WORDS Steve Smith and Josie Huges PHOTOS Supplied

Very few vehicles can claim the kind of cult following enjoyed by the original Land Rover Defender – or the Series I, II and III, as it was originally called before the Defender nameplate was adopted in 1990. Especially impressive is the fact that it’s been prized and zealously defended despite a rep for breaking down, acting unreliably, gulping fuel, being slow, leaking, rusting, and a host of other equally condemning issues.

But since the first hand-built Series I rolled out of the Solihull factory in the UK’s West Midlands, no other utility vehicle has come close to the unique mix of form and function found in the Defender. And here we’re defining “function” to include the ability to temporarily jimmy a snapped accelerator pedal by stringing a shoelace from the engine bay to the driver’s window to rev the engine. Or popping an egg in the coolant reservoir to stop a leak…

Although there’s plenty under the hood and inside the cabin of the Defender, we’re most interested in the design elements – especially its shape and colour. The fit-for- purpose, boxy, utilitarian profile is nothing short of legendary, and the range of official Defender colours over the years seems to be a kind of accidental palette prophecy for the 20th and 21st centuries.

Back in 1983, the Defender came in red, white, beige, blue, green, or grey. In 1990, the County Edition came out in black and the first metallics – metallic red and metallic green. The colours were always rich. Fast-forward to today, and the list of official Land Rover colours is upwards of 50. Put them in a hat, pick one at random and chances are you’ll love it now… and even more in a few decades.

Take, for example, the recent boom of browns that have made something of an unexpected comeback. It was the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year – 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, which isn’t that far off the Nara Bronze Defender colour on a sunny day.

At Journeymen Works, a Land Rover Defender restoration workshop in Cape Town, the main thing is the main thing: rebuild Defenders to factory spec, adding as little modern interference as possible. When it comes to colour, the same applies: select from the palette of original shades, or even better, respray in the original colour to preserve the vehicle exactly as it came off the factory floor.

Adam Hughes, one of the partners, who is responsible for the builds, reveals the colours their customers are opting for in 2026: “Since we only rebuild four to six vehicles a year, the range of colours we’re seeing is pretty tight. Whites, muted greens and greys (or ‘greeny-greys’) are in. While we’re hoping for a customer brave enough for Sahara Dust, Portofino Red, or my favourite Arles Blue, in South Africa the market is definitely more conservative. Which is another way of saying, it’s easy to stand out if you go bold in colour…”

If you’re interested in a sympathetically restored original Land Rover Defender, it’s definitely worth having a conversation with Adam and his crew. The process (inevitably) starts with a lengthy and passionate discussion about Defenders. Then, it’s time to figure out what the customer’s needs are. Will it be a daily drive, or a holiday beach runner? Are theynlooking for something with a bit of growl and punch, or something smoother and more comfortable? Once the use-case is clear, Journeymen will source the donor vehicle (this is the most common option) or get to work on the client’s vehicle, taking it down to the chassis and rebuilding each component piece by piece. All rust is removed and steel replaced or repaired, and almost every part is replaced with a new part – except in instances where the original is in great condition.

You’ll also be able to view their pared- down Defender palette, among other build options, in the Build Configurator Room, where the swatches are displayed. No doubt Adam will try to convince you to go with their favourites – Arles Blue, Zermatt Silver, Sahara Dust, Keswick Green, Davas White, Bahama Gold. And given how appropriately authentic those hues look on a Defender, it’s very likely that you’ll be persuaded… journeymenworks.com | journeymen_

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This Easter, Samsung is inviting South Africans to embark on a Smart Treasure Hunt¹ as the company launches the Easter promotion with limited-time deals across its range of innovative home technologies. Running until 20 April 2026, the promotion offers consumers exciting deals across selected Samsung product categories that can help upgrade their homes with smarter, connected technology.

Created to bring value and innovation together during the Easter season, the promotion encourages shoppers to explore Samsung’s ecosystem of devices and discover deals across TVs, sound devices home appliances and monitors. Each category offers the chance to unlock smart living solutions that enhance entertainment, comfort, and everyday convenience.

During the promotional period, consumers can enjoy special offers across selected products, making it easier to transform their homes with technology designed to simplify modern life. From immersive home entertainment experiences and intelligent home appliances to productivity-enhancing monitors and climate control solutions, Samsung’s portfolio is built to support a smarter lifestyle.

