YourLuxury Africa - August 2023 Issue

LITTLEBLACKBOOK the of inspiration

Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town 021 418 4515 Hyde Park Corner, Johannesburg | 011 325 4477

THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK HAS BEEN USED AS FAR BACK AS THE MID-1400S, referring to a list of people who had committed crimes or needed to be punished. Later on, it is said to have denoted a list of past or potential romantic partners. Today it has a more positive connotation, widely acknowledged as a collection of secrets or personal contacts – an inspirational and private resource of those ‘in the know’.

In this edition of YourLuxury, we’ve shared our precious lists and sources of invaluable secrets and intelligence with you. From the hottest seasonal finds and secluded havens to fabulous restaurants and meaningful life lessons, start paging through our Little Black Book, and for even more exclusive insights, join us on yourluxury.africa

FROM THE EDITOR

MY TOP PICKS

Pomellato Nudo necklace in 18kt rose and white gold, with seven obsidians and 182 black treated diamonds on 18kt black rhodium plated rose gold. bhhboutique.co.za

PHOTOGRAPHER: Xxxx

EDITORIAL: ACTING & BEAUTY EDITOR Ingrid Wood ingrid@yourluxury.africa MANAGING EDITOR Rizwana Variawa rizwana@yourluxury.africa

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kate Walters

COPY EDITOR Tamlyn Cumings PROOFREADER/CONTRIBUTOR Leigh Herringer IMAGE EDITOR Coralie Elske PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Rachael Akerman rachael@yourluxury.africa

ADVERTISING & MARKETING: MD Yvonne Shaff +27 (82) 903 5641 I yvonne@yourluxury.africa

ACCOUNT MANAGER: NATIONAL Gina van de Wall I gina@yourluxury.africa

ADVERTISING CO-ORDINATOR Yvette Mehl + 27 (21) 439 4907 I yvette@yourluxury.africa

MANAGEMENT: MANAGING DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER Yvonne Shaff

DISTRIBUTION & PRINT: DISTRIBUTION On the Dot, Media Support PRINTED BY Hirt & Carter for YourLuxury: PO Box 1053, Sea Point 8060, Cape Town. All rights reserved. Whereas precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of information, neither the editor nor YourLuxury Africa can be held liable for any inaccuracies, injury or damages that may arise. The opinions expressed in the articles may not reflect those of the publisher. All prices correct at time of going to print.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jacquie Myburgh Chemaly jacquie@yourluxury.africa

yourluxury.africa

Filorga Global-Repair multi-revitalising nutritive balm. filorgasouthafrica.co.za

Le Riche Reserve cabernet sauvignon 2020. leriche.co.za

Diptyque Black Candle Baies, 300g. skins.co.za

Comme des Garçons Black Pepper Eau de Parfum. skins.co.za

Elegance is an attitude

Jennifer Lawrence

Mall of Africa • Clearwater Mall • Canal Walk

STANDING OVATION

A recipient of four Tony awards, Irish playwright Martin McDonagh’s The Beauty Queen of Leenane wowed Jozi audiences during its first season in October last year. Presented by production company How Now Brown Cow, it has since received five Naledi Theatre awards. A psychological thriller interspersed with humour and romance, it stars the captivating Julie-Anne McDowell as Maureen and Naledi-winner for Best Supporting Actress, Jennifer Steyn, as her ailing mother Mag. It’s on at The Baxter Theatre in Cape Town from 2 -19 August. Don’t miss it – it’s that good! baxter.co.za

TREASURE TROV

Explore African art, photography and artefacts on the first Thursday of every month at new retail and showroom space, The Trov, in Rosebank, Johannesburg. Take friends, BYOB and mingle as you enjoy live music and a food-truck supper. The Trov can also be rented for private and corporate functions. First Thursdays start at 5pm and tickets are available at the door, or see @the.trov for booking details as space is limited.

NEW AFRICA IN THE BIG APPLE

Offering an international platform for diverse African narratives, Southern Guild will exhibit for the first time at The Armory Show in New York City next month. Debuting multi-disciplinary artforms that illustrate ancestry in contemporary form, chosen artists include South African sculptural artist Zizipho Poswa and SA-based Iranian painter Kamyar Bineshtarigh, as well as local artist Manyaku Mashilo, whose piece A New Order of Being is pictured above. From 8 – 10 September in the main section of the fair at the Javits Center on Manhattan’s West Side, NYC. southernguild.co.za

INTO THE DEEP

Based in London, this is South African-born painter Jennifer Morrison’s first solo exhibition in Cape Town. Titled the Depth of Things, Jennifer’s works explore colour in the medium of oil – as seen in Always (pictured above) – and delve into her intuition and emotion as she creates them. The results are rich and impactful encounters for both the artist and viewer. The exhibition runs until 24 August at the Barnard Gallery in Newlands.

barnyardgallery.com

LET US RISE

After its meteoric rise to fame in Europe and the US, the Ndlovu Youth Choir kicks off its South African tour in Jozi this month. Blending traditional South African genres with pop, rock, jazz and EDM, the choir continues to push the creative boundaries of song and dance with its soul-stirring performances and vibrant energy. From 24 – 27 August at Montecasino’s Teatro and Cape Town’s Artscape Opera House from 12 – 15 October. montecasino.co.za; artscape.co.za

yourluxury.africa

IF YOU’VE BEEN ENJOYING OUR PRINT editions of YourLuxury Africa, head to our website at yourluxury.africa

There, we share news and views about the ultimate luxury lifestyle, with carefully curated content from all over Africa and beyond. From food to fashion, wine to watches, wheels to wings and fragrance to fine art – it’s all there in one exquisite online space. And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook too.

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

JO

Jo is a lifestyle journalist who loves dopamine dressing, maximalism and a strong cup of coffee. “After losing my dad in 2022, I view luxury as time with loved ones –like walks in the park with my mom and sister. And curling up under a cosy blanket with my chihuahuas.”

See: p24

Lindelwa’s love for creativity knows no bounds, and she’s eager to delve into new realms of expression. “Luxury represents a sense of time and space: the luxury to slow down and engage in activities that bring me joy. It’s about having the physical and mental space to pursue my passions.”

See: p48

Steve is one of South Africa’s leading food, wine and drinks journalists. While his focus is on the finer side of the culinary sphere, he’s never opposed to a good slice of pizza or a few well-made dumplings. “Time is the ultimate luxury – be it time to eat or drink, time to travel or time to sit and connect.”

See: p46

yourluxury.africa

Sahara is a professional photographer who’s established herself as a versatile artist with a passion for capturing the beauty of life. “Luxury is having the choice of comfort and style without compromise. Balancing the two without sacrifice brings joy. Luxury is joy.”

See: p18

BUITENDACH

LINDELWA BUSAKWE

STEVE STEINFELD

SAHARA ASHANTI

PHOTOGRAPH TRAEVON

ON THE EVOLUTION OF LUXURY IN THE 21ST CENTURY: Luxury remains informed by the economic realities of the times, as well as the changing tastes and needs of consumers. In our post-COVID-19 reality, I believe luxury has become less a matter of smackin-your-face consumerism and more of a hyper-personalised expression of comfort and relief. Things like time and the freedom to allocate it for relaxation and enjoyment, as well as health that goes beyond the physical body, have become as important in experiencing luxury as anything money can buy. There is a much-needed conscious awakening as luxury brands are compelled to consider the reality of climate change, carbon footprint and other aspects of sustainability.

ON AFRICAN LUXURY: Our continent is the undefeated champion of birthing ingenuity, and where colonialism normalised the act of exporting our genius, originality and refined eye for beauty without crediting the source, this generation is on a restorative

YOURLUXURY AFRICA WELCOMES A NEW EDITOR NEXT MONTH.

NTOKOZO MASEKO

TALKS TO US ABOUT THE CHANGES IN MEDIA AND THE ROLE OF AFRICAN LUXURY IN A POSTPANDEMIC WORLD

Meet the Editor

mission. Much of what is changing now in the luxury conversation is the cutting out of the middle man – we are rightfully labelling our impeccable legacy of invention and creativity with the names of the original makers. We have a big challenge ahead to reclaim the value chain of luxurygoods production on home soil, but the days of Africa ghost writing and prototyping luxury for the world to package are fading fast. We’ve always had something unique to show.

ON THE NAME YOURLUXURY: I’m ignited by the ‘your’ in YourLuxury Africa. That’s the nerve centre of luxury in the 21st century; ownership and having agency over what you consume and how. The future of African luxury being tailored for us and by us is a thrilling prospect.

ON THE EVOLVING WORLD OF MEDIA: As an 80s baby, I’m part of a unique sect of millennials some are calling ‘the bridge’ because we’ve lived through critical shifts in political, societal, cultural and technological advances. We’ve seen the world move from using

floppy discs to USBs to the cloud in one lifetime, so bridge millennials are fluent in change – and quite invigorated by it. Media has taken me on a similar journey since my first taste over 15 years ago, and I’m optimistic about the changes. I grew up at the peak of American and Western influence dominating the media landscape in South Africa, and now I get to not only consume, but also produce content that is inspired by our own lived reality, and that’s incredibly exciting.

I’m also excited by the changes taking place in the world of publishing, making it a more diverse space where smaller players can enter the field and thrive, particularly in the digital sphere. I believe that the more voices there are, the richer the experience will be for readers. Africa is primed to take charge of the world’s increasing gaze on us by owning how our narrative is depicted, and media most certainly will continue to play a pivotal role in recording this shift in the zeitgeist as it happens.

ON THE PERSONAL CONCEPT OF

LUXURY: My idea of luxury is the ability to personalise and tailor. Whether it’s a hair style, a piece of jewellery or selecting car specs, the freedom to make something more intuitive to my needs is a high form of luxury. We’re moving towards a not-so-distant future where vintage Magugu will hold its weight right next to vintage Dior, so owning something that can tell a story over time without fading in quality, is also luxury to me. I didn’t grow up in a family with tangible heirlooms; I want my children and future generations of my family to own remnants of history that I personally lived to witnessed and managed to preserve. Lastly, owning even the smallest slice of time that I can speed up or slow down at will is an exceptional experience of luxury for me. ■

yourluxury.africa

THE ALLURE OF BLACK

THE MAGNETIC CHARM OF DARK-HUED TIMEPIECES HELPS TIME TAKE ON A WHOLE NEW SHADE OF SOPHISTICATION

WORDS SONY THOMAS

WATCHES WITH BLACKED-OUT CASES, BEZELS AND DIALS have always held a distinct allure, exuding an aura of elegance, sophistication and magnetism. We love these new timepieces that have embraced the darkness.

