TPM KZN Nov 2011 by The Property Magazine

E U Q BI cus M L Fo A A al Z N eci O IO Sp S, M NAT U TI ER RI T U IN A & M

Property

Est. 2004, Is

KWAZULU-NATAL

NOVEMBER 2011

Winner of 10 publishing awards

decor, trends, luxury, design & real estate

TSAI DESIGN STUDIO WORKING OUTSIDE THE BOX THEATRE ON THE BAY EXTENDS ITS MAGIC TO PROPERTY

THE MOTHER OF DESIGN – CAPE TOWN, WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL 2014

Adventure calls – New Tiguan

11 0 11

9 771811 700007

Seeff Chairman Samuel Seeff’s bittersweet news for the property market

RSA R34.95 (incl. VAT) Other countries R21.90 (excl. Tax) New Tiguan, www.vwsa.co.za

LOCAL IS LEKKER INSPIRING DESIGN & CUISINE

For more info, phone exclusive sales agents Property World on 021 555 0105 or Brian 082 571 7024

27 36 18

Contents DECOR

TRENDS

LUXURY

REAL ESTATE

HOT DECOR & DESIGN

HOT PLATE Culinary magician Zahirah

An Ardmore collector’s

Motala talks to us about her

couch, and Florida Road’s

arty cupcakes, Argentinean

Plumbago Lifestyle Gallery

ﬂair comes to Umhlanga, a new coffee shop opens in

ENLIGHTEN US

Kloof, and French romance

The latest and greatest in

reaches Ramsgate

lighting ideas, and advice on lighting up commercial and residential spaces

17 38

WHAT’S ON

Turn to page 2 for details.

about the property market

HOT FESTIVE TIPPLES

you our favourites

RESIDENTIAL New golf estate phases and developments, and a new residential estate in Umhlali

COMMERCIAL Westgate Ofﬁce Park is extended, Ballito’s Imbonini

DESIGN

Park gets ready for launch, and big plans for John Ross

A FLAIR FOR THE DRAMATIC Pieter Toerien invites us

Interchange Business Park

INTERNATIONAL

into the new Theatre Place, where the walls speak

the Caribbean, and an

Property professionals

volumes about his dazzling

equestrian estate up for

look back on the past year

career in theatre

grabs in Provence

BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S

TSAI IN CONTEXT Y Tsai of Tsai Design Studio

A new development in

MAURITIUS SA developers 2Tribes’

on the importance of design

expansion of Elements

Top property industry

with a story, and why South

Resort, the latest on La

players meet for a Property

African design is taking the

Balise Marina, and good

Breakfast at Canelands

world by storm

news for tourism

Beach Club, in Salt Rock

Some delightful gift goodies

IT WAS A VERY GOOD YEAR

and ahead to 2012

Volkswagen South Africa.

remain positive, yet realistic,

drinks to share. We bring

RETIRING … GRATEFULLY?

Seeff Chairman Samuel Seeff tells us why we should

for your Christmas stocking

IT’S A LONG HAUL YET

HOT INDULGENCE

be the same without ﬁne

investment options

ON THE COVER

to know about this month

and your property

New Tiguan from

new jewel, Lapis Lazuli

The festive season wouldn’t

retirement draws near,

Delcairn Centre’s sparkling

The gigs you need

What to consider when

HOT SPACE

FLOWER POWERED

WINNING OVER THE WORLD

MOZAMBIQUE Chic simplicity at

How the Mother City

White Pearl Resorts,

Nature-inspired

won the bid to become

Ponta Mamoli, and Brazil

lighting and designs

World Design Capital 2014

commits to Mozambique

November 2011 | 1

OGILVY CAPE TOWN 46280/E © VWSA

Fasten your canoes.

New Tiguan. From R272 600. Take the road less travelled. And hey, why does it have to be a road? Built for both the city and the great outdoors, it’s the ideal way to embrace any adventure. With its muscular lines and streamlined front grille, its looks will grab attention, no matter where you go exploring. Now available with environmentally-conscious BlueMotion Technology that incorporates new generation TDI and TSI engines, the New Tiguan also features a 5-star Euro NCAP Safety Rating, High Beam Light Assist, advanced options like Park Assist and Fatigue Detection, as well as terrain-conquering 4Motion® all-wheel drive*. With the New Tiguan, the minute you close the door, you open a few hundred others. Visit your nearest Volkswagen Dealer to find out more about exciting offers through Volkswagen Financial Services.

Adventure calls. New Tiguan. Trend & Fun with BlueMotion Technology available in: 1.4 90kW TSI; 2.0 81kW TDI; 1.4 118kW TSI. Trend & Fun also available in: 1.4 118kW TSI. Track & Field available in: 2.0 TDI 103kW DSG®; Sport & Style available in 2.0 TDI 103kW DSG®; 2.0 TSI 155kW DSG®

Visit vw.co.za and join facebook.com/VWSA

Price correct at the time of going to press and is subject to change at the sole discretion of Volkswagen Group South Africa. *Not available on BlueMotion models.

ED’S LETTER

THE PROPERTY MAGAZINE ONLINE VISIT Browse thepropertymag.co.za

Photograph Grant Difford

for the latest features.

Make the circle bigger … Done!

The recent announcement of Cape Town as the World Design Capital for 2014 is a coup indeed. We beat out heavyweight first-class cities such as Dublin, Ireland, and Bilbao, Spain, and now sit alongside design greats, such as Turin, Italy. However, the question must be begged: are we really that surprised by SA’s latest win? In recent years we have been making a name for ourselves and causing a stir in the circles of our more worldly brothers, not to mention filling our awards bucket with accolade after accolade, so much so that the cup of honour truly doth run over. Hosting the Soccer World Cup in 2010 was arguably one of our biggest achievements, but SA has, in fact, been setting itself apart from other countries for quite some time. Take Condé Nast Traveller’s World Travel Awards, for example. We regularly make their top lists, and this year is no different: CNTraveller’s Gold List 2011 looks at the best hotels in the world in terms of exclusivity and luxury as voted by Condé Nast travellers, thus bringing an interesting and diverse dynamic to the voting process. Of the total 108 properties in the Gold List, 19 – or 17% of the vote – are South African. They include, among others, Le Franschhoek Hotel, in Franschhoek, the Cape Grace, in Cape Town, the game reserve Bushmans Kloof, in the Cederberg Mountains of the Western Cape,

Joburg’s Saxon Boutique Hotel, Villas & Spa, and Londolozi Private Game Reserve within the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve. And, according to Travel & Leisure World’s Best Awards 2011, our very own Singita Sabi Sand at Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve won the number two position. It is not just our hotels that are bringing home the gold. South African chefs and their restaurants are competing against the best, too – and winning. The S. Pellegrino World’s 100 Best Restaurant Awards are judged by over 800 international restaurant industry experts, and this year’s awards saw three South African establishments being placed in the top 100. They include Le Quartier Français of the Cape winelands in 36th place, Rust en Vrede in Stellenbosch in 61st place and La Colombe in Constantia in 82nd place. And so, looking back on our achievements of 2011, I am confident that as a nation we will continue shining on the world stage. We are a serious competitor, and we are just getting started. Bring on 2012!

Nicky Manson, Editor

WIN! ’Tis almost the season to spread the cheer, and so this month you really must enter ... One lucky reader can win a delicious bottle of Veuve Clicquot Rosé, which comes housed in its equally gorgeous retro-pink fridge. Tangy pink berry flavours will tantalise, and you’ll be left with a cute souvenir once the last drop is finished. Love vodka? Love Lovoka! SA’s newest import is available in chocolate and caramel flavours. Simply delicious, and up for grabs by three lucky readers. To enter, email your details to nickym@medianova.co.za now and put ‘Xmas’ in the subject box. Ts& Cs apply.

4 | November 2011

FOLLOW US on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/thepropertymagazine twitter.com/thepropertymag SUBSCRIBE Call 0860 100 203 to learn more about our special subscription offer. 0861 765 833

Selling? Earn FREE Voyager Miles Our exclusive partnership with SAA Voyager means that when you sell your property on sole mandate through Seeff, you will earn free Voyager Miles. Use your Voyager Miles for upgrades on SAA ﬂights or perhaps domestic or even international ﬂights on SAA or any Star Alliance airline partner. You may also qualify for Voyager Miles when renting through us. Contact 08600 SEEFF (73333) or your nearest Seeff branch for more information on how you can earn SAA Voyager Miles, or visit seeff.com.

It’s the smartest move you can make.

Property EDITORIAL Editor Nicky Manson nickym@medianova.co.za KwaZulu-Natal Bureau Chief Anne Schauffer anne@medianova.co.za Senior Subeditor Yaron Blecher Features Writers Genevieve Fisher (Western Cape) André Fiore (KwaZulu-Natal) Staff Writer Catherine Riley

thepropertymag.co.za KwaZulu-Natal Regional Sales & Marketing Manager Jenni McCallum KwaZulu-Natal Sales Assistant Gaylene Schmulian Gauteng Sales Anine Ehlers, Samantha Freese, Wilhelm Odendaal, Riette Stevens, Damion van Alphen Directory Sales Amanda Faas Namibia Sales Mynard Slabbert Media Coordinator Cindy Comer

ART Art Director Warren Uytenbogaardt Senior Designer Trudine Scannell Senior Retoucher Tim Lake CONTRIBUTORS Jackie Gray, Candace King, Gaylene Schmulian, Samuel Seeff PHOTOGRAPHERS Val Adamson, Sally Chance, Michael Glenister, Grant Pitcher, Karl Rogers PRINTING Unity Press ADVERTISING Sales@medianova.co.za Sales & Marketing Director Shanee Smart Western Cape Sales Tharien Nel, Michèle Jones, Justin Lyons

PUBLISHED BY MEDIA NOVA (PTY) LTD Managing Director Tony Vaughan tony@medianova.co.za PA to Managing Director Veronica Stevens General Manager Mark Pettipher markp@medianova.co.za Circulation Director Vanessa Marks Finance Manager Leanne Cox leanne@medianova.co.za Finance Assistant Samantha Reinke Credit Controller Anthea Odendaal IT Coordinator Adrian Petro Receptionist Kashiefa Jacobs Drivers Willem September, Themba Gumede, Josef Khoza

You tell us

Property involves us all. What’s your view? Email readers@medianova.co.za. PACKING A PUNCH I read your Ed’s letter this month … I blushed … and then laughed out loud because you could have been talking about me. I am the family hoarder in my home and am forced by my hubby to do annual throw-outs. Nice to know I am not alone! Georgina Kay, Parktown North

LETTER o f the Month

OVERDRIVE I have to say I love your cover this month – very moody and out of the box! They really stand out from other mags. Nice work! Sandy M, Rivonia

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

WESTERN CAPE 3rd Floor, 33 Bree Street, Cape Town, 8001. PO Box 50601, The Waterfront, Cape Town 8002. Phone 0861 765 833 Fax +27 (0)21 421 7891 GAUTENG 49 6th Street, Parkhurst, Johannesburg, 2193. Phone 0861 765 833

I am an avid reader and big fan of your magazine. I especially like your travel features. Have you thought about doing a guest house guide? I think it would be quite useful for your readers who are looking for getaways in and around SA. Mandy Peter, Ballito

FLY ON THE WALL Thanks for the inspiration! Once again your features have almost overwhelmed me with ideas. Who knew there was so much out there on walls, floors and ceilings? I am trying to revamp my house without doing any structural changes and your ideas for ceilings are so unique. I am very excited to start making over my house. Jenny Mackenzie, Woodstock

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

SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES Email subs@ramsaymedia.co.za Online magsathome.co.za Local Phone 0860 100 203 Fax 086 670 4101 International Phone +27 (0)21 530 3255 Fax +27 (0)21 531 7303 SMS 41871 with reference ‘Property Magazine’ (R2/SMS) for subscription enquiries EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES General editorial@medianova.co.za Society socials@thepropertymag.co.za Hot Property hotproperty@medianova.co.za Published monthly in three regional issues: Western Cape, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Current ABC Audited Circulation (Q2 2011, April–June): Western Cape – 25 507, Gauteng – 24 830, KwaZulu-Natal – 16 923, Total Nationally – 67 260 Web Stats: Property Club Members – 24 884 AMPS Audited National Readership (2011A): 287 815

WINNING LETTER Write to us and you could win six bottles of Clos Malverne Sauvignon Blanc 2011! Clos Malverne’s Sauvignon Blanc vineyards lie low in the Stellenbosch Valley and enjoy a cool microclimate, ensuring high-quality

Property

WESTERN CAPE

THE MOTHER OF DESIGN – CAPE TOWN, WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL 2014

THEATRE ON THE BAY EXTENDS ITS MAGIC TO PROPERTY

Property THE MOTHER OF DESIGN – CAPE TOWN, WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL 2014

TSAI DESIGN STUDIO WORKING OUTSIDE THE BOX

Adventure calls – New Tiguan

LOCAL IS LEKKER INSPIRING DESIGN & CUISINE

GAUTENG

LOCAL IS LEKKER INSPIRING DESIGN & CUISINE THEATRE ON THE BAY EXTENDS ITS MAGIC TO PROPERTY

Adventure calls – New Tiguan

TSAI DESIGN STUDIO WORKING OUTSIDE THE BOX JOZI CHIC ARRIVES IN HOUGHTON

Property

KWAZULU-NATAL

THEATRE ON THE BAY EXTENDS ITS MAGIC TO PROPERTY

grapes. The estate’s Sauvignon Blanc 2011 ﬂaunts gorgeous fruit layers and a creamy

TSAI DESIGN STUDIO WORKING OUTSIDE THE BOX THE MOTHER OF DESIGN – CAPE TOWN, WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL 2014

Adventure calls – New Tiguan

LOCAL IS LEKKER INSPIRING DESIGN & CUISINE

ﬁnish thanks to its long fermentation process. This tangy white wine enjoys the ﬂavours of pineapple and litchi with