Some of the deals include these;

• 98 Inch DU9000 Chrystal UHD TV UA98DU9000 – Now R39 999^*, save R10 000
• 85 Inch QN70F 4K Neo QLED Mini LED TV – Now R32 999^*, save R7 000
• Bespoke AI Side-by-side 21.5-inch Family Hub Screen, Black 594L – Now R39 999^*, save R10 000
• AI Wash Ecobubble AI Energy Mode Top Loader – Now R7 999^*, save R1 500
• Q- Series Soundbar HW-Q800F 5.1.2ch Subwoofer – Now R8 999^*, save R2 000

The Smart Treasure Hunt idea reflects the excitement of discovering hidden gems, with shoppers encouraged to explore Samsung’s innovations that bring connectivity into the home. By integrating cutting-edge technologies across its product range, Samsung continues to deliver solutions that work seamlessly together to create a more connected living environment.

Whether upgrading your living room entertainment setup, refreshing the kitchen with intelligent appliances, enhancing your home office with a high-performance monitor, or improving your indoor comfort with energy-efficient air conditioning, the Easter promotion offers consumers the chance to invest in technology that enhances everyday life.

Samsung’s broader vision of a connected home ecosystem means that its devices are designed to work together intuitively, enabling users to enjoy greater control, convenience and efficiency in their households.

The Samsung Easter Smart Treasure Hunt promotion will offer these great deals for only a limited time (23 March to 20 April 2026), at selected retailers and online platforms.

¹Terms and Conditions Apply shop.samsung.com/za/promotion-terms-and-conditions

*Recommended Resale Price. Prices may vary per participating retailer.

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WORDS Danielle Weakley PHOTOS Max Bohme/Unsplash; Supplied

Voaara, Madagascar

This is barefoot luxury at its finest and most toes-in-the-sand, with tropical-style thatched bungalows scattered along the northern tip of the island of Sainte-Marie off the coast of Madagascar. The island is renowned for its swashbuckling pirate past (Captain Kidd’s loot was said to have been buried here), and is one of the best spots in the world to view the humpback whale migration. With just seven stripped-back but quietly luxurious bungalows and one stunner of a three-bedroom villa, Voaara – designed by South African-Chilean architect Luis Mira – boasts a rustic, unbuttoned style thanks to the inclusion of local artisanal furniture and a wholly unpretentious energy. Do not miss the private dining experience of Bird’s Nest – it offers 360-degree views from its elevated top deck, making it perfect for sundowners and a romantic night of stargazing, telescope included – or a pizza while catching a movie at the outdoor cinema. | voaara.com

Cheval Blanc, Seychelles

This is the first Cheval Blanc maison in Africa, and LVMH’s newest property in its uber-luxury hotel portfolio. Architect Jean-Michel Gathy’s sculptural buildings curve around Mahé’s rugged Anse Intendance in the south, with villas ensconced in sunny eyries or perched atop the ridge, surveying the sprawling blue bay. The design is a sublime blend of modern and Creole – a dialogue between the tropical island and contemporary architecture. Expect floor-to-ceiling glass-fronted spaces with clotted-cream interiors offset by intricate latticing and African art – like the works of Madagascan textile artist Joël Andrianomearisoa. Slide back the glass doors to a private infinity pool and wraparound wooden deck. No luxury has been spared by parent company LVMH – the interiors are designer, the spa is by Guerlain, and the public spaces are utterly swoon-worthy. | chevalblanc.com

Waldorf Astoria Platte Island, Seychelles

Think the Seychelles, think private island – and this particular secluded escape integrates nature and conservation with architecturally airy beachfront villas that snake along the ivory sands of remote Platte Island. Inspired by the largely untouched lagoon, palm tree forest and coral reef of the island, the resort’s design echoes its natural surrounds. The main buildings take cues from the patterned shell of the native hawksbill turtles, forming faceted shapes that create canopies of dancing light; while the villa interiors surrender to nature’s palette of sage-green and off-white. The resort is not just eco-conscious in design, but in sensibility too – sustainable with its own solar field and produce gardens, respectful of the local ecology, and minimally intrusive towards the turtles nesting in the lush gardens. That said, you do need to arrive by plane… | hilton.com

