Cosy up to your AGA Fireplace this Winter

A warm fire is one of the great pleasures of Winter, and an AGA fireplace is the one you want to cosy up to. The iconic brand is synonymous with quality and innovation. For over 90 years AGA has remained at the forefront of engineering excellence. With timeless design features and excellent heat retention, an AGA fireplace the best money can buy.

The AGA range of fireplaces embodies the best AGA traditions and employs the very latest technology. It is an iconic centrepiece and has features which you don’t see, that makes all the difference. Such as the Active Airflow Technology that delivers the most efficient use of energy and protects the environment from harmful emissions. Fresh air is channelled below, around and about the fire box to create the optimum conditions for combustion. Any solid particles and gases produced are re-ignited and burnt off before they can enter the atmosphere. This process not only guarantees maximum heat output from your chosen fuel but also keeps the window clean and clear so that you can enjoy the ambience of the flames.

The AGA range includes a wide variety of styles to suit all tastes - from traditional to contemporary: 

Made from cast iron, traditional AGA fireplaces are not only beautiful to look at, but practical to run because cast iron is renowned for its heat retention properties. The heat stored while the fire is lit continues to be released into the room long after the embers have died away.

Made from high grade steel which allows for truly inspiring modern designs that will attract attention in any space.

The perfect blend of old and new, combining cutting-edge and traditional designs, AGA fireplaces are an investment for your home and a lifetime of warm winter nights.

For more information visit
Aga Living

The AGA range is available directly from AGA South Africa and a selection from Bergzichts Furnishers, Euro Appliances, Gas & Equipment, Metelerkamps, Melvill and Moon and Décor Fires.

More about AGA Living

Recognised as the world's best cooking appliance, the AGA oven commands a level of adulation more often associated with the glitz of Hollywood fame -- and generates similar devotion. It's deemed the number one luxury appliance brand and is revered as one of the top three design icons of the century. It's the kitchen centrepiece of Celebrities, Professional Chefs, Royalty and discerning Homeowners across the globe. AGA represents a lifestyle, one that owners embrace and share fervently with others.

Thanda Island - Tanzania's Newest ECO-Luxe Jewel

Situated within southern Tanzania’s newly proclaimed Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve, one of Thanda’s initiatives to further the restoration of the local marine life, Thanda Island is one of the few truly private tropical islands in the world.

Providing absolute exclusivity for families and friends to enjoy on a sole-use basis, it features just one expansive five-bedroom villa comprising an impressive glass rim-flow swimming pool, a boat house full of water activities equipment, a tennis court and an outdoor cocktail bar, a yoga sala and a fully equipped gym. It is surrounded by its own private coral reef which can be explored in total seclusion with a snorkel and mask straight from the beach.

 

 

Off-grid and solar-powered, Thanda Island offers guests an environmentally sensitive, fun and restorative Indian Ocean, East African experience infused with the Arabian influence of passing Arab Dhows on the horizon and a spectacular “Arabian Night” experience. Deeply committed to the conservation of the region’s marine life, as well as the preservation and rehabilitation of the Shungimbili coral reef, Thanda Island invites guests to learn about the endangered Green and Hawksbill turtles as they nest and their eggs hatch on the island or catch sight of whale sharks that congregate nearby from October to March.

Providing the further insight into the local way of life, they also introduce guests to the Swahili sea-faring culture on nearby Mafia Island and offer the opportunity to explore its ruins, coconut plantations, lakes as well as the underwater sights of Chole Bay in the Mafia Island Marine Park.

Officially opened on Friday 28 October 2016 with marine life and its ecology of upmost importance, working with Sea Sense, the local Tanzanian marine conservation NGO which Thanda Island closely supports.

 

Managing Director, Pierre Delvaux chronicled Thanda Island’s story that began in early 2006 cumulating in its environmental authorization in late 2013, the signing of the lease agreement in March 2014 and the beginning of the villa’s construction in early 2015. He went on to explain the vision and objectives for the development to provide a world-class, 5-star, exclusive private island and villa experience for discerning vacationers, whilst also aligning with the objectives of Marine Parks.

Delvaux went on to say: “Our mission is also to become involved in the education of neighbouring rural communities on Mafia in terms of biodiversity protection and particularly sustainable natural resource utilization. Our vision to create a unique and authentic guest experience within a protected marine reserve, whilst observing and directly participating in the protection and preservation of its natural resources in harmony with the Marine Parks Authority and neighbouring Mafia Island communities, has been very important to us right from the start.” 

Acknowledging this, Dr M.E Machunu, Manager of Marine Parks said: “The luxury villa and island development falls squarely within the Tanzanian agenda of attracting foreign investors to the country. This opening is both momentous and historical, as it is the first time that such an exclusive villa development has been permitted within the boundaries of a Marine Protected Reserve in Tanzania, and possibly within East Africa.”

He thanked Thanda sincerely for their commitment and initiative of investing in such a worthwhile development, explaining that the Government’s agenda to promote tourism was in harmony with conservation through sustainable development that not only assisted them to manage their natural resources, but also created employment and other benefits for neighbouring communities. He went on to explain that the Government was supporting tourism more than ever before, that Marine Parks and the Government were committed to supporting Thanda Tanzania Limited with this venture as it had followed all investment procedures and guidelines, including environmental authorization, and that they saw Thanda as an agent for growth in the region.

Pierre Delvaux wrapped up the day by thanking Dan and Christin Olofsson, who unfortunately were unable to attend the function, for their vision, enthusiasm, investment and commitment to developing such a world-class luxury villa hotel that had the opportunity to make such an enormous difference in the region in so many ways.

