expression of our personalities in the spaces in which we live. Trends that inspire us lately are the use of colour inspired by the great outdoors, which we call ‘interior rewilding’, and we are continuously inspired by the local design heritage we have in South Africa. In summary, we love the notion of having a respect for the past and an eye to the future.”
Current trends bring the inspiration of the great outdoors indoors, Morris & Co.
With thanks to Adriaan Wooding Atelier, Devilliers Du Toit Architects, Gerhard Architect, JK Design Architects, Meik Architects, Morris & Co, Nico van der Meulen Architects, SBE Africa Architects, and SG Studio
BUILDERS CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES
Building South African homes that stand out
Sustainability and innovative design are hallmarks of future design, SBE Africa Architects.
ADP Construction
Top-quality construction within budget and on time
Jukka Construction
High-end residential construction
ASHLEY
DU PLOOY DIRECTOR
Ashley Du Plooy directs and leads ADP Construction, a registered company founded in 2015. ADP Construction delivers high-quality residential and commercial builds.
ADP Construction is a fully registered and insured construction company. Led by Ashley Du Plooy, the company was founded after Du Plooy spent nearly a decade working in the industry and developing his hands-on approach. Today, he leads a dedicated team of registered artisans and skilled professionals, offering residential and commercial building services that prioritise quality, timelines and clear communication.
Du Plooy’s role is both strategic and on-site. He works closely with architects, clients and staff to ensure each build is completed to a high standard, within budget and aligned with the original vision. He is deeply committed to upskilling his team through consistent on-site training, building a culture of excellence and care. Staff are seen as family, and that approach flows through into the way the company treats its clients and partners.
For Du Plooy, the highlight of any project is handover day. Watching a family walk into their finished home, seeing a child light up as they explore their new space, brings home the meaning behind the work. These moments are a reminder that construction is not just about bricks and mortar, but also about delivering spaces where life unfolds. Du Plooy encourages anyone starting a build to check that their chosen contractor is registered with the NHBRC and BIBC, and ideally affiliated with the MBA. He recommends signing a formal contract before work begins, such as a JBCC or Master Builders agreement, and involving a quantity surveyor where possible to help keep the budget aligned. Before breaking ground, all plans must be approved by the council. ADP Construction is based in the South Peninsula and services the Southern Suburbs and Cape Town CBD.
Ashley Svensson’s years of experience in building high-end homes ensures that only the best workmanship and materials are used. His smooth construction process keeps clients from stressing over the little things and helps them find joy in the homebuilding journey
Jukka Construction specialises in high-end residential construction, operating mainly in Johannesburg’s northern suburbs. Backed by over 19 years of industry experience, owner Ashley Svensson applies his intimate knowledge of construction practices and prices to every project he undertakes. Svensson believes open communication and a hands-on approach to project management alleviates the pressure architects face, while offering clients the peace of mind that things are on track. He is excited about the future of home construction in South Africa, with trends in the building industry steering towards more natural and reclaimed products being specified in the architect’s design.
When it comes to green building principles, Jukka Construction understands that the strategic design of each home and its specifications will determine which green principles can be effectively incorporated into each build. The company already includes energyefficient polystyrene blocks for slabs, contributing significantly to temperature control, while paying attention to elements like correct home orientation and low-e glass windows, which also influence the long-term environmental benefits of a property.
Building a new home is deeply personal. Jukka Construction not only gives clients a memorable experience, but also ensures their investment exceeds all they’d hoped for. they’d
CONTACT:
067 380 7786
admin@jukka.co.za
www.jukka.co.za
Ramoremi Trading and Projects
Family-owned construction company
Excelsior Build
Building exceptional residential properties
CYLA WESSELS DIRECTOR
Cyla Wessels runs the day-today operations of family-run Ramoremi Trading and Projects, but, according to her, the success of the business comes down to teamwork. Her husband handles everything on site, her mum undertakes the designing, and her dad is in charge of finances.
Ramoremi Trading and Projects is a family-owned and run construction company that combines luxury and comfort, resulting in dream homes for its clients. Each member of the company plays a role in its success, and without one of them, the company would not be where it is today. Ramoremi strives
to make sure that even the smallest details are perfect on each project it undertakes. This has ensured that every completed project is a testimony to the company’s high standard and superior workmanship. Services offered by the company include risk management, quality construction, on-time delivery, the use of certified tools and top-quality materials and a professional and supportive team.
When it comes to exploring trends in the industry, the one that excites and stands out for Ramoremi is spacious, open-plan areas accompanied by practical thinking when designing. For home owners looking to hire a construction company, Ramoremi advises that references are key. It also recommends hiring a company that views client-builder relationships as essential. It is very important to know that your builder will continue to keep communication open, even after the construction is complete, to rectify snags after occupation. Ramoremi also stresses the importance of being able to ask questions and receive sufficient feedback timeously, so the build process will be seamless and offer peace of mind.