Four Seasons Resort, Mauritius

Sustainability and luxury are the beating heart of this freshly renovated property at Anahita, on the lush east coast of Mauritius. From the seagrass meadow nursery that encourages marine biodiversity (you should be able to spot turtles, fish, stingrays and even seahorses in the newly planted underwater meadows) to an on-site seahorse conservation initiative, the biophilic resort is dedicated to preserving the natural splendour of the island. This same natural splendour is echoed in the contemporised interiors, where golden, beachy-toned colour palettes and natural finishes offer seamless integration between indoors and out, complete with basalt- encrusted private infinity pools. There’s a wellness spa that hugs the lagoon, as well as a spectacularly verdant oceanfront golf course designed by Ernie Els – both are not to be missed. | fourseasons.com

Soneva Secret, Maldives

There are just 14 villas tucked away at Soneva Secret, in the startling aquamarine waters of the Maldives’ Makunudhoo Atoll – a hyper-exclusive, super-private island enclave that includes a much-talked-about floating villa. Yes: the floating Castaway Villa can be dragged to different anchor points around the island to catch both the sunrise and the sunset as you live out your best Robinson Crusoe fantasy. Quirky Soneva touches are everywhere, from the reclaimed driftwood decks and rustic-chic upcycled decor to the pops of signature sunshine yellow, the retractable ceilings for stargazing, and the curvy water slides that deposit you straight from your deck into the water below. The villas are completely self-contained, so you’re off the grid in the best way possible – with endless unobstructed views, and your own so-called barefoot guardian and chef to cater to your every desire. | soneva.com

Jaz Amaluna, Zanzibar

Situated along the unspoiled shores of Uroa Beach on the east coast of Zanzibar, Amaluna is pure relaxation. Yes, there’s a mix of garden and ocean-facing suites – but there are also private swim-up terraces, a vibrant beach bar set along the powdery white sand, the sanctuary of an island spa, and three sprawling pools. The property pulls its exterior inspiration from Zanzibar’s diverse cultural heritage, with softly spoken interiors that are designed to take full advantage of the seemingly endless azure-toned vistas. | jazhotels.com

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With a profound respect for its past and a clear vision for its future, Vergenoegd Löw stands as a meticulously restored tribute to 18th-century Cape heritage. As one of the oldest working wine farms in Stellenbosch is home to two wine-driven, seasonally inspired restaurants, as well as an intimate boutique hotel and spa. Together, they offer an experience that feels deeply authentic yet effortlessly refined.

For those seeking a quietly luxurious Winelands escape, the Vergenoegd Löw Boutique Hotel & Spa provides the perfect base from which to explore the estate’s rhythms – from art walks and duck-watching to wine tastings and lingering seasonal lunches. At its heart lies the reimagined 1773 Homestead, once the working centre of the farm and now reserved exclusively for hotel guests, offering a deeply immersive and private stay experience. Breakfast, however, is available to the public by pre-booking, allowing day visitors a rare glimpse inside this historic space.

Among the estate’s accommodation offerings are the four vineyard suites which serve as private retreats, combining sweeping vineyard and mountain views with refined, contemporary luxury. Set just a short stroll from the historic 1773 homestead, the suites pays homage to the estate’s Cape Dutch heritage, echoing the whitewashed clay-and-lime walls of the original homestead, while contemporary lines and modern finishes bring them firmly into the present. Inside, the design is quietly sophisticated – a considered blend of clean-lined furnishings, natural textures and warm, earthy tones that reflect the surrounding landscape.

Beyond the accommodation, the estate’s culinary offering expresses its terroir at the table. At the heart of this are Clara’s Barn – one of the oldest surviving barns in the Cape, currently under renovation – and Geuwels. Geuwels’ refreshed interiors are quietly sophisticated, with warm timber tones, natural textures and contemporary furnishings that mirror the estate’s surroundings, creating a setting as inviting as the cuisine itself. The menu is thoughtfully composed, and with gastronomist Michelle Theron at the helm, the food draws confidently on local flavours, underpinned by a considered approach that is at one with the estate’s wines.