1. TAG Heuer Monaco ‘Dark Lord’

The original Heuer Monaco series underwent significant evolution, expanding from showcasing the Calibre 11 automatic chronograph movement in 1969 to including hand-wound movements. The Heuer Monaco ‘Dark Lord,’ first released in 1974, was a remarkable innovation, featuring a black-coated case and limited production. TAG Heuer paid homage to this iconic timepiece with the modern Monaco ‘Dark Lord’ for 2022’s Monaco Grand Prix. The watch boasts a 39mm sandblasted matte black DLCcoated Grade 2 titanium case, a sapphire display window and 100-metre water resistance. The dial has applied faceted indices and a broad handset in brushed and polished 5N rose gold plate, a striking contrast against the black dial. Powering the watch is the Heuer 02 automatic chronograph movement with an 80-hour power reserve. The look is completed with a matte black deployant strap in alligator leather. R187 000, picotandmoss.co.za

2. MONTBLANC 1858 Iced Sea Automatic Date

Since its association with the Minerva manufacture in 2007, Montblanc has sought to align itself with its rich heritage. This commitment is exemplified by the prestigious 1858 line, paying homage to the year of Minerva’s establishment. The Montblanc 1858 Iced Sea Automatic Date is a sports diving watch boasting a striking patterned dial that evokes the depths of a glacier. Inspired by the Mer de Glace – the main glacier of the Mont-Blanc Massif – the dial features a black glacial pattern through the meticulous gratté-boisé technique, reminiscent of a bygone era. This timepiece features a unidirectional bi-colour ceramic bezel and the caseback is engraved. For optimal comfort and precision fitting, the watch includes an interchangeable black rubber strap with an adjustment system. Designed to meet the standards of the ISO 6425 norm for diving watches, it is water-resistant to an impressive depth of 300 metres. R53 300, montblanc.com

3. TISSOT T-Race Cycling Tour de France 2023

Tissot has been an official partner of the Tour de France since 2016. Like the previous versions, the T-Race Cycling Tour de France 2023 has been designed with subtle references to the race itself, with the watch showcasing an asphalt-grained dial and a seconds hand shaped like a bike. The dial and strap have a yellow trim, reminiscent of the iconic yellow jersey worn by the race champion. It features a quartz movement, ensuring accurate timekeeping, while the hour and minute hands are coated with Superluminova for easy legibility in low-light conditions. The watch is also equipped with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal to protect the dial from damage and the Tour de France logo is engraved on the caseback. Additionally, the T-Race Cycling Tour de France Collection offers the convenience of an interchangeable quick-release strap so users can easily customise the watch to suit their preferences. R15 000, tissotwatches.com

With the Black Bay Ceramic, Tudor has not only showcased its technical prowess, but also closed the gap with Omega, which has always obtained METAS certification. With a matte black ceramic case, Manufacture Calibre movement and Master Chronometer certification from METAS, this watch is a symbol of Tudor’s expertise in chronometry and magnetic resistance. While the certification is proof of the watch undergoing rigorous testing that surpasses industry standards, the aesthetic combines high-tech elements with nods to the brand’s heritage. The monobloc ceramic case features sand-blasted surfaces, bevelled edges and polished accents. The dial and bezel are black ceramic with engraved graduations, while ‘Snowflake’ hands and luminescent hour markers add to the Black Bay look. The Manufacture Calibre MT5602-1U has a 70-hour power reserve and silicon hairspring. R93 800, tudorwatch.com

4. TUDOR Black Bay Ceramic

BLACK WILL ALWAYS BE IN FASHION. AFTER ALL, IT SUITS EVERYONE, GOES WITH EVERYTHING AND GIVES EVERY LOOK AN ULTRA-LUXE FEEL

BY

Volumizing Mascara, R485, ARC Stores and edgars.co.za

Dr. Vranjes Rosa Tabacco Onyx 3kg candle, R6 300, darocha.co.za

Dolce&Gabbana DG Logo crossbody bag, R22 000, dolcegabbana.com

Dior 30Montaigne M1U rimless sunglasses, from R9 050,

Louis Vuitton Shake Pump, 5.5cm, R22 400, louisvuitton.com

Chanel Allure Homme All-Over Sport Spray, R1 680, Chanel Beauty and Fragrance Boutiques and select Woolworths and ARC Stores

COMPILED

INGRID WOOD

IN HONOUR OF WOMEN’S MONTH, WE ASKED FOUR CREATIVE DYNAMOS TO SHARE THEIR LITTLE BLACK BOOK OF ADVICE AND INSPIRATION

WORDS NORMA YOUNG

APURPOSE CRE TIVE

THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER VIOLETA SOFIA CAPTURES IMAGES THAT IMMORTALISE NOT ONLY THE PHYSICAL APPEARANCE OF HER SUBJECTS, BUT THEIR EMOTIONS, STORIES AND INNER BEAUTY, TOO

BORN IN CAMEROON AND NOW LIVING IN LONDON, Violeta once gave serious consideration to a career as a pilot. She’d always loved the arts, but worried that it was more a personal passion than a realistic career option. Courage and unwavering interest led her towards creative pursuits and today, Violeta is a renowned artist. She is currently participating in a threeyear-long project sponsored by Chanel, called Reframing Narratives: Women in Portraiture, at the National Portrait Gallery in London. She’s also busy preparing for a September exhibition in collaboration with the English National Opera.

“Photography became a passion after my father, an avid photography enthusiast himself, introduced me to it. But then I faced conflicting advice regarding my career aspirations. While my passion lay in artistic pursuits, the prevailing sentiment in school was for a more conventional path. This contradictory guidance left me utterly perplexed when it came to my future career trajectory.

It took a considerable amount of time to fully identify and embrace my calling, but I finally did. Occasionally, I can’t help but wonder how my career might have unfolded if I had received the right support and guidance from an early age. Would my path have been more straightforward and fulfilling? Would my mind have been a bit less confused and more resolute?

Fortunately, I had the unwavering support of both my parents, which proved to be an invaluable source of encouragement throughout my journey.

What captivates me about portraits is their timeless nature. They transcend the fleeting fashion trends and societal norms. It’s truly fascinating to witness my pictures resurfacing and being reused in publications, even after several years have passed. Portraits seem to have a way of enduring, carrying the essence of the sitter with them through time.

A pivotal career moment for me was when I photographed George Clooney in 2021. I was getting busier, and in that instant, I made the decision to let go of all my other job commitments –which included teaching – in order to concentrate solely on being an artist and a photographer. This decision alone opened so many doors and led to me being signed by multiple prestigious photography agencies.

In recent times, I’ve found myself drawn to the works of the old masters. Growing up, I never appreciated their art; it felt distant, with no connection to my own identity. It’s quite ironic how my previous disdain has transformed into a deep appreciation as I now embark on creating my own unique interpretations of these timeless masterpieces.

Resilience and determination play a pivotal role in my work, driving me to excel. My unwavering passion and inability to imagine my life without storytelling, creativity and artistic expression all fuel my success.

One of the most important aspects for me to prioritise is my mental health. As a freelance photographer, it’s very easy to get caught up in the many demands of projects and forget to take care of myself and live a fulfilling life beyond just work. I try to find a balance and remember that taking care of my mental wellbeing is as important as professional success.

I like to try and approach life in an organic manner and avoid setting rigid goals that revolve around very specific timelines. Instead, I believe in the power of visualisation and the influence that our thoughts can have on shaping our lives.”

QUICK-FIRE FAVOURITES

Drink of choice: A green smoothie. Background music: Shazam playlist. Most-used gadget: Fuji x100Vcamera. Best way to destress: Yoga and kickboxing. Dream destination: Zanzibar.

THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER

FROM BRONZE TOTEMS AND INK PAINTINGS TO DEBRIS TURNED INTO ARTEFACTS, TREVYN MCGOWAN AIMS TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR BUYERS TO ACCESS AND PURCHASE ARTWORKS THEY LOVE

IN HER PREVIOUS CAREER running an interior and architectural practice, Trevyn took on renovations and redevelopments for big-name clients like Sir Ian McKellan, Gerald Butler and Rachel Wiesz. In some ways, personal spaces still dominate in her current job as CEO of Southern Guild. Except now she’s helping artists get their works into homes, offices and hotels. Trevyn founded the gallery in 2008 after moving back to South Africa having spent just over two decades in London. Passionate about creating platforms for the diverse African narratives, this September she’ll be leading the gallery’s first exhibit at The Armory Show in New York City. It’s yet another notable achievement, alongside starting GUILD, Africa’s first international design fair, which was launched in Cape Town in 2014, and numerous acknowledgements such as being listed in USA Art + Auction magazine’s ‘POWER 100’.

“I initially wanted to be a film director or producer. Running the gallery and producing exhibitions, events and fairs has many of the same qualities and requires similar expertise, so I feel that this ambition has been fulfilled in certain aspects.

Energy, intensity and collaborative force all help me thrive. I love a busy, peoplepacked environment – we have five kids

and two dogs, and the house is always filled with friends of all ages. I love brainstorming sessions and team presentations with their electric atmosphere and the dynamism of differing viewpoints. I also enjoy exhibition set-ups with the pressure of an opening deadline and everyone called to bring their best game.

Resources that are integral to my success have been my COO Sarah Dawson, the ability to combat fear and my overriding sense of optimism. I hope the fact that I really care about how people feel has also been a contributor.

Andile Dyalvane’s solo exhibition, iThongo, has been a huge source of inspiration to me. We premiered the collection in his home village of Ngobozana in the Eastern Cape before it showed in the Cape Town gallery, followed by New York. Andile’s intrinsic connection to his ancestors and his desire for healing the wounds that were afflicted on them – and on all of us – have been a guiding inspiration for me when it comes to the role art can play at a deep soul level.

A goal we are working towards right now is opening a US gallery in February 2024. I had a very clear epiphany at the end of 2022 for space abroad. So we went to Los

Angeles and signed the lease on a 500sqm gallery in East Hollywood. We will become the first South African gallery to have a full-time US gallery in the most exciting new art hub on the West Coast. As one of the drivers for the evolution of Southern Guild, it propels so many of the goals and dreams we have for the self-defined category in which we work. We can’t wait to see how our artists and programme will be received.”

QUICK-FIRE FAVOURITES

Brunch spot: My bed on a Saturday morning with my kids, unpacking their Friday night. Weekend getaway destination: Dar el Qamar in Tulbagh. Most helpful app: WhatsApp, to stay in constant comms. Media consumption: For a podcast, Nancy Kline’s Time to Think and a current read is On Connection by Kae Tempest. Daily ritual: Early morning walk with my dogs on the Constantia greenbelt while listening to podcasts that get me ready for the day.

A MAGICAL MASH-UP

BLENDING CONTEMPORARY DESIGN WITH CRAFT-DRIVEN TECHNIQUES, THABISA MJO HAS BUILT A BUSINESS THAT TELLS UNIQUELY SOUTH AFRICAN STORIES THROUGH FURNITURE AND HOMEWARE PRODUCTS

AN ART GALLERY IN FRANSCHHOEK, a safari lodge in Pilanesberg, an art foundation in Madagascar, the offices of Google in Kenya and restaurants in Johannesburg, Australia, Zambia and Belfast. These are just some of the establishments that house pieces from MashT Design Studio. Founder Thabisa is the only South African designer with two works, the Tutu Light and Mjojo Cabinet, that are part of the permanent collection in the Louvre, Paris. Since starting MashT in 2013, Thabisa has won many accolades, including South African Designer of the Year, 2019. Passionate about bringing together technology and traditional crafts such as weaving and beading, Thabisa wants her company to achieve more than selling pretty products. Her goal is to change people’s lives in a meaningful way.

“Advice that I’ve been given and try to always follow is the importance of learning to listen to another person, and then in that listening, to understand what they are saying rather than rushing to respond.

I find my work meaningful because our products aim to add spark and joy to the spaces they’re in. They’re designed to be delightful and hopefully make people feel

something, and perhaps invoke a sense of connection.

Winning the Nandos design competition in the early days of MashT boosted my confidence and self-belief. I was simply making lights that I loved and wasn’t really aware that I had the gift of designing and creating products. Through the experience of winning, it then became clear to me that the business wasn’t so much about designing and selling products, but about telling stories that matter and that people can respond to. I wasn’t aware I had this ability, so the validation made me realise that I can actually do this and I’m good at it. A play that recently inspired me is Cion, an adaptation of Zakes Mda’s book that was directed and choreographed by Gregory Maqoma. It was an incredible production that incorporated dance, sound and music to tell the story. I liked that it wasn’t limited to one genre. The actors not only used words, but their entire bodies to express a message. This, with lighting and sound design, created an experience in which the audience was completely involved.

