Innholdsfortegnelse for June 2021 i South African Home Owner

Our June issue is jam-packed with interesting features that are sure to chase away the winter blues. For me this is the coldest it’s ever been – but then again, I say that every year. There are many things I love to do in winter, but two stand out. One is to sit in front of a fireplace with a good read – turn to page 160 to see all the lovely modern designs there are, including some safety and maintenance tips on how to care for your fireplace. The second is indulging in a long hot bath. Turn to page 142 to read about the latest innovations. On page 168, I speak to experts about luxury carpets and rugs and explore trendy pattern designs and bold colours currently on…

“Acre Studio is focused on creating peaceful spaces that reflect their owner’s personality.” After studying humanities at Stellenbosch University, Lianél de Jongh found her groove and her people at Design Time in Cape Town. After five years at HK Studio in Johannesburg, she founded Acre Studio, a play on her maiden name Ackerman, and signifying a place to grow and cultivate. As a creative I appreciate the knowledge, guidance and patience of the tradespeople I work with. Some products we design never make it past the factory door, yet our steel manufacturers and shopfitters are happy to put in the time and effort needed to help us realise the next “impossible” design in our minds. Acre Studio is focused on creating peaceful spaces that reflect their owner’s personality. Our bespoke…

How has Arté Architects’ design approach evolved through the years? Where we started by drawing plans on paper with pens and pencils, technology has made it possible to communicate a “flat” design on paper to a sensory experience where you can walk through your house in 3D via virtual reality. This development has greatly improved the communication gaps, not only from the client’s experience, but from a construction team’s perspective. It saves a lot of time having 3D information on hand, which will greatly eliminate misunderstandings. We immerse our clients in still 3D renderings, videos and a virtual reality experience from inception to construction and finalising finishes, as a complete package. Designing in 3D that is linked to a live virtual reality feed has definitely improved the evolution of how…

What is Acute Innovation SA’s goal? We are all about clarity and freedom of expression under any imposed parameters in the betterment of life. We find the delicate balance between simplicity and sophistication in remodelling the client’s requirements into a built sculptural form. We don’t conform and are always striving to improve and hone our craft in creating timeless architecture. Good architectural design is… Simplified design that does not follow the status quo and is geared towards humanity because that is what breeds sustainability. What should readers consider when looking for an architect? Reliability and a good philosophy in design. What advice can you offer clients looking to build their dream home? Clients should not rush the design phase. This is an important part of the process and dictates the…

How has your design philosophy evolved over the years? I have been in the industry for over 10 years now. My design philosophy is naturally questioned every few years, whereby I learn by experience and seek to evolve and adapt as a designer, architect and professional. When I started out, I learnt the importance of influence of the client and the budget, but as I have developed, I have realised the importance of the full context, which expands past the geographic location to include the personal history people bring to the project. In addition to these ever-expanding philosophies, the long-lasting impact of a building or built environment could not resonate any deeper in the current time we find ourselves in, therefore the enormous sense of responsibility we as architects carry…

SG Studio’s design philosophy… Has matured within the almost 12 years we have been in the industry. Still today, we are constantly evolving and adapting to the latest design environment, while remaining deeply rooted in excellent core design principles. Good architectural design is… Based on fundamental design principles. It is explorative and pushes boundaries, yet never compromises on beauty and functionality. What advice can you offer readers who are looking to build a dream home? Designing a beautiful house perfectly on paper is relatively easy, but bringing that home into reality takes a highly skilled professional team. This fact is too often taken for granted. In our industry we encounter many clients who opt for plan-only options, hoping to save in the short term, but paying the price later for…

What inspired you to become an architect? The love of creating spaces for people and the ability to use my creativity to imagine and create unique spaces. Good architectural design is… Any architectural work that is functional for the user while creating the desired mood or ambience. What does eco-friendly architecture mean to TCPG? Eco- design for us is a combination of how smart a home is in relation to the environment. Power efficiency, water saving, waste disposal, heating and cooling – all these aspects should be included without changing the mood of the space created. How does the future look for South African residential architecture? The lockdown has been a blessing in South African residential architecture. Home owners have been able to spend time in their homes, and are…

