Innholdsfortegnelse for Vol. 15 i House and Leisure

Leading up to my holiday in Bali, I had incredibly high expectations of the perfect birthday trip planned with friends. After labouring over a detailed itinerary and booking a four-bedroom villa in Ubud, I was prepared to host the most memorable time in a destination that had long been pegged on my travel list. As fate would have it, my group of six quickly dwindled into a group of four and, ultimately, two. At the beginning of the trip, I was overwhelmed by a mix of emotions – grateful that I could travel and experience Bali, but also hugely disappointed at how my expectations would not be met. Never had my plans fallen so flat. We began our trip as four friends in Seminyak, the 'tourist centre' of Bali where…

Whether it's the water tickling the soles of your feet or building sandcastles and watching the waves crash onto the shore, each of us holds an intimate memory of the ocean. Water binds us together, physically as a way to travel and metaphorically through the myths and legends that permeate many cultures. With ongoing threats to environmental systems, this legacy becomes increasingly endangered. To honour this legacy, photographer Mikhailia Petersen and filmmaker Ben Mall worked with women-owned and run accessories brand Pichulik to create a visual story to advocate for a deeper connection to our seas. 'Ancestral and indigenous wisdom is a vital voice in conversations about conservation, rooted in modelling relationships of reciprocity and reverence,' says Katherine Pichulik, founder and designer at Pichulik. Pichulik draws inspiration from women-centred myths…

A light, modern beach villa on Fanjove Island in Tanzania. See p106 for more.…

@home bash.com AAFRICAA @aafricaastore Acre Studio @acre.studio African Jacquard africanjacquard.com Art of Curation artofcuration.co.za Babylonstoren babylonstoren.com Bespoke Home bespokehome.co.za Bestwood bestwood.co.za Block & Chisel blockandchisel.co.za Bulthaup bulthaup.com Caesarstone caesarstone.co.za Cara Saven carasaven.com Cecile & Boyd cecileandboyds.com Chandler House chandlerhouse.co.za Charles Greig charlesgreig.co.za Coral & Hive coralandhive.com Coricraft coricraft.co.za Country Road woolworths.co.za Créma Design cremadesign.co.za Decobella decobella.co.za Design Afrika designafrika.co.za Domum domum.co.za Dulux dulux.co.za Evolution evolutionproduct.co.za Fieldbar fieldbar.co.za Fields fieldsstore.com Fima Carlo Frattini fimacf.africa Flush Bathrooms flushbathrooms.co.za Gemma Orkin @gemmaorkinceramics Graham Beck grahambeck.com Grand Living with Beck Ernst @glbe_design H&M HOME hm.com Hakwood hakwood.com Herringbone herringbone.co.za Hertex Haus hertexhaus.co.za Houtlander houtlander.co.za In Company @incompany.online Indigenus indigenus.co.za Infinity Surfaces infinitysurfaces.co.za Inova Concept Store @inovaconceptstore Jeeves jeeves.co.za Klay klay.co.za KLight klight.co.za La Grange Interiors lagrangeinteriors.co.za Leila Atelier @leila__atelier Limeline limeline.co.za Lite-Glo liteglo.co.za Mash.T Design Studio mashtdesignstudio.com Meir meirsa.co.za Mervyn Gers mervyngers.com Mia Mélange miamelange.com Minotti Cape Town @minotti_cape_town Mobelli mobelli.co.za Molteni&C molteni.it Mon Exteriors monexteriors.com Mungo mungo.co.za Nosso @nosso.co.za Pedersen + Lennard pedersenlennard.co.za Pezula Interiors pezulainteriors.co.za Picot & Moss picotandmoss.co.za Plascon plascon.co.za Poetry of Living poetrystores.co.za POLO polo.co.za Poltrona Frau poltronafrau.com Shellegance @shellegance Simply Colour simplycolour.co.za Sloom sloom.co.za Stiles stiles.co.za Studio Lloyd studiolloyd.com Sunglass Hut sunglasshut.com The Little Haus @the.little.haus.ct The Mill Fabrics themillfabrics.co.za The…

