In 2026, the definition of "luxury" is shifting.
PG 04
PG 07
BY SHAMMAH LIFA
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Showcase
Gift Guide 07 PAGE 14 Just Listed
PAGE 06 PAGE 09 PAGE 10 PAGE 13 PAGE 04 Sanctuary 2026 The Art of the Summer Table 48Hrs in Kloof
By Noeleen Naidoo
As 2025 comes to an end, I’m reminded of how much we’ve grown—both as individuals and as a team. This year brought its own challenges and successes, yet through it all, Ingwe continued to rise with confidence, creativity and purpose. From new opportunities in the market to strengthening our brand presence, 2025 proved that progress is built through consistency, resilience and collaboration.
A Note of Thanksgiving
Even though Thanksgiving isn’t widely observed in South Africa, the sentiment resonates deeply with me. This season encourages us to pause and appreciate what matters most. I’m grateful for a team that shows unwavering dedication, for clients who trust us with their property journeys, and for partners who continue to believe in our vision. Gratitude keeps us grounded and reminds us why we do what we do.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The new year brings with it fresh possibility. In 2026, I’m excited to see Ingwe strengthen our client experience, expand our reach, and invest even more in agent development. We have meaningful plans in motion—plans that will help us refine our processes, elevate our service, and continue pushing boundaries within the real estate space.
A Festive Message
As we step into the festive season, I encourage everyone to prioritise rest, health and safety. Take the time to reconnect with loved ones, travel carefully, and allow yourself a moment to recharge.
Thank you for being part of Ingwe’s journey this year. May your holidays be filled with warmth and peace, and may 2026 meet you with renewed energy and purpose.
Here’s to ending 2025 with gratitude and stepping boldly into the year ahead.
As we enter the new year, we are seeing a move away from the sterile "showroom" aesthetic toward Sensory Architecture. This is the home as a retreat; a place that engages the senses to soothe the nervous system.
SANCTUARY 2026
The Rise of the Wellness Home
IIn 2026, the definition of "luxury" is shifting. It is no longer defined by gold taps or cavernous entrance halls, but by a home’s ability to lower your heart rate the moment you walk through the door. At Ingwe, we call this the Beingwell standard. Where property meets peace of mind.
Quiet Corners The open-plan era is refining itself. While we still love flow, 2026 brings the return of the "Quiet Corner", dedicated nooks designed for reading, meditation, or deep work. Think window seats with acoustic paneling or small "pocket gardens" off a main bedroom.
Invisible Intelligence The smartest homes of 2026 don’t look smart. Technology is becoming invisible, working in the background to support circadian rhythms with lighting that mimics the sun’s arc, and air purification systems that ensure your sanctuary truly breathes.
As you look to your next move this year, ask yourself not just what the house looks like, but how it makes you feel. Because the ultimate luxury in 2026 is coming home to yourself.
IIn South Africa, our festive season is painted in sunlight, not snow. This December, the "perfect table" isn't about rigid formality; it is about mastering the flow between the kitchen and the veranda.
The Palette of Home
Step away from the traditional tinsel. This year, we are grounding our tablescapes in the textures of the landscape. Think raw linen runners in oatmeal or sage, paired with hand-thrown ceramics. For the centerpiece, forage from the garden: sprigs of eucalyptus, proteas, or olive branches add a fragrant, sculptural element that doesn’t block the view across the table.
Lighting the Mood
As the KZN heat fades into the golden hour, lighting transforms the atmosphere. Avoid harsh overheads. Layer the light with hurricane lanterns on the floor and unscented beeswax candles on the table.
The art of hosting isn't about the cutlery you use; it’s about creating a space where your guests feel time slow down.
Written By Shammah Lifa
If you live in Durban, you know the drill: in December, the humidity hits you like a warm blanket. But just 20 minutes inland, there’s a secret microclimate where the air is crisp, the trees are ancient, and the lifestyle is envy-inducing. I grabbed my camera and spent two days in Kloof to see if the "Upper Highway Chill" is real. Spoiler: I never wanted to leave.
DAY 1: The Mist Belt Magic
08:00 AM | The Caffeine Fix I started at Bellevue Café. If you think this is just a coffee shop, think again. It’s a community hub. The cappuccino is strong, the vibe is buzzing, and I’m pretty sure I saw half the neighborhood hugging each other hello. It feels like everyone knows everyone here—in the best way.
11:00 AM | Into the Wild You can't do Kloof without Krantzkloof Nature Reserve. I headed to the picnic site and took a walk to the falls. The sound of the water crashing down into the gorge drowned out every bit of stress I brought with me. It’s wild that this Jurassic Park scenery is literally in people’s backyards.
07:00 PM | History & Hops Dinner was a no-brainer: Stoker’s Arms. Housed in the old railway station, this pub is a Kloof institution. It was misty outside (classic Kloof weather), so sitting inside by the wood fireplace with a cold draught felt incredibly cozy. The burger? 10/10.
DAY 2: The Good Life
09:00 AM | Fairways & Greens I’m not a pro golfer, but I had to check out Kloof Country Club. Even if you don’t play, the breakfast on the veranda overlooking the course is worth the trip. It’s peaceful, green, and quiet.
The Ingwe Property Group - presents this breathtaking Home of Modern Elegance in The Hawaan Forest Estate, in Umhlanga which is Fully furnished and has amazing features to offer!
R1,540
JBL Mini Speaker
STANLEY Flask R1,399
NEW ERA Cap R749.95
Among the Burning Flowers
R505
R12,995,000
4 4 6
Noeleen Naidoo
082 828 2895
noeleen@ingwe.co.za
Cotswold Downs is one of KwaZulu-Natal’s premier golf and lifestyle leisure estates. Nestled within the lush indigenous surrounds is this picture perfect dream. This home has been lavished with tasteful décor, cascading chandeliers and pendent lighting.
R6,500,000
R8,950,000
Kaylee Rumney
078 894 8568 kaylee@ingwe.co.za
Taine Tarpey
084 509 5805 taine@ingwe.co.za