Cinga Samson is an artist I really admire He does these beautiful portraits where the subjects are captured so convincingly, it

feels like they are alive and staring directly into your soul.

My intention with MashT is to build a scalable and sustainable design business that will outlive me. I want it to be a business that will help preserve indigenous artisan skills and be a vehicle for them to generate income. I also hope it becomes a business that will establish South African design as a category brand.”

QUICK-FIRE FAVOURITES

Aeroplane essentials: Water, a good book and a hydrating mask. Most valuable gadget: My iPhone. Little luxuries: A pretty purse, skincare and me time when I need it. Regular podcast: The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett. Book recommendation: The PH Miracle: Balance Your Diet, Reclaim Your Health by Robert Young and Shelley Redford Young.

A GLOBAL GEM

JEWELLERY DESIGNER KIRSTEN GOSS CREATES PIECES THAT READ BOTH AFRICAN AND INTERNATIONAL, AND ARE SUITABLE FOR OCCASIONS SPANNING FROM SPECIAL EVENTS TO EVERYDAY GLAMOUR

HAVING STARTED HER BUSINESS FROM A SMALL STUDIO in London, Kirsten has built it into an internationally renowned brand. Her vast client list spans from Hollywood actresses such as Sarah Jessica Parker and American singer Nicole Scherzinger to British actress Rosamund Pike. The eponymous jewellery design company specialises in pieces that are designed by Kirsten and manufactured by an inhouse team of goldsmiths, using a variety of unusual gemstones and fine metals. She’s developed the Signature Collection of timeless classics that are exclusively made to order, and then over the years offered themed ranges, such as OXO, which celebrated the decadence of the 80s, and Tokyo, which was an ode to minimalist architecture and aesthetics. In 2019, Kirsten expanded the company’s offering to include the ABODE collection of brass and sterling silver homeware which includes spoons, pickle forks and salad servers, as well as scented candles, soaps and stationery. Her creative eye and business acumen have helped the brand garner recognition as Most Beautiful Object in South Africa at Design Indaba in 2012 for her Lily Pad Ring, Entrepreneur of the Year at the SA Business Awards in 2014, and Kirsten being named one of 100 World Class South Africans by City Press in 2017.

“I have an amazingly interesting family from an art and business perspective. My mum and her mother inspired my thirst for quality, quirk and aesthetic, while my dad and his mum ensured the drive, discipline and business aspect remained alive and well. I don’t mention my grandfathers as they sadly passed away before I could learn from them directly. But they left impressive, pioneering legacies which are equally inspirational.

A geeky element to an artistic endeavour made studying jewellery design my idea of heaven. A friend told me that they had a degree in jewellery design from the University of Stellenbosch. I was already pretty keen on studying at that university in the first place, so the fact they had an academic course in something so unusual was really fascinating to me. I had studied chemistry at school so the gemmology aspect made it a perfect fit.

Never take no from someone who isn’t authorised to say yes in the first place. This is a piece of advice that I try to follow.

Design and gem sourcing are the favourite parts of my work, but I do also love the marketing and the business side – even though it takes up an extraordinary amount of time.

In my ideal creative environment, I need everything to be super neat, clean and aesthetically appealing. I really can’t work unless these things are in place, so I first need to create spaces that feel deeply appealing ahead of working at my desk.

Great pieces of art have taken me on so many mental journeys. But it’s a Rothko that I saw in the MoMA in New York that really shook me the youngest and earliest in memory.

Big goals we’re chasing right now include some new production studios and a really exciting new couture fine collection.” ■

QUICK-FIRE FAVOURITES

Brunch spot: Clarke’s in Cape Town. Weekend getaway: Coot Club in Stanford in the Western Cape. Inspiring quote: “Everything in moderation, including moderation” – Oscar Wilde.

Recent read: Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver. Music: Agar Agar radio on Spotify.

BORN FROM DEEP SARTORIAL ROOTS, Dolce&Gabbana has always embraced a gentleman’s discerning selection of elegance, craftsmanship and character in his wardrobe choices. This, coupled with the luxury fashion house’s respect for time, tradition and innovation, Sartoria Made to Measure offers an exceptional tailoring experience for the man who wants to stand out in the crowd.

For many years, designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have set the trend in men’s fashion through the Dolce&Gabbana couture and ready-towear ranges. Sartoria Made to Measure has since expanded the Dolce&Gabbana offering to include a bespoke tailoring service that allows its clients to match their personal taste to Dolce&Gabbana’s iconic quality and refinement.

The journey began when Domenico Dolce, who was inspired by his father revealing to him the hidden realm of tailoring within a carefully made jacket – “an invisible world

TAILOR MADE

SARTORIA MADE TO MEASURE IS DOLCE&GABBANA’S EXCLUSIVE TAILORING SERVICE – AND IT WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME IN SOUTH AFRICA

Sartori Made to Measure will be available for the first week of September at Dolce&Gabbana in Sandton City, Johannesburg. Please call 011 326 7808 to make a oneon-one appointment with a Made to Measure specialist tailor from Italy.

hidden beneath the lining”. This appreciation for detail and fine Italian craftsmanship (an essential part of the Dolce&Gabbana brand ethos) led to the birth of Sartoria Made to Measure in 2014.

Since then, Sartoria Made to Measure has given its customers a personal experience, appreciating this timeless art that has been handed down from generations of Sicilian tailors. The Dolce&Gabbana specialist tailors are masters of their craft and will ensure each unique creation has an impeccable fit and finish. Starting with a fitting, exact measurements are taken followed by a final one to allow for any adjustments once the master garment is complete. Then the magic begins as the Dolce&Gabbana tailors refine the garment down to the smallest detail using personal selections of buttons, silks, fabrics and linings. Six to eight weeks later, the garment is ready, a testament to tradition and contemporary style.

dolcegabbana.com ■

yourluxury.africa

I WAS HER FIRST PORT OF CALL, BEING “THE MOST YOUTH-ADJACENT PERSON SHE KNOWS”.

IN THE KNOW

my

A FRIEND PHONED ME RECENTLY, LOOKING FOR A COOL SPOT TO GO DANCING.

little black bookofcool

I’m always on the lookout for innovative restaurants, fashion and beautiful design. Here are some of my top picks…

I TOOK THIS AS A COMPLIMENT. AT 38, I’M ‘YOUTH ADJACENT’ AND APPARENTLY NOT JUST ON A DOWNHILL SLOPE TO 40. I’M ALSO SEEMINGLY IN THE KNOW AS TO WHERE YOU SHOULD GO FOR A RAZZLE… WORDS JO BUITENDACH

CONFESSION, THIS ISN’T MY MOMENT TO FLEX, because I didn’t actually know where the kiki was, at least on that specific occasion. Another confession, I just googled ‘flex’ (to boast or brag) and ‘kiki’ (a social gathering), so that I sound suitably hip and down with the kids. I’m clearly neither.

When YourLuxury Africa asked me to write about being an in-the-know maven, I questioned whether they had meant to mail me and not someone else. Turns out I may be a walking Little Black Book, but also, I have a heavy case of imposter syndrome. For 12 years, I ran an internationally acclaimed tour company in Johannesburg called Past Experiences. It was my job to know what was new, trendy and happening. I was always looking for an innovative spot to take my clients; whether to eat, shop or learn about the City of Gold. I quickly built up an encyclopaedic knowledge and learnt a lot about the luxury market, as most of my clients were wealthy international travellers. I was even honoured with an award by Vanity Fair magazine for the work I did in Jozi. But all good things must come to an end, and I was long overdue for a change. So, three years ago, and after several health issues, much stress and a few major life events, I decided to try something new. I now work as a journalist, so being in the know is still important as I write about trends, design and the local cultural scene. Without sounding clichéd, I have learnt a few things on my journey to where I am now. These life lessons and the confidence and knowledge they bring are one of the joys of getting older, and include:

• Being yourself and honest about your interests and experiences is crucial. Excitement about your work and passions will always shine through.

• I live by an ethos of kindness and acceptance. Archbishop Desmond Tutu said humanity is made for “togetherness, love and compassion”, and I believe this is true.

• A long-time colleague and friend maintains that I can fit in anywhere. I’m empathic and go into all situations with respect and an open mind to fresh ideas and experiences.

• While it may be hard, constructive criticism is important. My sister Sarah is a wellknown journalist and editor and has become my mentor over the last few years. Her advice is essential.

• Music legend David Bowie had a longstanding career because he wasn’t afraid of change. He continually reinvented his music and aesthetic. Like him, I hope to always adapt and challenge myself.

• Balance and boundaries are everything. Being forced to take a break during the pandemic made me realise how unbalanced my life was. Mental and physical health are vital.

EVERARD-READ GALLERY

HLOBO_NDIZE JCAF

Affair of the Art

Thanks to potholes and loadshedding, Joburg isn’t shining particularly brightly right now. It’s easy to be glum, but there is still joy to be had, and I continually find it in the local art scene.

I recently went to the launch of Otherscapes at the Johannesburg Contemporary Art Foundation (JCAF) in Forest Town. JCAF blows me away with its unique exhibitions. Last year they showed Frida Kahlo’s work alongside Irma Stern and Indian artist Amrita Sher-Gil. Otherscapes, which is on until November, includes immersive instillations by four contemporary South African artists; Siemon Allen, Wim Botha, Sethembile Msezane and Nicholas Hlobo.

I’m looking forward to Nic Bladen’s upcoming show at Everard-Read Gallery in Rosebank. His lifelike botanical sculptures of plants, many of which we recognise from our gardens, are unmissable. Joburgbased Congolese artist Thonton Kabeya also has an exciting exhibition starting at the Wits Art Museum in August.

jcaf.org.za, everard-read.co.za, wits.co.za/wam

A Girl about Town

While I love nothing more than staying in and binge-watching series, throwing on a hot lewk and enjoying a night on the town is also great fun.

Sundowners at Marble are a treat, especially in summer when you can sit outside. I’m an Old-Fashioned aficionado, and theirs is delectable. Alternatively, the

Rand Club, Johannesburg’s original private club, has recently launched a memberonly bar called Twenty-One in its spectacular Edwardian building. marble.restaurant; randclub.co.za

For a party or just a good cocktail, Sin+Tax in Rosebank has you covered. This oldschool speak easy was the only African bar to make it onto the World’s 50 best bars top 100 list in 2019. sintaxbar.com

My go-to restaurant is Pron in Linden. This Jozi institution serves North Chinese food, which includes noodles, bread and lots of little plates. The vegetarian rainy-day noodles are so comforting, while the spicy brinjal is mouth wateringly delicious. pron.restaurant

Rosebank is the place to be right now. It’s buzzing with the addition of some divine new restaurants and bars. Modern Tailor serves top Indian food and I recommend the pani puri as a snack, along with their twisted Old Fashioned, which has the cheeky addition of a chai syrup. Nearby Fugazzi does a mix of New York Italian and American diner food. The interiors –think glass bricks and classic booth seating – are great too. The gluten-free Cacio e Pepe pizza is ‘chefs kiss’. moderntailors.co.za; fugazzi.co.za

My love for Pantry is well-known, and nothing explains the peculiarities of Johannesburg better than a luxury 24hour garage shop. Late-night excursions there normally include a chai tea and breakfast for the next morning. They also have a great selection of sparkling wines, freshly baked bread and pastries. pantry.co.za

I like to decamp to my ‘coffice’, Olivia’s in Northcliff, a couple of mornings a week. It’s owned by the Killas family, who along with their staff, make it a real home away from home. And nothing beats their authentic Greek coffee. Unfortunately, it’s not on the menu, so you must become part of the inner circle to nab a cup.

olivias.co.za

A night out at the theatre is magic, especially where the Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein is concerned. Over the last year I have seen some amazing productions there, including Vuyani Dance Theatre and Gregory Maqoma’s Third World Express, Ladysmith Black Mambazo in concert and William Kentridge’s harrowing The Head & The Load. The latter took place on a purpose-built 50-meter-long stage and tells the oftendisregarded story of Black Africans in World War I.

joburgtheatre.com

The Drama Park my Words

Weekend walks with my mom and sister at Emmarentia and the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens are the highlight of my week. As we walk, we laugh, we argue and we try to solve the world’s problems. Usable, free and well-kept public space is a luxury, and the park is visited by a diverse group of people. If you want a great coffee, the Smart Perfect Coffee kiosk at the Thomas Bowler Street entrance make a mean cortado with almond milk.