On the plate, dishes champion produce from the estate and its surrounds – think traditional werf chicken pie scented with fynbos; nostalgic Merino lamb frikkadelle; and carefully composed bites that let farm-picked vegetables shine. On Sundays, Geuwels extends its farm-led philosophy with harvest lunches served family-style –generous, seasonal feasts designed for convivial gathering and shared at the table, in keeping with the estate’s warm, communal spirit.

The wine list is, unsurprisingly, a focal point, and those keen to explore can settle in for a guided tasting or pairing at Geuwels’ Wine Lounge. A highlight among the curated wine flights and artisanal platters is the Indigenous Tasting. Celebrating South Africa’s rich culinary heritage, it brings together often overlooked local ingredients such as Kei apple, spekboom and kaiings, complemented by a selection of estate wines.

For those wishing to linger after a lunch and savour the estate’s natural beauty, the art walk provides the perfect way to spend the afternoon exploring the grounds on foot. Along the route, sculptures by local artists Manuela Holzer and Dylan Lewis punctuate the landscape, while flora- and fauna-inspired paintings and thoughtfully landscaped garden scenes invite discovery at every turn.

And of course, no stay at Vergenoegd Löw Boutique Hotel & Spa is complete without watching the estate’s famous Indian Runner ducks waddle across the lawns while you eat breakfast. These charming residents are more than a playful presence; they are an integral part of the estate’s regenerative farming practices – a gentle reminder slow down, hit pause and appreciate the harmony that exists between the land and vineyards at Vergenoegd Löw. | vergenoegd.co.za

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Colour is more than a visual accent – it’s an atmosphere, a destination, and a way of living. Le Creuset’s newest shade, Riviera, embodies this philosophy with a luminous blue-green tone that evokes the shimmering waters and golden sunsets of the Mediterranean coast.

More Than a Colour. It’s a Destination.

Riviera is not simply a hue; it’s a lifestyle. Its glossy surface recalls sunlit seas, while the refined gold knob reflects the timeless elegance of Mediterranean evenings. This shade invites you to bring the rhythm of coastal living into your home. Think breezy afternoons in seaside cafés, open-air dinners under fading light, and interiors that balance sophistication with ease.

The Art of Living Well

Le Creuset has always been synonymous with craftsmanship and enduring design. Riviera refreshes this legacy with a trend-forward palette that integrates seamlessly into contemporary spaces. Styled against minimalist neutrals, it offers understated elegance; paired with bold tones, it becomes a vibrant focal point. Riviera is versatile enough to complement modern kitchens, yet timeless enough to echo the artistry of Mediterranean architecture.

Discover the Riviera Collection

From the Cast Iron Round Casserole – perfect for slow-cooked meals that carry the warmth of coastal gatherings – to Stoneware London Mugs that shimmer like the sea, Riviera transforms everyday rituals into moments of escape. The Oval Casserole recalls the grandeur of shared roasts, while the Square Skillet Grill brings golden results indoors, echoing the spirit of al fresco dining. Even accessories like the Salt & Pepper Mills carry Riviera’s breezy elegance, elevating the art of the table.

Explore the full collection here: lecreuset.co.za/riviera-collection

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Designed for the different seasons, Samsung’s innovative WindFree Air Conditioners offer not only cooling relief in summer but also warmth in winter, cleaner air and smart, energy-efficient¹ comfort all year long.

Samsung’s WindFree Air Conditioners redefine what comfort means – offering heating, dehumidifying and air purification capabilities that adapt seamlessly to your life, your habits and your home.

Warmth When It’s Cold, Cool When It’s Hot

Thanks to Heat Pump Technology, Samsung ACs provide efficient, even warmth – no dry air³, no energy waste³, no separate heating system required³. And when the seasons shift again? Just a tap on your phone, using SmartThings², switches things back to crisp, refreshing cooling. It’s the definition of effortless comfort.

Clean Air, Every Day

Beyond temperature control, Samsung air conditioners help you breathe cleaner³ air. Many models feature advanced filtration systems that capture ultrafine dust and allergens. That means cleaner, healthier indoor air – especially valuable during allergy season or winter, when homes are sealed tight and fresh air is hard to come by.

Smart Comfort, Wherever You Are

Because comfort isn’t one-size-fits-all, Samsung ACs use SmartThings⁴ to adjust automatically. Going from your work-from-home desk to the couch? Your air conditioner knows when to dial things down or dehumidify. Heading out for the day? It powers down to save energy, and your wallet.