Seeff Chairman Samuel Seeff’s bittersweet news for the property market

ON THIS MONTH’S COVERS New Tiguan, vwsa.co.za 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.

hints of asparagus on the palate, with a good long ﬁnish. Savour chilled with your favourite seafood dish. +27 (0)21 865 2022, closmalverne.co.za

P. LE GRANGE & SEUNS/SONS

medianova.co.za

facebook.com/thepropertymagazine

twitter.com/thepropertymag

ZA10ESKD130920/E

HOT PROPERTY

HOT SPACE

A PERFECT

setting

It’s not often that you find a gem by the side of the road, but Kloof ’s Delcairn Centre has a sparkling new jewel to flaunt

apis Lazuli started out 17 years ago

elegance, the old cabinets have been salvaged,

ceramics that Jo collects from as far aﬁeld

under a tree at a market, has had

coupled with new horizontal wall display units

as India, Namibia, Madagascar, Brazil and

several more permanent homes

and jikked into the palette of white. In contrast,

Australia, help to create a uniqueness of

since then, and now this unique

the ceiling and back wall sport recycled,

product. Taking her inspiration from the

jewellery boutique has been polished, reﬁned

unvarnished parquet ﬂooring, creating a raw,

objects, one by one, Jo designs the settings,

and unveiled again – to perfection.

tactile tone. And bang in the centre, balancing

which are then handcrafted in sterling silver –

the lines of the side displays, the show-table

little works of wearable art for those who like

owner and designer Jo Raw approves of the

unites modern lines and material with hand-

it just right.

new setting. ‘It really has made the stones

turned legs, thanks to a third-generation Italian

shine out,’ she says. She’s right about that.

craftsman employed for the project. Above

connects the rawness of the jewels to the

Under the guidance of Jan Botha of Jan Botha

the table, upside-down standing lamps form a

naturalness of the decor and to the ethos of

Designs, the clean and contemporary design

spectacle of light design, a Milky Way all their

the owner. Named after the lapis lazuli, a stone

of the new store offsets the jewellery with

own, and the white antique Balinese door at

of truth, harmony and popularity that has

elegance and quiet sophistication. And yet

the back of the store, bought by Jo on one of

shown extraordinary stability in the turbulent

none of the eclectic and quirky nature of the

her sourcing trips, hints at mysteries that will

tides of fashion, this gem of a store is poised

Lapis Lazuli brand has been lost.

never be unravelled.

for a bright, shining future.

Words André Fiore Photographs Sally Chance

Always most particular about her gems,

These features, along with all of the

Set against a stark white setting where raw concrete walls and ﬂoors exude understated

gemstones, fossils, carvings and antique

For here there is a balance, a thread that

+27 (0)31 764 4970, lapislazuli.co.za

Quirky ceiling lamps highlight the showroom’s central axis. 2Amethyst, turquoise, topaz and

Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more

quartz add natural sparkle. 3Recycled parquet ﬂooring is used for cladding, giving the walls a

shopping destinations of choice.

tactile edge.

November 2011 | 9

HOT PROPERTY

HOT PLATE

French romance, Argentinean flair, genuine ice cream and a coffee house with go

ZAHIRAH MOTALA is the culinary magician behind the edible works of art which emerge feather-light and fanciful from her company, Cupcake D’lights

Q How did you start with these exquisite cupcakes?

I have no baking or decorating training –

painting of a cupcake by an artist friend,

Foreign flavour

and I wanted to paint some. I searched

a varied and meaty menu which celebrates ‘the age-old relationship between ﬁre and

online for photographs and was instantly

food’. Besides some very ﬁnely done steaks, there are other favourites, including chorizo,

catapulted into the gorgeous world of

carpaccio, and their house speciality, the Argentinean chimichurri sauce – a delicious

cupcakes. I began experimenting with

combo of olive oil, parsley, garlic, oregano, white wine vinegar and sweet red pepper ﬂakes.

sugar paste, the standard medium, but

+27 (0)31 561 4106, barbacoa.co.za

I’m an artist by profession and this is an extension of that. It began when I saw a

For meat lovers, Bar Ba Coa has recently opened in Umhlanga’s Lighthouse Mall and offers

people don’t really like that taste, so I found a marshmallow fondant recipe and tweaked it so that it was delicious and workable. My family and friends were my guinea pigs, and I started making my cupcakes for special family occasions.

Q When did you think it could turn into a business? When my son was tiny, I couldn’t

work with oils, so I thought cakes and cupcakes would be a better medium. Then people started asking me to make them for functions, and my business just grew. I also love photography and put pics of the cupcakes on a blog. The word spread worldwide!

One of my most exciting was for Panda

each one gorgeously detailed. And I

Freshly ground

loved creating tiny pigeons for Winston

permanent store. Until now this popular brand has been operating as JoomVU Mobile

The Pigeon cupcakes!

Vending Kiosks, but its new setting has already attracted regulars who ﬁnd it the perfect

Diamonds at the Tourism Indaba. I had to create over 500 exclusive cupcakes,

Things just got hotter in Village Road Kloof now that Jooma Coffee has opened its ﬁrst

place to regroup, relax and recharge. As well as ﬁne coffee, Jooma offers deli and patisserie +27 (0)31 266 1979,

counters that offer everything from fresh wraps and sandwiches to freshly baked bread.

cupcakedlights.blogspot.com

+27 (0)31 764 5828, joomacoffee.com

10 | November 2011

Compiled by André Fiore

Q What’s the strangest or most prestigious request you’ve ever had?

HOT PROPERTY

HOT PLATE

Romance and roses

If you go anywhere or eat anything this summer, it’s got to be at the Burlesque Café in Ramsgate. This is a fun little café that foodies will love and people will ﬂock to. Friday nights are for French romance – evening dress and boa style – with scatterings of rose petals and sultry French café music setting the scene. Sunday afternoons are about long Mediterranean lunches; open a bottle and order the meze – you’re not going anywhere in a hurry. The rest of the time there are plenty of other treats, too, including handmade pasta, home-grown herbs and home-made just about everything else. The al fresco dining area is based on the current pop-up restaurant trend: each day the garden restaurant area magically appears from nowhere. The setup is changed daily, as are the table colour schemes and layout. And everything you see is for sale, so if you fancy the plate you ate off or the chair you sat on, you can purchase that, too. +27 (0)39 314 9886, theburlesquecafe.com

The A-list

Grab a copy of the just-launched SA’s Award Winning Restaurants 2011 for the latest on what to eat and where to get it. Published by the Restaurant Association of South Africa, this is an independent guide of the country’s top eateries – based on votes from the public – and well worth dipping into. +27 (0)11 705 2054, restaurant.org.za

Bear hugs for Christmas

The Lindt Chocolate Gold Bear will warm the cockles of anyone’s heart this festive season. Made from the ﬁnest milk chocolate, Lindt’s newest character represents affection, friendship, empathy and appreciation of those we love, making it the perfect stocking ﬁller. +27 (0)21 421 3107, chocolatestudio.co.za

Moo-ving on up

Joining Ballina Ice Cream’s line-up

of truly great ﬂavours, including mango, passion, cheesecake and cassata are the everpopular Rocky Road and Coffee Pecan options. Made from milk and cream compliments of their own registered Jersey herd, with no vegetable fats, added preservatives or colourants, this premium ice cream is well worth popping into the freezer for festive season splashes. Weekly deliveries to Midlands, Berg and Durban regions. +27 (0)83 356 3153, ballina.co.za

November 2011 | 11

HOT PROPERTY

HOT DECOR & DESIGN Giant Leap has 30 years’ experience

Books that will inspire, Christmas gift ideas and makeover ideas for walls

in providing innovative workspace solutions and subscribes to the philosophy that ofﬁce design is about creating a space that allows people to be comfortable, empowered, productive and effective. We chatted to Head Designer

TIM PRINS about

lighting up your space.

Q How important is lighting to an area?

comfort and performance of staff. The

African glamour

consequences of inadequate lighting

love the Nguni cowhide-covered Monk ottoman, which can be used as a seat, table or

may range from a dreary working

footrest. These striking pieces are locally made, and the different markings on the cowhide

environment to one that’s conducive to

make each one unique. +27 (0)31 811 5106, coricraft.co.za

It’s essential, as it can impact on the

Coricraft has extended its furniture range to include occasional tables and ottomans. We

eye strain, headaches, poor posture and muscle fatigue.

Q What’s the latest in lighting trends?

and bounds since its inception. Just

Local luxury

about any conventional light ﬁtting can

enduring, functional art, and their

now be replaced by an LED without

beautiful crafts, straight from a

losing any effect, and there are huge

workshop in the Karoo, are fast

implications for power-saving, too.

making design news worldwide.

LED technology has advanced in leaps

Q Do you have a preference for any type of lighting feature?

Avoova’s mission is to create

From champagne buckets to giant wine coolers, belts to photo frames, these products reveal the delicacy of the ostrich eggshells that are carefully incorporated into their design. Made

In the realm of ofﬁce design we are

by hand, each item is unique. We are

governed by some certainties, such as

inspired by this 18-bottle wine cooler,

the general ﬁttings and task lighting, but

a stylish accessory to any Christmas

ﬂoor lamps and hanging pendants are

soirée. +27 (0)21 422 1620, avoova.com

an opportunity to add some interest and colour to the design.

Q How can good lighting inspire employees?

Art alive

It always helps to ‘justify’ investments by combining

A well-illuminated ofﬁce will certainly

shopping with art. A great place

inspire employees to be more creative,

to indulge in this is the newly

vibrant and alert, making them more

opened Plumbago Lifestyle

productive. Colours will be more

Gallery in Florida Road. Stocking

reﬂective, which in turn will have an

a well-chosen range of lifestyle

impact on the staff. Lighting levels

items that make the grade,

are based on the application of the

Plumbago offers shoppers a

room. For instance, lounge areas have

choice selection of decor and

softer lighting.

design delights, such as Ardmore ceramics, Assouline coffee table

+27 (0)11 880 1490, giantleap.co.za

books, Missibaba bags and Hunter boots. +27 (0)31 303 8730

12 | November 2011

HOT PROPERTY

HOT DECOR & DESIGN

Peepers creepers

Get those headlights primed for the festive season and be the belle of the road this summer with a set of lashes or kissable red smackers from CarLashes. While you’re about it, don’t miss out on the eyeliner, either, available in clear, diamond or pink crystal shades. CarLashes are new to KZN and make a really fun festive season gift +27 (0)71 444 4111, carlashes.co.za

Wall story

Add some oomph to your kiddies’ room with this hot new release from Durban-based illustrator and designer, Sean Crozier of Design Meets Life. Nine wallpaper ranges, including Transport, Safari, Space Patrol, Princess and Playground, shake the dust off bedroom themes and add local zest. Even more appealing is that its application is eco-friendly – just add water to apply, or to remove, leaving no marking. We say, ‘Roll it out; we like it!’ +27 (0)84 451 4683, designmeetslife.com

Fashionable architecture

Synonymous with luxury, style and pure sophistication, it’s no surprise that Louis Vuitton has created a book that explores the cutting-edge architectural spaces that house the brand worldwide, including international stores, industrial sites and unrealised projects. The book, titled Louis Vuitton: Architecture and Interiors, also includes revealing interviews. Splurge on the limited edition set, available with three different covers:

Compiled by André Fiore Tim Prins interview by Catherine Riley

Tokyo Namiki-dori, Hong Kong Landmark and New York Fifth Avenue. louisvuitton.com

Sofa, so good

When it comes to a show-stopper of a sofa, Ardmore Design Collection’s Qalakabusha – Zulu for ‘new beginnings’ – couch is it. This limited-edition sofa – there’ll be only 40 of them produced – has just been launched onto the market after winning accolades at design shows around the world last year. Ardmore Design Collection was launched in 2010, Ardmore’s 25th year, with a focus on translating its distinctive colour, vibrancy, wit and style into luxurious home fashion items, such as dinnerware, fabrics and furniture. +27 (0)33 234 4869, ardmoreceramics.co.za

November 2011 | 13

HOT INDULGENCE

Fabulous goodies for your Christmas stocking and holiday destinations in which to unwind

COOK UP A STORM

Have some fun this Christmas with Le Creuset’s range of great festive gifts. We love the stoneware pudding dish. lecreuset.co.za

A BELLE OF A BAG On every girl’s wish list this Christmas is the Gucci Bella Tote Bag. At a whopping R18 760, we hope you have been extra good this year! Made with cuir leather,

PLAY IT

it has an intricate woven handle and woven leather bow as well as an

Board games go hand in hand with family time and the holidays.

on-trend bamboo detail and tassels.

This year, prepare for the ultimate family championship with Dexter and The Mentalist board games. Step into Dexter’s shoes and hunt down

A gorgeous indulgence. gucci.com

a suspect who has slipped through the justice system, or be the ﬁrst person to solve a murder à la Patrick Jane. Available from Prima Toys. primatoys.co.za

FEELING FLUSH Samsonite Tuscany Leather Goods is a traditional line made from vegetable leather. Choose from its stylish choices of leather wallets for the perfect Christmas gift. +27 (0)31 266 0620,

INSPIRED BY NATURE

samsonite.com

The David Green Leaf Collection of revolutionary and unique eyewear incorporates nature into its design. Indigenous leaves are dried, dyed and grafted onto the eyewear material by way of a natural cotton-based acetate. The result? Eyewear that is nature inspired

FLOWER POWER Personalise your gifts by creating a

and nature created.

bespoke bloom ring with the help of

greeneyewear.com

genius jeweller, Mark Gold. Choose from a range of exquisite semiprecious stones set in 18ct white gold. Add some sparkle and surround your gem with diamonds for an exceptional ﬁnish.

GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT Haribo Bijoux jewellery, from the makers of Haribo sweets, has just been launched in SA and features gorgeous charms and crystal bears on sterling silver chains. Sweeten up your loved one these holidays. +27 (0)82 908 1808, blinkandco.com

14 | November 2011

Compiled by André Fiore

+27 (0)31 303 4417, markgold.net

HOT PROPERTY

TAKE THE TIME Granny Mouse Country House & Spa, the Midlands’ favourite for wholesome getaways and old-fashioned pampering, has just launched 12 new suites. With its giant daybeds, ﬁreplaces and glorious vistas of the Lion’s River, Granny Mouse remains a great place to recharge. +27 (0)33 234 4071, grannymouse.co.za

NEED FOR SPEED The new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, designed with speed and performance in

SUMMER LOVIN’

mind, is for the individual who has

Cover up or show off your summer

a lust for life, a passion for freedom

tan. However you wear Lilikoi’s

and the spirit of adventure. This

new 100%-cotton summery scarf,

iconic timepiece is worn by racing

make sure you go bold in colour

champion Sir Jackie Stewart. Rolex

and print. +27 (0)82 780 3221

has launched a new version of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, just in time for Christmas. +27 (0)11 784 9230; rolex.com

DO YOUR GREEN BIT To ensure you have a green Christmas, Faithful to Nature online for efﬁcient, hassle-free

WE WISH YOU A SCENTED CHRISTMAS

shopping. There are over 1 500

Create a scented haven with Charlotte Rhys’

authentic, natural or organic

beautifully boxed gifts. Choose from Aroma room

products to choose from. We

spray fragrances or a variety of boxed candle gift sets

love the eco gift hampers – one

– perfect for stockings.

for every member of the family.

charlotterhys.com

brings you organic gift delights

faithful-to-nature.co.za

INSIDE AND OUT

ALL DECKED OUT

Treat a loved one or yourself and pop in to Julanda Lotriet’s

Take to the water on the just-launched Jozini Tiger Lodge and Spa

brand-new salon in Ballito. Julanda has some serious training

houseboat, Tobias, and chill these holidays as you cruise the wide

behind her and national and international qualiﬁcations in

expanses of Lake Jozini. This luxe vessel has four en-suite bedrooms

somatology. The salon, Beyond Beauty, uses only natural

with private balconies, as well as a Jacuzzi, gas braai and bar on deck,

products, and clients are empowered to make balanced,

allowing guests to slip into holiday mode while they ﬁsh, tan or simply

educated choices about their beauty treatment. Julanda insists

unwind. Options include full-service, fully catered trips and self-catering

on consulting one-on-one with every client in order to provide

holidays. +27 (0)35 572 1020, signaturelifehotels.com

natural solutions to their skin and body concerns. Her latest imports are the Bellabaci massage cups, an age-old form of massage and circulation stimulation. +27 (0)32 586 3220

November 2011 | 15

HOT PROPERTY

HOT FESTIVE TIPPLES

Our pick of this silly season’s best festive drinks BIGGER IS BETTER Asara’s ﬂagship Bordeaux blend now comes in a magnum bottle. Beautifully presented, the Bell Tower Estate 2004 has delicious, intense aromas

AND THE OSCAR GOES TO …

of black cherry and cassis, complemented by hints of mocha. +27 (0)21 888 8000, asarawine.co.za

For the man who has taste, style, and everything else, Glenmorangie presents

CHRISTMAS COMBO

Glenmorangie Signet. This award-winning

Turkey? Check. Knorhoek Shiraz 2009? Check.

tipple has been voted Highland Single-

The perfect complement to a Christmas roast,

Malt Whisky of the Year 2011 by Whisky

this new vintage was created from a unique

Magazine, and will make the perfect gift

mix of soils, characters and microclimates. Ideal

for the connoisseur.+27 (0)21 797 5450,

growing conditions have

rgbc.co.za

resulted in an intense ﬂavour and complexity of rich plum and mixed spices and

SHOT, ANYONE?

white pepper.

Treat your host to a

+27 (0)21 865 2114,

bottle of Lovoka this

perfumed youngberries,

Christmas. Available in

WHAT A PACKAGE We love this single-malt whisky in

chocolate or caramel, it’s the perfect after-dinner tipple. luvlovoka.com

its contemporary, chic packaging. The Macallan comes in three Oak and 18 Sherry Oak, available in

GAGA OVER BELVEDERE

bronze, green or purple gift packs.

Associated with high-end fashion events

varietals, 12 Sherry Oak, 15 Fine

+27 (0)21 797 5450, rgbc.co.za

and endorsed by top recording artists, such as Lady Gaga, Belvedere Vodka Original has become known as the edgy party drink. Summer 2011 just won’t be the same without a Belvedere-infused Cosmo. Cheers! belvederevodka.com

BACK IN BLACK Johnnie Walker Double Black is a smokier and more intense Walker Black Label, for double to release the smoky ﬂavours,

HOLD YOUR LIQUOR

and make an impression on

Dom Pérignon is celebrating its classic

your guests this Christmas.

2002 vintage by casing it in the carbon

0800 272 634,

black insulated Shield Box. Moët &

brandhouse.co.za

Chandon Impérial now comes in an

the ﬂavour. Serve with water

COCOA LOCO

isothermic pack adorned with shiny

What would a Christmas party be without tequila? Recently launched in South Africa, Olmeca

silver snowﬂakes. And Veuve Clicquot’s

Fusion Dark Chocolate Tequila is our new favourite party drink. You simply can’t go wrong with

latest innovation is the Clicq’Up foldable

this blend of favourite South American exports – tequila and cocoa. +27 (0)21 405 8800,

champagne bucket. domperignon.com;

pernod-ricard.co.za

moet.com; veuve-clicquot.com

16 | November 2011

Compiled by Genevieve Fisher

version of its brother, Johnnie

HOT PROPERTY

HOT STUFF

LIFE IN 3-D Not sure how your building designs and ideas on paper will translate in reality? The Render Room has the solution. Its energetic, photorealistic 3-D renderings bring architectural concepts to life for architects and interior designers. From plans to elevations and right down to the slightest detail, the Render Room’s designers can help you with all your design needs. They can even create panoramic views, renovation before-and-afters, room-for-room renders, interior and exterior renderings based on any time of the day and lighting condition simulations based on the development’s location, and can add realistic objects and people to the renderings to make them more lifelike.

+27 (0)21 462 7910, renderroom.co.za

Barbara Siedle, Moya Waitress

Cinderella, 24 November – 31 December

everyone. Brought to you by

The classic rags-to-riches tale of

+27 (0)33 394 9994

a young woman with a helpful

Durban – City For All Seasons Exhibition, 30 November – Until Christmas closure Hosted by the Elizabeth Gordon Gallery, the exhibition coincides with the COP17 Climate Change Conference. Local artists,

Land Rover.

Tickets R80–R130.

Alice in Wonderland Adult Panto, Until 31 December

0861 915 8000, computicket.com

The classic fairy tale gets a

fairy godmother is showing at the Playhouse Opera Theatre.

naughty twist at Suncoast Casino’s

Siedle (watercolours), Hugh Mbayiwa (mixed media) and Bruce

Aaron McIlroy at Work, Until 27 November

Backhouse (watercolours) have taken up the challenge of

Comedy king Aaron McIlroy hits

painting something of the city while bringing into the theme

the high-powered corporate world

the topics of climate change and eco-awareness. Featured in

with his latest ingenious script

Big Top Rock, Until 8 January 2012

this exhibition are the people (rickshaw drivers, ﬁshermen and

and shows he means business, at

The sequel to the popular show,

waitresses), places (the market, harbour and beachfront) and

the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre.

The Rock Circus, this is a Gateway

ﬂora and fauna of the area. ‘While knowing that Durban people

Tickets R95. 0861 915 8000,

Barnyard Theatre rock concert

are always very receptive to paintings of their surroundings,

computicket.com

with a difference. It includes aerial

including Robert Domijan (oils), Hussein Salim (oils), Barbara

Complied by André Fiore

the Umzinyathi Canoe Club and

I also wanted to be able to offer our visitors a chance to visit a

Sunzone. Tickets R100–R250. 0861 915 8000, computicket.com

acts, jugglers and music from icons

and the congress,’ says Joy Reynolds of the Elizabeth Gordon

2011 Land Rover 50-Miler Canoe Marathon, 3 December

Gallery. +27 (0)31 303 8133, elizabethgordon.co.za

Loads of family entertainment

and Sundays. +27 (0)31 566 3045,

make this a great day out for

barnyardtheatres.co.za

Durban gallery and see what our artists have to offer. Plus it is an opportunity for them to take home a memento of Durban

such as Prince, Lenny Kravitz, Pink, AC/DC, U2 and Santana. Tickets R135; R100 on Tuesdays

November 2011 | 17

18 | November 2011

PRIME PROPERTY

Theatre Place is not only accommodation for rent, but also a visual biography of its proprietor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; theatre producer extraordinaire, Pieter Toerien

Words Genevieve Fisher Photographs Tim Lake

November 2011 | 19

prime property

“After every level was complete I would stand on the cement floor, look at the views and, pointing my finger as if I were producing a stage show, say, ‘I want a window here, here and here’”

o say that Pieter Toerien, one of South Africa’s foremost theatre impresarios, has led an interesting life would be an understatement of note. Pieter has produced, funded and brought hundreds of well-known theatre productions to local audiences, and so it is no surprise that his latest venture, Theatre Place, tends towards the dramatic. Set just off the vibrant Camps Bay beachfront, Theatre Place is a contemporary block of four apartments adjacent to Pieter’s Theatre On the Bay and is framed by the Twelve Apostles range. ‘The site where Theatre Place is now had two old beach cottages on it and when the plot came up for sale I jumped at it, mainly because I was nervous about what would be built there and I wanted to take control of that ambiguity,’ says Pieter. Once the transaction had gone through, Pieter came up with a big idea – a business idea. Most of the small commercial theatres in Cape Town, Theatre On the Bay included, are privately owned, and because the local live entertainment industry has been hit badly

20 | November 2011

by the global recession, theatre owners need to think outside the box office to generate an income. ‘The idea to build four rentable apartments, three as longlet ones and one for short-term rentals as well as for our use, was a strategic way to continue funding Theatre On the Bay. And it’s been very successful,’ says Pieter. He enlisted architect Richard Honikman, with whom he had previously worked on his house and who, according to Pieter, knows how he thinks. He says, ‘I briefed Richard and he got it straight away. I wanted a contemporary block that not only took advantage of the sea views in front but also of the mountain views from behind. After every level was complete I would stand on the cement floor, look at the views and, pointing my finger as if I were producing a stage-show, say, “I want a window here, here and here”. It was important to me that Theatre Place should look like the sister of Theatre On the Bay, that patrons would look at one or the other and see that they belong together.’

Richard says, ‘Working with Pieter on this project was at all times stimulating and exciting. His vision, courage and creative spirit were energising.’ Pieter’s better half in all things interior, Shelley Rorke, was brought in to add that special touch of glamour and drama to two of the four apartments at Theatre Place. Having worked with Pieter before on the refurbishment of the downstairs bar area at Theatre On the Bay, Shelley believes that she and Pieter complement each other. ‘When we walked into a shop, Pieter saw the art and I saw the furniture, and together we decided whether a piece would work or not,’ she says. Shopping they did a lot of. Shelley confesses to turning Pieter into a shopaholic, although she believes he would never admit it. But when asked about his newfound hobby, Pieter not only fesses up, but does so with the same dramatic flair he showed when talking about placing windows in the preliminary structure of Theatre Place: ‘I love shopping now! It’s the best – going into a shop and saying, “I’ll have that, that and that!”’

prime property

Opening page Pieter Toerien and Shelley Rorke have set the stage for opulent living. Opposite, clockwise from top left The upstairs living area leads out onto a balcony with swimming pool and views; the chandelier used in the local production of Evita is set against two photopgraphs by Mark Steyn; the open-plan kitchen; one of the many eccentric wall pieces. This page, clockwise from top left An en-suite bedroom with fashionable wallpaper by Vivienne Westwood; the stairwell leading to the road is hung with theatre posters that complement the quirky city-inspired wallpaper; detail of scatter cushions in the open-plan lounge; Pieter’s collection of movie and theatre posters are prominently displayed in the passageway; the art deco wallpaper in the one of the bedrooms heightens the sense of drama.

They began by designing the interiors of the short-term-rental apartment, which is used as holiday accommodation or to house VIP guests or performers, and then did one of the longer-rent ones. What strikes you when you walk into the first apartment is the large volume as well as the flow between the indoor and outdoor areas. ‘The ample space in the open-plan living area allowed for a large Pierre Cronje dining table that had been sitting in Pieter’s garage at home because it was too big. Hanging above it is a grand chandelier from the recent South African production of Evita, and together they fit perfectly in the space,’ says Shelley. On the lower level are two sea-facing en-suite bedrooms, and a third with its own entrance and separate bathroom. ‘When I first met with Richard I made it clear that the upper level which had the best views was where the open-plan living area should be and the lower level should accommodate the bedrooms,’ says Pieter. But the walls are what Pieter and Shelley believe add that special something.

‘My favourite feature has to be the wallpaper in the two bedrooms and downstairs staircase,’ says Shelley. ‘They’re quite mad, and they delight me every time I go downstairs.’ The first bedroom is covered in Vivienne Westwood-designed wallpaper featuring florals in dramatic hues of red, black and white, while the second bedroom’s feature wall is not for the faint-hearted. ‘There is something quite eerie, yet very attractive, about having a wall full of eyes staring at you,’ says Shelley. She is not exaggerating: the monochrome colour palette is made all the more striking by the black-and-white wallpaper featuring close-ups of different women’s eyes, which make you feel as if you’ve either fallen down the rabbit hole or that your earlier cup of tea might’ve been spiked. The apartment also features the collection of posters and artworks that Pieter has put together over the years. They all hang together in a clash of styles

that works. ‘The posters have been very effective in adding something special to the interiors Shelley’s overseen, and they also tell the story of Theatre On the Bay and my work,’ he says. ‘I’ve got a couple of London posters as well as ones of local productions and the actual photographs from those shows, such as the first Cats musical staged at Artscape in 2002. Everyone who stays here absolutely loves them.’ The holiday/VIP apartment was put on the rental market last November and the response has been overwhelming. Pieter attributes this to the sense of drama the interiors evoke. ‘For those of us in theatre, having eccentricity around is the norm, but for most other people it isn’t,’ he says. When you stay here you feel as if you’re the star in your very own stage production, and like one of Pieter’s extraordinary plays, Theatre Place lets you escape from everyday life.