@smartperfectcoffee

THE RAND CLUB

FUGAZZI THE PANTRY

my little black bookofcool

Vogue

I am a proud pop-culture fanatic, be it film, music, podcasts or a very mediocre romance novel. Despite eight years of tertiary education and three degrees, all I really want to know about is Taylor Swift’s latest squeeze and who wore what on the red carpet. My leading source of useless celebrity gossip is Deuxmoi (on Instagram or Twitter), who have both the skinny on where celebrities are hanging out and a fortune teller-like grasp of celebrity relationships.

@deuxmoi

Pop Culture Deluxe London Calling

It’s impossible to be bored in London. It is my top city to visit, although with the current exchange rate, South Africans are lucky if they can afford a small coffee. My sister says I’m the best person to travel with because I do mega research on off-the-beaten-track bars, restaurants, exhibitions and shops. Museums in London are unbeatable, specifically the Victoria and Albert Museum, who currently have a glitzy OTT exhibition on called DIVA, which celebrates the power and creativity of iconic performers like Dolly Parton and Tina Turner. vam.ac.uk

Agent

I adore clothes and wear a melange of thrifted clothing, vintage hand-medowns and street fashion, mixed with the occasional higher-end item. I haven’t met a colour or pattern I don’t love, and my style icons are my mom, Princess Diana in the 1980s and a Wes Anderson aesthetic. My favourite designer was Allesandro Michelle for Gucci, and I’m heartbroken he stepped down, although I am excited to see what’s next. His work is a maximalist’s dream and unbelievably fun, especially the Gucci X Adidas collab, and his HAHAHA collection with Harry Styles. If anyone would like to gift me one of its vintage-inspired suits or leopard-print suitcase, I won’t say no.

Sole Mates

When in doubt, throw on a colourful sneaker. They up the cool factor of any outfit, whether you are going casual or chic. I’m loyal to New Balance, especially the 574 which has such a classic silhouette. That said, my current go-to kicks are Adidas Gazelles in light orange and blue. This shoe is huge right now and can be seen on many a famous foot. newbalance.co.za; adidas.co.za

Decor Delight

I surround myself with beautiful things, and my home, a mid-century yellow brick, is chock-full of art, antiques and family heirlooms. Everything has a story. Working on a decor magazine, I spend a lot of time writing about homes, architecture and design. It also means I have a long list of coveted items; these include edgy ceramics by Jonathan Adler, Pillar Candles by Hay at Crema Design and my all-time most-wanted item, a 1970s Michél Ducaroy Togo chair from Ligne Roset. cremadesign.co.za; lignetrose.com

Locally, my must-have decor piece is a Basotho blanket from Aranda. I have one in nearly every room. It’s a historic South African business, and the blankets Aranda produces are culturally significant to the Basotho people. In June 2022, Aranda released a Young Basotho Designers collection which celebrates the culture and its rich history of blankets, but also provides a platform to young creatives. It is, in a word, fab. aranda.co.za

Jo Buitendach is a freelance lifestyle and design journalist, as well as contributing editor of VISI magazine. She lives in Joburg with her five very spoilt rescue chihuahuas.

V&A DIVA EXHIBITION

GUCCI X ADIDAS COLLAB

LEPERE TSA PITSO

TOGO FROM LIGNE ADIDAS GAZELLE

BUYING BEHAVIOURS HAVE CHANGED

SINCE THE PANDEMIC, with the share of watches bought online likely to increase from about 15 to 30 percent by 2030, according to the Deloitte Swiss Watch Industry Study 2022. However, brick-andmortar monobrand stores were deemed to be the most important sales channel in the 12 months following the report’s publication, and 63 percent of the industry executives surveyed believe that offline sales will still dominate until 2027. “This demonstrates that the in-store experience remains supreme, if not as a pure sales channel, as an experiential one. Luxury purchases are emotional. You are not only buying a product, but also a brand’s story, personality and values,” states the report. Bonds built between specialist retailers and their clients are inherently stronger than what a single brand can achieve –something that Rolex acknowledges in its resolute avoidance of pursuing online retail themselves. Personal connections are crucial for the success of watch sales, and Rolex recognises the significance of both family and independent jewellers worldwide as partners. “Our Rolex agency is the oldest in the world. We have been selling Rolex watches since the 1920s and have a beautiful collection of doublesigned models we showcase to clients. Our name, Chas. Greig & Son, is on the dials,” says Richard Greig, the director at Charles Greig Jewellers, established in 1899. “To be a Rolex retailer today requires the Rolex shop-in-shop fit-out. They want people to come in discover the Rolex experience – look at the catalogues and admire the beautiful box and description if they buy one. They really push for that.”

Due to the strength of the Charles Greig name, Richard believes they have the ideal mix of brands, including Cartier as the top luxury brand, Jaeger-LeCoultre as the specialist brand, Breitling, IWC and Panerai, with Longines at the entry level. “The strength of our business is that we don’t do any online sales. People like to come in and see the store and have a direct consultation. You can’t beat a oneon-one experience to get extra knowledge about the watch,” he says.

PERSONALISED LUXURY

WATCH BUYERS ARE EMBRACING A TAILORED SERVICE AND CURATED MOMENTS

WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY

PERSONALISED SERVICE

The end of the first quarter of this millennium is fast approaching, and the watch boutique concept has never been stronger or more focused, according to Alan Carrington of Shemer Jewellers. “The watch industry has seen a shift to online selling strength at the lower end of the market, prompting high-end brands to differentiate completely [by way of] boutique-style stores or spaces within multi-brand boutiques, which tell stories of the brands’ ethos and heritage,” he says.

Soon to open a new store in Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton, Alan says the benefit to the consumer of these dedicated spaces is that expert consultants are employed to assist with the overall buying experience, ultimately developing personal relationships with customers as they fulfil their watch-purchase needs. “The buying experience in these boutiques is the cornerstone of the business. Clients often part with millions to secure their dream watch, and that is why the process needs to be harmonious and enjoyable,” he says.

A MULTI-DIMENSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Elegance Jewellers is today managed by third-generation family members serving the third generation of their client base. “It’s quite amazing when one thinks about it. We have developed indepth knowledge over more than half a century of unwavering relationships with some of the world’s leading brands, and an intimate understanding of our client’s lives. We’re always there to help celebrate and commemorate milestones – from baptisms, communions and bat mitzvahs to engagements and weddings, generation after generation,” says director Alexi Mavrodaris. He believes that a brick-and-mortar presence is paramount for lifestyle and luxury watch brands. “It is, quite literally, the physical manifestation of both a brand’s tangible and intangible intricacies, engaging the senses and soul. Clicks are great for buying everyday products like groceries and electricity, but as with any investment purchase, one should ideally physically engage to appreciate and receive the full benefit of the experience, whether it’s on an emotional, financial, sensual or service level.”

TRUSTED EXPERTS

Likewise, a visit to the Van Deijl Jewellers destination store in Tyger Valley Shopping Centre, Cape Town, is designed to be relational rather than transactional. “Purchasing an item that will become an heirloom is not something that most customers take lightly. The experience of sitting down with a trusted expert to talk through multiple options in a leisurely manner, to touch, feel and examine a timepiece yourself, is what a Van Deijl customer values most,” says Liebrecht van Deijl, director at Van Deijl Jewellers.

OPPOSITE: Charles Greig Jewellers, the oldest Rolex agency in the world

TOP: Van Deijl Jewellers’ impressive store

TOP RIGHT:

A view of the L’ATELIER PARIS VIP area

ABOVE: The Van Deijl Jewellers team; from the left: Liebrecht van Deijl, Gert van der Merwe and Jaques Venter

Whether browsing or buying, this level of personalised service creates the foundation for a longstanding relationship with customers and a network of families and friends, all backed by solid partnerships with high-end watch brands. “We are invited to be a part of a worldwide network of official retailers based on the strength of our own brand, our integrity and the way we present and represent our watch partners in a beautifully designed showroom,” says Liebrecht.

Meanwhile, watch collector and entrepreneur Jean-Philippe Avenel will open a watch and jewellery specialist boutique, L’ATELIER PARIS, at Platinum Walk in Oceans Mall, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, in October 2023. Highlighting the preference for local watch buyers to shop in-store, his concept promises a journey into Parisian luxury, underpinned by the element of surprise. “Unforeseen discoveries, meaningful engagements and special celebrations often take place within these spaces, reaffirming the indispensable role of physical stores and their dedicated teams,” says Jean-Philippe.

L’ATELIER PARIS will represent brands in both the watch and jewellery segments. Think Cartier, Hublot, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Messika and Fred, among others. ■

FIND YOUR HAPPINESS IN THE LAND OF THE

Midnight Sun

IT’S A LAND OF EXTREMES – six months of a brutal winter, at least two of which are spent in 24/7 darkness, followed by a joyous yet short-lived summer, a high quality of life, saunas, lakes, the Northern Lights, an abundance of nature and, of course, Santa Claus. Little wonder then that Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world for the sixth consecutive year. There are many theories about the source of their happiness, but ask a Finn whether they are happy or content, and they might at first look at you askance, before most likely settling on contentment. Sometimes, gratitude is all you need.

For more than 500 years, the construct of “sisu” has been interwoven into the national character. With no direct translation, sisu means stoic determination, tenacity, grit, bravery, resilience and hardiness: pushing forward in the face of adversity and nearimpossible odds. This means that even in adversity (such as six months of winter), a Finn perseveres, and without whining. In search of some of this joy myself, I found there to be a few conducive elements to Finland’s heralded happiness. And you, too, could find your own joy when visiting…

GET INTO NATURE

Living in such proximity to nature is fundamental to the Finn’s enjoyment of life. With three quarters of the country forested and a staggering 188 000 lakes, Finland’s people savour life’s simple pleasures: pure water, clean air and forest walks.

Being out in nature helps to generate positive emotions, such as joy, creativity, peacefulness and tranquillity, enhancing concentration. There is mounting evidence that nature has benefits for both physical and psychological human wellbeing, acting as a “balm” for our brains.

Since there’s an abundance of nature, especially in their urban environments, Finns have little excuse not to venture out. In the capital city of Helsinki, which has a population of about 1.5 million, residents have access to 4 800 hectares of forests and a further 4 500 hectares of recreational forests in the surrounding municipalities. Finland’s forests are open to everyone thanks to a law known as “jokamiehen oikeudet”, or “everyman’s right”, which entitles public access to any natural areas, whether public or privately owned.

GETTING AROUND

Helsinki and its surrounding cities of Espoo, Vantaa, Kauniainen and Lahti were named the 2012 World Design Capital. The city promotion project, aimed at making cities better, was a massive collaboration between the private and public sector, and is evident in their prompt and efficient service delivery. These cities work.