The Gourmand's Lemon: A Collection of Stories and Recipes (Taschen) Bono wrote a song called 'Lemon' about his beloved mum, and in the Renaissance era women used lemon juice to stain their lips pink. From the critically acclaimed English culinary journal The Gourmand, you will discover a world of sour pleasure, featuring essays and recipes that tell the fascinating tale of the world's most indispensable fruit. No longer just a garnish for cocktails or a morning cleansing ritual tea, the lemon has become a popular cultural movement with contemporary artwork and photography appearing throughout the book by the likes of Roy Lichtenstein, Edouard Manet, Frida Kahlo, Giovanna Garzoni, Ed Ruscha, and many others. Squeeze this title onto your seasonal wishlist. Hotel Esencia by Melinda Stevens (Assouline) Hotel Esencia, one of…

Brazilian writer Paulo Coelho once said, 'Wine and love have always been about sharing, living and feeling.' It was with this sentiment in mind that Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth partnered with award-winning wine writer and wine master Tim Atkin to introduce its clients to the highly anticipated 12th edition of Tim's South Africa Special Report, which was released on 3 September. This exciting partnership was also marked by an exclusive wine-tasting and lunch for a select group of Private Clients. 'I was thrilled to be approached to collaborate with Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth, as there is a natural fit between us, not least a shared appreciation of wine,' says Tim. 'I've been visiting South Africa regularly since 1990 and now spend six weeks a year here…

The cliché of Marrakech's swelling moments of chaos, then the sudden solace found within hidden riads – those iconic oases of mosaic, lotus ponds, mint tea and babouches – is all true. And they are extraordinary. But lesser known to travellers who can't or won't commit to an Atlas Mountain expedition is the spiritual balm found just a short drive through rolling palm groves, perennial red-sand desert and roadside clay-pot merchants. Here lies the sanctuary that is Farasha Farmhouse – a reminder that every pilgrimage to the desert is, as American writer Terry Tempest Williams says, 'a pilgrimage to the self'. Ensconced within deep-rooted olive groves overlooking endless desert, and wrapped in panoramic views of the Atlas and Jbilet Mountains, the property is a sanctuary of the senses – a…

This expansive home, perched high above the bay overlooking the Côte d'Azur in the south of France, honours the owner's deep-rooted connection to the region through a series of spaces that are intimately connected with the outdoors. A contemporary private residence in the south of France embraces the Cote d'Azur's natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, serving as an elegant backdrop to intimate gatherings for close family and friends to bond and enjoy endless summers on the Med. It reflects its discerning owner's love of design and nature, and honours his deep-rooted connection to the region. Working with an existing footprint, award-winning South African architecture firm SAOTA, along with then associate Amé Venter (now the founder of Amé Architects), transformed the property into a unique holiday retreat. The villa captures breathtaking…

Set within a nature reserve and with spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape, this eco-cabin near Cape Town is an enviable family retreat. Its expansive windows and monochrome interiors invite complete immersion in the location, with little to distract from the jaw-dropping outdoors. Perched on the slopes of Klein Hangklip mountain, just over an hour's journey from Cape Town, this remarkable coastal retreat combines an elegant simplicity of design with seemingly endless 360-degree views. It's the brainchild of an extended family, who purchased the farmland on which it is situated a number of years ago. At the time, the only structure on the property was a small timber cabin, which burnt down during a wildfire in 2005. Fast-forward almost two decades to February 2022, and two members of the…

This stylish, compact bungalow on Clifton's 4th Beach is the realisation of a dream for an artist and her family. Its clever design makes the most of the site, which is located on one of Cape Town's most iconic stretches of sand. 'Coming from the stark beauty of Namibia, Clifton feels like the most desirable, glamorous location in the world,' says Anke Stegmann. 'I have always loved everything about it – the perfectly positioned boulders between the beaches, the intimacy between the homes and the beach and, of course, the fact that it's sheltered from the southeaster in summer.' Anke first fell in love with Clifton as a student and vowed to live there one day. In the intervening years she and her engineer husband, Johnny Cullum, settled in Higgovale,…

