development is ideal for investors who wish to

either live in Amanzimtoti or buy to let, says Wilma Olivier of Tyson

Properties Amanzimtoti. +28 (0)31 903 7766, tysonprop.co.za

DowntimeJust relaunched, Chairman’s Rest Estate is

a small, exclusive estate offering only 20

freehold sites with breathtaking sea and

coastal views. Nestled in a quiet enclave in

the heart of Sheffield Beach, just opposite

Brettenwood Coastal Estate and only

2km from the popular Salt Rock Main

priced from R1,705 million or the option

to have a home custom designed. ‘For the

final touches, we have an in-house interior

design consultant available on request

too,’ says Lloyd Rees of Tyson Properties

Ballito. +27 (0)32 946 3419,

tysonprop.co.za

Beach, this estate offers a secure, gated and

secluded lifestyle within close proximity to

Tiffanys shopping centre in Ballito as well as

easy access to the N2. With only 10 of these

exclusive sites remaining, developers are

offering a choice of two predesigned three-

bedroom, two-bathroom turnkey homes


kwazulu-natal CommercialW

ord

s A

nd

ré F

iore

Synergistic shopping

King Senzangakhona Centre is a small

regional 22 300m2 centre in Ulundi, anchored

by a 3 072m2 SuperSpar. It provides a full retail

and service offering in 48 shops, including a

KFC drive-through, a stand-alone Game store,

a fast-food court and a car service centre. It is

99% let, with a mix of national retailers taking

up 81% of the retail area. King Senzangakhona

Centre features a formal on-site taxi rank

and bus rank, has 402 parking bays and

Listed on the JSE in December 2011, Synergy

Income Fund is a specialist retail property fund

with a focus on medium-sized community

shopping centres and small regional shopping

centres in high-growth, lower-LSM nodes.

Its property portfolio consists of 14 shopping

centres with an emphasis on commuter centres

in townships and rural areas and includes four

recently purchased retail centres in KwaZulu-Natal.

Synergy has separately listed A and B linked units,

catering for investors with different appetites for

risks and rewards. Synergy also offers retailers

the chance to benefit from the locations and

consumer markets of their shopping centres.

+27 (0)21 673 3300, synergyincomefund.co.za

caters predominantly for the growing base

of shoppers in the LSM2 to LSM5 groups. It is

situated on the corner of Dinizulu Highway and

Princess Magogo Street, just off the R66, the

main road into Ulundi.

KwaMashu Shopping Centre is a township

community centre situated directly

opposite the main public transport

network. It is a modern, single- storey

shopping centre of 11 130m2, with a

SuperSpar as its anchor retailer. It is 95%

let, with national tenants representing

88% of the retail area. The centre caters

for shoppers in the LSM2 to LSM7 groups

and includes branches of Standard Bank,

Nedbank, Absa and Capitec, a post office

as well as branches of Pep, Jet, Price

& Pride, Lewis, Fairdeal, Cashbuild and

Chicken Licken. It is ideally located next to

a planned 6ha residential development.

Richdens Village Centre is an established

neighbourhood centre in Hillcrest that offers a

modern, enclosed retail environment in a main

commuter node with links to the N3 and M13

highways. It attracts shoppers from the LSM9

to LSM10 groups with its 53 shops, 14 offices

and 143 parking bays. The 10 200m2 centre

was extended in 2007 with two additional

phases. It is 90% let, with 68% of its tenant mix

comprising national retailers. It also has an FNB

branch as well as the national chain restaurants

Spur, Ocean Basket and Primi Piatti.

Taxi City is a bustling convenience centre in the

Newcastle commuter node, directly opposite

the bus and taxi terminus. Taxi City attracts

shoppers in the LSM5 to LSM8 groups and

is anchored by a 2 010m2 Super Spar that’s

supported by 26 diverse retailers. Taxi City is

95% let, with shops including Pep, Webbers,

Best Home and Electric, E-Best Buy Beds and

Studio 88. FNB, Capitec, Standard Bank and the

SA Post Office are also represented there. This

single-level centre on the corner of Allen and

Kirkland streets has 70 parking bays.