With thanks to … Theatre On the Bay, +27 (0)21 438 3301, theatreonthebay.co.za

November 2011 | 21

ON SHOW

M Words AndrĂŠ Fiore Photographs Grant Pitcher

any owners speak about indoor-outdoor living and bringing the outdoors inside, but this home in Zimbali Forest Estate is built around a number of key trees and truly embraces the bush around it. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a home where the scents of the surrounding forest are close enough to get under your skin. The presence of the forest is felt from the moment of arrival at this home designed by Ballito-based architect Mabette V â&#x20AC;&#x2030; ermaak. Over the bridge, across the koi pond, the front door invites guests past an atrium of tangled indigenous plants before opening onto the quiet welcome of the house. Its smooth floors in marble tile both indoors and out (the outside tiles have been sandblasted for traction) create a harmonious palette that emphasises the continuity of the areas. And opened up, with vast windows, and doors folded back against the canopy of leaves and trees, the house itself

Jungle love Its redefinition of bringing the outside in is what sets this home apart November 2011 | 23

ON SHOW

Shower Haus, +27 (0)31 312 9095

becomes a platform, almost a tree house in the bush. ‘Everywhere possible, doors and windows fold back or slide away, turning the house into a veranda,’ says the owner. The fantastically huge windows in the kitchen have the family enjoying the abundant birdlife throughout the day, while the entertainment and living area boasts an ingenious indoor gas braai, hidden cleverly behind beautifully carved panel doors, a number of defined lounge and lounging areas, and a gracious veranda around the pool. A separate, put-your-feet-up TV lounge with an outsized television has more than one advantage:

‘Besides the comfort and warmth that the rooms offer in the evenings and at colder times of the year, we have noticed that having the TV room as a separate area in a way minimises the amount of viewing we as a family do, and conversation, games, music – the house has a fully automated sound system as well as plug-and-play PC connections in every room – are enjoyed instead,’ says the owner. Upstairs, the four bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms join the outside guest suite in providing peaceful, airy sleeping quarters. The golden glow comes compliments of the solid Rhodesian teak flooring. The main bedroom showcases latticed

screening behind the bed and in the bathroom area, and a spectacular outdoor shower. Decorated with treasures brought from the owners’ previous lives in Russia (seven years) and China (three years), here is a comfortable mix of old and new. Chinese antiques, Russian carpets, the deco lounge suite and wing chairs rub shoulders with the modern lines of the gleaming kitchen. The overriding atmosphere of this warm, eclectic family home is comfortable and natural. It’s no wonder, then, that the mongooses sleep just under the ledge, the owls roost nearby and the bucks bask on the lawn.

Opening page and this page, middle right Generous glass walls enable the family to fully appreciate their home’s verdant surroundings. Top right Clean lines, wooden textures and a pared-down colonial look contrast pleasantly with the old-world ambience cast by the chandeliers in the open-plan bedroom, while the roomy bathtub that stands in the room winks at modern sensibilities. Above left Shower Haus supplies and installs custom and standard frameless or framed shower enclosures, glass splashbacks and internal glass doors. It prides itself on the reputation it has achieved for excellent service and customer satisfaction. Opposite, top left to right Having nature a hair’s breadth away makes cooking in the stylish kitchen a pleasure; the bridge crosses the symmetrical expanse of the koi pond and adjacent stone-clad walls and a knot of trees, instilling a sense of calm before one reaches the front door. Bottom Stefcon Projects is a residential, commercial and industrial construction company, structured to provide its clients with the optimum blend of construction expertise and innovative building techniques managed by its dedicated project teams.

24 | November 2011

ON SHOW

Stefcon Projects, +27 (0)31 564 9501

Professionals List Stefcon Projects – Builder +27 (0)31 564 9501, calvin@stefcon.co.za, stefcon.co.za Shower Haus – Shower Doors +27 (0)31 312 9095, sue@showerhaus.co.za, showerhaus.co.za

November 2011 | 25

COMPETITION

LUXURY WIN! African Pride Crystal Towers Hotel & Spa transcends expectations

PRIZE T VALUED A

R30 000!

frican Pride Crystal Towers Hotel & Spa is a 180-bedroom luxury hotel designed with the exacting leisure traveller in mind. Centrally

located in the urban business, shopping and residential hub of Century City, the hotel is a mere 15 minutes from Cape Town International Airport, the city centre, the V & A Waterfront, beautiful beaches and the start of the luscious Cape Winelands. Not to mention that Intaka Island wildlife and wetlands reserve, and Canal Walk, the largest shopping centre in South Africa, with over 400 stores and restaurants,

Stay On Us Exclusive Offer At R995 per person sharing, per night, this exclusive offer is ideal for families or friends who are looking to take some time out this summer. Book one room and the second one is on us! For more information or to reserve this exclusive offer, contact the Reservations Team on +27 (0)21 525 3888, or visit africanpridehotels.com/ crystaltowers.

are within walking distance of the hotel. Retreat to the comfort of the hotel after

Terms & conditions:

exploring the city and take some time to

Single

observe the Cape skyline from the iconic

night stay. Valid seven days a week.

suspended swimming pool and deck, unwind

Full prepayment required. Subject to

at the world- class Life Day Spa or dine in with

availability. Valid until 29 February 2012.

your choice of appetising refreshments from the hotel’s Towers Restaurant, the Deli, Ruby Bar and 24-hour room service. The luxurious bedrooms are equipped with a ﬂat-screen LCD TV, complimentary DVDs, mini bar and air conditioning, and the fully appointed spacious bathrooms feature the hotel’s famous cylindrical frosted Crystal Showers and LED mood lighting. African

Pride

Crystal

Towers

Hotel’s

numerous facilities and experienced personnel are on hand to ensure that you have a relaxing, fun-ﬁlled and productive stay, whether you’re

rate

R1 990.

Minimum

two-

Win!

One lucky couple stands to win ﬁve nights’ accommodation in a luxurious suite, including breakfast and dinner daily at the Towers Restaurant, a sushimaking experience at the Deli, a trip to Intaka Island and two Journey of Life spa experiences at Life Day Spa. Return airport transfers in a Bentley, compliments of Exotic Cars, are included should the winning couple be from out of town. To win, tell us: What is the name of the nature reserve at Century City? Email your answers to readers@medianova.co.za with the words ‘Crystal Towers Hotel’ in the subject line. Terms and conditions apply.

travelling for business, leisure or a little of both.

Terms & conditions: The Hotel voucher must be handed over to the receptionist on duty upon arrival. Charges for all other services provided by the Hotel will be charged for and payable in cash or credit card upon departure from the Hotel. The issue of this voucher does not imply or confer any credit facilities within the Hotel. This voucher is not transferable and may not be exchanged for cash or for any other services provided. Any extension of stay will be charged at standard rates by the Hotel. This voucher cannot be coupled with any package scheme which may be in existence or on offer at any given time. Transport or transfers to and from the Hotel shall be the entire responsibility of the voucher holder. This voucher must be used at African Pride Crystal Towers Hotel & Spa and cannot be transferred to any other Protea Hotel or African Pride Hotel. This voucher is valid until 30 April 2012. African Pride Crystal Towers Hotel & Spa reserves the right to withdraw or cancel this voucher if in its opinion it is subject to misuse of any description.

26 | November 2011

ON SHOW

M Words AndrĂŠ Fiore Photographs Grant Pitcher

Jungle love Its redefinition of bringing the outside in is what sets this home apart November 2011 | 27

ON SHOW

Shower Haus, +27 (0)31 312 9095

28 | November 2011

ON SHOW

Stefcon Projects, +27 (0)31 564 9501

Professionals List Stefcon Projects – Builder +27 (0)31 564 9501, calvin@stefcon.co.za, stefcon.co.za Shower Haus – Shower Doors +27 (0)31 312 9095, sue@showerhaus.co.za, showerhaus.co.za

November 2011 | 29

LIGHTING

Show-stoppers

Our pick of some of the most innovative, clever, and beautiful designer lights out and up there With thanks to … Cobinlight, +27 (0)31 312 1460, cobinlight.com dhk thinkspace, +27 (0)21 421 6803, dhk.co.za Metropole Architects, +27 (0)31 765 3832, metropolearchitects.com

Up against the wall

Standing their ground

Show-stoppers: 1Willowlamp’s Spiral Nebula 1 000 2 Brand Van Egmond’s Hollywood Chandelier Conical, from Limeline 3Foscarini’s Planet Grande, from Créma Design 4Heath Nash’s Bottleform Ball. Up against the wall: 5LZF’s Pleg-A, from Glo Lighting 6Foscarin’s Bahia, from Créma Design 7Slamp’s Mille Bolle, from The Modern Home Company. Hanging Out: 8Fontana Arte’s Globo di Luce, from Robert Thomson 9Foscarini’s New Buds, from Créma Design 10Slamp’s Morgana, from The Modern Home Company.

30 | November 2011

LIGHTING

10 9

Hanging out

19 7

Sitting pretty

Standing their ground: 11Vibia’s Balance, from Robert Thomson 12Angelpoise’s Giant 1227, from Glo Lighting 13Pablo’s Solis, from Glo Lighting Standing Lamp, from Okha 15Fly-Pitcher’s Arch Lamp. Sitting Pretty: 16Heath Nash’s Bottlebase with Bucket Shade 17Foscarini’s Behive Lamp, from Créma Design 18Pitch Table Lamp with Grafﬁti Shade, from Weylandts 19Foscarini’s Birdie, from Créma Design 20Pablo’s Clamp Lamp, from Glo Lighting 21Penta’s Nina Glass, from Head Interiors. 14

November 2011 | 31

An exclusive invitation to own a piece of Africa famous Big 5 s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC; a ic fr A of y or it rr te inside the deep

Prices sta rting from R3m il

There are only 5 sites left within this Big 5 Game Reserve so why not claim your piece of Africa while you still have the chance. These are 16 bed lodge sites! This kind of opportunity only comes by once in a lifetime, dont be sorry that you missed out!

www nambitisites com

Rob Le Sueur | tel::+27 (0)82 450 9641 | e-mail:: rob@venturepartners.co.za Kate Watkin | tel::+27 (0)82 324 4929 | e-mail:: kate@venturepartners.co.za Wade Kerdachi | tel::+27 (0)83 652 7397 | e-mail:: wade@utopia.co.za

nambitiSites_HP_PropertyMagazine.indd 1

28/10/2011 14:31:28

DESIGN

‘I

don’t like to be pigeonholed,’ says Y Tsai, otherwise known simply as ‘Tsai’. ‘In many instances, designers, whether they’re architects, interior specialists or furniture designers, often work in their own bubbles, but my passion for design extends to many disciplines, which is the result of each of them informing the others.’ When you consider Tsai’s own life story, it makes sense that he puts context above other concerns in his practice, Tsai Design Studio, a multifaceted business focusing on architecture, interiors and furniture. He is what you would

When it comes to design in its many forms, Y Tsai of Tsai Design Studio is all about context, telling the story of people and places

Words Genevieve Fisher Portrait photograph courtesy Riekert Cloete Project photographs courtesy Tsai Design Studio

in context November 2011 | 33

DESIGN

call a global citizen whose identity has been shaped by the various contexts he has inhabited, and this translates into his appreciation of design in its myriad manifestations. Tsai is of Taiwanese descent, but he considers himself first and foremost an African. Born in the francophone Central African Republic, Tsai attended primary school in Taiwan, after which he came back to Africa, living in Swaziland and Botswana with his parents, who finally settled in Pretoria, where he attended Pretoria Boys High. He then moved to Cape Town to pursue a tertiary education in architecture at the University of Cape Town. But this was only the beginning of his design journey. ‘After I completed my degree I went to London to do my two-year work stint, after which I travelled to various countries and became very excited about design in all its forms – architecture, interiors and furniture specifically,’ he says. When he got back to Cape Town he started designing furniture, as it was a fairly quick, small-scale process that allowed him creative freedom. ‘What started to happen, though, was that through designing furniture, ideas for architecture and interiors started to form, and now my practice has come full circle, as I’ve been doing all of these,’ he says. His Nested Bunk Beds provide an apt example of this process.