Despite living in an age where we have unlimited access to information, I could not have told you a single ingredient in any of my skincare products. While many people are far more clued up, the ever-expanding beauty industry only confused me. Add organic pledges and sustainable labels and I was even less sure. Ever since I was 11 and started thinking beyond a bar of soap, I have bought into various brands because of their reputations and perceived efficacy but with little knowledge of the science behind any of it. Then I discovered Ùmû Õrå, a reflection of nature, her indigenous scents, naturally unfolding seasons, herbal abundance, and the ancient healing practices she gave rise to. After years of wellness research, founder Lucy McCarthy felt something was missing from…

A friendly neighbourhood deli in a quiet street in Sea Point with a not-so-quiet social media presence, which set out to build a neighbourhood community, has now become the favourite meeting spot for female network Socially Gathering's over 12 000 followers. Its TikTok-famous crookie festivals cause online frenzies and fans queue around the block, and on any given day, they're often sold out before 10am. Shortly after Chelsy Theron and her husband Marius opened Norfolk Deli, Chelsy saw a post by Sarah Waller of Socially Gathering and reached out to be involved. Socially Gathering is a networking platform that connects like-minded women. The two female entrepreneurs, who started new projects at a similar time, quickly found that their missions aligned. A neighbour down the road happened to be the owner…

Join us on the mad flurry of an adventure that is Dog and Leisure 2.0. We are delighted to share this edition with you and our hope is that we have a little something for everyone. Whether you are a city, plaas or beach hond… we hope to have you covered. Grab your leash, your favourite treat (peanut butter-flavoured, of course), and settle in for another tail-wagging adventure into the art of leisure with your four-legged bestie. This season, we're celebrating the simple joys: slow beach strolls, sun-dappled naps, and the bliss of unwinding together. This edition is your ultimate guide to making the most of summer with your dog. Whether you're seeking peaceful hideaways or planning paw-some festivities for your summer social calendar, we've got something for every furry…

Stellski Café Cape Town, Western Cape If your pup is a city dog, they'll feel right at home at Stellski Café and Coffee. The owner's Staffordshire bull terrier, Stella, approves – so much so that she's on their logo. Pop into one of the two branches in Woodstock or the City Bowl for breakfast, brunch or lunch and Mimosas. @stellskicafe The Blue Café, Cape Town, Western Cape Nothing quite speaks to the heart of community and neighbourhood goodness like the friendly local Blue Café and deli. Opened in 1903, the little blue shop is a neighbourhood heirloom, held in the highest regard. It joyfully spills out onto the pavement with tables and chairs, smiling faces, wagging tails, and fresh coffee. Here, everyone is welcome. @bluecafe_ Maria's Greek Café Cape Town,…

Featuring: Gatsby the Long-haired Jack Russell, Hannah the Italian Greyhound, Lady Luna the English Cocker Spaniel, Alex Mack the Daschund, Apricot the Miniature Poodle, Sophie and Hamilton the French Bulldogs, Sophie the Great Dane. Human models: Nadine Naidoo, Wanida Keeping, Siba Maqetuka, Pieter Bruwer & Jordyn Toohey…

Startled by the sound of crunching coconuts, I pull aside the mosquito net and reach for my phone. The torch pierces the darkness as I shuffle toward the veranda, careful not to wake my travel-weary family. We have only been in Sri Lanka for a day and the journey here was long. I shine the thin light into the garden below as a giant wild hog alights into the dawn. This is a garden of delights. A former palm plantation stretching toward an ancient, volcanic peninsula, like a burned finger bandaged in lush lawn. The remaining palms stretch to the sky worshiping the tropical moon, rustling gently in the soft offshore breeze. A Parisian with Sri Lankan heritage built this architectural utopia consisting of four, block-shaped white dwellings raised above…

