Innholdsfortegnelse for June 2025 i South African Home Owner

Not many people I know like the cold weather, but I definitely do. For me, there is something very soothing when the temperatures drop and the throws not only function as a décor accessory, but also serve an actual purpose. And, of course, the hot chocolate in front of the fireplace – a feeling that just keeps getting better as the years pass by – pure perfection! Winter homes are havens for cosy evenings and fresh, crisp mornings, and we have put together this issue to help you create warm and welcoming spaces that will be perfect for the chilly season. We take a look at the latest fireplaces on page 158. There is a feature on plush and indulgent fabrics to read on page 144 and we explore jetted…

Purchasing kitchen appliances is not something that can be rushed. You need to think about your needs, how much time you have to maintain them and the suitability of the appliances for the South African home, especially factoring in utility costs and load shedding. Read on to find out what to consider when purchasing kitchen appliances offering intelligent solutions that adapt to real-life needs while delivering long-term value and dependable performance. RELIABILITY BUILT TO LAST Look for appliances designed with durability in mind. Beko washing machines are tested with unbalanced loads to ensure consistent performance. Tumble dryers undergo 20 000 door open and close cycles to guarantee long-term reliability. Beko refrigerators are tested for 300 000 door openings and feature reinforced glass shelves that can hold up to 150kg. These…

WANDA MICHELLE HADLOW EXECUTIVE MANAGER Vérelüxe (pronounced Very-Looxe) is a full turnkey interior design agency with over 20 years of experience operating in the Western Cape, Gauteng and sub-Saharan Africa. The firm specialises in contemporary, luxury residential interiors, renovations and new builds with passion, sensibility and practicality. What top three things do you love about South African interior design? We love the vibrant colour palettes, the creative use of local art and sculpture and the incorporation of cultural motifs that reflect our diverse heritage. This uniqueness allows us to create homes that resonate with identity and a sense of place. From where do you draw your creativity? Our creativity springs from a blend of nature's beauty and cultural diversity. We draw inspiration from South Africa's rich landscapes, vibrant communities and…

SENZI DLAMINI FOUNDER AND SENIOR INTERIOR DESIGNER Lavish Spaces is a world-class interior design hub specialising in high-end residential, commercial and retail design with a strong focus on delivering excellent client service. The company is committed to creating designs that are extremely high in quality. What interior design trends are you looking forward to implementing this year? There are a few trends I am excited about, including: the “Newstalgia” trend that blends high-end, modern furniture and paintings from emerging local artists with vintage furniture inspired by international travel, global trends and distinctive antiques found through thrifting; the use of warm earthy tones; vintage, Art Deco, retro and Art Nouveau; expanded kitchen functionality to include smart appliances and custom-expanded storage and avoiding temperamental materials that may be beautiful, but require a…

NICKY DREYER OWNER AND LEAD INTERIOR DESIGNER From concept development to technical documentation and project execution, ND Interior Solutions handles every stage of the design process. The firm's work is client-focused, rooted in practicality and emphasises function, flow and timeless design. What interior design trends are you looking forward to implementing this year? I am excited to embrace bolder and more expressive design choices – from textured walls like microcement and hand-applied stucco to natural materials like warm woods and organic stone. I am also loving the shift towards personalisation – curating spaces that reflect the clients' lifestyle rather than following a one-size-fits-all trend. What is the best project you have worked on so far and why does it stand out? It's hard to choose just one, but a home…

BRIDGET MEIER OWNER AND LEAD INTERIOR DESIGNER Styleast Interior Design and Décor is owned by Bridget Meier – a qualified interior designer with over 18 years of experience. Styleast offers personalised design solutions transforming spaces with creative and functional designs that reflect your unique style and needs. What is the best project you have worked on so far and why does it stand out? The first project I took on after returning from maternity leave really stands out for me. After a little break from interior design, I was bursting with creativity and eager to dive back in. I had so many ideas I wanted to bring to life in that project – ideas that weren't limited by the challenges of living and working in the Eastern Cape. Unlike the…

Tanah Abraham joined the family's manufacturing business, transforming it from a well-kept secret into the leading furniture store it is today. Fuelled by a shared passion for design and interior spaces, Tanah, along with family members Mike and Kim Abraham, launched Abodery as a retail store in 2021, giving clients direct access to unique, high-quality furniture through its manufacturing company. Abodery is known for being a family-run business that takes immense pride in its work. We have built a reputation for creating distinctive, locally crafted furniture where attention to detail and exceptional craftsmanship combine to deliver timeless pieces of enduring quality. At Abodery, we believe every home tells a story, so we design furniture that helps our clients tell theirs with pride. Our pieces are made to be more than just…

GERHARD BREEDT DIRECTOR Gerhard Architect is a contemporary, award-winning firm celebrated for its innovative and sustainable architecture. Combining modern aesthetics with functional precision for the residential, commercial, industrial and public sectors – it also provides principal agent services, ensuring the client's vision is realised on-site. What do you love most about your job? I am thankful every morning that I am an architect and work in the creative field, constantly meeting new people with new ideas and clients who trust me with the biggest investment they will more than likely make in their lifetime. Who is the one creative person who inspires you and why? Santiago Calatrava – he is not only an architect, but also holds an engineering degree and has taught himself to speak eight languages during his…