34 | November 2011

A series of roll-out beds that fit underneath each other, the Nested Bunk Beds design launched Tsai into the international arena, winning him a Red Dot Award as well as the accolade of the Most Beautiful Object in South African at the 2008 Design Indaba. The space-saving design also caught the eye of Safmarine, which together with Woolworths approached him to convert a shipping container into a classroom as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy. ‘It was such an exciting project to work on: first, because of its purpose as a school facility; second, because it was on a tight budget; and last, because I was given creative freedom to inject it with my vision.’ Created for Vissershok Primary School, in the Durbanville Valley outside Cape Town, the multifunctional Vissershok Container is used as a classroom for Grade R learners in the morning and in the afternoon it serves as a small library for the rest of the school. ‘The best part about it is that we got a lot of mileage out of it in terms of design, which you wouldn’t think possible for such a small space,’ says Tsai. Since his successful completion of the Vissershok project, which won the 2011 Award for Architecture from the Cape Institute for Architecture,Tsai has been approached to do a few more container conversions, but he is reluctant to call himself the ‘space-savingcontainer guy’. ‘The space-saving features were more

of a consequence than the intention. My design style is one of multifunctionality, namely, designing furniture and buildings that have more than one function.’ Case in point: Tsai’s Hammerhead Sofa System, an edgy, contemporary sitting chair and sofa with lowered armrests that act as side-tables and happen to look like, well, hammerhead sharks. The core of his work is residential architecture but it’s in the CSR projects where he feels his creativity can soar. And it does, the results earning him a seat on the bid committee for Cape Town’s World Design Capital (WDC) 2014 campaign. The vision of the initiative recognise a city for its use of design for the upliftment of its people. Because his CSR work is widely recognised for achieving this goal, it follows that Tsai would want to get deeply involved in the WDC 2014 bid: ‘I signed up to be on the bid committee in addition to being part of the Cape Town Design Network because what these initiatives are about is the promotion of design in a city, no matter what kind. The best part for me is that I get exposed to amazing products and innovative designers who are very inspiring, such as the Joule Car and Heath Nash – they are proudly South African and are benefitting society.’ Tsai believes that Cape Town won the bid because all of the submitted projects stick to the

DESIGN

‘South Africans have learnt to be resilient and have found ways to survive it all, resulting in immense creativity and innovation’ vision outlined by the WDC 2014: ‘The reason we were shortlisted and ultimately won is because of our heritage – apartheid, the struggle for liberation and the massive social divide that was created as a result. South Africans have learnt to be resilient and have found ways to survive it all, resulting in immense creativity and innovation. ‘Design is where this is very evident, and there are some amazing ideas coming out of Cape Town and South Africa as a whole, even more remarkable than First World countries, which value the look of an object over its story.’ Tsai’s passion for South African design is infectious He quotes his contemporary, Ravi Naidoo, founder of Design Indaba: ‘The world is doing design that

has content, but SA is doing design that has context.’ Tsai believes that it is this context that gives South African design its edge. ‘If I look at the success of the Nested Bunk Beds System, for example, I believe its success wasn’t just because of the aesthetic, but because of its story. It has been changing the lives of children in orphanages around the country,’ he says. So what is the moral of this story? According to Tsai, in today’s economically stressed times, people value things differently. It’s no longer about a chair being stylish or a building being beautiful, but about the relationship that the chair or building has with its context, how it is impacting the lives of those in that context and what story it has to tell. +27 (0)21 423 7104, tsaidesignstudio.com

Opening page The proposed design for Kloof Street Studios, situated between Long and Kloof Streets in Cape Town. Opposite, clockwise from top left The Vissershok Primary School Grade R classroom is a converted Y Tsai is passionate about South African design

12m container; rendering of Anglo American’s Johannesburg campus; Art Box Studios is a speculative competition

and sits on the bid committee for the World

project for the Gaobeidian Art District in Beijing; the Nested Bunk Beds System that launched Y Tsai into the

Design Capital 2014. On the 26th of October it

international arena. This page, clockwise from top left The Hammerhead Sofa System is a sofa with dropped

was announced that Cape Town had won. See

armrests that act as mini side tables, a good example of Tsai’s maxim of multifunctional design; one of the winning

our Special Feature is this issue for details.

entries for the Re-Imagine Cape Town initiative proposes that the unused highway be converted to a museum; another entry for the Re-Imagine Cape Town bid – this one aims to promote a green city through the use of hybrid energy trees that employ solar panels and wind turbines to create power.

November 2011 | 35

SPECIAL FEATURE

Words Genevieve Fisher Photographs courtesy Cape Town Partnership

What is the World Design Capital bid?

The beneﬁts

It all started in 1957 with the formation of the International Council for Societies

The best way to investigate the long-term beneﬁts

of Industrial Design (ICSID), an NPO whose mission is to promote and protect the

of the World Design Capital (WDC) title is by

profession of industrial design. With a global membership of 50 countries, the ICSID

looking at what the previous title-holders have

came up with the World Design Capital initiative to further advance these aims

achieved since their respective wins.

by recognising, every two years, a city that is dedicated to using design for social,

Sarah Fortunati, a member of the 2008

cultural and economic development. The World Design Capital designation has been

Turin WDC Organising Committee, says Turin

awarded by the ICSID just four times: ﬁrst to Turin (2008), then to Seoul (2010), to

experienced more visitors in its World Design

Helsinki (2012), and now to Cape Town (2014).

Capital year of 2008 than in any other year in the

Cape Town Tourism

WINNING OVER THE WORLD

Who needs the Rugby World Cup championship when our Mother City has just been named World Design Capital 2014?

Anita van Zyl

previous half-century, including 2006, when the city hosted the Winter Olympics. Today, Turin is considered to be a major Italian design city. Seoul, the WDC 2010 title-holder, has as a result of this status adopted a new citywide design policy referred to as its ‘Grand Renaissance Project’. This policy incorporates a newer, softer approach to building design to add a fresh aesthetic to the skyscraper-dominated city. The city is still tallying up its final visitor figures for the year, but its World Design Capital status saw it ranked third in the New York Times’ ‘31 Places to go in 2010’ list. The Times described Seoul as ‘a city where design enthusiasts are flocking’ for the year. It was also ranked seventh in Wallpaper

Cape Town’s 465-page WDC 2014 bid book was submitted to the ICSID on 31 March 2011. It took a year to put together and is an invaluable design resource. A record 56 cities from 24 countries vied for the title. In July, the three shortlisted cities were announced: Cape Town, Dublin, and Bilbao. The WDC 2014 judges then visited each of these cities to assess their bids. The announcement that Cape Town had won was made on 26 October 2011 at the International Design Alliance World Congress in Taipei, where Executive Mayor of Cape Town Patricia

Rowan Pybus

de Lille accepted the award on behalf of Cape Town, South Africa and the African continent.

6 36 | November 2011

i lle W

How the bidding process works

llow Smith

magazine’s 2010 Best City Awards.

de Sy

Sarah Scott

TREND WATCH

Design Indaba stand done by CPUT

students. 2Porky Hefer’s Crate Man at the V & A Waterfront. 3Walking on Walls graffiti tour in the Fringe Design and Innovation District. 4Freddy Sam’s public art . 5Infecting the City public art festival. 6Graffitti art by Faith47. Offices of Art South Africa Magazine.

Bruce Sutherland

VIEW FROM THE INSIDE Cape-based architect Mokena Makeka, founder and owner of Makeka Design Lab, is one of the members of Cape

Cape Town Tourism

Why we won

Town’s WDC 2014 bid committee (the committee was organised by Cape Town Partnership and is made up of industry experts and activists). Mokena explains

The focus of Cape Town’s World Design Capital

to us why Cape Town so deserved to win

(WDC) 2014 bid was on socially responsive design,

the WDC 2014 accolade.

which inspired the bid concept of ‘Live Design,

Transform Life’. The year 2014 is an auspicious one for South Africa, being the 20th anniversary of our democracy. In the last 17 years, Cape Town has made huge headway in reconstructing and reconnecting a city that had been physically, socially, economically, culturally and emotionally divided for centuries. This

and to design that makes a difference.

Q What differentiated us?

structure and spirit, for the beneﬁt of all its citizens.

Our desire to reinvent ourselves, and the

Lending weight to its WDC 2014 bid was SA’s coming

hunger we have to be world class. Other

of age as a democracy and Cape Town’s as a city.

important factors were our commitment

The city’s WDC 2014 bid comprised three broad

to deal with the evils of our past and

themes: ‘Rebuild Cape Town’, through community

that we strike the right balance between

cohesion, ‘Reconnect Cape Town’, by improving

self- belief and humility.

infrastructure, and ‘Reposition Cape Town’ for the 2010 Soccer World Cup, the ﬁrst ever to be held in

Q What will 2014 bring?

Africa, added credibility to its bid, as it proved that

Global, national and local attention, and

as a city and as a nation, we could compete with the

a focus on how design is changing our

best First World countries. The tournament spurred

lives as South Africans. This victory will

Cape Town on to enhance its infrastructure and

also bring challenges, hard work and

renewed its civic pride, two important legacies on

social growth. Cape Town is maturing

which the city intends to build now that it’s been

as a city because social progress and

declared WDC 2014.

accessibility to design and dignity

knowledge economy. Cape Town’s hosting of the

On our commitment to social change

private programmes that have reunited Cape Town in

change is visible in a large number of public and

Q What were we judged on?

cannot be divorced. We all want a more

What’s in it for the winner? Art South Africa

The WDC designation entitles the winning city to run a year-long programme of design-focused events under the banner of ‘World Design Capital’. Not only will this draw the attention of international design and

caring, inventive, fun and productive city.

Q What does it mean for us going forward, post 2014? Hopefully, the public voice for good

creative communities to the winning city, but it will

design will cry out and hold ofﬁcialdom

also drive tourism towards it. The title is awarded two

accountable to taking design seriously

years in advance to allow the winning city enough

and not just seeing it as a nice-to-have.

time to plan, develop and promote its World Design

Design is not only about what we have in

Capital programme.

our private spaces; it’s also about caring about what others have and demanding that what we share is excellent. Design

With thanks to …

is about how our city can work, not just

Cape Town Partnership, +27 (0)21 419 1881,

about how it looks.

capetown2014.co.za Mokena Design Lab, +27 (0)21 425 5211,

makekadesigns.com

November 2011 | 37

retirement LIVING

Retiring â&#x20AC;Ś Gratefully? Along with retirement comes a complex set of yeses, noes and maybes, but the starting point has to be balancing affordability with your preferred lifestyle

38 | November 2011

Words Anne Schauffer

retirement LIVING

Opposite Set in manicured indigenous gardens, the freestanding units at Waterfall Hills, Gauteng, offer residents independence, privacy and security. Above Vistas of Noordhoek, where Amdec plans to build another award-winning Evergreen Lifestyle Village.

‘F

orever young, we want to be forever young’ may be wishful singing, yet if you’ve done your homework and made wise financial decisions, retirement can be a considerably more youthful experience. Increasingly, there’s a diverse range of quality retirement options, particularly in the middle- to upper-income bracket, so you really can choose that lifestyle you’ve dreamed of. That was the good news. Unfortunately, points out Adrian Goslett, CEO of Re/Max of Southern Africa, ‘the results of the Sanlam 2011 Benchmark Pensioner Survey indicate that 80% of pensioners have not completely achieved their predetermined retirement goals. On average, 31% of pensioners believe they haven’t saved enough for their capital to last for the rest of their lives, while 33% currently have a monthly shortfall between their income and expenses.’ Fact is, research anticipates that close on 10 million South Africans will be retiring in the next 25 years. Adrian estimates that ‘if a person had to retire at 65 years of age, they would need 75% of the income earned when working, to enable them to live a comfortable life. Added to this, the income stream needs to be sustainable enough to last at least 30 or so years, given the current life expectancy statistics.’ A bit overwhelming. But let’s assume you can tick the box on wise provision for those latter years: what are the various considerations when making your choice? There are burgeoning numbers of town and country gated estates nationally for the over-50s or over-55s – a rather appealing sidestep from the old age home scenario – where there’s keen awareness of the benefits of moving into a secure lock-up-and-go situation some time before the traditional retirement phase. There’s a great deal to be said for the health benefits of a more natural society that includes a mix of youthfulness and age, and it’s clear that South Africa is picking up on this international trend. With health intact, it’s a good time to secure your position, become integrated into or at least accepting of this new community, and make what can be a stressful, even forced, move later in life far easier because you made your own life decision.

Most units in retirement complexes are sold as freehold or sectional title, but some developments offer the life rights option, officially recognised by the Housing Development Schemes for Retired Persons Act of 1988 and a choice considered ideal for those who have less capital to invest, or simply prefer this scheme as – among other reasons – the way to manage their portfolio. Arthur Case is the general manager of Evergreen Villages, a national lifestyle retirement brand owned by the Amdec Property Development Group. He considers life rights to be an ideal situation for retirees: ‘Residents enjoy similar privileges to the home’s being purchased by sectional or other title, only the developer remains the sole owner of the property and carries the responsibility of maintenance and upkeep of the village. The price of the life right is predetermined and always market related. There are no bond registration fees, transfer duties and no VAT payable, thereby avoiding the negative effects that such costs have upon discretionary income and estate values. When the life right terminates, through death or other circumstances, it reverts to the owner of the village, who is then entitled to resell it. Upon successful resale, your estate receives the original purchase price along with a percentage of the net profit, which is determined and agreed at the time of purchase, less selling and refurbishment costs. Because Evergreen V illage is an asset and an investment for both the life right holder and the developer, the developer will protect and maintain this asset so as to ensure solid investment appreciation and returns for both parties.’ Together with Serina Lifestyle Estate, Amdec has recently launched Evergreen Lifestyle Village in the favoured retirement node of Noordhoek in the Cape. The village offers a variety of homes, cottages and apartments, scaled levels of health care and a superb community-focused lifestyle centre. In addition to Noordhoek, the Evergreen brand is currently breaking ground in the Cape at Muizenberg Phase 2, Lake Michelle and Bergvliet, and not only has a foot in the Johannesburg door, but is also intent on rolling out Evergreen into new regions across SA.