How would you define South African design? In a word, I would say “conscientious”. A design style that is meticulous about being practical with the available resources, while being creative and innovative in its application. A-Z Design Boutique’s design philosophy… I believe that a home is its owner’s refuge, an escape from today’s fast-paced life. My aim is to create meaningful spaces that appeal to the senses and are uplifting. A designer should work closely with the owner to better understand their specific lifestyle requirements in order to conceptualise tailored designs and create the home of their dreams. What should home owners keep in mind when looking for an interior designer? Look for someone you are comfortable communicating with and who has a proven track record of delivering on time.…

What drew you to interior design? My love for interior design came about when I was a little girl. I used to pick flowers from the veld and adorn our family home with beautiful arrangements. After 16 years of working at a government entity, I resigned and decided to pursue my passion and completed an interior design course. I love being creative and expressing it, working on residential projects and seeing my clients happy with the outcome. It brings me happiness! Ebotse Interiors’ design philosophy is… The name EBOTSE - which is a Sepedi word meaning “it is beautiful” - inspires, captures and reminds me that every time my potential clients invite me into their already elegant, beautiful, opulent, tranquil, stylish, enjoyable homes, I get the opportunity to use my…

Jessica Boyer Interiors’ design philosophy is… To create something timeless, practical and functional, more than something “on-trend” or too current. I believe a strong interior won’t date and will remain beautiful and relevant for many years to come. It’s important to innovate and not imitate, and remain true to your own design language. What should a home owner keep in mind when looking for an interior designer? First identify with a designer’s style and their look and feel. They should do their research on what inspires them and where they find their inspiration. The relationship between client and designer needs to be open, with a good flow of communication so everyone’s expectations are managed and met. This will eliminate disappointment on both sides. Everyone needs to be on the same…

While maintenance is the first step to ensuring a safe unit, there are some safety precautions that should be kept in mind. Hazel shares a few: • Ensure that you conform to the clearance directions for combustible materials, issued by the supplier. • Never leave flammable items close to the fireplace. • Small children should not be left unattended when the fireplace is on or while it’s still hot. • Fireplaces consume oxygen when in use and it is important to adhere to the necessary ventilation requirements, especially when using non-flued fireplaces. • Make sure that you understand and follow the requirements set by the manufacturer and installer. • Most built-in gas fireplaces should have an oxygen depletion system for additional safety. This built-in device automatically cuts out the fireplace…

Lighting selection, when done correctly, will transform the interior and exterior of your home, serving a range of purposes and activities. If not implemented correctly, lighting can render a room cold and uninviting. We explore how to get the balance just right with product selection and good design practice. SELECTION TIME Lighting serves a function of equal importance to any other design element in a home. Karin Cawthorne, owner of KARE South Africa, says your choice of lighting should transform a room into a welcoming and relaxing space, while also being effective and functional. “Treat your lighting like a piece of furniture – choose between different materials, practicality and visual appeal.” “Only once you’ve established what the function of each light is intended for should you shop around for fixtures…

One of the most important aspects of interior design is lighting. With the correct choice of luminaires and placement, a mood can be created and a range of scenes can be achieved. And with the incredible variety of designs and fixtures available, the home owner is spoilt for choice. Layered lighting plans create functional, open-plan living areas. Begin with task lights like downlights or ceiling lights, then move on to accent lighting with downlights in glass cabinets or undercounter LED tape tights and end with ambient lighting that serves as mood lighting when entertaining. – Zebbies The trick to creating warm and inviting spaces is to combine a variety of different light sources and types. For example, in the kitchen downlights provide excellent functional illumination to key work areas. Adding…

Dipuo Phakathi is a qualified engineer and passionate warrior for customer excellence. Having previous experience in the mining and banking sectors, Phakathi decided to pursue her life-long dream of making home improvements through Denic Cabinets. Her company creates and installs all types of cabinetry, from kitchen units to built-in cupboards. What sets Denic Cabinets’ work apart? At Denic Cabinets, we design our products according to the client’s personality, brand and budget. We want to always align with our client’s lifestyle. What were the most trying aspects of getting Denic Cabinets off the ground? I started the business as a side hustle while working in corporate. So it was long-hour weekdays on my part as I had to juggle both work and business, and no social life on weekends, as I…

