Innholdsfortegnelse for June 2018 i South African Home Owner

I appreciate all things convenient, and I love a bit of luxury. In this issue we explore the real meaning of high-end living in home décor and design terms. Our trends analyst Dave Nemeth looks at how perceptions of luxury have changed, and the reasons behind the shift. He reveals how luxury in the home has moved from ostentatious to more minimalist in look and feel, page 28. Helen Grange writes about how tech-savvy bathrooms have become. She talks us through automatic flushers and bidets – intelligent toilets with minimal footprint. She also gives us the latest on music-streaming showers, page 114. Moving inside, Guinevere Davies looks at the craftsmanship and time that goes into creating quality furniture. The attention to detail is what gives it its luxury label. It’s…

Siyanda Mbele is the founder of Pinda Furniture and Interior Design, a cutting-edge design company geared towards the manufacturing of high-quality products with an African aesthetic. A participant in Southern Guild’s A New Wave exhibition and nominee of Design Indaba’s Most Beautiful Object in South Africa award, he is fast becoming one of South Africa’s leading designers. My approach to design depends on the furniture piece or type of interior space I’m designing. If I’m following a brief or theme, I do research and check existing designs so I don’t replicate. When creating new products, I’m guided by the things that inspire me. While designing, I take into consideration the materials needed, manufacturing process and cost implications. Creating products is my passion and working with people from different backgrounds and…

“Be true to yourself in order to have a unique product, do not work in isolation and be open to learning at all times.” Renowned ceramic artist Andile Dyalvane draws inspiration from his Xhosa heritage and from contemporary urban life. The Design Indaba emerging creative alumnus and winner of a Southern Guild Design Foundation Icon Award is also influenced by his experiences with people, the environment, places and music. “All these are my experiences and are information taken in and processed and let out on my creations,” he says. He loves the fact that in his job he can channel his energy “into this shapeless lump of earth and turn it into something of beauty and value to me and others”. He’s had a few challenging projects, but the one…

“Choose a colour for your walls that will be in line with your home’s interior style.” A smaller space compared with the rest of the home, the entrance hall is often a forgotten area that is seen as less important. But it isn’t – the entrance hall is not only a reflection of your interiors, but usually sets the mood and tone of your home. The secret to achieving the perfect entrance is to look at the rest of your home and its interior and select aspects that would complement the space you have to work with. This could mean that your love of colour needs to be brought in or perhaps your minimalist approach to your interiors can be used as inspiration. 1. HUES OF THE HOUSE Choose…

GLEN BRYDGES PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT GMB Architects’ objective is to provide an architectural service of a high standard with an appreciation for creative architecture, integrity and vision. What is your firm’s design philosophy? That architecture is the final answer to questions being asked by the environment, as well as the demands of the end users of a building. Buildings are functional works of art that can enhance both the visual environment and lifestyle quality of the inhabitants. What sets your firm apart from others in the industry? As an experienced architectural firm, GMB Architects is dedicated to innovation in design that has been moulded by our extensive involvement in both residential and commercial sectors over the years. What are some of the most desirable design elements for homes in South Africa…

GAVIN WILLIAMS AND THERESE VAN DEVENTER ARCHITECTS Based in Centurion and led by a male-female team, 86redBRICKS is equipped to address different components to give its clients their dream home. What is your firm’s design philosophy? We don’t design buildings for our own prestige, but rather to provide clients with homes that reflect more desirable versions of themselves. Timeless design is not a result of style, but rather of critical thinking and good proportion. What sets your firm apart from others in the industry? We’re grounded in a people-first principle. Staying smaller is also key to our success, as we believe a hands-on approach keeps heart and soul present in every project. The entire team is also involved in every design; this yields better results, as more brains on board…

CARLU SWART FOUNDER AND ARCHITECT Quality and service excellence are what the Drawbox team consider most important. What is your firm’s design philosophy? We try to free ourselves from specific stylistic references. We believe that the basic elements of architecture and what they’re made of are enough. The unique arrangement of these elements, informed by the context it is located in, must result in a unique, functional, poetic and memorable place. What sets your firm apart from others in the industry? Design excellence and passion. We don’t just go to work, we draw, we sculpt, we experiment. What are some of the most desirable design elements for South African homes now? South Africa’s temperate climate provides a wonderful opportunity for designers to engage sensitively with thresholds. Attention should be focused…