Safe Heaven. Why are increasing numbers of SA’s wealthy elite choosing to invest, live and work out of Mauritius?

• Ranked in the Top 10 ‘Best Places in the World to Live’*.

• A safe environment for your family.

• A secure home for your assets.

• Business tax rate as low as 3%, personal tax only 15%.

• No foreign exchange controls or inheritance taxes.

• World-class infrastructure, education and health.

• 40 years of political and economic stability.

• Only a 4 hour fl 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

[email protected] I www.villasvalriche.com

VV_PropertyMay_290312_Final.indd 1 29/03/2012 14:44


Spa iN blOOminspired by the exotic angsana tree and its crown of fragrant golden

flowers, the auspicious Angsana Spa at the exclusive Angsana Balaclava

resort offers an award-winning range of treatments that take into

account the rich atmosphere and culture of Mauritius. Managed by the

Banyan Tree Group, the resort is situated on the white beach next to the

lagoon in the picturesque Baie aux Tortues (Turtle Bay) and is a mere

15 minutes from the capital of Port Louis. With nine treatment rooms,

Angsana Spa offers privacy, exclusivity and a range of facilities, including

a yoga pavilion, restorative vitality pool with different water-jet stations,

and a hammam. The spa treatments incorporate natural ingredients, such

as native flowers and fruits, aromatherapy, and a fusion of techniques

from the East and West to refresh and rejuvenate body, mind and spirit.

There’s also the Angsana Gallery, where guests may purchase a variety of

exclusive spa merchandise. +230 204 1888, angsana.com

Mauritius is set to welcome a brand-new resort that amalgamates the

architectural and cultural heritage of the island. Poised for a soft opening

in December this year, Centara Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa Mauritius

is situated on the north-east coast of the island on Poste Lafayette’s

coastal road and is adjacent to a pristine beach, a crystal-clear lagoon and

a majestic mountain. The resort’s guest rooms are done in a minimalist

yet comfortable style and include 18 superior rooms with mountain or

garden views, 36 deluxe ocean-facing rooms with terrace or balcony,

deluxe garden terrace rooms, 9 deluxe oceanfront rooms, and 19 deluxe

oceanfront terrace rooms. Centara Poste Lafayette also provides a free-

form swimming pool and a Spa Cenvaree with beauty salon, as well as a

fitness centre, library and 20-seat boardroom. For children the resort has a

pool, kids’ club and Camp Safari, and the E-Zone for teens. An island resort

experience isn’t complete without an exceptional culinary service, fulfilled

at Centara Poste Lafayette by three restaurants: Café Nautilus, a relaxed

restaurant that serves international-themed buffets; Phi, which offers Asian

and Indian Ocean cuisine on the beachfront; and the convivial restaurant

and bar Aqua 180º, which serves tasty comfort food just footprints away

from the sparkling waters. +230 402 6200, centarahotelsresorts.com

laNdiNg ON LONG BEAChSituated on the east coast of Mauritius, Long Beach recently celebrated

its first anniversary, and we popped in for a visit. Situated on the Belle

Mare Peninsula on the longest and widest beach (700m by 40m) on

the entire Mauritian coastline, it offers secluded sun lounging, thanks

to its size, and guests can enjoy having 109m2 of beach per room all

to themselves. There is a lot that sets Long Beach apart from other

resorts and ensures it’s busy all year round. Firstly, the design and

architecture is unique on the island. The project architect was Kevan

Moses of Stauch Vorster Architects, a South African firm, who produced

a striking, contemporary aesthetic softened by natural forms. The genius

is in the detail, such as the adjustable windbreaks that modulate the

offshore breezes. The building materials were locally sourced and include

volcanic stone, Balau wood and black or earth-coloured basalt rocks

from neighbouring fields. The thatched roofs, made from dried sugar

cane leaves, add the occasional Mauritian accent. These hard building

materials are juxtaposed against the soft tropical flora dotted around

the resort and the effect is strikingly urban, especially against the white

beach and natural surroundings of palm trees, natural brush, and, of

course, the dramatic blue backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Dining out is