Lakes, waterways and landscaped gardens surround this suburban home in Pretoria East. With a scenic setting and natural calmness, this lifestyle estate offers the family a safe living environment with an abundance of wildlife and birdlife at their doorstep. “The quietness of the estate was what impressed me first,” says the owner. After viewing the plot, the couple felt it had great potential. “Being a well-secured estate (even with sounds of roaring lions at night giving it a real bushveld feel) is an investment for us.” In keeping with the estate’s architectural guidelines, the owners opted for a contemporary design of simple, clean lines and open-plan living spaces. For the interiors they’ve kept to the theme and ensured the home is not cluttered, with simple design choices that aren’t overpowering…

T he future of South African residential architecture... We are moving into interesting times as people are spending more time working at home, yet still seeking community and connection. Houses are becoming more complex spaces as the uses within a house develop. We are excited to see what hybrid typology (mixed-use) of spaces will emerge out of this. What advice can you offer to readers looking to build their dream home? It is helpful to understand that architecture is made to accentuate the elements and people that inhabit it. Architecture is not so much about the building but about the spaces it houses inside. Architecture frames spaces. It is important to establish a well-thought through brief (list of functions) about the spaces you want and how you will be using…

How has JDA Architects’ design philosophy evolved  over the years? Our design philosophy is grounded in the necessity to place the client first, to create more with less and always stay abreast with modernisation and technology. The inspiration gained from the iconic masters of architecture and especially from Frank Lloyd Wright is still valid today. Architecture requires total commitment – there is no room for uncertainty. You either love it or your hate it; there is no middle ground. Architecture is more than just a shelter. It is about image expression, it is about ideas, reality, space, the materials and their limits. This leads to innovation, technology and reinvention. Good architectural design is… Less is more. Forward thinking in design. Architecture is about proportions and the rhythm of buildings. Complicated…

How has TBAD’s design philosophy evolved? When you start your career as an architect, you start with a very imperious mindset, always knowing better and keen to impose your ways onto the client. Over the past 10 years, we’ve learnt that to create architecture and interior design that resonates with our clients, it is important to listen to their vision, to guide them and ultimately create a masterpiece. This becomes not just great architecture, but also a comfortable backdrop against which our clients work, live and entertain in the way they had framed in their minds. From start to finish we create a story with our clients, carefully planning, communicating and ultimately achieving a successful end project. Good architectural design… Should transcend the concept of merely creating a gaudy showcase.…

W hat first drew you into the world of interior design? Twenty-five years ago I removed my microbiology laboratory coat to pursue a passion of interior design. Quality, sustainability and innovation are high on my agenda when considering clients’ needs and aspirations. Underpinning these factors is meticulous planning. I engage with my client as the project moves through many layers of design, from conception, to implementation, completion and the great reveal, touching the process at every level until an exquisite space has been developed for my client, their family and friends to enjoy. Audi Snÿman Interior Design’s design philosophy is… With no planning, there’s no performance. I have experienced the value of meticulous planning and constantly inform clients of this critical success factor. It saves a lot of time and…

Design Hatch’s design philosophy is... This is evolving for me. At the core, there must be the right amount of balance between functionality and aesthetic. However, in saying this, I am no stranger to introducing an element of luxury and surprise in a space. How would you define your signature style? Sophisticated luxury! For me a good designer is one who can interpret what style the client is leaning towards and adapt to that. How has your approach to design evolved since you started? There is a lot more detail in each aspect of design. I try to think past just the initial look of a space right into the smallest of details, such as how a client will move and interact in the space, how we can add to…

Interior Bubble’s design philosophy is… Our philosophy is based on three things: to be instinctive; to focus on design that lasts versus replacement; and lastly, to show that good design should be experienced and not seen. What should readers keep in mind when looking for an interior designer? Be clear about your style. Communication is key. Trust should be a priority too. Design works better if there is transparency. Interior Bubble’s signature style is… Eclectic and contemporary. I love incorporating elements from different cultures using different styles that are timeless and would give our client the warmth and comfort they are looking for in their homes. What elements do you always try to include in your interior design? I love using different textures and patterns, because they have a way…

LVN Interiors’ design philosophy is… To clearly understand the brief and aim for the wow factor. Everything else will fall into place. What should readers keep in mind when looking for an interior designer? A large part of an interior designer’s role is to coordinate the project team and manage many elements of the project at the same time. Therefore your designer must be organised and have an eye for detail. Lastly, style is one thing, but so is being practical. I often see designs that look amazing but aren’t suitable for everyday life. What elements do you always try to include in your interior design? My aesthetic is bright and clean. I like incorporating neutral colours, light fabrics and light furniture. I use the repetition of materials and textures…

