Editor-in-Chief Sumien Brink has rounded up some of her favourite winter features from the past issues of VISI. Here, she shares why these will always be her ideal spots for the season.
1. Fantasy Place
SUMIEN: “If I have to escape the sudden chills I will fly straight to the Nairobi National Park and stay in this crazy getaway spot!”
Mosaics and stained glass make the poolhouse and its verandah an unforgettable place to unwind.
The sauna glimmers in the afternoon sunlight.
PHOTOS Jac de Villiers
SUMIEN: “I love the sophistication and angles of this modular concrete home and workspace.”
The garden is planted with indigenous grasses and trees, except for the lawn next to the building, which makes out the space for future densification of the site.
In the bedroom on the first floor, an Eames-look recliner and ottoman from Weylandts are complemented by classic anglepoise lamps from Tonic.
PHOTOS Dook PRODUCTION Annemarie Meintjes
3. Cape Town Advertising Agency
SUMIEN: “Haas advertising agency is more like a small comfortable home in the city than a work space.”
Francois Irvine bought most of the French armchairs in Egypt. The Haas team then reupholstered them in reclaimed fabrics and leather. Nuha Abrahams makes her way down the spiral staircase.
Most of the furniture and decor elements are personal items belonging to the owners. The framed photograph is by Frank Ellis and the white scatter cushion features a Flip Coaton illustration printed on fabric.
PHOTOS Micky Hoyle PRODUCTION Sumien Brink
4. Gardens Flat
SUMIEN: “This home proves that you can really live the cosy life in just black and white.”
Most of the furniture in the living area are second-hand buys that the couple spruced up with new upholstery and a lick of paint.
Danie’s love of guitars – playing is his hobby – is incorporated into the decor. The instruments cut an arresting picture against the bedroom wall, which Danie painted in Plascon’s Urban Rock. The bedding is kept neutral and the side tables echo the style of the living room furniture.
PHOTOS Jan Ras PRODUCTION Sumien Brink
SUMIEN: “The Mhondoro Game Lodge is all about the views at this ultimate bush escape. Winter is a dry season in Limpopo so sitting outside next to a fire is the best way to spend an evening.”
The Boma is a special treat for guests. A five-star dinner is served under magnificent skies, accompanied by a well-rehearsed musical entertainment programme performed by the Mhondoro staff.
The outdoor shower, a new addition that forms part of the main villa’s master bedroom, has windows onto the waterhole so guests wont miss a game visit when they are in the shower.
PHOTOS Dook
See Sumien’s favourite autumn spaces here.