LARA ROETS AND ANTHONY FOURIE INTERIOR DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURAL SPECIALISTS An interior design boutique and architectural specification company services high-end residential clients and incorporates unique stylised décor trademarks. How would you describe your design philosophy? Our clients must live superiorly in their new dream home compared to their current one, fulfilling all expectations on every level of comfort, inspirational design and practicality. What is the first thing you like to do when meeting with new clients? We like to get to know the entire family really well, so we have a three- to four-hour briefing session with all members, including the kids. This gives us insight into their personal living requirements, and we thrive on bringing these dreams to life in each room of the home. When it comes to…

DONALD NXUMALO OWNER AND INTERIOR DESIGNER Beginning in 2012, DNX Interior Design has designed residential homes, corporate offices, apartments and boutiques. How would you describe your design philosophy? I would describe it as very client-centric and a source of joy. We are an organisation that thrives on providing happiness to all our clients, be it for an entry-level project or a multi-faceted undertaking. What is the first thing you like to do when meeting with new clients? I always crack a joke first and talk about a whole load of things besides the project. By the time we start talking about the project, the client is relaxed and our design process just flows. When it comes to interiors, do you feel we’re all still very trend-driven or is there a…

FARZEEN DOCKRAT OWNER Embracing her creative side, former accountant Farzeen Dockrat specialises in creating interiors unique to her clients. How would you describe your design philosophy? Simplicity is essential, but no one has ever met their demise because of a little sprinkle of gold. What is the first thing you like to do when you meet with new clients? My purpose is not to plant an idea in my client’s mind – I need to get to know the person and for them to get to know me in return. Progress through mutual creativity is the ultimate objective. When it comes to interiors, do you feel we’re all still very trend-driven or is there a move towards developing personal taste and style? I do not fear trends; rather I fear…

The East Coast Radio House & Garden Show director has gained invaluable experience in the field of décor and design exhibitions in the past 15 years. Her interior style is all about functionality and comfort, in line with this year’s theme “Home is Where the Heart is”. Good interior design is … style mixed with comfort and passion which embodies the soul of the person or family who lives in the space. What inspired this year’s theme? As personal taste is so different, the theme each year is inspired by current circumstances and what resonates with real people. Sub-themes are then crafted and developed within various areas of the exhibition, which reflects current trends. The most challenging part of organising the East Coast Radio House & Garden Show is ……

"AT THE LUXURY END OF THE MARKET THERE IS AN EXPECTATION THAT SOME PART OF THE PROCESS, OR AT LEAST THE FINISHING OF A PRODUCT, WAS DONE BY HAND." - JACQUES CRONJE Living in an age of instant gratification, it’s easy to take certain things for granted – like the ability to buy almost anything you desire at the touch of a button and have it delivered right to your door in 72 hours or less. Mass production and technological innovation have risen to meet the demand. By comparison, time and skill are increasingly rare commodities, and so furniture carefully made from the finest-quality material with meticulous attention to detail stands out as the new definition of luxury. "IN A SENSE, OUR ... WIDER UNDERSTANDING OF LUXURY (IS CHANGING) TO…

Fabrics have a way of bringing life to an interior – they add a sense of depth and with the right fabric, an interior can go from drab to glam instantly. 2018 is all about luxury, pattern and colour, and the fabrics speak for themselves. A STROKE OF LUXURY “Velvets are the name of the game right now and you can include them in almost every room,” advises Saleh Abrahams from Constantia Fabrics. And when it comes to colours, Abrahams explains that all the European fairs are featuring lots of pink and mauve, violet, purple, coral and orange. “Understated and luxurious pure linen is also a must-have and creates a casual yet stylish and elegant look,” he adds. Apart from velvet, Pandy Duarte and Sally Muir, display and design team…