ELISHA ANNANDALE OWNER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Décor Identity offers a full turnkey design and décor service to all clients including space planning, colour consultation, furniture selection, design and manufacture of bespoke furniture and décor sourcing. The firm also provides project management, budgeting, style guidance and sustainable design for a holistic and comprehensive service that enhances clients' living spaces, reflecting their personality and style. From where do you draw your creativity? I draw my creativity from various sources. I research various design styles, from modern to vintage, to inspire new ideas and I create mood boards to visualise different aesthetics. I draw inspiration from nature's colours, textures and patterns. I travel and experience different cultures to broaden my design perspective. I visit art galleries, museums and exhibitions to stimulate my creativity.…

VINETTE NICHOLLS OWNER, FOUNDER AND HEAD DESIGNER Giava Interiors is an exclusive, full-service interior design studio catering to residential, hospitality, retail and corporate clients across sub-Saharan Africa. The company designs luxury spaces, manufactures custom furniture and handcrafts bespoke décor. Its award-winning team has transformed everything from five-star lodges and high-rise offices to luxury apartments and family homes. What interior design trends are you looking forward to implementing this year? At Giava Interiors, we're excited about the continued rise of the “quiet luxury” trend. We believe true luxury whispers rather than shouts. It's all about rich textures, layered patterns and quality pieces. As far as palette is concerned, we're especially drawn to warm neutrals, deep olives and rich ochres paired with natural elements like fluted timber, brushed metals and statement stone.…

KATHY FOURIE OWNER TEANA LOURENS JUNIOR ASSISTANT DESIGNER Interior Motives offers personal consultations so it can provide custom-design ideas tailored to each client's style and functional needs. Professional, personalised and perfect – your dream home awaits. Answered by Kathy Fourie What interior design trends are you looking forward to implementing this year? Working with vibrant colours and bold choices to make a space feel unique and reflect personal style, using natural elements that can add vibrancy and life, personalised art and décor and mixing patterns and textures. From where do you draw your creativity? This comes from a mix of personal experiences. The stories of others, the joy of exploration and the playful side of life. Drawing inspiration from memories and adventures, cultural and natural environments and emotional connections. Who is…

KAREN RICHARDS OWNER Living Divani Lifestyle specialises in bespoke spaces and tailored design solutions with an approach that blends creativity with functionality, catering to individual homes, trade and B2B clients. Living Divani Lifestyle offers dedicated departments focused on manufacturing and crafting unique environments for every individual need. What interior design trends are you looking forward to implementing this year? Sustainability in design is increasingly focused on accessibility, scalability and circular principles. I'm excited about regenerative materials, modular systems and low-impact manufacturing methods, which help reduce environmental impact while making sustainable options more affordable and accessible. Transparency, ethical sourcing and design for disassembly are key to making sustainability the norm. From where do you draw your creativity? I find inspiration in nature, travel, art and architecture, with a deep influence from…

LISA SWART CEO Oksijen offers a turnkey service for residential and hospitality projects with design packages tailored to address each project and client's specific needs. Its team of highly talented designers, specialist craftsmen, artisans and suppliers bring uniquely individual spaces to life. What is the one thing you want clients to know when looking for an interior designer? The more you trust your designer, the better the outcome. We don't always know exactly what the solution is at the drop of a hat. Ideas need to mature, so if you don't give your designer space and trust and instead push for a deadline and micromanage each step of the process, you will get a safe, generic product. I'm not saying no deadlines, no budget and all the freedom in the…

Plush, cosy, luxurious and textured – these are the essential qualities of fabrics created for the winter home. With their warm and inviting appeal, using these materials in your home will ensure you have a snug winter while your interior spaces still look on-trend and above all, welcoming. INDULGENT INTERIORS There are a variety of fabric options you can use for your winter home and, according to Zané du Toit, area and marketing manager at Home Fabrics, this season we can look forward to a strong move towards textured fabrics that feel as good as they look. “Think chunky chenille, organic bouclé and velvets with surface interest. These materials offer a rich tactile experience and lend your interiors a sense of warmth and sophistication.” Wool, mohair, cashmere and faux fur…

Pinnacle Stone, a rising force in South Africa's surface industry, is proud to lead with quality and expertise. While we offer a curated range of premium stone products, our true passion lies in empowering home owners and design professionals to make informed, confident choices when selecting the right material for their spaces. DIFFERENT STONE TYPES AND THEIR IDEAL APPLICATIONS Quartz: engineered from natural quartz and resin, this non-porous material is a top choice for kitchen countertops, backsplashes and bathroom vanities. It's hygienic, stain-resistant and low-maintenance. Porcelain: a durable, versatile ceramic that works beautifully for floors, walls, countertops and even outdoor use. Porcelain replicates the look of natural stone, wood or concrete with ease and stands up to scratches and heat. Sintered stone: created through a high-heat process that mimics natural…