CONTACT:
079 695 2572
067 002 6262
cyla@ramoremi.co.za
SGIDEON SMITH DIRECTOR
Gideon Smith saw a need to provide a specialised turnkey building service to the upmarket home owner. He leads a team of professionals who are committed to providing a smooth and hasslefree building process. free building process.
ervicing the luxury, upmarket residential industry, Excelsior Build’s mission is to exceed its clients’ expectations by providing superior levels of service while adding value to their needs. The company is passionate about turning homes into beautiful living spaces – properties that are comfortable and relaxing both during the day and at night. Excelsior Build’s philosophy is to provide the best possible business practice, customer service and value for money its clients deserve. Excelsior Build prides itself on incorporating the latest advanced technology in more eco-friendly and sustainable-energy designs. Thorough planning means the smallest details are taken care of upfront, resulting in top-end living environments where the exterior is undeniably enchanting and the interior is a feast for the eyes.
“Renovations present a good opportunity to waterproof as various parts of the home become exposed and are easily accessible.”
– Patience Mushi
Neglecting to waterproof may have significant implications. “Leaks can damage valuables like appliances and furniture, while water penetration – through the roof, walls or foundations – can lead to problems like damp patches, wood rot, corrosion and even weakening of the load-bearing elements. These issues not only compromise the safety of the home, but also contribute to reduced property value and higher maintenance costs,” explains Graham Youngelson, owner of PMC. He adds that water infiltration can also pose a health risk because untreated mould releases airborne spores that may lead to respiratory problems.
THE DOS AND DON’TS
MEDAL PAINTS
Properties in areas where there is a lot moisture, like the coast, may require more frequent waterproofing.
How to undertake proper waterproofing to ensure the longevity of your home and everything inside it. By Lisa Witepski
PROACTIVE WATERPROOFING WILL SAVE YOU IN THE LONG RUN
Mushi says that before you start waterproofing, you should check for signs that your current protection has been compromised, examining all walls, ceilings, basements and exterior surfaces. Seal cracks and gaps with a sealant, replacing them if necessary, and pay special attention to windows, doors and foundation joints. It’s also a good idea to clean gutters and downpipes, removing leaves and debris to prevent water overflow. “Ensure that water flows away from the foundations,” Mushi advises, noting that you should also check drainage systems to ensure water drains away from the home. Use waterproof paint or liquid membranes on walls, roofs and basements, focusing on wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
Medal Paints is a leading South African paint manufacturer, producing high-quality decorative and industrial coatings for over 40 years. Waterproofing is often associated with the immediate threat of rain and storms, with people scrambling to seal leaks when water stains appear or a downpour is imminent. However, proactive waterproofing during dry periods is a critical aspect of home maintenance. Some products to consider include:
PROFESSIONAL WATERPROOFING
Medal Professional Waterproofing is an acrylic waterproofing coating used in conjunction with a membrane. A flexible product with excellent elongation properties that can be applied to a variety of surfaces where a “water-tight” system is required.
EVERSEAL FLEXIBLE WATERPROOFING
Think of waterproofing as an invisible shield; a protective barrier that protects the structural integrity of your home by preventing water infiltration.
Of course, as with anything, that shield may become worn out over time. That’s why the initial waterproofing during construction should be repeated from time to time.
WHEN TO WATERPROOF
Patience Mushi of a.b.e Waterproofing notes that renovations present a good opportunity to waterproof as various parts of the home become exposed and are easily accessible. “You should also undertake this before the rainy season. If you spot peeling paint, musty smells or damp patches, you should act immediately.”
Duduzile Khanyile of Dulux agrees, noting that, unless there is an urgent need to waterproof the property, the process should be repeated every three to five years. Factors such as the local climate, wall exposure, wear and material quality will affect the frequency, along with application techniques and environmental conditions.
STOP IT BEFORE IT STARTS
Graham Youngleson of PMC says that to avoid water damage in the first place, landscapers should grade soils, grasses and paving at the beginning of a new build so that ground and subsoil moisture drains away from the building.
When it comes to choosing paint, Susan Theron of Medal Paints says it is best to select a paint from a trusted supplier with an established track record. “Medal Paints is an ISO-certified company, which means that we adhere to stringent quality assurance,” she points out. Look for lowVOC, lead-free options. Q
With thanks to a.b.e Waterproofing, Dulux, Medal Paints, and PMC
“Water infiltration can also pose a health risk because untreated mould releases airborne spores that may lead to respiratory problems. ”
– Graham Youngleson
MAKE SURE THAT …
Dulux advises that, when waterproofing, you should:
• Ensure your surface is properly prepared.
• Use quality waterproofing products intended for the specific application.
• Follow the correct painting process and product instructions.
Everseal is a high-quality, highly flexible acrylic waterproofing system formulated to seal and protect all exterior surfaces. It offers excellent UV resistance.
EVERBOND WATERPROOFING SEALANT
Everbond is a non-toxic, fibre-reinforced flexible membrane-free acrylic waterproofing system used in a wide variety of applications. It has high UV- and waterresistant properties.
EVERFLEX LIQUID RUBBER
Everflex Liquid Rubber Coating is designed for roofs and cold-room applications, where a high degree of water resistance, elongation and elasticity is required. It provides outstanding tensile properties and unmatched dirt pick-up resistance for a clean roof surface.