You could catch an Uber, but why would you when there’s an abundance of accessible and inexpensive options throughout the country? Residents can catch a bus, tram, train, commuter service or ferry to just about everywhere. Scores cycle

FINLAND IS SAID TO BE A REALLY HAPPY PLACE. MUCH OF THAT HAPPINESS LIES IN BEING CONNECTED – WITH THE EARTH AND WITH OTHERS WORDS GEORGINA CROUTH

and some drive cars (many of which are electric), but there isn’t much of a rush hour. Drivers don’t appear stressed, so the city’s eerily devoid of the sounds of hooters and shouting. And the citizens never jaywalk: pedestrians wait for their turn to cross the streets. Traffic bliss.

FOREST WALKS, TALKS, EATS AND CHILLS

Half an hour’s drive from Helsinki is the Finnish Nature Centre Haltia – a stateowned modern exhibition and event centre bringing Finland’s natural treasures under one roof. The best time to see the Aurora Borealis is from the end of August to April, but that’s more than 1 000km away from Helsinki. At Haltia, you can experience the dancing illuminations and crackling noises of the Northern Lights in an immersive exhibit all year round. To mark the centre’s 10th anniversary, its most recent exhibition, titled “Swamp, Swamp and Social Media”, explores the evolution of Finnish nature in different eras from the various perspectives. Follow the well-marked paths (many of which are wheelchair-friendly and floodlit) or take a guided tour of the spruce forest, which includes foraging for wild lingonberries, blueberries and cloudberries, as well as mushrooms, arctic moss and nettle.

Haltia’s restaurant offers dinners at the campfire, and you can enjoy a starter of rye bread with kermaviili (cottage cheese), cucumber and dollops of “caviar”, freshly caught salmon grilled on a wooden plank and served with tartar sauce and roasted baby potatoes, followed by a delicious cloudberry compote.

SLEEP IN COMFORT

Scandic is the largest Nordic hotel operator with a network of about 280 hotels and around 58 000 rooms in operation and under development in six countries. In Helsinki, the hotel group has dozens of properties. The Scandic Grand Central Helsinki is in a prime location right next to the Helsinki Central Railway Station, where trains almost never stop moving. The hotel offers top service, a brasserie and an exceptional breakfast buffet. Built in 1909, the original Art Nouveau building is now spread over five floors with 490 rooms –13 of which are pet-friendly and five allergyfriendly. It offers bike loans, a 24-hour shop, a gym and impressive saunas.

GET YOUR ART FIX

Across the railway square from the Scandic Grand Central you’ll find the Ateneum, Finland’s most renowned art museum, which has a collection of more than 30 000 national treasures that span from the 18th century to the modern era. Visitors are encouraged to engage in the museum’s different encounters, so they can converse, listen to music, create art, investigate and be inspired. The museum offers six free annual days, otherwise the cost is €20 per adult or free for under 18s. There are guided tours on Sundays in the main official languages Finnish, Swedish, English and Russian.

BEST MEALS

For traditional, homely fare, Savotta, which means “logging site”, is a must-visit. Positioned just across the way from both the Helsinki Cathedral and the heart of the government, Senate Square, Savotta is part of a family-owned group of restaurants in the city. It’s rustic, quaint and old – the wooden floorboards are over 100 years old and most of the furniture pieces are beautiful antiques.

Expect to find salmon on the menu, together with reindeer, a “moose” burger (made with pork), local cheeses and red currant ice cream.

Nolla – located in the design district –means zero, and this neighbourhood restaurant is proving that great food can go hand-in-hand with sustainability. Awarded a Michelin Green Star, Nolla minimises the waste it produces everyday in line with its waste-free ideology. All the ingredients (except olive oil and wine) are sourced from local farmers, fishermen and producers, with a strong focus on sustainability. They have thought of every little detail – from their clothing and energy consumption to only employing staff from marginalised communities. Menu options include a set chef’s menu or à la carte, which this summer includes ricotta, tomato and red current sorbet; spring cabbage with ramson chimichurri, grilled peas and mint vinaigrette; and coriander marshmallow ice cream with a cucumber granita and basil syrup.

SWEAT IT ALL OUT

On Unesco’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, you’ll see that sauna culture is a way of life for Finns and, usually, it entails ice swimming to cool off between sessions. With around 3.3 million saunas found in a country of 5.5 million inhabitants, saunas are readily accessible. At the Haltia centre, there are two sauna buildings equipped with showers and changing rooms. Go with a few friends (or make new ones as the Finns are a friendly nation), and don’t be ashamed to strip off and take the plunge – it’s invigorating, lifeaffirming and will certainly help you find your zen. ■

EXTRAORDINARY

Steyn City, where luxury knows no bounds. What defines luxury to you? Is it the expansive space that allows you to breathe freely, the meticulous attention to detail that elevates every experience, the uniqueness, or the feeling of being one with nature? Every facet of Steyn City has been designed to embody these principles, ensuring an unparalleled experience that leaves no detail unattended.

Uniqueness, another hallmark of luxury, and Steyn City’s homes stand proudly as a beacon of individuality. Our approach is forward-looking, constantly pushing boundaries and reimagining what luxury and design means in today’s world. We don’t follow trends; we set them. With Steyn City, you can indulge in an exclusive and distinctive environment that reflects your personal style and aspirations.

Celebrate life

AT STEYN CITY

THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT YOU’LL FIND AT STEYN CITY. Best known as one of the most prestigious residential developments in Johannesburg, it’s also becoming one of the culinary hotspots in the city, thanks to its fine selection of restaurants, both old and new.

NINETEEN RESTAURANT AND CLUBHOUSE

You might opt to head over to Nineteen restaurant, which was named for its views over Steyn City’s Nicklaus-designed golf course. This is the place to visit if you’re in a more relaxed mood; watch the sun set while you sip on a delicious cocktail and catch up with colleagues, clients or friends, or turn it into a special occasion with your nearest and dearest over plates of delicious, bistro-style dishes. Nineteen is also the perfect place for a work lunch; in fact, the Clubhouse (which is home to Nineteen) also houses a small boardroom that’s ideal for meetings or a think-tank session with your team.

OPPOSITE:

Steyn City’s Clubhouse

TOP RIGHT:

Nineteen restaurant

TOP AND RIGHT:

Café del Sol’s space and food

WHEN A RESTAURANT OFFERS FANTASTIC FOOD IN A GREAT SETTING, IT’S A DESTINATION THAT’S ON EVERYONE’S LIPS…

THE CLUB AT STEYN CITY

It would be a shame not to make use of Steyn City’s magnificent Nicklaus design championship course as it’s become one of the most sought-after courses in the country. The Club at Steyn City has been selected to host a number of international DP World tournaments, including the Jonsson Workwear Open and the Steyn City Championship and, both of which are part of the European and Sunshine Tours. The course, however, is just one element of the experience. The five-star service you’ll receive at The Club adds another dimension entirely. Look forward to extras like a personalised bag drop and porter service, complimentary snacks on the first tee box, a GPS system on the golf carts to indicate course distances, worldclass locker rooms as well as an extensive selection of top-of-the-range apparel and equipment at the Pro Shop. The Club at Steyn City is open to non-residents and is a fabulous course for corporate golf days.

CAFÉ DEL SOL STEYN CITY

While Steyn City’s golf course is all about peace and serenity, the mood at City Centre – the flagship apartment development – is a busy and bustling one.

Combining the exciting cosmopolitan air of the world’s greatest cities (a result of City Centre’s architecture and its pedestrianised design, which includes small villages clustered around several treed piazzas) with South Africans’ love of being outdoors, this fresh take on urban living is fast emerging as one of Joburg’s newest city hubs. City Centre has something for everyone, but those who have an appetite for fine Italian cuisine, will be delighted that award-winning restaurant brand, Café del Sol, has opened in the upper piazza. One of the best-loved restaurant names in Johannesburg, diners can expect signature dishes in a relaxed, yet vibrant setting as the ebb and flow of life passes by. Café del Sol has an extensive cocktail and wine list, which pair wiith signature dishes on the menu or antipasti shared among friends.

THE FARMHOUSE AT STEYN CITY

With its rolling lawns and play area, The Farmhouse is a hit with families and children and makes a great party venue. Adult celebrations such as baby showers or milestone birthdays can also be arranged at The Farmhouse – a private marquee and bespoke menus are also available.

Nineteen restaurant, The Club at Steyn City, Café del Sol Steyn City and The Farmhouse are all open to non-residents. For enquiries or to book, visit steyncity.co.za.

yourluxury.africa

TRAVEL TO RETREAT

IF THERE’S ONE THING LIVING THROUGH A GLOBAL PANDEMIC TAUGHT US, IT’S THAT THINGS NEEDED TO CHANGE. FROM PHYSICAL HEALTH AND MENTAL WELLNESS TO A MORE BALANCED LIFESTYLE, WE HAVE FINALLY REALISED THE NECESSITY TO INDULGE IN THE LUXURY OF SELF-CARE

WORDS SALLY HARVEY

SELF-CARE HAS LONG BEEN NEGLECTED in our fast-paced realities but it has become a non-negotiable – and it’s something that’s steering travel plans in different directions. The demand for vacations that offer wellness activities and holistic health practices is still on the rise and it is a trend that is predicted to grow even more as people become more conscious of their mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing.

“People are seeking respite from their hectic lives and a chance to disconnect from technology, and retreats have been designed to offer just that – the opportunity for self-care, introspection and personal growth,” shares Charles Matu, sales and marketing manager at Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp. “They provide a space to recharge and prioritise wellbeing.”

“Furthermore, the growing awareness of sustainable and mindful living has led to an increased demand for retreats that align with these values. As we become more conscious of our impact on the planet, we are drawn to experiences that allow us to reconnect with nature and adopt a more holistic lifestyle,” he adds.

According to Nadine de Freitas, executive director of The South African Spa Association, Africa is a popular destination for wellness tourism, offering a diverse range of experiences that promote health and wellbeing. “With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage and abundant wildlife, the continent provides a unique setting for rejuvenation and wellness. From luxurious spas and wellness retreats to yoga and meditation havens, the luxury wellness travel sector continues to thrive, attracting travellers seeking relaxation, rejuvenation and a holistic approach to their wellbeing,” says Nadine.

THE TRANSFORMATIVE TRAVEL RETREAT

FINCH HATTONS, TSAVO WEST NATIONAL PARK, KENYA

Nestled in the heart of Kenya’s wilderness, you’ll find Finch Hattons Luxury Tented Camp. This awardwinning tented camp offers guests transformational retreat packages where they can reconnect with nature and themselves, and learn about the local culture.

Curated itineraries combine the thrill of adventure with the tranquillity of a luxury camp, allowing visitors to encounter the diverse wildlife and learn from the local Maasai tribes. It’s through these immersive experiences that guests gain a deeper of appreciation and self discovery.

Retreat packages are personalised and include a range of activities to restore balance to body and mind, such as guided bush walks, yoga sessions and treatments at the Chyulu Spa, which was named Kenya’s Best Safari Spa in the 2021 and 2022 World Spa Awards. Game drives in the Tsavo West National Park offer captivating wildlife sightings including the famous ‘red’ elephants. For the more energetic, climb the Oldoniyo Ololarami dormant volcano or swim in the natural Mzima Springs. The camp’s luxury tents blend seamlessly with its surroundings, keeping in line with the ethos to prioritise eco-friendly practices, support local communities and preserve the biodiversity of the Tsavo. finchhattons.com

THE

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

RETREAT

HOOGLAND HEALTH HYDRO, HENNOPS RIVER VALLEY, PRETORIA

If you’re looking for an integrative approach to overall wellbeing, Hoogland Health Hydro has a team of expert medical doctors and psychologists, as well as a biokineticist, homeopath, chiropractor, nutritionist, life coach, lifestyle health consultant and even a microbiologist. Massage therapists, personal trainers, food experts and conservation guides are also on hand to support your personal journey to better health and vitality.