You can even control everything from your smartphone, meaning comfort literally follows you from room to room, and from season to season.

Efficient. Quiet. Effortless. All Year

Running your air conditioner all year might sound costly, but Samsung’s Digital Inverter Technology ensures every watt of power is used wisely. It maintains your desired temperature without constant on-off cycling, using less energy¹ and reducing noise⁵. And with WindFree Cooling, you stay comfortable without the draft⁶ – 23,000 micro air holes gently disperse air for a quieter, even flow that feels natural, not harsh.

Comfort, Redefined for Every Season

Between the height of summer and the chilly winter, Samsung air conditioners are designed for your comfort. This range of air conditioners is about keeping control of your environment.

¹Tested on the AR07T9170HA3 model, based on the power consumption of Fast Cooling mode vs. WindFree Cooling mode.

²SmartThings is available only on the AR9500 model.

³Tested in Korea test lab (FITI). Data has been measured under specific testing conditions and may vary depending on environmental factors and individual use.

⁴To use SmartThings, download the App from the Galaxy Store, Google Play Store, or Apple App Store. The SmartThings App requires Android OS 10↑ with a minimum of 3GB RAM space or iOS 15↑. Supported OS specifications and app screen configuration may change with app updates.

⁵Tested on the AR12TXCAAWKNEU model. WindFree mode generates only 23dB of noise, compared to 26dB with the Samsung conventional model.

⁶ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers) defines “Still Air” as air currents at speeds below 0.15m/s that lack the presence of cold drafts.

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Quiet, energy‑wise and beautifully unobtrusive, Samsung’s WindFree air conditioners deliver soft, still‑air cooling that keeps every corner comfortable.

With the hot summer season approaching in South Africa, Samsung’s WindFree Air Conditioners will make a great addition to your home. They are engineered to deliver a comfortable climate, energy efficient and quiet¹, draft-free² cooling, whether you’re trying to fall asleep or be productive in your home office. With intelligent airflow, adaptive cooling and a sleek design, Samsung’s WindFree Air Conditioners offer fresh still-air³ in your living space.

Small Rooms: Cooling That Lets You Rest Easy

Using WindFree Cooling Technology, Samsung Air Conditioners disperses air through thousands of micro-holes, creating a soft, steady cool breeze that feels natural, not harsh. Its reduced-noise⁴ performance makes it suitable for bedrooms, nurseries and home studies. While the compact, modern design fits neatly into smaller spaces without compromising power or style.

Open-Plan Living: One Temperature, Every Corner

Open-plan homes look great, but keeping them evenly cool? That could be a challenge. With high ceilings, sun-facing windows and wide layouts, you need an effective air conditioning system.

Samsung has air conditioning units that are built for different spaces. Their wide-angle airflowand AI Auto Cooling technology learn your environment, automatically adjusting settings to match your comfort needs. The result? A room that stays evenly cool.

Designed with sleek, minimalist finishes, they look stunning, blending easily into your living space, providing both form and function equally.

Apartments and Shared Spaces: Quiet Comfort That Uses Less Energy⁵

The Samsung WindFree Technology rangebrings calm and control with energy-efficient⁶ inverter technology that reduces power use while keeping temperatures steady.

Its sleek, uncluttered design complements modern interiors, while its near-silent⁷ operation ensures your neighbours, and your wallet, will thank you. It’s proof that smart living doesn’t need to mean compromise.

^1,4,7 _{Tested on the AR12TXCAAWKNEU model. WindFree mode generates only 23dB of noise, compared to 26dB with the Samsung conventional model.}

^2-3 _{ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers) defines “Still Air” as air currents at speeds below 0.15m/s that lack the presence of cold drafts}

^3-4 _{Tested on the AR12TXCAAWKNEU model. WindFree mode generates only 23dB of noise, compared to 26dB with the Samsung conventional model.}

^5-6 _{Tested on the AR07T9170HA3 model, based on the power consumption of Fast Cooling mode vs. WindFree Cooling mode.}

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WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied

Following showcases in Milan and New York, Emotions of the Sun arrives in South Africa for the first time – a fitting destination for a project celebrating the sun.