a LOOKBOOK Studio production Summer manifesto: The salty crunch, together with the bit of ceremony in its assembly, brings the recognition of a shared summer day… We are lured to hot days under the umbrella, tall, tinkly drinks in our hands, shelly beach beneath our feet… Also, looking to the possibility of a nap; sunkissed retiring. And then, after that, the hallowed sundowner. Scan the QR code above to explore the recipes. Egg-and-chip rolls on the beach are simply not the same eaten elsewhere. Our beach-living friends have taught us to pack these ingredients into our cooler hamper: some average supermarket rolls, a little butter, some boiled eggs and a big bag of chips, preferably plain salted. This pocket of delicious sustenance, usually eaten after everyone has been on the…

Heeren Huijs, a contemporary fisherman's cottage in Hermanus. See p146 for more.…

A nature-centred home in Clifton, Cape Town. See p196 for more.…

One of the many privileges of living in South Africa is the chance to experience nature in abundance, from thundering surf to soaring mountains and desert blooms. It's this untamed beauty that designer Haldane Martin wishes to share with the world. The campaign for the Contour Island, the third piece in HALDANE's Contour Collection, conveys the joy of laid-back coastal luxury and highlights the close connection to the wild oceans. Like its predecessor, the Contour Daybed, this addition to the collection offers a 360-degree view of its surroundings, as it sits low to the ground. Its elegant forms, muted tones and grand scale make it a contemporary and sizeable statement piece of outdoor furniture. But it's much more than that. It's an invitation to the simplest of indulgences; a sunny…

When you view the world through the quiet eyes of Moses Tladi, something powerful happens. His landscapes, mostly painted in brushstrokes, invite you into a space that is both expansive and intimate all at once. The realist painter was the first Black artist to exhibit his work at the Iziko South African National Gallery back in 1931 and 1933. There's Township Scene – empty fields in the distance there, and a cluster of bushy, windswept trees here, foregrounded by what could be mistaken for a neat field of crops. On closer inspection, they are matchbox houses, erected for Black labourers, rendered in pencil on paper. Though undated, this scene immediately casts your mind to a time and a place – could it be the multicultural Sophiatown before the forced removals…

Located in the serene landscape of Stellenbosch, Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate is a place where rich heritage seamlessly blends with modern innovation. Founded in 1696, it is one of South Africa's oldest working farms. The estate was revitalised in 2015 under the ownership of German historian Prof Dr Dr Peter Löw, a transformation that elevated it to a sought-after destination, known for its commitment to heritage, sustainability, and excellence. The property's heritage is a cornerstone of its identity, reflected in its status as a national monument and its inclusion in the European Heritage Project. While honoring its rich history, the estate embraces modern viticulture, utilising cutting-edge techniques that respect the land's traditions. This balance between past and future is evident in every bottle of wine produced, each of which is…

The quiet luxury of remote Fanjove Island off the coast of Tanzania provides weary wanderers with an opportunity to connect with the ocean - and themselves. Its lighthouse serves a beacon from both water and land, beckoning them closer to complete relaxation. I become a human sea creature on Fanjove Island, swimming for most of the six days I am there. Wake, drink water, brush teeth, jog down the sandy path to the lighthouse, grab fins, mask, weight belt and swim out 200 metres to the coral bommies. Depending on the tide and the volume of water, I kick down six metres and hover above the magnificence, feasting my eyes until my lungs feel like bursting. With the lighthouse my beacon I swim back, making small adjustments to my course…

Set against the cliffs of Hermanus, this subtle yet sophisticated seaside retreat is a tribute to South Africa's coastal heritage and appears as if it's always inhabited the rugged rocks on which it rests. Its modern, minimalist twists on the idea of the traditional fisherman's cottage create a haven of rest and relaxation for a young family. Designed by Karen Newman and her team from Newman Architecture and Design, this family holiday home strikes the perfect balance between unassuming charm and relaxed elegance. The serene hideaway in Hermanus feels as though it has always belonged to the rocky shores it stands upon - exuding an essence of 'quiet luxury' through its harmony with nature, thoughtful craftsmanship and deeply ingrained respect for local heritage. It's the holiday home of a young…