Retreats are usually two days, but can be extend up to two months or longer, depending on individual needs. First-time visitors are advised to book a minimum of four days in order to fully benefit from the retreat, and many Hoogland Health Hydro guests return on a regular basis to support their long-term health and wellbeing.

At the Hydro, a medically supervised water-fasting retreat is recommended to support the natural healing of the body by eliminating waste, repairing damage and growing healthy tissue. Therapeutic water-fasting – which involves only drinking water for a period of time – can treat lifestyle diseases, sub-acute psychiatric disorders, and certain auto-immune and digestive orders. It cleanses ‘debris’ from the body’s cells and encourages the breakdown of abnornal tissue through a process called autophagy. “Besides the physical healing we see when people are attending fasting retreats, we experience a shift in their relationship with food and their bodies – especially during their first fast. There is a greater appreciation for nutrient-rich foods and more admiration for, and trust in, their own bodies,” says CEO Anette Kruger.

Hoogland Hydro’s water is pure mineral water. During the fast, you are advised to only drink water when thirsty, as this maintains the body’s homeostasis and does not negatively impact electrolyte levels. To improve results, low endurance exercise is also encouraged during the hydroptherapy cycle (exercise, massage, heat, cold and rest), which is ultimately the most essential part of your visit to the Hydro. hoogland.co.za

THE SILENT RETREAT TEMENOS RETREAT, MCGREGOR, CAPE TOWN

People visit Temenos Retreat for many different reasons – to sit quietly and contemplate, to reflect and heal or to simply rest. Although silent retreats are not for everyone, should you choose to embark on such a journey, Temenos gives you the option to either ‘go solo’ and partake in optional yoga, guided meditations and sessions with the resident retreat directors on your own, or to join a more structured group where you’ll have the quiet support of fellow travellers. The latter includes three simple vegetarian meals and two meditation sessions a day, and scheduled time with the retreat director.

As you enter Temenos Retreat, you’ll see a simple bench with a stone on it. Guests who come to embrace stillness leave notes under the stone if they need anything from the staff. In this way, they honour their intention to remain completely silent.

The aim of a silent retreat is to provide the stillness and solitude which allows you to reflect inwardly in a calm and constructive manner. “Distraction and verbal communication are removed to quieten outer and inner noise,” says Temenos owner Billy Kennedy. “Although this is usually the greatest challenge on this type of retreat, complete silence inevitably brings awareness of what one might be pushing away or not facing in one’s life – those blocks that hinder our inner growth and wellbeing.”

“For this reason, it is helpful to engage with a retreat director or experienced soul companion while on retreat. It is not only psychological or spiritual insights that one may gain from these experiences, but also the deepening awareness of opening oneself to the present moment and to the appreciation of one’s thoughts, feelings and body sensations as they arise,” he adds.

For guest Karen Ellithorne, attending a silent retreat was a life-changing experience. “I thought it would be more difficult to retreat into complete silence, but I really enjoyed the quietening down and centering of self that I was able to achieve. Being detached from the outside world allowed me to focus on myself and created the clarity I needed to decide what I really wanted from life.”

temenosretreat.co.za

THE EXPERIENCE RETREAT

BLISS & STARS, CEDERBERG, CAPE TOWN

In a remote valley on the banks of the Doring River in the Cederberg, Bliss & Stars is a serene place to enjoy the soul-nourishing luxury of stillness, space, fresh air, unparallelled views and starry skies. The retreat combines the benefits of mindfulness, breathwork, naturebased activities, astronomy and cooking food to promote overall wellbeing, relaxation and introspection.

Owners Daria Rasmussen and Heine Wieben have shaped the vision and values of their transformational retreats from their own personal journeys, combining ancient Buddhist teaching and the modern understanding of the human mind, science, nature and astronomy to create an experience that is beyond conventional.

In addition to creating a deeper connection with nature and providing the opportunity for guests to connect with like-minded people, each themed retreat has been developed as a unique experience in itself. Their Couples Retreat allows couples to reconnect and develop a deeper intimacy, the Silent Retreat focuses on stillness and reflection while the Rest & Thrive Retreat rejuvenates the mind and body through immersive mindfulness practices.

If you are looking to discover a deeper connection with the universe and embark on a journey to personal growth, microdosing medicinal mushrooms on the Bloom Retreat is highly recommended. Alternatively, if you’re looking to renew your sense of joy for food, book the Eat & Thrive Cooking Retreat where chef Aphelele shares his vegetarian and plant-based culinary skills. There is even a retreat specifically to support women – the Softening Women’s Retreat –helping guests to rebalance and be kinder to themselves.

Not to be missed is the Star Bathing Retreat. Bliss & Stars boasts optimal conditions for stargazing with the naked eye and through state-of-the-art telescopes. This is the place where you can marvel at the night sky, connect with the vastness of the universe and gain a sense of stellar serenity.

“Bliss & Stars is a luxurious and decadent Afro-Scandi experience where my senses were awakened to the beauty and magnificence of the cosmos,” says former guest Nishani Singh. “I went for a Star Bathing Retreat and left with an entirely new perspective on life. Daria and Heine have carefully curated a holistic programme that will change your life in ways that one can only experience in person to fully understand. I felt like absolute royalty.”

blissandstars.com

yourluxury.africa

THE HEALING BUSH RETREAT

UKUTHULA HOUSE, MJEJANE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Set in the five-star Ukuthula House safari resort on the banks of the Crocodile River, this wellness retreat is all about de-stressing while being surrounded by the natural splendour of the African bush.

Whether spotting a leopard drinking from the banks of the river while doing yogalates or hearing the roar of lions while enjoying a guided sunset meditation, visitors talk fondly about their experience and how it allowed them to truly immerse with the magic of the land.

These tailored retreats go beyond being a mere bush escape by focusing on healing, personal growth and a deep awakening of self. Yoga and Pilates classes bring a closer connection between the body and breath, while cacao ceremonies, which take place under an ancient baobab tree in the middle of the bush, open the heart and invite much-needed space and quiet contemplation within.

“Calming breath work, movement, guided meditations and sound therapy help to build self-awareness, relieve anxiety and set the tone for us to create a retreat of gratitude and inner peace,” says retreat facilitator Linda Green. “This is not a one-module-fits-all scenario, but rather a personalised experience for each individual to process their needs with absolute intention.”

The focus at Ukuthula House is on promoting a healthy mind, active body and peaceful soul. This is achieved by peeling away the stress of day-to-day life and creating an environment where you can reconnect with your authentic self and walk away with a strong sense of mental and physical renewal, having broken old habits, routines and thought patterns to create a new conscious way of being.

mypilates.co.za/retreats

If you’re looking for a short escape to help clear the mind and refocus, these retreats should be at the top of your list

FUTURE FOUND SANCTUARY BY NEWMARK, HOUT

BAY, CAPE TOWN

This sanctuary’s mutidimensional approach to wellbeing is regenerative and focuses on nourishing and healing our inner and outer ecosystems, creating harmony between yourself, others and the environment. The intention is to not only give guests an escape, but to help them slow down and learn healthier ways of living.

Everything at the sanctuary is designed according to the Wheel of Whole-Being, honouring time to rise, realign, reflect and rest while being guided by nature, sleep, nourishment, movement and mindfulness. Being inspired by various indigenous living systems, this so-called Wheel represents the dimensions of nature on a macro and microcosmic level, helping guests connect to the five senses, five elements and five rhythms for a much deeper sense of awareness and healing.

Wellbeing guru, Romy, personally crafts itineraries for guests based on their intentions and needs, and has designed this experience guided by her studies in yoga, meditation, mindfulness and her learnings from indigenous tribes over the past 10 years.

Elixirs, teas, amenities, fragrances, experiences, rituals, food and beverages are all made on-site to align with nature’s rhythms in support of whole-living, and there is a rich food philosophy rooted in regenerative practices and African culture. newmarkhotels.com/accommodation/future-found-sanctuary

HOUSE OF INSIGHT, FALSE BAY, WESTERN CAPE

Surf therapy is now being recognised as an effective way to help treat stress, anxiety and PTSD. With this in mind, House of Insight has created retreats that offer surfing, mindfulness, meditation and yoga to support mental wellness.

Situated along the coast of Simonstown, the retreats are hosted in beautiful seaside villas located near one of the most magnificent surf spots in the southern hemisphere.

Yoga and Pilates sessions are held on the deck with 180-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean. Morning classes are dynamic and energising, while afternoon sessions focus more on mental relaxation and healing. Mindfulness workshops facilitated by a qualified psychiatrist are an important part of the overall experience too. houseofinsight.com ■

SWIFT RETREATS

PASSING TIME WITH ...

REWARD OR REPRIMAND. A fourteenyear-old Deremi Ajidahun feared the latter following his father’s unexpected early morning summons to the car. Regarded as someone to be revered and not trifled with, Deremi was left to wonder how much trouble he was in as they pulled up outside his mother’s boutique where she traded in fashion and textiles. “In our custom, whenever a child does something wrong, it’s the mother’s fault, so I thought we were both going to be scolded. But then I was marched next door into the leading watch boutique in Nigeria,” he says.

Watches fascinated Deremi – something he shared with his father who was an avid collector, but seldom discussed. Deremi would spend hours peering through the window of this German-owned boutique, sometimes disappearing inside. “People would look for me everywhere, but my mother always knew where to find me. I remember that the watchmakers used to be dressed in sterile white.”

Happily, the anticipated reprimand for any nuisance behaviour materialised in a reward that marked Deremi’s introduction to premium-brand watches. “My father asked them to present a watch to me that he knew I liked. My mother must have told him. It was an Oris Date with a black dial (probably 36mm) on a stainlesssteel strap. I loved that watch and kept it for the longest time. I lost it with a few others I owned when I went to university in Switzerland. It still pains me today.”

His father later gave him a gold Longines as a dual 16th birthday and confirmation gift, but sadly passed away by the time he turned 18. “That was very sad, but I did get to inherit his collection. The first significant watch I bought was a Cartier Santos when the model with the steel bracelet came out. I bought it with a good portion of my school fees, so I guess it showed my addiction to watches at that stage. The Santos, the Longines and a Rolex I inherited from my father were part of the second collection I lost several years later, again in Switzerland,” he notes. Timepieces in Deremi’s current collection range in value from $300 to “an infinite amount”. He enjoys wearing them all –diamond and tonneau watches, round and square watches, and smart and sports watches. “I’m happy about that. It tells me

NIGERIAN ENTREPRENEUR DEREMI AJIDAHUN

WE TALK ABOUT VANISHING WATCH COLLECTIONS AND WHAT INSPIRES HIM TO BUY A TIMEPIECE

WORDS DEBBIE HATHWAY

OPPOSITE AND TOP:

Relentless frontline pioneer Deremi Ajidahun wears the Purnell Escape II ABOVE:

I buy what I enjoy. Technicality is not the first thing that turns me on about a watch. What I like is the aesthetic, how it looks and feels on my wrist, and if it makes me happy.”

Imagine his delight then when he has the world’s fastest double triple-axis tourbillon dancing on his wrist – and the distraction when his business colleagues try to focus on a meeting but they can’t take their eyes off the piece. It’s an Escape II from Purnell’s hyper-horology collection, which CEO Maurizio Mazzocchi describes as happy watches because “when you look at them, they give you pleasure”.

Deremi likes buying from series like the Louis Erard x Konstantin Chaykin limited edition released in April 2023. “I won’t wear those watches. I might just wear one of the set.”