With winter approaching, Van Dyck Floors has an amazing range of floor coverings, available in broadloom, tiles and planks. Since its establishment in 1948, the company has set trends with top-quality sustainable and affordable products in a range of colours and textures, manufactured in an environmentally and socially responsible way. Offering carpets, luxury vinyl flooring, laminate flooring, artificial grass and rubber flooring, to name a few of their products, the company covers both the residential and commercial markets. Enter now to win a 2m x 3m Shaggy, exclusive rug – a soft, comfortable and ready-made carpet with super-long pile threads – to the value of R7 000, and add the perfect finish and comfort to your room. For more information visit www.vandyckfloors.co.za To enter, SMS VANDYCK, followed by…

WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH DECORATIVE CONCRETE? Relied on for its versatility and strength, but generally hidden from view in foundations and walls, concrete is finally able to shine (literally) as a décor element in its own right. Nowhere is this more apparent than with the rising popularity of decorative or polished concrete flooring. Better still, there are options to suit both indoors and out, as Darren Jacobs, Lafarge’s Technical Global Brands Manager, explains. “The pros of decorative concrete are excellent durability with reduced maintenance, a lower installation cost when included in the initial design, and the wide range of colours, textures and finishes give free rein to architectural expression.” Artevia™ offers an extensive range of products to meet your needs. Artevia™ Colour is produced with integral UV stable colour…

TSHEPO KHAMBULE DIRECTOR Established in 2004, Metako Projex has more than 14 years’ experience in the built-environment and construction industry. Tell us about Metako Projex. Metako Projex is an architectural practice based in Johannesburg. We hold a decent portfolio of upmarket homes at some of the best locations in South Africa. What is your firm’s design philosophy? Our design philosophy is centred around contemporary style, with strong local accents. When looking beyond the aesthetics, our clients mostly appreciate our use of space – an elegant fusion of flow, function and orientation. What sets your firm apart from others in the industry? We start with the end in mind, leveraging off the teams’ expertise in architecture and construction. The cross-pollination between the disciplines gives us the competitive edge. What are some…

FAAN NEL & GERRIT WASSENAAR DIRECTORS From its base in Pretoria, ARCA Unlimited passionately delivers expert consultancy through Africa and abroad. Every project is led by an individual responsible for all aspects of the project. This approach ensures consistency in service and attention to detail. What is your firm’s design style? We choose not to be constrained by any style of design. Our work is informed through vast experience shared openly across our design teams, independent of the size of a project. What sets your firm apart from others in the industry? As architects, designers and master-planners, we have developed specialist expertise across all development sectors. No project is too big or too small – ranging from large multi-storey mixed-use urban buildings to container-based community relief projects in rural areas.…

ENRICA VAN DER LINDEN OWNER Having started her practice in 1995, Enrica’s studio specialises in luxury homes, smaller homes, multi-residential living and includes small retail and office developments. What is your firm’s design philosophy? To deliver a high-quality design by taking the existing character of the places and enhancing them. What sets your firm apart from others in the industry? A continuous love and passion for the industry. It goes without saying, the creativity and personal attention given to each client and their individual projects is our strength. What are some of the most desirable design elements for homes in South Africa now? I would say orientation to and from the sun and protection against the elements. Heat and light saving devices have also been incorporated, furthered by the sourcing…

“There is a big difference between an Interior Designer and an Interior Decorator. They both play a very important role, but don’t confuse them.” “Professional interior designers must be able to adapt their styes to each client, varying as needed. After all, you are unique and your house should reflect that.” Hiring a professional interior designer can sometimes be difficult, says African Institute of the Interior Design Professions (IID) CEO Paige Waplington. The fact that this professional will be creating the space you live in makes it an even bigger deal, she says. It’s one thing making sure your interior designer is a professional – it’s ensuring they’re the right professional for you that makes all the difference. Out of a choice of two, she says, they might both…

“Remove the opportunity and you have no thief.” – Andre Mundell According to professional architect Tia Kanakakis, a managing partner at MDS Architecture, a firm responsible for designing buildings in some of South Africa’s most upmarket areas including Sandton and Waterfall Estate, “All buildings have a lifespan and will require refurbishment at some time.” But how do you ensure your family’s safety while strangers access your home to do the renovations? FACTOR SECURITY INTO THE REVAMP PLAN Once you’ve decided to renovate your home, you’ll need to start thinking about issues such as how you’ll keep your stuff secure while contractors access your home. Agnieszka Gryn, general manager at Fidelity ADT Inland Region, a provider of security services, says you should “vet your contractors thoroughly before you embark on any…