another wow factor – the resort offers a choice of five restaurants, four

of them encircling a piazza and the fifth on the beach. Gone are the days

of eating the same buffet three times a day; Long Beach offers Italian,

international, Chinese and Japanese fine dining. Another of the resort’s

main attractions is that it is suited to families as well as to honeymooners

– there is so much space at this large resort that the two groups need

never meet. Bliss.

Sun Resorts, +230 (0)4 02 00 00, longbeachmauritius.com;

World Leisure Holidays, 0860 954 954, wlh.co.za

Wo

rds

Can

dace K

ing

PAyING hOMAGE

Mauritius LEisurE












Ryan Proksch +27 73 392 3233




Spa iN blOOminspired by the exotic angsana tree and its crown of fragrant golden

flowers, the auspicious Angsana Spa at the exclusive Angsana Balaclava

resort offers an award-winning range of treatments that take into

account the rich atmosphere and culture of Mauritius. Managed by the

Banyan Tree Group, the resort is situated on the white beach next to the

lagoon in the picturesque Baie aux Tortues (Turtle Bay) and is a mere

15 minutes from the capital of Port Louis. With nine treatment rooms,

Angsana Spa offers privacy, exclusivity and a range of facilities, including

a yoga pavilion, restorative vitality pool with different water-jet stations,

and a hammam. The spa treatments incorporate natural ingredients, such

as native flowers and fruits, aromatherapy, and a fusion of techniques

from the East and West to refresh and rejuvenate body, mind and spirit.

There’s also the Angsana Gallery, where guests may purchase a variety of

exclusive spa merchandise. +230 204 1888, angsana.com

Mauritius is set to welcome a brand-new resort that amalgamates the

architectural and cultural heritage of the island. Poised for a soft opening

in December this year, Centara Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa Mauritius

is situated on the north-east coast of the island on Poste Lafayette’s

coastal road and is adjacent to a pristine beach, a crystal-clear lagoon and

a majestic mountain. The resort’s guest rooms are done in a minimalist

yet comfortable style and include 18 superior rooms with mountain or

garden views, 36 deluxe ocean-facing rooms with terrace or balcony,

deluxe garden terrace rooms, 9 deluxe oceanfront rooms, and 19 deluxe

oceanfront terrace rooms. Centara Poste Lafayette also provides a free-

form swimming pool and a Spa Cenvaree with beauty salon, as well as a

fitness centre, library and 20-seat boardroom. For children the resort has a

pool, kids’ club and Camp Safari, and the E-Zone for teens. An island resort

experience isn’t complete without an exceptional culinary service, fulfilled

at Centara Poste Lafayette by three restaurants: Café Nautilus, a relaxed

restaurant that serves international-themed buffets; Phi, which offers Asian

and Indian Ocean cuisine on the beachfront; and the convivial restaurant

and bar Aqua 180º, which serves tasty comfort food just footprints away

from the sparkling waters. +230 402 6200, centarahotelsresorts.com

laNdiNg ON LONG BEAChSituated on the east coast of Mauritius, Long Beach recently celebrated