In fact, he only wears 20 percent of the watches he buys – so what happens to the rest? Are they investment pieces for later resale?

“That’s a good question,” he says. Perhaps not intentionally, but he does rue the day he parted with his Patek Philippe watches and a Richard Mille RM 11-04 when he was made an offer he couldn’t refuse. Some of his collection is on display in his office, while others are in safekeeping, potentially forming a showcase for a later exhibition.

Interestingly, he had no Rolex watches after losing his father’s timepiece, but that changed pre-Covid when he spotted an Oyster Perpetual Milgauss in Harrods. Innocuous in stainless steel, a sporty watch that he would wear, he returned the following day to buy it, only to find that it had been sold and the sales consultant could not confirm when another model would be in stock. “This piqued my interest. I finally managed to source the Milgauss, and that was my first Rolex. I have since bought a few.”

Deremi’s love of watches is further indulged in his publishing business, which was established early in his career. “I was a print designer. Many people don’t know this. I designed and produced [award-winning] annual reports. When I set up a print design company in 1988, that was the beginning of my business as an entrepreneur,” he says.

Deremi owned a franchise of Sur la Terre International, a network of city magazines, before starting his own in-house magazine called Zakaa.

In 2018, GMT Publishing and Deremi’s Hole19 Luxury Group of Nigeria signed a franchising agreement to create a GMT Africa edition of Switzerland’s leading watch magazine to be distributed in Sub-Saharan Africa. It was the outcome of a Dubai Watch Week discussion with his friend, Brice Lechevalier, the founder of GMT Publishing, who knew Deremi wanted to establish a business in Dubai. “My business motto has always been: The answer is yes. How I go about it, I don’t know. So that’s how it started. We’re having a blast, doing things differently and producing a lifestyle magazine for watch lovers.” ■

"I like how a WATCH LOOKS and FEELS on my wrist, and if it MAKES ME HAPPY."

Deremi with watch specialist Geoffrey Ader on the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève stage

To me, luxury is indulgence that goes beyond comfort and elegance. I start my day by dropping my children off at school, followed by Pilates and coffee. I usually wear mom jeans or pleather tights with a blazer and sneakers. The city I love the most is Porto – Portugal is my heritage. The most beautiful hotel I’ve stayed at is the FIVE Palm Jumeirah Hotel in Dubai. My most treasured possession is my family. Three things I would like to add to my home this year are a Daniel “Stompie” Selibe art piece, a large bronze sculpture and a few seasonal decor accessories. I am reading The Bible and Loving our Kids on Purpose by Danny Silk. My favourite restaurants in Jozi are George’s Grill House at The Neighbourhood Square, Olives & Plates in Hyde Park Corner and QBar in Rosebank. The last thing I bought and loved is a pleather puffer gilet from Zara. I collect beautiful decor pieces. I love our black-and-white marble ice bucket (pictured below left). To relax on weekends, I enjoy being at our home with the kids, playing tennis and board games, and swimming in summer. My idea of a fun evening is dinner at home with friends; I usually make a delicious seafood pasta or meze platters. My drink of choice is Quoin Rock chenin blanc, but I’m partial to a freezo and drink lots of water. A favourite Da Rocha piece is the Catalina dining table and Malibu chairs (pictured below left), but it’s hard to choose as I design so many pieces. When I need to feel inspired, I travel and buy design books. I love the Assouline collection. My guilty pleasure is chocolate and coffee. The best advice I’ve been given is to work hard and play hard. ■ darocha.co.za

INTERIOR DESIGNER

DANIELA DA ROCHA WORKS WITH CLIENTS LOCALLY AND AROUND THE WORLD ON LUXURY RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS. SHE HAS A KEEN EYE FOR CONTEMPORARY DETAIL AND IS PASSIONATE ABOUT HER AWARD-WINNING FAMILY BUSINESS, DA ROCHA INTERIORS

DANIELA’S IT LIST

Beauty: Heliocare Tinted Gel Cream

SPF 50, Babor Hyaluronic Serum, Esse Cocoa Exfoliator and a fullbody massage when I need a treat.

Scent: Louis Vuitton Attrape-Rêves.

Sunglasses: Tom Ford. Watch: Apple Watch Series 8 in rose gold.

You’ll find our weekly YOURLIFE profiles on our website, yourluxury.africa. From fashion designers and foodies to stylists and social influencers, hoteliers and entrepreneurs, you’ll get to know some of the most interesting people in Africa and beyond.

yourluxury.africa

BEYONCÉ SOLIDIFIED HER Renaissance world tour as one of 2023’s definitive pop culture events when she mounted a platinum disco stallion during her final set at Stockholm’s Friends Arena back in May. It was an event Billboard would normally cover, not Bloomberg or The Economist. Nonetheless, when one economist in particular attributed Sweden’s lacklustre inflation decline to the so-called “Beyoncé Effect”, he sparked dozens of reports in the international business press.

Analysts had predicted that Sweden’s inflation would decrease to 7.8 percent in May, but it stubbornly remained above 8.0 percent. “Beyoncé is responsible for the extra upside surprise this month,” Michael Grahn, the Swedish chief economist for Danske Bank, told the Financial Times He believes the favourable dollar-krona exchange rate was a driving factor for the legions of American fans that visited Sweden in May to see the singer perform. In an email to the BCC, Michael holds the popstar’s world tour partly responsible for rocketing hotel room rates, but clarified that Bey can’t solely be blamed for Sweden’s high inflation print.

High-profile celebrities wield significant economic influence, particularly over the financial markets, partly because of the markets’ reactive nature. When an It Girl or a star athlete throws a company some shade, Nasdaq immediately clutches its pearls, while the Dow spirals into a tizz.

Remember when Kylie Jenner wiped $1.3 billion from Snapchat’s market value in 2018 with a casual tweet suggesting she’s not using the social media platform anymore? Similarly, Cristiano Ronaldo sent Coca-Cola’s share price into a brief sulk – pardon, slump – because he chose water over Coke at a press conference. Unlike markets, macroeconomics seems a bit more resilient to the vagaries of celebrities. Should the rand plummet even further and we get downgraded to economy class on our next business trip, the cause is likely a geopolitical one, not a rambling Kardashian. A pop star in a bedazzled catsuit is also not the obvious explanation economists consider when analysing rising food prices. The culprits hacking away at consumers’ potential purchasing power are generally forces of an odious nature – Russian imperialism, countries defaulting on their debt, pandemics or power-hungry despots.

Germany’s Weimar Republic is an exemplary case study of exactly how not to exacerbate inflation. When Herr Deutschland’s checks for Germany’s World War I reparations started bouncing, the Reichsbank’s solution was to simply print more money when France’s debt collectors came a-knocking. Soon after, the German Papiermark’s exchange rate plummeted to roughly 100 000 marks for one square of single-ply toilet paper.

Introduction to Beynesian

SWIFT ONO MICS

FORBES CONSIDERS BEYONCÉ ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL WOMEN, BUT CAN HER WORLD TOUR INFLUENCE MACROECONOMIC TRENDS, AS ONE SWEDISH ECONOMIST BELIEVES?

WORDS CARLA LEWIS

Undeterred, some countries still paid no heed to Germany’s mistakes. Despite their central banks containing only a clutch of IOU slips for defaulted World Bank’s International Development Association loans, Venezuela and Zimbabwe tried fixing their economies… simply by printing more bank notes.

Even though Bey’s perceived impact on the Swedish economy is negligible – especially when seen in the light of Zimbabwean and Venezuelan inflation – some economists believe Michael Grahn overestimates the “Beyoncé Effect”. However, analysts observed similar trends in the cities where Taylor Swift performed – accommodation prices supposedly increased fivefold on the singer’s concert nights. Economists call this demand-pull inflation, an imperative theory of British economist John Maynard Keynes. According to Keynesians, this inflation occurs when “the aggregate demand in an economy overtakes the aggregate supply, causing rising prices.”

Should one apply (grossly oversimplified) Keynesian theory to the economic impact of Beyoncé and Taylor’s concert tours, it would look as follows:

Swarms of the Beyhive and flocks of Swifties visit a city to see their favourite pop star. They need food and shelter (aggregate demand), but hotel rooms and salmon gravlax are limited (aggregate supply). So hotels and restaurants hike their prices and inflation follows suit. Depending on your politics, it’s either supply and demand or predatory capitalism.

I’m calling it the Beynesian Swiftonomic Theory.

Carla Lewis is a features editor and writer at Beeld, a division of Media24 ■

FAMILY TRAVEL ELEVATING

THREE REMARKABLE NEW SUVS, THE LEXUS LX 600, JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE L AND VOLVO C40 RECHARGE, ARE TURNING HEADS

WORDS SONY THOMAS

LEXUS LX 600

The 2023 LX 600 now comes standard with a heated steering wheel, adding to its already impressive list of features. The Ultra-Luxury grade introduces Takanoha wood trim as a standard feature and provides the optional Sunflare interior, while the F Sport Handling grade now offers the Nori Green Pearl exterior option. Another new addition are the standard rear seat entertainment screen covers.

Redesigned completely for the 2022 model year, the 2023 LX 600 builds upon its success, remaining a luxury SUV icon known for its comfortable ride quality and off-road capabilities. It is powered by a high-output, high-torque 3.4-litre V6 twin-turbo petrol engine, ensuring refined vehicle control both on-road and off-road with features like the Electronically Controlled Brake system and Electric Power Steering.

Inside the cabin, the LX 600 offers a comfortable and user-friendly experience. The instrument panel features the Lexus Interface with a dual display configuration, consisting of both a 12.3-inch upper screen and a seven-inch lower screen.

Key technical features of the LX 600 include the GA-F platform, which provides superior comfort and stability, the 10-speed automatic transmission and some advanced technologies like the Active Height Control Suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension. The LX 600 also offers excellent offroad capabilities with features such as Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control and Downhill Assist Control.

The Ultra Luxury grade of the LX 600 focuses on rear passenger comfort and offers various luxurious features, including adjustable front seats, a foldable rear-seat display and curved headrests. On the other hand, the F Sport Handling grade enhances the SUV’s sporty look and feel with unique design elements and performance-oriented features.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L combines performance, comfort and practicality, living up to the Grand Cherokee nameplate’s reputation. Built on brand-new architecture, the Grand Cherokee L now offers three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. Advanced driverassist systems, 360-degree surround-view cameras as well as night-vision cameras prioritise safety. Cutting-edge features such as 10-inch digital screens, the Uconnect 5 system and a remarkable 19-speaker McIntosh audio system elevate the overall experience for driver and passengers.

When it comes to performance, the Grand Cherokee L certainly doesn’t disappoint. With three robust 4x4 systems and an active transfer case, it can take on any terrain effortlessly. Independent front and rear suspensions, along with the class-exclusive Quadra-Lift air suspension, provide remarkable capability and a luxurious on-road driving experience.

Step inside the Grand Cherokee L, and you’ll find a spacious and premium interior. Features like ambient LED lighting, driver and front passenger seat massage options and impressive entertainment systems enhance comfort and convenience. Personalised comfort is ensured with individual climate zones throughout the cabin. The SUV’s luxurious design, inside and out, showcases impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Whether you crave thrilling off-road adventures or a refined on-road drive, the Grand Cherokee L delivers. With legendary 4x4 capability, refined on-road handling and premium styling, the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L truly embodies SUV excellence.

JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE L

VOLVO C40 RECHARGE

Volvo Cars has ambitious plans to ensure that 50 percent of their global sales volume consists of fully electric cars by 2025 and to sell only pure electric cars by 2030. The Volvo C40 Recharge is one of the earliest and best testaments to that commitment.