Some developments offer a combination of the sectional title and life rights options. Le Domaine in Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), recently introduced life rights at its 14th village, Normandie Mews, allowing the Le Domaine developer ‘to offer units at a 30% discount on comparable sectional title prices’. For those who are committed to the concept of property as a wise investment, buying into a retirement scheme before you’re ready for it offers a smart and comforting buy-to-let opportunity. There are increasing numbers of near-retirees who buy into over-50s sectional title developments and then let out the unit or home until they feel ready for the lifestyle change. A good case in point, says Bev Murray of Brettenwood Coastal Estate, on the KZN North Coast, is the integration of an off-plan sectional title retirement component of 83 free-standing units in Phase 1, with a price tag of between R1,555 million and R2,5 million: ‘Forest Village within Brettenwood is drawing those who are planning for the lifestyle they want in the future by investing at today’s prices and renting out the units until they make the decision to move in.’ A plus of this concept is that those who live here can, at retirement, remain in a familiar environment but shift across the estate to where the facilities are better suited to retirees. Not having to relocate is a major drawcard. The Rob Roy Retirement Lifestyle Village in Bothas Hill, KZN, is largely premised on that, and has identified five stages of accommodation needs typically required by the retiree. All five may not be needed, but it’s comforting to know they’re there. No need to move home, particularly after the trauma of losing a partner or the onset of illness. The stages cover the progression from independent living through interdependent to dependent living. The assisted living programme offered to residents in their apartments is a daily service, with the emphasis on bathing, dressing, eating, taking medication, taking part in social activities, and getting domestic help, to name a few. All of the cottages and apartments have direct access to an emergency response unit that will provide fire, medical and, in the case of the cottages,

November 2011 | 39

retirement LIVING

Top and above left Exterior and interior views of the roomy show house at Evergreen at Lake Michelle, which is built around a lake within a private eco estate in Noordhoek Valley in the Cape. Above right Entrance to Waterfall Manor. Frail-care facilities are on hand for the residents of the 55 apartments at Waterfall Manor.

intrusion response. Independent living is just that, but with a home care service available day or night should there be periodic or ongoing illness. The three interdependent living stages involve a gradual increase in assistance, with options ranging from meals in the resident’s dining room and general assistance with medication to day and night checks, domestic help, and nursing staff day and night. For dependent living, the 22-bed care centre, complete with trained sisters and carers, provides 24-hour care for residents. So, what does one want in a retirement complex? Different strokes for different folks, of course, but there are certain needs common to most retirees: on-site frail care or graded facilities which cater for different levels of ailing health; security; panic buttons; entertainment or sports activities, such as bowls, bridge and a clubhouse; and for some, a pet-friendly environment. Pets are a very important part of family life, and for many retirees the dearth of pet-friendly retirement complexes is proving to be a stumbling block. Amber Properties in Howick, in KZN, is cognisant of this, so wherever possible, pets are welcomed. The group’s key projects are Amber Valley Retirement Village and the new Amber Lee Country Lifestyle Estate, a secure, upmarket estate of 91 free-standing sectional

title homes, selling off-plan. Amber Lee is situated on a 176ha working farm where only 56ha have been set apart for retirees, while the existing 25ha avocado orchard and 95ha of planted pastures help the development to retain a country feel. In terms of lifestyle, you’re either country or city, and there’s more growth in the country retirement scenario because it’s simply more appealing to walk through a lush forest and listen to birds than to dodge traffic and inhale car exhaust fumes. Slowing down is easier in the slow lane. At Amber Lee, there are five stocked dams, walks, wildlife and views, and its close to top schools, so your grandchildren can be around the corner. The levels of plushness, amenities and privacy vary in retirement villages, of course, but there are many superb high-end developments offering everything to satisfy the sporty, the arty, the eco-friendly, the extroverted and the reclusive. Aside from the standard frail care and security facilities, Amber Valley, for example, offers two indoor heated swimming pools, an Astroturf bowling green and two tennis courts. Between Kyalami and Sandton, in Gauteng, Waterfall Hills, and now Phase 2, Waterfall Valley, are mature lifestyle villages developed by Century Property Developments. Waterfall Hills sold out

With thanks to … Amdec Property Development, +27 (0)21 702 3200, evergreenlifestyle.co.za Amber Properties, +27 (0)33 330 4000, amberproperties.co.za Century Property Developments, 0861 636 333, century.co.za Forest Village on Brettenwood, +27 (0)82 658 1181, forestvillage.co.za Le Domaine, +27 (0)31 716 8004, ledom.co.za Re/Max of Southern Africa, +27 (0)21 761 1110, remax.co.za Rob Roy Retirement Lifestyle Village, +27 (0)31 777 6218/9, robroylifestylevillages.co.za

40 | November 2011

in record time and was awarded the titles of Best Retirement Development in SA and Best International Retirement Development at the 2009 CNBC International Property Awards. Century believes that people in the mature market wish to simplify their lives by removing the issues of maintenance, insurance and security that are normally associated with private home ownership. With state-of-the-art security, a multitude of lifestyle facilities, such as a deli and a spa, permanent on-site nursing staff and a fully equipped care centre, designed, they say, to feel like a five-star hotel, rather than a medical centre, at Waterfall Hills you’re going to be up there where you belong. Today, you can live within a whiff of vineyards or scent of the sea, enjoy wildlife on your doorstep or panoramic Drakensberg vistas. Some developments – Hillcrest’s Le Domaine, for one – have even cleverly incorporated an on-site hotel element to accommodate friends and family. Most retirees want to shed the burdens of home maintenance and security and swap them for, well, anything other than those. It’s all about choice. And that, after all, is what everybody wants, retiree or not – to retain a sense of dignity, enjoy life to the full, be secure enough to feel free, and to have a definitive say in where and how they live out their lives.

PROPERTY PROFESSIONALS

A VERY GOOD YEAR This month The Property Magazine celebrates professionals in the real estate industry. We commence with the recipient of the 2011 FNB Property Professional Lifetime Achievement Award, Bill Rawson

BILL RAWSON Founder and Chairman, The Rawson Property Group Recipient – 2011 FNB Property Professional Lifetime Achievement Award Rawson Property Group Chairman Bill Rawson entered the real estate industry in 1971 and quickly rose in the ranks. By 1978 he had established his own agency in Claremont, Cape Town. Employing a team of 25 estate agents, he then established Bill Rawson Estates in 1982 and, six years later, he launched the franchise under the Rawson Properties brand. Today the Rawson Property Group operates in all nine provinces, has over 150 franchises, is involved in residential property development and construction and has franchise divisions that cover auctions, commercial property and letting. This year the group went international, opening its ﬁrst franchise in Harare. The Rawson Property Group’s success is founded on Bill’s ﬁrm belief in the professionalisation of agents, his commitment to service excellence and his emphasis on sound business ethics. His contributions to the property industry include serving as President of the National IEASA and, along with other business leaders, spearheading mortgage origination in SA. He is also involved in numerous welfare causes. Bill has four children, and leads an active lifestyle, completing his 10th Argus this year. +27 (0)21 658 7100

Photograph Tim Lake Styling Nico at Bird on a Wire Hair and make-up Kristie Cochius Location Sinatra’s Restaurant, Pepper Club Luxury Hotel & Spa

November 2011 | 43

PROPERTY PROFESSIONALS ANDREAS WASSENAAR Co-owner and Principal, Seeff Dolphin Coast I have 16 years’ experience selling and developing residential property in Zimbali and on the Dolphin Coast. Together with Bobby Jameson, I developed, marketed and sold 68 houses in Zimbali, and for ﬁve years, from December 2003 to February 2009, I was Sales and Marketing Director of Zimbali. Acquiring the Seeff licence is the best decision I ever made – it’s the most exciting and professional brand in SA real estate, and tough real estate market aside, the growth in the Dolphin Coast licence continues unabated. +27 (0)82 837 9094

JULES VAN DER VELDE Property Consultant, Seeff Dolphin Coast I began working at Seeff in late 2009 when we opened our doors here in Ballito and I am totally committed to the brand and its values. I consider myself to be both ambitious and professional and love ﬁnding people their ideal home and witnessing their joy when they move in! I strive to be an excellent agent, came third in KZN last year and am determined to take ﬁrst position this year! +27 (0)82 646 9319

GREGG WILSON Owner and Director, Seeff Hillcrest and Kloof I am professionally qualiﬁed, with a BSc Honours in Property Studies from UCT and a BCom in Economics from Rhodes. As market leaders in the Upper Highway, we’ve just extended our premises in Christians Village Shopping Centre to accommodate our expansion from 15 dynamic agents to 25, to meet the increasing need for professional service in the area. +27 (0)83 321 8500

BRAND BELIEF Seeff ’s professionals live their values 44 | November 2011

PRIZ MUNDELL Property Consultant, Seeff Hillcrest and Kloof Coming from a teaching background, I am well recognised in the area, allowing me to continue dealing with the needs of others and concluding successful property sales. A multiple Seeff Chairman's Award recipient, I live by Gary Player’s motto: ‘The harder you work the luckier you get!’ I am committed to giving professional service at all times. I work for a fantastic international brand and am supported by two excellent principals and a wonderful family. +27 (0)84 240 1130

Photographs Val Adamson Make-up Amy Lee Stylist Sabrina Maingard Hair Chanelle Botha Location Beverly Hills Hotel, Umhlanga Rocks

PROPERTY PROFESSIONALS

CHAIN OF COMMAND Moving real estate from A to Z

DEANNE HAMILTON Agent, Re/Max Panache I’ve been in the industry for seven and a half wonderful years and have found my calling in life! I’ve been Top Agent (with a team) for Re/Max in KZN for the last ﬁve years and second in South Africa for a few years. I specialise in Durban North, Glenashley, La Lucia, Umhlanga and Mount Edgecombe Estate 1 and 2. I am fully motivated to assist buyers/sellers in a harmonious transaction. +27 (0)82 563 4280

ANDRÉ CONRADIE Property Consultant, Re/Max Dolphin I’ve been selling property in Ballito for nine years, earning National Top 20 Finalist and No. 1 Gold Club Agent (KZN) status for my achievements. I joined Re/Max two years ago and am very excited about their business model, which rewards hard work and commitment. A worldwide recession, yes, but Ballito is a growth point with huge investment opportunities for those prepared to consider the options. +27 (0)82 455 7744

TOBY LOCHNER Regional Manager: KZN, SA Home Loans A home loan is one of the biggest financial commitments to be made, so the choice of mortgage lender is an important one. I head up a very able sales team with offices in Durban, Richard’s Bay and Pietermaritzburg, and with many years of banking and home finances experience, my team and I have the know-how to assist our clients with bond finance in the quickest possible time. +27 (0)31 576 5905

SIOBHAN PERRIGO Associate Attorney, AMC Hunter, Inc. With AMC for over four years, I operate the Ballito branch and assist our Amanzimtoti and main Durban ofﬁces. We’re an all-women organisation with strong ties and commitment to our clients. We endorse the principles of honest, fair and professional service. We are specialists in all things to do with property transfers and property law and also attend to commercial litigation and drafting. +27 (0)32 946 2337

Location Beverly Hills Hotel, Umhlanga Rocks

JOHN COBURN Owner, Coburn Property Group I’ve been in property since 1983 and am currently Managing Director of Coburn Property Group, specialising in sales and letting of commercial and industrial property. We are accredited agents for the Zimbali Forest Estate. I am President of Zimbali Rotary Club and was presented with the Paul Harris Fellow Award for Growth of Membership for making us the largest club in the district in our ﬁrst year. I’m on the KwaDukuza Ballito Ward 6 and the Ilembe Municipal committees. +27 (0)83 775 8405

KARIEN HUNTER Sole Director, AMC Hunter, Inc. I celebrate life, love and living. I’ve always been passionate about beautiful homes and interiors, so I rejoice in the fact that life took me from being a public prosecutor to dealing with my true passion: property and people – putting people into their dream homes. AMC celebrates 25 years as practising attorneys in May 2012. +27 (0)31 309 5483

November 2011 | 45

R O IT ff ED ee T el S ES u U am G S

Real estate

residential & commercial

Seeff Chairman, Samuel Seeff, is positive the property market will improve but cautions that it may take longer than expected

easonable demand will hold in the property market, but I recommend that we leave the crystal ball on the shelf for another year, if we are looking for the return of significantly good tidings. The performance of the real estate market in 2011 has, regrettably, not been comforting. So, what can we look forward to in the next year and beyond? The impetus to market demand that we expected from 2010 did not materialise in 2011, and I don’t see any underlying cause for this to change to any noteworthy degree in 2012. The economy as a whole would need to pick up before we could expect to see any real strength returning to the market. I believe that the coming year is likely to see meaningful gains in clearing the market of distressed properties, and with a little good fortune, no further interest rate hikes, despite predictions to the contrary for the last quarter of this year and into 2012. This should help consumers reduce their debt levels within the next two years. Combining these factors with reasonable market demand, we are still likely to see low sales volumes, given the continued financial constraints and high bank decline ratios. This, coupled with almost no new development during the past two to three years, must mean that 2013 will be the year in which we will

46 | November 2011

see a restoration of activity to the South African real estate market to pre-2007 levels, the year in which the National Credit Act became operational. Throughout 2012 sellers will still be competing with distressed properties, and while we will see some clearing of debt, the banks are likely to remain reluctant to lend. People looking to sell in the coming year and into 2013 are going to have to price their properties very conservatively and heed real estate agents’ advice on what buyers are willing to pay. On the flip side, cash buyers should be negotiating strongly. They will have plenty of time to consider their options, and are likely to negotiate the best possible price, and on their terms. Buyers should, however, be aware that these conditions are unlikely to continue beyond 2012. It is my view that the pentup demand that has been in place since 2007 will start impacting the market, assuming that the banks are able clear impairments and debt out of the market. Only once turnover in the market picks up are we likely to see an uptick in prices, but this will be mild in strength and will remain as such throughout 2013 and 2014. There is still reasonable demand in the market, especially for sub-R1,5-million properties, which have seen the highest activity this year. At the upper end, demand has been slow, and I expect this will

be the case in 2012, too. This sector of the market is especially reliant on the strengthening of the economy. As a result of the slow turnover, there is real value to be gained at the top end of the market. From a regional perspective, Gauteng is the powerhouse of the market and is usually first to see signs of growth, and I look forward to seeing a positive shift here in 2012. As for coastal properties, especially the non-primary markets, including holiday and second homes and leisure properties, I foresee a sustained lack of demand until the primary markets across the country pick up. My advice, then, for those looking for an early or quick pick-up, is to leave the crystal ball on the shelf for another year and to only get the dusting cloth out at the end of 2012.