A sense of travelling back in time is integral to Botswana's Eagle Island experience. Flying over an aquatic paradise of palms and papyrus, to an ephemeral island in the world's largest inland delta, you are moving into a world untouched by man, and a camp that combines the nostalgia of early explorers with a twist of urban glamour. 'When you look at the stars, you're actually looking back in time. Because of the speed at which light travels, you're seeing all the way to the beginning, 13.8 billion years ago.' The soothing, matter-of-fact voice of astrophysicist Professor Catherine Cress – a co-host and guest on our Belmond safari - drifts over the rhythmic slap and spurt of water. The elephants have been at it for a while, swinging trunks to…

The island of Alphonse in the outer Seychelles island group is a living, breathing, life-giving environment. In a world where much of what lies beneath the surface of the ocean is often disappearing before it's even discovered, Alphonse offers a glimpse into the wonders of a pristine, underwater biome. Viewing the Alphonse group of islands from the air is intoxicating. Just seven degrees south of the equator and some 300km south-west of Mahe, the atolls of Alphonse, St Francois and Bijoutier feel about as far away from anything as you can imagine. Essentially underwater volcanoes with reefs growing on top of them, the Alphonse group appear suspended between sky and sea, like a string of pearls connected via kilometres of collective coastline, lagoons and sea flats. That these flats ecosystems…

As I pondered how I would articulate my experience of Nuru House, my curiosity led me to look up the meaning of the name Tiffany, its owner. Our names are the first prophecy inspired by what our parents or guardians resonated with at the time. When the search returned 'the revelation of God' or 'the manifestation of God', I realised that Nuru House (Nuru means 'light' in Swahili) was the perfect pairing of purpose. I had the privilege of attending a sound bath at Nuru House. Let's take a journey through what this entails. As you approach the studio, you're met with an affirming embrace and the words 'Hello, I am so happy to see you again'. Familiarity creates a sense of belonging as you look for a comfortable spot…

The saying goes, 'If you want to be happy for a year, get married. If you want to be happy for a decade, get a dog. If you want to be happy for a lifetime, plant a garden.' This wisdom finds vivid expression in one of Johannesburg's oldest urban parks – a green lung that has nurtured biodiversity and native vegetation for nearly 100 years, long before 'indigenous' and 'eco-friendly' became part of our everyday language. My first visit to The Wilds felt like stepping into a secret garden. My friend, Eben, who has a key to a hidden back gate, invited me and together we slipped into what felt like a world apart. I remember the thrill of discovery, finding myself surrounded by an unexpected treasure of South African…

• Choose decadent decorations. Turn up the dial on opulence. • Buck tradition. Gold is so much more glam than green. • And yes, you absolutely can put flowers in your tree. • Gifts designed to impress, and nothing less. • Get back to nature. Spend more time entertaining outdoors. • Serve meals destined to be remembered. • Make every party you host the party of the season. • Remember, there's no such thing as too much champagne. Terms & Conditions apply. All prices and information are correct at the time of going to print. Prices and product availability are subject to change without notice. Please visit our website for current stock and prices.…

Dogs in design House codes from Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, and Gucci are redefining stylish pet pairings, offering the perfect accessories for dandy dog walkers and their four-legged companions. Whether nestled in tailored trunks, dressed in cotton-collared shirts, adorned in Italian leather, or sipping from Gucci porcelain, these luxe pieces elevate your look from city dog to city chic! Hounds of Hollywood While many designers have featured Hollywood's biggest stars in their campaigns, we're seeing more and more of them paired with fabulously furry companions. Check out some of Hollywood's top mutts alongside their famous co-stars, like Jake Gyllenhaal for Ginori 1735 and Debbie Harry for Gucci. Canine couture Forget the usual collars, bow ties, or bandanas – we're here to DRESS and IMPRESS! Vibrant prints, bold colours,…