Lederle Design is an internationally acclaimed company specialising in interior design and decorating. With 30 years of experience designing spectacular homes and lodges both locally and globally, owner Sue Lederle is an interior designer with a wealth of knowledge and enviable talent. Taking on an entire project from start to finish, the design team delivers superior properties for clients, boasting an impressive list of projects from Cape Town to luxury lodges in the Kruger Park, London high-rises and country villas in both France and Italy. Based in Cape Town, Lederle Design can help with space planning and architecture, and conceptualise a plan for your home or investment property. The company can take the stress out of home renovation with full project management from fittings and finishes to sourcing any décor…

When it comes to planning a pantry unit, Kevin White of Blum South Africa suggests the following to be kept in mind: • Size of the family. • Members of the family, for example babies, teenagers and so forth. • Pet food and accessories. • Shopping requirements and frequency (weekly or monthly shop). • Cooking habits of the family. This information will help determine the width required. For example, if the family is large with children, babies and pets and only shops once a month, then a 1 200mm-wide pantry would be advisable. For smaller families, narrower units work perfectly to create accessible storage space.…

Sit back and relax in this Bradley armchair from Wunders, which can be customised to your preference, from wood stains to fabrics and leathers. It’s bold in design, with a timeless appeal. www.wunders.co.za Our South African craftmanship is adored across the globe, and this Ntathu side table from Umdabu is one of the reasons why. It features turned matumi legs and a stone stop on a Ferrograin black steel frame. www.umdabu.co.za The HalfPipe wall-sconce from willowlamp adds a defining elegance to a formal space, be it a lounge or a dining room. www.willowlamp.com Moody winter hues are captured in the Sewing Room’s latest collection of fabrics. Simply pick a fabric and size to have custom-made scatters for your home. www.sewingroom.co.za The Tiffany server from Isabelina is made of black lacquered…

Brad Kalish studied design at Vega and is currently a director at Streamlight. He’s also a co-founder at DARK. He is passionate about design and has been lucky enough to have spent a considerable amount of time in Europe learning the latest trends and learning product design from some of the top industrial designers in the world. What sets Streamlight’s products apart? With experience in Europe and 25 years of experience in the industry, we have been fortunate enough to have worked on many international projects. We design our spaces with our products in mind – that is, ceiling design such as bulkheads. A lot of homes are looking into energy saving in the home. What are some of the lighting innovations made or offered by Streamlight to save energy…

“Chandeliers and pendants are being transformed from decorative lighting pieces to sculptural artwork elements. This transformation sees lighting take centre stage in the home, not only for the ambience it creates but also for its ability to be a focal point.” – Vash Pillay, Spectronix Lighting Design “We are seeing a lot of glass and the inclusion of greenery being used in the latest lighting trends. Concealed and technical lighting is becoming a lot sexier, and the new designs are bringing attention to minimalistic lighting design.” – Brad Kalish, Streamlight “Smart lighting, such as LEDs, reduce the impact on the environment, and bare bulb lighting creates a sleek, clean and understated look.” – Karin Cawthorne, KARE South Africa “This year we’re loving small table lamps, clear glass pendants, matt black…

W hat inspired you to become an architect? I passionately believe in God and that through him all things are made. As a procreator, I strive to follow in God’s footsteps in creating defined and divine spaces. There is no greater joy than that of seeing your creation coming to life. Since you became an architect, how has your design philosophy evolved? I have been in the industry for more than 15 years, constantly adapting to the changes that transpire in the built environment. In my quest for uniqueness, I strongly believe in the exploration of new ideas, technologies, materials and design philosophies. How would you best define good architectural design? If it’s functional and takes your breath away, then it is good architecture. When looking for an architect,…

How has SBE Africa Architects’ design philosophy evolved over the years? We have seen various architectural trends in the last three decades and have noticed the rise and fall of the South African-adapted pseudo-Tuscan and Georgian, the modern farmhouse and contemporary styles. At SBE Africa Architects, we have remained of the opinion to grow with the modern times we live in. We have always made use of as much glass as possible to bring in nature into the home, together with natural elements of stone and wood. Good architectural design… Speaks for itself. Architecture can only be defined as good when clients know they have a good investment. Over the past few years, residential properties designed by SBE Africa Architects have given clients almost double their money back when they…