“The Sun is our ultimate muse,” says Thomas Mulliez, President of Veuve Clicquot. “It’s a source of warmth and creativity, deeply intertwined with our philosophy. Cape Town, with its radiant light and vibrant creative community, embodies this spirit perfectly. It feels only natural for Emotions of the Sun to find a home here, a city that lives and breathes the optimism and artistry we celebrate.”

For Emotions of the Sun, each Magnum photographer received carte blanche to explore and reinterpret the sun. The result is a series of images that capture the sun’s many facets: as a force of life, a spark for play, a source of connection across cultures, and a radiant expression of Veuve Clicquot’s joie de vivre. Together, the photographs form a mosaic of perspectives spanning five continents, acting as a bridge between cultures. The celebrated photographers include Steve McCurry, Cristina de Middel, Trent Parke, Alex Webb, Nanna Heitmann, Olivia Arthur, Newsha Tavakolian and South Africa’s own Lindokuhle Sobekwa.

“Being part of this collective of Magnum photographers has been humbling and transformative,” says local photographer Lindokuhle Sobekwa. “To have my work exhibited alongside such diverse global perspectives has given me visibility on a new stage. More importantly, it’s reminded me how emotion and light connect us all, wherever we are in the world.”

Beyond the exhibition, Emotions of the Sun invites visitors into a fully immersive experience. At the Sun on Your Plate Café, local culinary talent Seth Shezi presents a menu inspired by the sun, perfectly paired with Veuve Clicquot’s sunny cuvées. The celebration continues at the gifting boutique, where personalisation allows guests to create bespoke Veuve Clicquot collectables, from the Clicquot Arrow and Ice Jacket to limited-edition summer accessories. | veuveclicquot.com

Tickets to the Emotions of the Sun exhibition are R200 via howler.co.za and include a glass of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label, as well as access to the immersive exhibition, the Sun on Your Plate Café and the gifting boutique.

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WORDS Martin Jacobs PHOTOS Nicola Katie Suttle

Camouflaged behind flame-like aloe spires, the dark-green facade of Très Nagual’s Cape Point studio appears, much like the fynbos surrounding it, to grow from the earth. The corrugated-metal-and-wood structure, adjacent to founders Florian Baumann and David Plenderleith’s cosy home, serves as a weekday laboratory, and as a retail space from Fridays to Sundays. As far as workspaces go, with its gentle footprint in the soil, its architecture couldn’t be more aligned with the perfumery; and, once inside, it’s an evocation of all things analogue

Underplaying Très Nagual’s successes, which include global clients and the recent opening of a shared retail space in De Waterkant, Moroccan-born Florian says, “I don’t think of Très as a business, but as an extension of our being.”

“And a way of living,” adds his partner David, a Zimbabwean, as he individually packages perfumes destined for Europe. “This is a lifestyle we wake up for – being in the shop, pouring the soap, really taking pride in doing things ourselves. It comes with slowing down, where every action is contemplative, and embodied by wrapping it with mindfulness and sending it out with love.”

Addressing this ritualism within their craft, he adds, “Part of our approach is to keep things small and intentional. I would rather make less and fi ll it with that intentionality and integrity, than dilute, mass produce and lose the essence of it.”

The couple, who met on a nearby beach in 2016, and who individually and together have travelled the world, share not only spirituality and a passion for the olfactory art, but an appreciation of the bounty of their remote surroundings.

Their choice of ingredients speaks to this. In addition to harvesting rainwater for use in Très Nagual’s handmade soaps, Florian – with his background in both cooking and systems biology – tends to their garden, both wild and cultivated, which yields many of the botanicals that form the base of their perfumes.

“This is how it all began, with whatever was immediately around us,” he says, pointing out wild rosemary, buchu (anise, lemon and garlic varietals), Artemisia, sage, geranium and fynbos, all thriving within metres of their studio. Looking towards a line of eucalyptus trees from which scent is extracted for soap bars, he adds, “The moringa and baobab oils come from Zimbabwe, David’s mom sends them down. She also sends down the elephant dung…”

Back inside, the list of unusual ingredients continues. Glass jars, wrapped in brown paper bags to protect them from the light, contain frankincense, myrrh, fragrant woods, Tahitian vanilla pods, resins and more.