shop Joy in every bite Available at Woolworths and PnP in South Africa, the Joya® apple is a touch above the rest. Super juicy, sweet and tangy, they make for the perfect summer snack – on the beach or on-the-go, for humans and doggos alike! @joyaredsa joyaapples.co.za Dog treats Dog delicacies in South Africa are becoming as diverse and gourmet as those for humans, with exciting options for every pup's taste! We're currently (vicariously, of course) drooling over Jack & Ruby Dog Treats available via the established coffee brand Terbodore's online shop. These tasty morsels, named after Terbordore's signature Great Dane mascot, Jack, and his Golden Retriever buddy Ruby are sure to get your dog's tail a-waggin'. @jackandrubytreats terbodore.com recipe Home-made dog-friendly ice cream As the sweltering months roll in,…

WIN! Scan the QR code above to win: Houndstooth Apparel: 2x gift vouchers, for R2500 each Jelico: R5000 worth of product Unleashed: R2000 worth of product…

poetry Hope by Lucienne Argent is a whippet on the beach; shy, but unable to contain her spring, she compromises, prances between her owner's legs. Mowgli's day by Beatrice Willoughby brother, sister running, father waking, rising, mother snoring, shifting, i staying, waiting for her she dressing, drowsily, i watching, dreamily, she calling me adoringly i wagging tail for her she typing, anxiously i guarding, quietly, she holding me wholeheartedly i happy to be hers she worrying, softly i sitting, stoically, she resting, finally, i living to be loving her Duskland by Justin Fox The sun has set. The horizon closes her pink petals. Gabby runs ahead, boundlessly, chasing a stick. This feels like Arniston, perhaps it's De Hoop or Churchhaven, or maybe even Elands Bay. My border collie – bounding…

Amber the Afghan By Myrtle Edwards It was the seventies, and I was teaching in the small Overberg village of Villiersdorp. One day I spotted the most magnificent creature strutting along the streets. Never before had I set eyes on such a beautiful animal, displaying such attitude. It was completely unaware of its surroundings and behaved as if the whole village, in fact the whole world, were his underlings. The next day I told my grade six class about my encounter. Well, I never! The beautiful creature belonged to the family of Bebo, one of the girls in my class. She told me that the Afghan hound was called Amber. After that first encounter, I saw Amber often: parading the streets of the village, quite oblivious to his surroundings. I…

As I step onto the gangplank, I can't help but smile at the chaotic energy and vibrant mix of animated conversation. As I navigate the crowd, I'm jolted from side to side as my fellow passengers surge past in pursuit of the best seats and views. Excitement rises. Locals shout out their convivial salutations, reunited on their routine journeys; the ferries are a way of life on the islands, the primary mode of transportation for people and goods – a lifeline connecting the islands. As we leave the dock, I inhale the refreshing salty air, a soothing balm to my travel fatigue. With each breath, I feel my stresses slowly drift away. The sea breeze whips through my hair, the engine hums its steady song beneath me, the joyful cacophony…

Tulbagh Collection by Pedersen + Lennard (previous spread, left) In early 2024, South African furniture design studio Pedersen + Lennard introduced its first all-timber chair, the Tulbagh, which quickly became one of the studio's most beloved designs. A few months later, this local studio crafted an entire family of thoughtfully designed pieces to complement it as, of course, 'this could never be just one chair'. Building on the new but nostalgic feeling embodied by the Tulbagh chair, every piece in the Tulbagh collection contains the same delightful nuances. And what better place to capture this feeling of nostalgia and comfort than in the golden fields of familiar favourite rural retreat Kruijd? @pedersenlennard Mohair knitwear by Maqhama Stories (previous spread, right) Born as a lifeline in the pandemic, then slowly blossoming…