its first anniversary, and we popped in for a visit. Situated on the Belle

Mare Peninsula on the longest and widest beach (700m by 40m) on

the entire Mauritian coastline, it offers secluded sun lounging, thanks

to its size, and guests can enjoy having 109m2 of beach per room all

to themselves. There is a lot that sets Long Beach apart from other

resorts and ensures it’s busy all year round. Firstly, the design and

architecture is unique on the island. The project architect was Kevan

Moses of Stauch Vorster Architects, a South African firm, who produced

a striking, contemporary aesthetic softened by natural forms. The genius

is in the detail, such as the adjustable windbreaks that modulate the

offshore breezes. The building materials were locally sourced and include

volcanic stone, Balau wood and black or earth-coloured basalt rocks

from neighbouring fields. The thatched roofs, made from dried sugar

cane leaves, add the occasional Mauritian accent. These hard building

materials are juxtaposed against the soft tropical flora dotted around

the resort and the effect is strikingly urban, especially against the white

beach and natural surroundings of palm trees, natural brush, and, of

course, the dramatic blue backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Dining out is

another wow factor – the resort offers a choice of five restaurants, four

of them encircling a piazza and the fifth on the beach. Gone are the days

of eating the same buffet three times a day; Long Beach offers Italian,

international, Chinese and Japanese fine dining. Another of the resort’s

main attractions is that it is suited to families as well as to honeymooners

– there is so much space at this large resort that the two groups need

never meet. Bliss.

Sun Resorts, +230 (0)4 02 00 00, longbeachmauritius.com;

World Leisure Holidays, 0860 954 954, wlh.co.za

Wo

rds

Can

dace K

ing

PAyING hOMAGE

Mauritius LEisurE













Ryan Proksch +27 73 392 3233



agnificent 7 acre estate in the heart of Everton, KZN3 sub-divisions with two separate residences, a tennis court and heated pool.

for sale as a whole at R12 million or as 3 separate properties.

Contact Rob le Sueur on 082 450 9641 orPam Mullany 082 899 3455 Office (031) 764 0017 Fax (031) 764 0089

E-mail [email protected]

M

T TTTTThe best of Everton Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

www.mpea.co.za

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL US TODAY

Maxine PoissonPrincipal AgentCell: 083 799 9333Email: [email protected]

Patti SmithAgent and Brettenwood Coastal Estate residentCell: 083 253 9630Email: [email protected]

3 BRETTENWOOD LAKESBRETTENWOOD COASTAL ESTATER2 495 000 URGENT SALE - PRICE REDUCED!This spacious executive duplex villa offers 299m2

of contemporary open plan living to undercover entertainment patio overlooking dam. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, guest loo, modern open plan kitchen and double auto garaging complete this ‘never to be repeated’ investment. An opportunity not to be missed!

SOLE MANDATE

111 HONEYGUIDE WAYBRETTENWOOD COASTAL ESTATER 4 900 000

This executive residence on quiet cul-de-sac offers 455m2 of easy living with sea views. Spacious entertainment patio to rim flow pool overlooking dam and conservation valley abundant with birdlife. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 lounges, dining to open plan kitchen with separate scullery.

SOLE MANDATE

149 FALCON’S CRESCENTBRETTENWOOD COASTAL ESTATER9 500 000This home of distinction offers 598m2 of executive living with 180° views of the Indian Ocean. Comprising of 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 lounges, study, bar and garaging for 4 cars. Generous living spaces complemented by impeccable finishes encourage the inside-to-outside flow of the home.

VIEW BY APPOINTMENT

EAGLE’S NESTBRETTENWOOD COASTAL ESTATEFROM R2 490 000This unique freehold village on the Estate offers exclusive ‘turnkey’ homes. Only 7 level sites left with a choice of 5 ‘off plan’ options or design your own home directly with the architect. Your personal selection of outstanding finishes. Within walking distance to clubhouse and Estate amenities.

NO TRANSFER DUTY

161 FALCON’S CRESCENTBRETTENWOOD COASTAL ESTATER4 200 000

‘Double storey splendour’ - Bright and sunny384 m2 home. 3 spacious bedrooms, 3 bathrooms plus study or 4th bedroom and 2 lounges. Sparkling pool, double auto garaging with ample parking. Enjoy superb sunsets and sea views from this easy living home. Landscaped garden with pool.