Samuel Seeff Chairman, Seeff

Main photograph 123rf.com Proﬁle photograph Seeff

It’s a long haul yet

Residential Real Estate

Prime country

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Umhlali Golf Estate, in Ballito, offers a Peter Matkovich course, currently rated 28th nationally, and an accompanying tranquil country situation. Set among the trees, the residential component of Umhlali Golf Estate, developed by Retcon, was first launched in 2003, with that and subsequent phases being very well received. The final phase, Springwood, has just been launched. Overlooking the 14th hole, it offers a golden opportunity to those wanting space on this estate. Available as ready-built, or designed according to requirements, all homes will have a double garage, air conditioning, an alarm system and a landscaped garden. Umhlali Golf Estate is 5 minutes from Ballito centre, 7 minutes from the beach and 12 minutes from King Shaka International Airport. ‘High security, a driving range, practise putting greens, bowling greens, tennis and squash courts, a swimming pool and clubhouse all add to the lifestyle offerings,’ says Ken Caldwell of Location, Location, Location. +27 (0)84 511 8454

Golf, of course Meaning ‘golf’ in Zulu, Igalofu Village, on the Zimbali Coastal Estate, launched in the first quarter of 2011, will comprise just seven exclusive homes with 180º sea and golf course views. Starting at R6,85 million, these freestanding, five-bedroom villas will offer approximately 380m2 of luxuriously finished living and entertainment space. ‘For those seeking exclusivity combined with stunning design and views to match, Igalofu is an opportunity not to be missed,’ says Extra Dimensions' Craig Toweel. +27 (0)32 946 3568, edimensions.co.za

Golf estates offer secure and prestigious living options – Samuel Seeff, Chairman, Seeff

Family matters Prominently situated in Umhlali, Brooklyn is a fresh new development which combines the clear vision of developers Slater Properties with exciting input from architects Sphere Design & Architecture. The 40-unit residential estate, to be launched in the first quarter of 2012, aims to provide cost- effective homes in a variety of appealing options encompassing single- and double-storey as well as two- to three-and-a half-bedroom offerings. The key design feature sees each home set around a courtyard, thereby promoting indoor/outdoor living and allowing privacy from other units. Space has been optimised to be functional for families with children, provide open-plan flow for entertainment and create separate play areas. Built-in furniture and blinds make the units more affordable for first-time buyers. Each unit opens onto natural bush or communal green parks. Amenities in the complex include a clubhouse, a pool and a kiddies’ play area. The architecture focuses on clean planes while angular roofscapes create a visually striking language on the estate with generous eaves to assist with sun control. Refreshing blocks of colour, texture and glazing are used to highlight

Compiled by André Fiore

feature components and create a contemporary, stylish aesthetic. +27 (0)83 297 0644; +27 (0)31 312 5133, spheredesign.co.za

November 2011 | 47

COMMERCIAL Real Estate

Room to move

Situated opposite the Pavilion Shopping Centre, in Westville, Westway Office Park will soon get an additional 18 000m2 of office space. This new project will be known as Westside Office Park and will be developed by JT Ross with a view to adding to the corporate surroundings that make Westway an office destination of choice. The new development is expected to continue in phases over the better part of the next two years, and will be centred on an indigenous landscaped park. Dimension Data will be the first tenant to move into its new corporate offices, in December 2012. The changes within Westway have been the catalyst for significant road improvements to enhance traffic flow around the park. The existing traffic circle on Spine Road, between Life Westville Hospital and Westway Office Park, will be removed and replaced by a signalised intersection, and an additional southbound traffic lane will be constructed at the Jack Martens Drive intersection. The addition of traffic lights will optimise timing, easing congestion at peak hours and allowing for an easier flow of traffic from the park and out of the Pavilion Shopping Centre. Road improvements are expected to commence shortly and be completed in the first half of 2012. +27 (0)31 372 9700, jtross.co.za

‘The changes within Westwa have catalysed ro y a improvements’ d

Growth on Durban’s north coast is set to continue – Samuel Seeff, Chairman, Seeff

Imbonini growth Phase 2 of Ballito’s Imbonini Park is due to launch in the first quarter of 2012. It will comprise 400 000m2 of high-end industrial land as well as residential and commercial components. The first portion to be unlocked will be about 4ha and comprise four sites of 6 000m2, 8 000m2, 11 000m2 and 16 000m2 respectively. There are also plans to widen the R102 all the way through to Stanger to further benefit investors and owners

Highway happening

at Imbonini Park. A large cross-section of industries has already made

Earthworks have begun on the Arctic Sun Trading development,

and of the 42 sites, only 6 remain available for purchase. Imbonini Park's

John Ross Interchange Business Park (JRIBP). The development

location, just 10 minutes from King Shaka International Airport and Dube

comprises 31ha situated on either side of the John Ross Highway

TradePort 1km from the N2, and midway between Richard’s Bay and

(R34), immediately east of the N2 interchange. Well known to local

Durban, makes it all the more appealing to businesses in search of viable,

residents, the sites are visible to trafﬁc passing between Richard’s

convenient premises. amberdawn.co.za

Imbonini its home, including a number of mini factories, warehouses and large manufacturing concerns. Phase 1 is about 141 000m2 in size,

Bay and Empangeni and trafﬁc on the N2. There are 32 sites, ranging in size from 4 000m2 to 2ha, with the bulk of them zoned for business and one with rights for a service station and retail. The development will see the construction of a new signalised intersection on the recently widened John Ross Highway, giving access to both the northern and southern components of the park. During construction the JRIBP is expected to support approximately 2 300 direct and indirect temporary jobs per year, and once fully developed it is projected that approximately 1 500 permanent jobs will be created. ‘Whilst market conditions with a national tile retailer and with a developer who is planning a 3 000m2 retail centre. Negotiations are currently under way on several other sites in the JRIBP, and it appears that the activity on site has stimulated further market interest,’ says Neels Brink of Laurusco Developments. +27 (0)31 337 3460, laurusco.com

48 | November 2011

Compiled by André Fiore

remain tough, the uniqueness of the site has seen sales concluded

The Property breakfast

Breakfast

at Tiffany’s

A poster child for the leisurely, sun-drenched life that comes with buying property in Ballito, Canelands Beach Club, on Tiffany’s Beach, is sure to become a classic Words Gaylene Schmulian Photographs Val Adamson

Guest list Antony Arbuthnot Arbuthnot Projects, James Arnott Stedone, André Conradie Re/Max Dolphin, Fiona Crago Fiona Crago Real Estate, Shelley Crichton Fine & Country International Realty, Johan Engelbrecht PME Inc. Attorneys, Kanyi Gasa iLembe Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Clive Greene Pam Golding Properties, Thomas Hodges Prime Property, Karien Hunter AMC Hunter Inc., Robyn Jackson Fiona Crago Real Estate, Michael Jamieson Wakefields, Mark Leslie-Smith MLS Architects, Jenni McCallum Media Nova, Paul McMurray McMurray Real Estate, Wendy McMurray McMurray Real Estate, Cheryl Peters Enterprise Ilembe, Vejan Pillay Misty Blue Investments, Gaylene Schmulian Media Nova, Debbie Steinhobel Homeflair Ballito, Charles Thompson Construction ID, Trenley Tilbrook iLembe Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, Lila von Maltitz The Sandstone Story, Tony Vaughan Media Nova, Gert Vorster Engel & Völkers Ballito, Andreas Wassenaar Seeff Ballito.

November 2011 | 49

The Property breakfast

The Menu On the table Selection of fresh fruits, local cheeseboard and mini croissants Hot breakfast Freshly baked croissants filled with crispy bacon, chive cream cheese, creamy scrambled eggs and avocado, tea and coffee Canelands Beach Club & Spa, 2 Shrimp Lane, Salt Rock. +27 (0)32 525 2300, canelandssaltrock.co.za

he lucky few were witness to the perfect morning at a scrumptious Property Breakfast co-hosted by The Property Magazine and Signature Life Hotels at the hospitality group’s Canelands Beach Club & Spa, in Salt Rock. A step away from the ocean, the club proved to be the ideal venue, with its sweeping views of Tiffany Beach and the unbelievably beautiful coastline. Tony Vaughan, the managing director of Media Nova, welcomed everyone and entertained us with his sharp sense of humour, and everyone relaxed into the morning’s proceedings. Trenley Tilbrook, CEO of the iLembe Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, and Antony Arbuthnot, the project manager on Simbithi Eco-Estate, whipped out their shades and sat next to each other, looking very much like the Men in Black. ‘Ballito is definitely the place to live, work and play,’ said Trenley. ‘Ballito is hot,’ he added, and it was clear he wasn’t talking about the weather. Andreas Wassenaar, principal of Seeff Ballito, was wowed by the beautiful beachfront setting. ‘Canelands is a perfect example of taking a tired, run-down property on the beachfront and converting it to a super-chic establishment,’ he said. It’s the small things that count in life, and seeing the ladies served their fill of the flavourful plated meal before the gentleman was one of many classy touches that Caneland’s brought to the affair. Chatting to Fiona Crago and Robyn Jackson from Fiona Crago Real Estate, I asked whether they had previously had the pleasure of eating at Canelands. Fiona smiled and answered, ‘Robyn and I love good food – we take it upon ourselves to find excellent venues and delicious food.’ Sounded like a ‘yes’ to me. The real estate agents among our guests agreed that the industry is still going through a rough patch and that agents need to go back to basics: meeting new people, networking, and actively selling the region because, as beautiful as it is, it won’t sell itself. Gert Vorster, principal of Engel & Völkers Ballito said that despite the tough economy, there are still serious buyers looking to invest in the area: ‘The 2010/2011 period was the best year to date for Engel & Völkers Ballito,’ he said. ‘Our seven agents are firing on all cylinders and we are dealing with serious cash buyers daily.’ Karien Hunter, founder of legal firm AMC Hunter Inc., agreed that Ballito is one of the most beautiful places in the world and that it offers vastly untapped potential. If breakfast at the exquisitely positioned Canelands Beach Club & Spa is anything to go by, then living in Ballito must be truly extraordinary.

50 | November 2011

7 8

13 14

19 Cheryl Peters 2Lila von Maltitz 3Jenni McCallum 4Tony Vaughan 5Clive Greene 6Kanyi Gasa

Charles Thompson 8Debbie Steinhobel 9Fiona Crago 10Paul McMurray 11Vejan Pillay 12Wendy

McMurray 13James Arnott 14André Conradie 15Thomas Hodges 16Andreas Wassenaar 17Michael Jamieson 18Antony Arbuthnot 19Robyn Jackson 20Mark Leslie-Smith 21Gaylene Schmulian Trenley Tilbrook 23Shelley Crichton 24Johan Engelbrecht 25Gert Vorster, Karien Hunter

The Property breakfast

22 21

25 November 2011 | 51

International

investment, real estate, news & leisure

Caribbean corner A new development in St Kitts and Nevis offers an opportunity for citizenship and a tropical island lifestyle

Both apartment types include plunge pools. Around 636m2 in size, villa plots are priced from $228 000 (around R1,8 million). Owners and guests have access to landscaped gardens, swimming pools, tennis courts, a health and fitness centre, a beach club with water sports facilities, a beachfront restaurant, a concierge and housekeeping services. Crusader Rock has for many years specialised in property sales in Malta but is expanding its portfolio to include real estate options on three continents. Advantages of purchasing property in St Kitts and Nevice include citizenship of the federation (after a minimum of five years of owning and maintaining the property), which will allow investors and their families visa-free travel to over 100 countries, as well as tax benefits. Owners may also rent out their properties via the resort management company. +27 (0)11 883 9028, crusaderrock.com

View of St Kitts’ southern peninsula. 2Attractive poolside villas at Ocean’s Edge.

Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more offshore

Apartments overlooking the beach.

real estate investment opportunities.

52 | November 2011

Words Catherine Riley Photographs courtesy Ocean’s Edge

rom Crusader Rock International and its sister company, Monarch & Co., comes a new development, Ocean’s Edge, located on the island of St Kitts and Nevis in the West Indies. The island is home to Mount Liamuiga and the Peter Thompson-designed Royal St Kitts 18- hole championship golf course. Ocean’s Edge is part of the Green Globe programme for sustainable development. Set on 16ha, the beachfront resort of Ocean’s Edge blends the best of indoor and outdoor living, with each property incorporating large terraces and modern interiors. Freehold hillside and poolside apartments as well as villa plots are available. At some 54m2 in size, the poolside studios are priced from $372 000 (about R3 million), while the one- to three-bedroom hillside apartments range in price from $395 000 to $745 000 (just over R3 million to roughly R6 million) and range from about 74m2 to 147m2 in size.

INTERNATIONAL

Yoo Pune has excellent design credentials: leading the project are Philippe Starck and John Hitchcox

Yoo-hoo!