A new take on a traditional family finca in Ibiza, Spain. See p156 for more.…

Scan QR code to explore more We're constantly switching between different worlds – digital and physical, global and local, past and present. These dual experiences inspire the choices we make in all aspects of life. Plascon's 2025 Colour Forecast presents four colour families – neutral, natural, bright and dark – that highlight the hybridity present in these palettes and how they complement each other. Neutral colours often form the starting point for decor schemes, and are an important part of the Forecast. Chris Reid of the International Trend Institute explains: 'These colour choices are warmer and more nuanced than we've seen in recent years. They draw from genderless style, as well as soft industrial interiors, where concrete, wood and steel tones add gentle structure.' @plasconsa @plascon.co.za *Please note that the…

Compiling a story about wines for summer is a pretty nice job. Naturally, it meant tasting a few bottles, which is something I've never shied away from! South Africa is blessed with incredibly talented winemakers who aren't afraid of pushing the boundaries – from experimenting with new varietals to working with our challenging climate and crafting unique blends. It's not just about blending different grapes, sometimes it's the same grape sourced from different regions. A quote from Olifantsberg stuck with me: 'In every grain of sand lies the story of our Earth.' Since the terroir plays such a key role in winemaking, you can taste the difference between regions. I've always thought of blending as the winemaker's playground – a chance to create the ultimate combination of what they love…

There's a certain allure to that which is hidden: places that demand to be sought out, experiences that await discovery, details that require a second look, or even unexpected ingredients that have been subtly woven through a dish, only recognised after a few bites. It may be unexpected that such a place could exist in the bustle of Cape Town's V&A Waterfront. With its myriad commercial chains, cafés, fine-dining restaurants and food market stalls, it's hard to believe there's somewhere undiscovered, hidden in plain sight. It is COY, the new venture by chef Ryan Cole – the award-winning chef behind Cape Town's fine-dining institution Salsify at The Roundhouse. The restaurant stands alone between an operational dry dock and the Bascule Bridge. Once a showhouse turned gin bar turned art gallery,…

Dreamily infused with the nature-inspired creativity of the beautiful Balearic island of Mallorca, this young family's holiday retreat combines laid-back style with emotional appeal. The home radiates warmth and charm, fostering a deep connection to the energy of its location and cosmopolitan community. 'Sóller felt like a hidden treasure when we discovered it – a creative haven set against the backdrop of the Tramuntana Mountains,' says Anna Lauerbach-Kalff of the charming small town in Mallorca where the holiday home she shares with her husband Joachim Kalff, and children Henry and Ava, is located. Situated on the western side of the island just a short journey by bicycle – or via the vintage local tram – from the coast and its beautiful beaches, Sóller's quaint cobbled streets are lined with orange…

This contemporary take on a traditional Ibizan farmhouse complements its rugged setting with richly tactile, easy-going luxury. The customary sprawling design was adapted to suit the needs of modern life and open it to the landscape in which it, and its inhabitants, so comfortably live. Mention the Mediterranean island of Ibiza and, for most people, images of the party capital of the world spring to mind: hordes of tourists in nightclubs pumping with electronic dance music. Not rugged, rocky landscapes, wide open spaces and rustic charm. Yet most of the forested hills of the Spanish island are undisturbed, and its heritage and landscapes are carefully protected. South African interior designer Sumari Krige, co-founder of La Grange Interiors, designed the interiors of this holiday escape in the secluded north of the…

High above Constantia, with Table Mountain at its back, lies a home that merges modernist design with the rugged beauty of its natural surroundings. The views of the steep site are cleverly 'packaged' to offer glimpses of their variety and to connect its occupants with the landscape beyond. The chickens scratch away merrily in their coop, a faraway baboon's bark barely warranting a bob of their heads. Three silky grey Weimaraners bound around the yard, the forested hillside property their own personal play park. With an expanse of vineyards, sea and sky – the vista stretching across False Bay all the way to Hangklip on a clear day – it's no secret why Margot Winer and Justin Hyland chose this spot as their sanctuary. With thoughtful, considered design, the couple…