The SA Home Owner Trends Talk 2018 event, in partnership with Auto & General, was also a celebration of the launch of SA Home Owner’s annual brand extension, stand-alone magazine, Trends 2018. The magazine gives readers valuable décor and design information about what is new both locally and internationally. Guests at the event were treated to the smooth soothing sounds of jazz, as well as fine whiskey sponsored by Scottish Cousin, and mouthwatering canapés. SA Home Owner welcomed guests and thanked Kenneth van Sweeden, general manager of Auto & General, for partnering with the magazine for the event. Auto & General’s executive head of business insurance Alex Terblanche was also there, as were the magazine’s guests, advertisers and sponsors. Our trends expert Dave Nemeth gave a forecast of 2018’s home…

JOHAN BREYTENBACH DIRECTOR SUZETTE HAMMER DIRECTOR NICK KARANDREAS DIRECTOR SBE Africa is a prominent architectural firm specialising in modern, upmarket residential architecture, townhouses and commercial buildings such as offices and shopping centres. What is your firm’s design philosophy? Designing for people as well as creating a design that elevates and restores. It’s about design that lasts, where function meets art in a building that is both timeless and memorable. We believe design must first fulfil the functional requirements of our clients, be technically sound, innovative and always push the envelope. This should all happen within the client’s budget and suit the site it is built on. What sets your firm apart from others in the industry? We have more than 30 years’ experience in exclusive residential architecture and, together with…

RICHARD MEADE DIRECTOR Looking to expand their portfolio, BLACKLINE Architecture strives to provide a professional service and deliver quality. What is your firm’s design philosophy? As a young practice, we take a unique and fresh approach towards design. Rather than adopting a certain style or look, we take a more methodological stance towards creating distinctive projects. What sets your firm apart from others in the industry? We see the value in working closely with clients to understand their needs and their nuances. We believe this enables the delivery of a successful project. What are your current design inspirations? I have always been and am still inspired by the architects of mid-century modernism. What are some of the most desirable design elements for South African homes now? I wouldn’t call it…

MARIUS MARAIS ARCHITECT EBEN MARAIS ARCHITECT Marais 4 Architects is a family business that has a versatile and wide base of architectural experience. Striking designs and efficient service are the company’s hallmarks. What is your firm’s design philosophy? Exceeding our clients’ expectations and we pride ourselves on being on the cutting edge of design. We always present a design we are proud of as it carries our trademark. What sets your firm apart from others in the industry? Our designs are bespoke and sketched by hand at concept stage by registered and qualified professional architects with 20 or more years’ experience. The project architect will assist a client from the brief until final handover. What is your stance on the future of eco-friendly building and design in South Africa? Every…

JUDY DE VILLIERS & ABRI DE VILLIERS COMPANY OWNERS A husband and wife team, Abri de Villiers Architects and JDV Interior Designers have your structural and décor needs sorted. What is Abri de Villiers Architects’ design philosophy? To be honest, practical and new, while respecting architecture, construction principles, the environment and our clients’ requirements. How would you describe JDV Interior Designers’ design philosophy? I create ultra-luxurious spaces for diverse clients and for all types of activities. What sets Abri de Villiers Architects apart from others in the industry? We design and build projects. Therefore the design process only concludes when the construction of the building is completed. And the client is part of the process from beginning to end. What is the first thing JDV Interior Designers likes to do…

RHONA AVES OWNER Founded in 2015, Seva Design is renowned for its creative, inspiring and tasteful mix of furniture and accessories. Tell us about your background. For the past three years we have been involved in the design of homes, offices and retail spaces, sourcing and negotiating the best pricing for high-quality finishes. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide a service to suit any budget, yet at the same time not compromise on the quality of our work. How would you describe your design philosophy? I love contemporary design, but also appreciate opulent finishes, with comfort being the focus. What is the first thing you like to do when you meet with new clients? I like to get to know what works for them, as well as their…