What inspired you to become an architect? It all started at a young age back at home. My father, a structural engineer by profession, opened me up to the construction industry at a very young age. My choice of architecture emanated from that exposure. And the day I fully understood the built-industry cycle of professions. The rest of the journey has been sculpted by my curiosity about how the many different pieces of the industry’s puzzle work. I was also inspired by the love for creating and combining the art and science of architecture. Good architectural design is… Edward Tufte said, “Good design is a lot like clear thinking made visual.” We at Think Design Studio believe that good design breeds positivity and good business whereas bad design does the…

What drew you to interior design? I just love design, décor and creating cohesive colour schemes and spaces. I have a way of working with indoor spaces, making them functional, safe and visually appealing by calculating space requirements and furnishings, colours, lighting and materials. Carné Interior Design’s design philosophy is… One word: creative. We are sensitive to what is correct, what the space allows and most importantly, what the client’s needs are. Keeping up to date on current styles and trends is an important part of my job, as is a knowledge of complementary colours. It is also necessary to be able to translate my artistic eye into a design that conveys ideas to clients. Part of being successful as an interior designer is being able to see what the…

What first drew you to interior design? My passion for creativity and design began at a very early age. I come from an artistic background and have experienced diverse cultures, by living in a total of 36 homes around the world. Much time was spent by my mother and then me creating our own beautiful homes. Also, having worked in the fashion industry in London at 18 years old, I was exposed to beautiful fabrics and the importance of design, and interior design was a natural progression. Define your signature style? We approach each design project uniquely. Each is original to that particular client so the styles can be quite diverse. My own signature style I would describe as characterful and timeless. There’s a lot of mixing and layering of…

Indulge in the luxury of Volpes’s quality soft and absorbent 100%- cotton bath towels or luxury bath sheets. For an update in your bathroom, include colours like hunter green and terracotta, rather than an all-neutral palette, to lift the spirits. www.volpes.co.za Italtile’s Sofì collection reinvents the story of art and offers a wonderful encounter between tastes of old and modern inspiration. The absolute precision of the hi-tech production department highlights the craftsman’s touch down to the smallest detail. www.italtile.co.za Destinkt. Bathroom Solutions brings you the AQUAECO wall-mounted touchless tap from BAGNODESIGN. It is stainless steel and can be battery- or mains-operated. The minimalistic design of the sleek tap and slim piping is perfectly fitting for any modern home or hotel. www.destinkt.com The D.1 tap range saw Duravit team up with…

Having a glowing fireplace in the winter is one of life’s simple joys. From the obvious heat to the cosy ambience, fireplaces have always been desired and naturally complete an interior. While it’s quite simple to have a unit installed, it’s imperative to maintain it and ensure it’s safe for regular use. Malcolm Sims of Infiniti Fires, points out: “ A fireplace is similar to a car. It will operate well when maintained in good condition, but when not looked after, it will deteriorate and not work as well. In extreme cases, it will become unsafe to use.” Keeping this in mind, experts share their insight on how a home owner can maintain their fireplace, as well as the safety precautions to observe. MAINTENANCE IS A MUST According to David…

Wondering whether carpets are still in? The answer is yes – now more than ever. And manufacturers have improved their quality through the latest technology, creating intricate patterns and eye-catching designs to make them an extremely popular flooring option. A CARPET FOR EVERYONE Mae Pakdoust of Mae Rugs says textured rugs with thin soft piles are trending at the moment. With people spending a lot more time at home, they want to add luxury and softness in their homes. “We have seen a move away from the cooler palettes such as greys to warmer, more toned, natural colours.” For Kerry May of Rowley & Hughes, shades of grey and natural tones are in. “They are popular choices in our marketplace as they complement the natural tones of our landscape. Natural…

Outdoor lighting is imperative if you want your residential property to be safe. With crime on the rise and the lack of safety being a concern for many South Africans, we see an increase in innovative lighting solutions. As the team at Legrand South Africa points out: “Security lights no longer serve a singular function. New trends include the incorporation of sensors, cameras and sirens.” On the latest in smart outdoor lighting, we look at what’s new on the market: THE KEY COMPONENTS To ensure you have a comprehensive lighting plan for the exterior of your property, Spazio Lighting’s Moynene Bredenkamp details some of the options available: • Motion sensors – there’s a range of different motion sensors available that will not only detect movement but in the case of…