I love the early morning, the hours between 3 and 6am when the world is just beginning to stir. I often joke that this is also my favourite time to conceptualise because insecurity and self-doubt are still fast asleep. I work energetically and without restraint and, by the time they rise, I greet both smugly with my creative juices already flowing. I often wake up to a flurry of thoughts, my brain rattling with what needs to be done, what is outstanding, and what I'd rather be doing sprinting well ahead of me. Because of this, I have had to learn to be intentional about reeling in my mind. I have come to look at waking up as a designed process with each routine focusing on awakening and raising my…

As I lie back on an ergonomically designed LEMI treatment bed at the Terre Paisible Medical Rejuvenation & Spa in Franschhoek, with music playing softly in the background, I'm pretty sure this is what heaven feels like. Terre Paisible, whose name aptly means 'peaceful land', is designed to be in symbiosis with the landscape. It's a place of meditation and self-discovery where each detail has been thoughtfully curated to amplify the senses and foster a deep sense of relaxation. On arrival, I'm ushered into the lounge area, where a showstopping handmade sofa by Swiss leather furniture manufacturer De Sede is perfectly positioned to take in the expansive views. Interior architect Tristan du Plessis Studio worked with a neutral palette, complemented by touches of mirrored surfaces, Oggie hardwood flooring and stone,…

Flowers have the power to foster meaningful connections. Lana Fredericks is the founder and creative director of Myuzu (myōōzoo), a contemporary floral design studio based in Cape Town, which brings together spaces, people and blooms to create unforgettable connections. Together with her mother, Anthea, Lana champions local growers, prioritising seasonal and sustainable practices that highlight the beauty of native flora. Through site-specific installations across various industries, her arrangements become extensions of the spaces they inhabit. In this space, I learned how to balance proportions with selected blooms and foliage, how to create shape and movement for the eye, and how to see flowers differently. It's not simply about transferring a skill for Lana, but sharing how the creation of an arrangement is an invitation for moments of mindfulness and genuine…

Cookbook author and World Gourmand award winner Naqiyah Mayat shows us how to make entertaining a little bit more special and treat your guests to a night they will remember. Tip Always leave your blooms in the fridge overnight so they're fresh for summer entertaining. Recipes and food styling by @naqiyah_mayat EXCLUSIVE TO @home Platters and serveware have the ability to add detail and interest to otherwise easy meals. GET THE RECIPES athome.co.za Stylist's Tip Dare to be different - use a cake stand for your oyster display.…

Bobbejaanskloof Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape This rambling, rustic farmhouse is located in a private wilderness area on the edge of Plettenberg Bay with spectacular views over the Tsitsikamma Mountains. Your pups will love lolling on the expansive stoep and exploring the wide-open grasslands that surround the property. There's a pool for swimming, too. The Herenberg Rosendal, Eastern Free State This contemporary farmhouse near the hamlet of Rosendal is smack bang in the vast plains of the Free State, with distant views of the Maloti Mountains. Take your furry friends for a walk along the river and by the dam, then stretch out on the lawns for a well-deserved nap. At night, fire up the cast-iron fireplace in the lounge for fireside dreaming. Panorama Langebaan, West Coast, Western Cape Everyone loves…

Celebrate the boundless inspiration dogs bring in our curated gallery of dogs in art…

advice Ask the Aristocat Dear Aristocat, I worked tirelessly on my latest art pawject – scattering cushion fluff around the lounge for a festive 'White Christmas' look. But instead of celebrating my creativity, my humans just sighed and said 'Not again.' How do I make them see my genius? — Interior Decor-eater Dear Interior Decor-eater, I see why one might feel disapointment in such an instance, however, one should not hinge one's self esteem on the opinions of others. In fact, the less effort one makes, the better. Nobody appreciates an overachiever. I suggest you wait for your humans to put up the Christmas tree, which was invented as a holder for baubles for you to play with. If that doesn't appeal to you, you are better off lounging around…