SOLE MANDATE

We are Brettenwood Coastal Estate Property Specialists. Speak to us today about your options.

Land • Property • Lifestyle • Investment

Launch of Coracall’s new call centre on the first floor of Coastlands Hotel, Umhlanga Ridge: 1Zamo Gwala, Francois Truter, Ian Kinsey, Phil Lightfoot 2Gail Doveton, Logie Naidoo, Fiona Suleman, Warren Fitzpatrick. The RMB Private Bank Legacy of Nature musical, The Playhouse, Durban: 3Zee

Cele, Bongani Cele 4Gary Youlley, Shaylene James, Julie Greig, Mike Gowar 5Malcolm Moodie, Anne-Marie Moodie, Aleacia Pakkiri, Kevin Pakkiri.

Garlicke & Bousfield Inc.’s Women’s Day event at its La Lucia Ridge offices: 6Thandekile Sibiya, Michelle Bryant, Dave Ramsay, Joanne Potts 7Krishnee Naidoo, Brian Jennings, Lesley Jorgensen 8Christine Seger, Yvonne Boden, Debora Patta, Simphiwe Maphumulo, Aletta de Lange.

Living the high life in KwaZulu-Natal and surroundsSociety

1

8

2

3

Email social photographs and invitations to [email protected].

4

5 6

7



Wo

rds

Nic

ky M

anso

n

trend watch

As living moves outdoors, we shed some light on how to keep the party going even when the sun goes down

Bat SigNalS

Gated GlamourEurolux’s outdoor lamps

take lighting up your

garden to another level.

The Lorena lamp’s cage is

made from steel and holds

an opal glass lens. Stores

nationwide. eurolux.co.za

SuSpended StyleThe Aliba Big Suspended Light from the Modern Home Company’s

(MHCO) Karman collection is an edgy addition to any patio. An

Italian product, it’s made from fibreglass and suspended with

wire. Available from MHCO’s Cape Town and Joburg showrooms.

+27 (0)21 434 0611, +27 (0)11 262 0258, modernhome.co.za

on the ballMobelli’s Orb light packs a punch

when it comes to creating a

lighting focal point outside.

Water resistant, wireless and

rechargeable, it’s activated by

remote and alternates between

four colours. Showrooms in Cape

Town, Durbs and Joburg.

+27 (0)21 512 2662,

+27 (0)31 566 5996,

+27 (0)11 268 6956, mobelli.co.za

liGht litePlaced correctly, LED lights can

deter intruders, light up a space

and highlight architectural features.

They’re also energy efficient, long

lasting and cheap to run.

0861 LIGHTING,

lightingwarehouse.co.za

Sexy SwimminGNew to Spanish manufacturer,

Bover’s, outdoor range is the

Fora Mesa lamp. The stands are

made from graphite and the

light source is protected by a

medium-intensity polyethylene

globe and UV protection, making

the lamp water-resistant and

safe to use around the pool. The

Fora Mesa lamp is part of Pure

Light SA’s Fabian collection.

+27 (0)11 465 4232,

purelightsaonline.com

SittinG prettyWe love this pot plant-

styled lighting feature.

Delicate, pretty and

subtle, the Rasmus

tree is available from

Sirius Living & Lighting.

+27 (0)11 786 4487,

siriusliving.co.za

4591 Property Classic Nov-repro.indd 1 2012/10/16 8:19 AM4591 Property Classic Nov-repro.indd 1 2012/10/16 8:19 AM

4591 Property Classic Nov-repro.indd 1 2012/10/16 8:19 AM

TAG HEUER BOUTIQUE

Shop G219 Gateway Shopping Centre 031.566.4452

the property magazine - kwazulu-natal october/november 2012

Documents

sexy summer

summer hits

pure summer

designer educationtop20

hot skin

easts muggy summer days

new leaves

new green grass