Enigmatic as many of these ingredients may be to those browsing Très Nagual’s shelves, so too are their fragrance names esoteric. Like the scents themselves, some – like Kå – manifest to the couple in dreams. Others, like Arthemis and Hildegard, are inspired by David’s interest in the mystical. Of Nefertum – an Amyris, lime and blue lotus scent – he says, “Nefertum is the god of perfume in Egyptian mythology. Blue lotus grows in the Nile, and there’s myrrh that’s associated with Cleopatra, so the name shows itself with the notes, formulation and energy of the scent.”

“Some clients aren’t ready for Nefertum, so they shy away – ‘No, I’m softer,’ they say – eventually returning, ready for the scent,” adds Florian. “Because Nefertum is quite erotic, it requires a little bit of commitment.”

The couple consider many of their fragrances to have a gender (Nefertum is male), as well as a personality. With notes of rose absolute and African chamomile, Elisabeth is female, a gentler scent evocative of antiquity. David describes her as very social, but equally a reader appreciative of her solitude. “Whereas Kå is like, ‘You guys are so boring, where are the high heels?’” Florian says, laughing, of the sexier patchouli, black pepper and West Indian sandalwood scent.

Given that the intensity of their materials varies with shift s in season and climate, no two releases of Très Nagual’s unconventional fragrances are identical – something the perfumers have had to explain to repeat clients, with differing reactions. Regardless of these subtle shift s from batch to batch, they consider the Très Nagual signature to be earthy, mountainous and wild. If that tends towards the masculine, well, consider that the scents are crafted by two men.

That’s not to suggest that the couple are so geographically removed from developments in the fragrance world as to be unaware of its constant evolution. Far from it. “I’m inspired to see what others are doing,” says Florian. “Secretly, I admire Diptyque and Aesop; I admire the vision, and the artistry behind it all. We’re in the same boat here. But I paint with my own colours. To niche further and to become more different is what this allows me to do – not to become more similar.”

And Très Nagual’s growing following is proof that their clients agree. | tresnagual.com

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As the weather heats up households now find themselves running their washing machines more frequently, they need to find smarter ways to save both time and money. Samsung’s AI-powered Bespoke washing machines are designed to meet seasonal demands – delivering advanced technology that makes laundry effortless, efficient, and more sustainable.

Smarter Laundry for a Busy Season

Samsung’s Bespoke AI washing machines are built to reduce the hassle in doing bigger loads with tougher fabrics. Equipped with intelligent features that optimise detergent, water, and power use, they take the guesswork out of laundry. That means great results, even when laundry piles up during summer.

Key Features for Energy-Savvy Households:

• AI Wash¹ + AI Energy Mode: Automatically uses just the right amount of water and power for each load, minimising waste and cutting down on utility bills².
• QuickDrive Technology: Reduces washing time by up to 50% while using less energy³ – perfect for families who want efficiency without compromise.
• All-in-one combo: Seamlessly integrates a washer and dryer in one appliance, adjusting detergent, water, and drying settings to suit fabric type and load size – ideal for mixed summer loads like delicate linens, swimwear, and bulky towels.
• Super Speed Cycle: Washes a full load in just 39 minutes⁴, saving time and electricity – suitable for last-minute outfit changes or quick turnarounds between summer outings⁵.

Gentle on Fabrics, and the Planet

Summer fabrics, from lightweight linens to moisture-wicking sportswear, require delicate care. Samsung’s AI-powered wash cycles adjust automatically to protect each garment while still being thoroughly cleaned.

This summer, laundry doesn’t have to mean a higher electricity bill or wasted resources. With Samsung’s Bespoke AI washing machines, households can enjoy fabric-friendly care, powerful cleaning, and smart savings, all while reducing their environmental footprint. There’s a good balance of performance, efficiency, and sustainability for the season ahead. | samsung.com/za

1. Based on an AI-created algorithm. Actual results may vary depending on individual use.
2. Tested on WW11BB944AGBS2 by Samsung Internal Lab. Cotton cycle, 5kg weight at 40 degrees Celsius. Results may vary depending on clothes and environment
3. Tested in accordance with IEC 60456-2010 / Cotton (40℃, Half load) with Quick drive. vs. Individual results may vary
4. Based on using Super Speed at the default settings with a 5kg load.
5. Individual results may vary based on actual load contents.

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