ANTOINETTE HORNGREN JUNIOR PARTNER JK Design Architects is an experienced architectural firm offering comprehensive expertise, from sustainable residential homes to large commercial developments. Prioritising client satisfaction above all else ensures each client's unique criteria results in design excellence through harmoniously integrating quality, innovation, ecology, functionality and elegance in a holistic and turnkey manner. From where do you draw your inspiration? I find endless inspiration in the interplay between people and place. The textures of the South African landscape, the way light filters through a space at different times of day and how families live and gather – all these elements guide my inspiration. Travel also plays a role; I love observing how different cultures interpret luxury and comfort through architecture. What do you love most about your job? Without question,…

NATHAN FRANCIS DIRECTOR AND DESIGN LEAD Francis Architects is a team of four with each member bringing their unique strengths to the table. With a background spanning public sector projects to residential developments, Francis Architects has built a diverse portfolio that attracts clients to its design ethos. From where do you draw your inspiration? I'm often inspired by small details – whether it's something in architecture or something natural from the environment. I think the best designs have those quiet, thoughtful touches from the architect that make a space feel meaningful. What is your favourite architectural trend at present? Minimalism and courtyard design. Who is the one creative person who inspires you and why? David Adjaye – as an architect, his designs are based on the history and geography of…

SIPHO PHIRI FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR GLE Interiors offers a full turnkey design service that includes architecture, interior design, interior décor, project management and procurement and sourcing. This ensures that once you contract the company, your home project will be taken care of from start to completion with peace of mind in a hassle-free and seamless manner. What top three things do you love about South African interior design? My top three include our inherent creativity and ability to innovate, our boldness and willingness to experiment with new ideas and our uniqueness, which celebrates cultural diversity and individuality. From where do you draw your creativity? My creativity is deeply rooted in my immediate surroundings – the ever-changing architectural facades of Johannesburg, coupled with the city's vibrant culture and rich heritage.…

LARA FOURIE FOUNDER AND HEAD DESIGNER The Goodspace works closely with clients and contractors to ensure your home's luxurious interior design is functional and beautiful. The company creates interiors that enhance your quality of life and authentically reflect your personality, style and culture. The Goodspace aims to deliver a hassle-free process for all its clients. What is the best project you have worked on so far and why does it stand out? One of the most memorable projects I've had the privilege to work on was a residential project in Dubai. My client flew me out to their home so I could fully immerse myself in the space and understand their vision first-hand. From there, we travelled together to China to source and curate all the furniture and finishes. What…

JENNIFER JONES HEAD DESIGNER AND OWNER Jennifer Jones Interiors offers a full range of services including bespoke custom-designed and manufactured interiors and furnishing, and all interior planning and design, whether at the initial architectural stage or for renovation purposes. What interior design trends are you looking forward to implementing this year? In the past 18 months, I have seen a move away from anything heavy or dark towards the use of lighter, warmer and softer tones in all the homes I am working on, regardless of the style of the interior. It's a move towards creating calmer and more uplifting spaces. Bursts of happiness in the form of bright pops of colour and bold use of wall art add a sense of fun and playfulness to homes meant to be…

LEANNE VAN NIEKERK CREATIVE DIRECTOR LVN Interiors offers full turnkey solutions, spatial planning, styling and curated e-design services. Its signature style blends timeless elegance with modern living, delivering beautifully resolved interiors reflective of each client's lifestyle while honouring form, function and fine details. What is the best project you have worked on so far and why does it stand out? Undoubtedly, my new home in Cape Town. I built my first home eight years ago in Johannesburg and loved every part of the process – so much so that I always knew I'd do it again. This time around, I'm pushing the boundaries a little more. Architecturally, the home leans towards a modern barn (Scandi-inspired), however, the interiors are a departure – I'm going for something that echoes a luxurious…

GISELLE FERREIRA FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR POP Design Studio crafts transformative interior architecture and design that fosters deep emotional connections with people and spaces for the residential, hospitality and commercial sectors. Its commitment goes beyond the ordinary as it designs spaces that resonate with a soulful signature style, tapping into the essence of the human spirit. From where do you draw your creativity? I was fortunate to grow up in a creatively inspiring environment where my parents dedicated nearly every weekend to enhancing our home. They immersed themselves in designing spaces, sketching ideas and perusing countless interior design magazines, constantly evolving and perfecting the spaces we inhabited. What is the one thing you want clients to know when looking for an interior designer? It is crucial to choose a designer…

Recently, hydrotherapy at home, featuring jetted spa baths, saunas and steam rooms, has seen a significant rise in popularity. The cold plunge, followed by sauna sessions, has emerged as a trendy wellness routine, celebrated for its wide-ranging health benefits such as improved circulation, reduced muscle tension and greater relaxation. Increasingly, home owners are incorporating these luxurious spa experiences into their homes, using them to unwind, strengthen their immune systems and enhance overall wellbeing, effectively transforming their spaces into personal retreats. KEY BENEFITS Adding hydrotherapy features to your home is about creating a sanctuary where you can relax and escape the stresses of everyday life. Deon Katzen, owner of Bella Bathrooms & Tiles, says whether a jetted spa bath at the end of a long day or a sauna session to…