As the first Volvo model designed exclusively as a pure electric vehicle, the C40 Recharge combines the advantages of an SUV with a sleek and lower design, setting it apart from traditional models. It is based on the CMA vehicle platform, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s history.

The C40 Recharge boasts a distinctive rear-end design and a new front design that showcases the unique identity of Volvo’s electric vehicles, complete with state-of-the-art pixel technology headlights. Inside, the C40 Recharge offers the desired high seating position preferred by Volvo drivers, with customisable colour and decoration options. It is also the first Volvo model to be entirely leather-free.

Equipped with an infotainment system developed in collaboration with Google and based on the Android operating system, the C40 Recharge integrates apps and services such as Google Maps, Google Assistant and the Google Play Store. With unlimited data and over-the-air software updates, the vehicle ensures superior connectivity and continuous improvement.

Powering the C40 Recharge are twin electric motors, one on each axle, fuelled by a 78kWh battery that can be fast charged to 80 percent in approximately 40 minutes. The vehicle offers an anticipated range of 420km with the potential for improvements through future software updates.

With the Volvo C40 Recharge, Volvo Cars is spearheading the transition to an electric future, providing customers with a compelling sustainable driving experience. ■

yourluxury.africa

DiningDelights Contemporary

FROM NEW OPENINGS TO TRIED-AND-TESTED FAVOURITES, THE TRENDY TO OFF-THEBEATEN-TRACK, THOSE THAT REQUIRE BOOKINGS WELL IN ADVANCE TO THOSE WHO DON’T ACCEPT RESERVATIONS… THESE ARE OUR PICKS FOR THE MUST-VISIT DESTINATIONS TO WINE, DINE AND DRINK AT RIGHT NOW

WORDS STEVE STEINFELD

RIVA RESTAURANT Cape Town

There are few dishes more comforting than a really well-made bowl of pasta, and there are few places better than RIVA when when it comes to making such dishes. Situated in De Waterkant, the casual eatery started by two friends from Italy specialises in seafood and pasta – and they do both really well.

At RIVA it’s all about beautiful ingredients, simple cooking, traditional recipes and plenty of warmth, comfort and flavour. The casual space, candle lit and cosy, proves to be a fabulous setting for this kind of food.

Begin with a creamy burrata, thin shavings of carpaccio and fresh tomato bruschetta before you move onto some mains. Think along the lines of gorgeous strips of silky pappardelle served with crayfish tails, al dente paccheri rounds served with prawns, clams and mussels, or perhaps the fish of the day served in a rich and deep saffron bouillabaisse.

Naturally, a meal of such nature wouldn’t be complete without a tiramisu and a coffee to end the evening.

24/4 Napier St, De Waterkant, Cape Town | Monday – Saturday | Reservations: 021 418 0657

COOPER WINE BAR Cape Town

Having recently opened its doors in Cape Town’s CBD, Cooper Wine Bar, or “Mr Pants 2.0”, which it’s referred to in the industry as a nod to its Joburg counterpart, sees restaurateur and avid wino Shayne Holt bring his much-loved wine-bar concept to the Cape.

You can expect to find a host of local and international wines – including some heavy hitters and exceptional vintages – all, for the most part, available by the glass. It’s the kind of space that’s as wellsuited to a pre-dinner drink as it is for a long evening spent with good friends having ‘just one more’ glass.

If you’re wondering where the names come from, Mr Pants is Shayne’s cat, so it only made sense that his dog, Cooper, has a wine bar named after him too.

32 Parliament Street, Cape Town | Wednesday – Saturday |

No reservations

EMBARC Johannesburg

The popular Parkhurst eatery has, in the few years since opening, become a mainstay on Joburg’s dining scene. Set along the bustling Fourth Avenue, Embarc is where chef Darren O’Donovan serves his take on modern dining, drawing from South Africa up to Europe and through to Asia.

After realising that Joburg wasn’t all too interested in fine dining and tasting menus, Darren has taken his fine technique and created a series of elevated and refined small plates, well suited to sharing amongst the table or to be used as building blocks to create your very own multi-course dining experience.

Try the babotie filled wontons with an apricot chutney and beef tartare with punchy components of red onion, pickled radish and capers. Perhaps the delicate pockets of mushroom tortellini are more to your taste, or the luxe lobster risotto with saffron, champagne and Parmesan.

Those looking for a meatier option will relish in the likes of Black Label-braised oxtail croquettes and the pork belly served with a deep-fried mac and cheese… at Embarc, there’s something for everyone.

Dishes are paired with the many fine wines on the well-curated wine list.

Corner 13th Street and 4th Avenue, Parkhurst, Johannesburg | Lunch and dinner Wednesday – Saturday | Reservations: 081 848 6480 | embarcrestaurantza.com

Off the Beaten Track

THE LIVINGROOM

Summerhill Guest Estate, Durban

Tucked away in the quiet suburb of Cowies Hill, Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal, you’ll find Summerhill Guest Estate, home to awardwinning restaurant The LivingRoom. It is here where chef Johannes Richter has been making waves with his hypersustainable and hyper-seasonal approach to fine cooking.

Merging his fine training from years spent abroad with his dedication to endemic ingredients and his love for Japanese technique, the chef creates a spectacular multi-course dining experience – one which earned LivingRoom the title of Restaurant of the Year at the Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards in 2022.

From the ingredients to the crockery, Johannes sources as much as he possibly can from local growers and suppliers – this in addition to growing plenty of the fresh produce himself in Summerhill Estate’s lush gardens.

From the golden nugget pumpkin, which is farmed by husband-and-wife duo Dion and Chisomo Bean on their permaculture farm in Howick – around which the first course is built – to the free-range guinea fowl served with aMathungulu and green banana, each of the seven courses is carefully considered and expertly created. The menu and experience as a whole is truly a glorious showcase of the area’s produce. An experience which champions the beauty of endemic ingredients and is underlined by a fervent dedication to sustainability every step of the way.

Summerhill Guest Estate, 9 Belvedale Rd, Cowies Hill, Pinetown | Dinner Tuesday – Saturday with lunch on Saturdays | Reservations: 063 529 1966 | summerhillkzn.com

THE POT LUCK CLUB Johannesburg

Luke Dale Roberts’ famed Woodstock eatery landed in Joburg earlier this year and brought all the bold, globally inspired tapas it’s become renowned for to Rosebank’s Oxford Parks.

Along with all the small plate goodness, they’ve also brought one of Cape Town’s best-kept secrets with them – The Pot Luck Club brunch.

A longstanding favourite of those in the know, the brunch is a multi-course culinary extravaganza with the option of bottomless cap classique to boot. In line with its regular menu, the brunch offering draws from cuisines around the world and features enticing and eclectic dishes, like Bloody Mary oysters, brioche topped with porcini, asparagus and hollandaise as well as the PLC classic, Arnold Bennett.

As the menu moves from breakfast to lunch, expect dishes such as ravioli filled with leek and ricotta or duck served with textures of apple and vanilla alongside a lentil cassoulet. Dessert may call for the tonka bean madeleines with chocolate and passion fruit pâté de fruit. Though the bubbly is highly recommended, the cocktails aren’t to be missed either. Go all out at the make-your-own Bloody Mary bar or relish the spicy-meets-sweet libation that is their Thai Green Curry martini. 199 Oxford Road, Dunkeld, Randburg, Johannesburg | Lunch and dinner Monday – Saturday | Brunch is served every Sunday from 11h00 | Reservations: 010 745 3999 | thepotluckclubjhb.co.za

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SALSIFY AT THE ROUNDHOUSE Cape Town

The award-winning spot, Salsify at The Roundhouse, helmed by chef Ryan Cole, is undoubtedly serving some of the best food in South Africa right now. Inspired by nature and driven by the seasons, Ryan presents an elegant multi-course tasting menu that celebrates the beauty of the Cape’s produce.

An ardent fisherman with a dedication to sustainability, the chef and his team catch all the fish served on the menu. It is this connection to the ocean which has no doubt inspired Salsify’s latest transformation. The inner chamber of the historic building, named The Seasonal Room, now features an impressive ceiling installation that is made from ocean plastic sourced along the Cape’s beaches, and draws attention to the plight of plastic pollution in our oceans.

Not to be missed, this August the chef has invited a host of industry friends into his kitchen to cook with him during a series of collaborative lunches. ‘Salsify and Friends’ will see chefs Luke Dale Roberts, Dale Stevens, Mmabatho Molefe and Ivor Jones join Ryan to create what is bound to be a Sunday lunch to remember.

The Roundhouse, Roundhouse Road, Camps Bay | Lunch Tuesday – Sunday and dinner Tuesday – Saturday | Reservations: reservations@salsify.co.za | salsify.co.za ■

DURBAN-RAISED FILMMAKER AND PHOTOGRAPHER, AART VERRIPS, CREATES A NEW BEAUTY STANDARD IN HIS WORK BY CAPTURING UNCONVENTIONAL FACES WHILE CONFRONTING DIFFERENT SUBJECT MATTERS, ALLOWING THE AUDIENCE TO SEE BEAUTY FROM A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE

COMPILED BY LINDELWA BUSAKWE

THE ROAD TRIP: I generally love road trips in my own country, but I’d love to do one elsewhere. Maybe a road trip along the scenic coastal route of California, from San Francisco to San Diego, where I can surf and experience a culturally vibrant scene.

DREAM DESTINATION: I dream about exploring the mesmerising landscapes of Iceland’s Ring Road to witness majestic waterfalls, charming villages and even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

IDEAL STAYCATION: Anywhere away from the city and close to a beachfront. I’d set up a cosy movie night with my favourite films or binge-watch a new series with popcorn and blankets.

STYLE RESOLUTION: I believe in keeping it classic with a muted wardrobe and pops of colour in between.

OUTFIT COMBO: Classic smart trousers, a crisp white shirt, a good jersey and a statement shoe is always a winner.

PROUDEST MOMENTS: Working with Time Magazine has been one of my proudest moments. The team trusted my style when capturing whistle-blower Daniel Motaung. It was an honour to play a role in fighting back against corporate greed and help Daniel speak out and stand up for hundreds if not thousands of others that are still going through it.

BEST SET EXPERIENCE: I’ve had a number of great shooting experiences, but to date I would have to say it was the project I just wrapped. I’m unable to share details at this point, but will reveal at the end of the year – it’s definitely worth the wait.

DIGITAL OR FILM? I was introduced to photography in a digital age, but I do like to mix mediums and shoot on both film and digital. They each have a very different look and feel, and while I love both, I do prefer to shoot on digital.

A MOMENT IN TIME

FAVOURITE FILM: I love any heartwarming and feel-good film from the 90s or 2000s and can watch them over and over again. The Lion King is one of my all-time favourites.

LUXURY IS: Items or services you want but don’t need that give you a sense of pleasure when buying them; it’s what you reward yourself with.

LUXURY ITEM: I am normally minimalistic with my outfits, but my shoes always need to have character, like Prada’s Logo Plaque Chunky Sole Loafers – I am obsessed with their sophisticated details and how they play around with many new silhouettes.

GO-TO ACCESSORY: I’m all about convenience, and a cross-body bag is versatile, reliable and an instant outfit elevator.

SKINCARE STAPLE: As long as my face is fresh, hydrated and healthy-looking, I am happy. I am currently obsessed with the Kiehls Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane.

FAVOURITE DRINK: Any cocktail consisting of tequila is my go-to, so it’s a classic margarita for me.

FAVOURITE FOOD SPOT: I enjoy the atmosphere and the burgers at Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room in Cape Town; it’s reminiscent of a trendy NYC diner.

GUILTY PLEASURE FOOD: I love devouring any kind of pastry. ■