The modern residential park, Yoo Pune, in Margappata City in the western Indian state of Maharashtra, comes with excellent design credentials: leading the project are renowned interior designer Philippe Starck and inﬂuential property developer John Hitchcox, co-founders of global property design and marketing brand, Yoo. Covering some 7ha, the development will comprise six tower blocks with 228 apartments overlooking a rainforest. Sized from 470m2 to 640m2, the apartments will be available in two styles, Classic and Nature, and will be priced from $2 million (about R16 million). The bathrooms will incorporate Duravit products and will be kitted out in light Italian marble. Multiple swimming pools, a library and cinema and a Six Senses spa will be available for residents’ use, as will tennis and basketball courts and a restaurant. Developed in collaboration with Panchshil Realty, Yoo Pune is set to be completed by 2014. yoopune.com

Scenes from Ciana Set in the heart of Indooroopilly on the site of an old bowling club is Ciana, a residential complex just 2km from Brisbane’s CBD. Twobedroom, two-bathroom units of 113m2 with a furniture pack and parking bay included are priced at AUS$580 000 (about R4,5 million). At AUS$630 (about R5 000) a week, the option to rent out the apartments is proﬁtable, and the rental vacancy rate has been virtually zero over the past ﬁve years. Ciana is close to the University of Queensland, schools, shops and golf clubs. +27 (0)11 463 0588, ipsinvest.com

Cottoning on

‘The Cotonou Marriott will be the grou third hotel in su p’s b Saharan Africa ’

Marriott International Hotels & Resorts is branching out to Cotonou, Benin, through its agreement with SHRL-Benin to manage an upmarket, 200-room hotel aimed at business, government and conference travellers. The Cotonou Marriott will be sited on prime beachfront land adjacent to Cotonou’s convention centre,

close to the presidential palace and ﬁve minutes’ drive from the international airport. Amenities will include a swimming pool, health and leisure club, tennis courts, private beach, ﬁve restaurants and lounges and 24-hour room service. Business facilities will include a state-of-the-art business centre and an 800m2 divisible function space for conferences, meetings and

Stable investment An equestrian estate in Bastide des Alpilles in Provence, France, is on

social events. Guests will be able to participate in the Marriott Rewards frequent travel programme. The Cotonou Marriott, the group’s third hotel in sub-Saharan Africa, is scheduled to open in 2013. +27 (0)11 289 8100, holidayholdings.co.za

the market for ¤6,5 million (about R70 million). It covers 130 000m2, including a mansion, a guesthouse, two free-standing apartments and outbuildings. The main house comprises an entrance hall, six bedrooms, four bathrooms, two living rooms, a kitchen and a study. The guesthouse Compiled by Catherine Riley

includes three bedrooms and three bathrooms. One of the free-standing apartments has two bedrooms and a bathroom and the other has one bedroom and one bathroom. Each apartment has its own kitchen. The total living space offered by the estate is 800m2. Facilities include a huge swimming pool, electric gates, and a gardener who is available twice a week. The south-facing country estate is situated 30 minutes away from Marseille Provence International Airport and enjoys easy access to motorways. +27 (0)11 482 1876, heritagepropertiesofeurope.com

November 2011 | 53

Mauritius

investment, real estate, news & leisure

Expanding on THE ELEMENTS

auritius is a popular location among homebuyers and there is consistent demand for upmarket, modern developments that incorporate the island lifestyle. With a large stake in the Mauritian property development sector, 2Tribes is the only South African developer on the island and has a portolio of successful commercial and residential properties to its name, including Grand Baie Business Quarter, La Residence and Element Bay Resort. 2Tribes works closely with South African architects and interior designers to create homes

1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4

and offices that are contemporary, stylish and functional. The company is adding 30 units to Element Bay Resort. These will include two- or three-bedroom simplex and duplex apartments, priced from R2,8 million each. The apartments will have superior finishes, and furniture packages will be available on request. Well suited to those in the market for holiday homes or retirement properties, Element Bay Resort is situated a few minutes away from its sister development, Grand Baie, in the north, which offers a host of entertainment facilities. Residents can also

make use of the wide array of water sports facilities provided by the nearby Coin de Mire Hotel. With easy access to a picturesque beach, Element Bay Resort captures the essence of luxurious island living. Each apartment has a parking bay, and a private terrace or balcony overlooking the swimming pool. Ground floor units have private terraces that extend out into the garden. A profitable fringe benefit for owners is the rental pool, where their properties are actively marketed, for a 4% to 7% return on investment. +27 (0)11 083 7008, 2tribes.net

Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impressions of the modern apartments to be developed at Element Bay

Resort, where the emphasis will be on luxury open-plan living indoors and enjoying an

Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more offshore

island lifestyle.

property developments and investment news.

54 | November 2011

Words Catherine Riley Photographs courtesy Element Bay Resort

Element Bay Resort is expanding to meet the strong demand for accommodation in Mauritius

MAURITIUS

A river runs through it The perfect residential development for yachting and boating enthusiasts is set to welcome owners by 2012, with Phase 1 of La Balise Marina due for completion by December next year. Once completed, the R4,7-billion project will be home to 113 luxury residential units across 14,5ha of freehold property. Phase 1 incorporates 55 residential units divided into two housing types, villas and duplexes, offering various sizes and layouts and each with its own anchorage. All have direct access to the ocean, either on the canals and marina quays or on the Grande Rivière Noire estuary. Residents will also have access to the commercial centre that is due for completion in 2012, which will host restaurants, shops and boutiques as well as Le Sunset, which will offer a number of amenities and facilities, including a spa, gym, kids’ club, and ﬁne-dining restaurants. +230 483 7272, labalisemarina.com

Magnetic Mauritius

The property market in Mauritius is thriving. Fabrice Orengo de Lamazière, a director at Pam Golding Properties’ (PGP) International & Projects Division, says that from 2003 to around 2006, most residential properties in Mauritius that were sold to foreigners were expensive villas. This market began to slow down because of the global economic crisis but the Mauritian market managed to reinvent itself in response to the bursting of the housing bubble by focusing on luxurious lock-up-and-go apartments. While large villas are typically priced at over R9 million, the apartments are priced

Cape Bay, by 2Tribes

from R2,5 million and are attracting foreign investors, including cash buyers from SA. PGP has sold R600 million worth of penthouses and apartments on the island in the past three years, with R400 million in property being sold in real estate scheme (RES) developments by South African developer, 2Tribes. 2Tribes’ developments are situated near Grand Baie, one of the island’s most popular tourist destinations and residential areas. Apartment owners can join a rental pool that markets their units to the growing tourism market for a return on investment of 4% to 7%, adds Fabrice. PGP is the exclusive agency to 2Tribes’ developments, including Cape Bay, Element Bay and La Residence. In addition to the RES, Mauritius also offers foreign investors free repatriation of proﬁts, dividends and capital, has double taxation agreements with 33 countries, including South Africa, and has no foreign exchange controls. The island is also rated First in Africa in the World Bank’s 2011 Doing Business Report. +27 (0)21 762 2617, pamgolding.co.za

Passage to India Mauritius is set to pitch itself as the gateway to Africa, much like Singapore did for Asia, reports India’s Economic Times. Officials of the Mauritius Investment Board are in Delhi to discuss setting up links between Mauritius and Africa-focused investment holdings. India receives over 40% of its foreign direct investment from Mauritius, most of which is from third-world countries that route this way to benefit from the existing tax treaty. India wants to renegotiate the treaty to ensure that it is used for genuine investments. India has set up an information office based in Mauritius to strengthen and speed up

A total of 963 078 tourists visited the island, almost 60 000 more than in the previous year

the tax information exchange. ‘The Financial Services Commission in Mauritius has signed a memorandum of understanding with 19 regulators with respect to information exchange, including one with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI),’ says Mauritius Investment Board Director, Shamima Hussam. ‘Mauritius has received 64 requests for bank and tax information from India and all information requested has been duly submitted by the Mauritian authorities.’ Mauritius is already an active member of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Compiled by Catherine Riley

Tourism revenues on the up Mauritius’ tourism revenue rose by close on 10% as of year-end 31 August, reports Reuters. ‘Tourist receipts for the period September 2010 to August 2011 rose by 9,7% to reach MUR41,5 billion [about R11 billion] compared to MUR37,8 billion [around R10 billion] registered over the previous corresponding period,’ said the Bank of Mauritius in a statement. A total of 963 078 tourists visited the island, almost 60 000 more than in the previous year. European tourists account for about two-thirds of visitors, says Reuters.

La Place Belgath, Anahita, a popular tourist destination

November 2011 | 55

Mozambique

investment, real estate, news & leisure

The world’s your oyster 3

ozambique’s south coast is a stone’s throw away from our border, with Kosi Bay a mere 25km off. Earlier this year, Mozambique’s southern east coast acquired White Pearl Resorts, Ponta Mamoli. Situated on more than 2km of pristine beach and surrounded by the lush, wild greenery of the Maputo Special Reserve, it doesn’t get better than this for some luxurious time out. The resort comprises 22 pool suites set on stilts and overlooking the ocean and beach. Every detail

has been considered. Each suite is air-conditioned, has its own deck, plunge pool and bar and has been designed for seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The interior colour palette is made up of calming blues and fresh, crisp whites, making the ocean seem an arm’s stretch away from your bed. The calm and restful ambience extends to the many guest areas, such as the lounge and the pool bar and deck, as well as to the Beach Bar and White Pearl restaurant, where traditional culinary delights are served.

For those more inclined towards an active beach holiday, White Pearl Resorts, Ponta Mamoli offers a range of activities led by professionals, including fishing, kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling, with the added benefit of swimming with dolphins and turtles. If the sights, sounds and wonders of this resort aren’t enough to relax you, there are also trained massage therapists on site to work every last bit of +27 (0)35 592 8100, stress out of your body. whitepearlresorts.com

Elegant and chic guest lounge. 2Unspoilt views from the deck. 3Stunning stretches of

Visit thepropertymag.co.za for more getaway

pristine beaches. 4Sophisticated minimalism in the breezy guest suite.

hotspots in Mozambique.

56 | November 2011

Words Genevieve Fisher Photographs courtesy White Pearl Resorts

With the recent opening of White Pearl Resorts, Ponta Mamoli, crossing the border has never been more appealing

MOZAMBIQUE

From Brazil with love Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff has recently announced Brazil’s strategic investment in Mozambique in an attempt to ensure sustainable development with reciprocal beneﬁts for both countries, reports All Africa Global Media. Dilma was in Maputo to meet with her Mozambican counterpart, Armando Guebuza, to review the current bilateral cooperation between Mozambique and Brazil. Dilma says more scholarships could be made available for Mozambican students to study in Brazilian

Burning the midnight coal

universities in an attempt to nurture skills

Mozambique is preparing to supply coking coal to Japan’s steel industry in return for

pharmaceutical plant for the production of

$300 million (roughly R2,4 billion) from the Japanese government for the repair of

generic antiretroviral drugs is projected to be

the cyclone ravaged Nacala export port, reports Reuters. ‘We are now going to start

operational in Mozambique by the ﬁrst quarter

negotiations for investment with the Japanese government, and if we succeed, the

of next year. Access to cheap antiretrovirals is

rehabilitation could start within one year,’ says Danilo Nala, director of Mozambique’s

key for the treatment of many Mozambicans

Special Economic Zones Ofﬁce. He adds that some of the funding may come from

infected with HIV. Mozambique’s Minister of

Japan’s private sector, should the deal go through. The port of Nacala was damaged in

Industry and Trade, Armando Inroga, says that in

2001. Repairs would return it to its original container capacity of 400 000/year – double

addition to other bilateral projects already under

its current capacity. Mozambique is hoping to build additional infrastructure to support

way, such as the pharmaceutical plant, others are

the increasing coal production in the Tete province. Mozambique is recognised as a new

under discussion, notably Brazilian participation

supply source of coking coal, which has already sparked interest from global mining

in the Moamba Maior Dam, to be built on the

companies, including the world’s fourth-largest steel-maker, Nippon Steel Corp, which is

Incomati river and cost more than $500 million

expected to start developing a site in Mozambique in mid 2012 and to begin coking coal

(about R4 billion).

development for Mozambicans to improve their country. Good news in the area of health care, says Dilma, is that the Brazil-ﬁnanced

production from 2014.

Compiled by Genevieve Fisher and Catherine Riley

The book covers everything on Mozambique, from the capital city to its beaches, lakes, lagoons and gorgeous sights

Explore Mozambique’s Topuito Caldeira Island.

Hot read Penguin’s new book, Travel Guide to Maputo and Southern Mozambique, by Bridget HiltonBarber, is the perfect guide for your suitcase. The book covers everything on Mozambique, from the capital city to its beaches, lakes, lagoons and gorgeous sights. And if you are a fan of the bush as much as the beach, the book also includes a great section on the route between the Kruger National Park and Mozambique’s Parc Nacional do Limpopo, which together make up the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park. +27 (0)11 327 3550, penguinbooks.co.za

November 2011 | 57

087 802 9186

Perfect for the retired farmer! ●

● ●

● ● ● ● ●

56 farms covering 2500 hectares of elevated land with breathtaking views at the start of the Midlands Meander. Close to shopping centre and N3, commute easily into Pietermaritzburg. Live the life of th 5 golf courses and 5 schools in the area e Urban including Cowan House, St Anne’s College, Hilton College and Michaelhouse. Farm your 30 hectares or let the management company do the work for you. Well stocked game farm on remaining 850 hectares (incl large antelope, zebra and giraffe). CCTV, armed response, 24 hour patrols and full perimeter fencing. Owners have controlled traversing over the 2500 hectares - safe for kids to hike and camp. One of the healthiest climates in South Africa.

from: R2 750 000ex vat

Farmer...

www.mountverde.co.za

Rob le Sueur: +27 (0)82 450 9641 | rob@venturepartners.co.za Chris le Sueur: +27 (0)84 555 0982 | chris@venturepartners.co.za kate Watkin: +27 (0) 82 324 4929 | kate@venturepartners.co.za Andre Voigts:+27 (0)83 703 2242 | andre@voigts.co.za

MountVerde_HP_PropertyMagazine.indd 1

29/10/2011 11:27:19

The Meadows Country Estate

Sites From R375 000 Only 8 Sites left

try Situated on 11 hectares of prime n u o c y t i l a property near the pricturesque village of Underberg. qu a y o j n The Meadows offers charming country homes for the discerning investor. E g r e b r e Overlooking pastoral farmlands, dams and the majestic mountains of the Southern nd il fe in U Drakensberg. These homes have direct access to the Underberg Golf course. The Meadows offers a wide variety of recreational facilities including: 2 fully stocked trout

dams, ﬁshing, boating, bird watching, swimming pool, tennis court, jogging/cycle track, club house with recreational area, childrens play area, picnic and braai facilities along the river.

www.meadowsunderberg.co.za Rob Le Sueur | tel::+27 (0)82 450 9641 | e-mail:: rob@venturepartners.co.za Kate Watkin | tel::+27 (0)82 324 4929 | e-mail:: kate@venturepartners.co.za Wade Kerdachi | tel::+27 (0)83 652 7397 | e-mail:: wade@utopia.co.za

TheMeadows_HP_PropertyMagazine.indd 1

29/10/2011 09:40:52