 

 

Visit
thandaisland.com

Source: Theprteam.com

SA’s House of the Year Announced

Added Luxury wins the House and Leisure blogger challenge by accurately predicting the House of the Year. #HLHOTY

House and Leisure in association with SA Home Loans, is proud to announce the winning house in this year’s competition. Craig and Colleen Sutherland’s Higgovale home in Cape Town attracted the most votes from House and Leisure readers and was named the winning house at an event held in Cape Town last night.

“This year’s winning house was a big favourite with readers and emerged as a clear winner early in the voting stage,” says Editor Naomi Larkin. “And it’s easy to see why; the perfect combination of natural elements, open flow and family-orientated functionality.”

Launched nine years ago, the House and Leisure House of the Year competition is the oldest and most respected competition of its kind in South Africa, showcasing the architectural diversity and unique décor and home-lifestyles of this country.

The 11 finalists were all taken from the House of the Month feature in the magazine over the 2012/2013 period. Readers were encouraged to vote for their favourite house and stood to win R30 000 courtesy of SA Home Loans. The winner of the grand prize is Emma Livesey of Wellington.

“It is a constant source of inspiration to see the flair and imagination that manifest themselves in the 11 homes of the finalists in this year’s competition,” says Kevin Penwarden, CEO of SA Home Loans. “We are proud to once again be the sponsors of House and Leisure’s House of the Year and this year we are delighted to be offering a R30 000 cash prize to the lucky reader who correctly chose the winning house.”

For more House and Leisure: 

Visit Twitter: @houseleisureSA  or Facebook: www.facebook.com/HouseAndLeisure

(To comment on House of the Year (HOTY) use the following tag: #HLHOTY) 

House and Leisure - House of the Year 2013

Showcasing eleven amazing homes, all unique and special, appealing to a variety of styles and tastes the House and Leisure House of the Year 2013 competition delivers some of the most exceptional homes in the country.

Narrowing options down to my top 3 was a tough decision between Go with the flow, A clean start and Barefoot luxury choosing number one took some deliberation. In the end House #9, A clean start captured the imagination most.

The epitome of a family home with an earth-toned aesthetic its use of space and natural materials is made for living. The minimalist interiors don’t challenge its natural surroundings or its spectacular outlook over the city.

A passion for contemporary architecture and the needs of a growing family informed the design of this modern marvel set on the slopes of Higgovale, Cape Town. The owner a respected structural engineer with a clear vision for his dream family home, it’s little wonder this striking dwelling checks the boxes when it comes to design and the lifestyle it affords its occupants.

A complete rebuild of the previous house, two architecture firms were brought on board, SAOTA and Three14 Architects, which handled its conceptual and more detailed aspects respectively. The result is a multi-level abode in off-shutter concrete and glass juxtaposed with natural stone, warm timbers and polished concrete floors.

Creating a tailor-made courtyard home with a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere around a welcoming central kitchen and multiple entertainment areas. The house takes an honest approach to aesthetics with an expression of tactile materials remaining cutting edge with clean lines and details.

Owners Craig and Colleen Sutherland. Home design by Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects (SAOTA), saota.com; Three14 Architects, three14.co.za and Sutherland Multidisciplinary Engineers, sutheng.co.za.

The House of the Year Competition ends 31 August 2013.

Vote for your favourite – the one that epitomises you! By voting, you will not only stand a chance to see your favourite home win; you could also be the winner of R30 000, courtesy of SA Home Loans.

A proud sponsor of the competition for the past two years. It’s a perfect match: a home-loan provider that offers an amazing home-loan experience and a publication that provides pure inspiration to homeowners. SA’s only non-bank home-loan provider the company believes in the personal touch and has a team of specialist consultants dedicated to their task for 11 years.

Last year a contemporary Hout Bay home in Cape Town, designed by architect Paolo Deliperi, took top honours. Inspired by its natural surrounds, it is cleverly staggered over four levels and follows the contours of the land, making liberal use of wood, glass and steel to maximise outdoor living and breathtaking views.

Happy voting – and, if you win, happy spending!

Vote for your favourite house online or by sending an SMS that reads ‘HL, House (the number of your choice)’ and your name to 35443. Each SMS costs R1, 50. You may vote as many times as you wish via SMS, as well as online. 

Asilia Africa Introducing Little Oliver's Camp

 

Aspiring to grow its footprint, its positive impact and to be a leader in improving and expanding natural habitats. Asilia is the first Sustainable Safari / Lodge Company in Africa to receive a 5 Star rating for Sustainability from GIIRS. Founded in 2004 with a strong presence in both Tanzania and Kenya.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of one of Tanzania’s most iconic camps in the Tarangire National Park, Asilia Africa will be opening Little Oliver’s on 1st July 2013. Deep in the south eastern corner of the park, surrounded by mystical baobab trees, is Oliver’s Camp, one of Tanzania’s original safari camps.

When Paul Oliver built the camp in 1992, he chose Tarangire because it offered an authentic, untamed African experience. 20 years on the camp still holds true to that philosophy and Asilia Africa celebrates this landmark anniversary with the opening.

Shower under the African stars

Little Oliver’s Camp will comprise of 5 luxury, en-suite tents overlooking a flood plain of the Minyonyo Pools, part of the Tarangire River, approximately 1km downstream from the original Oliver’s Camp. The spacious tents are beautifully appointed with furniture made from reclaimed dhow wood and the large decks maximize the views over the animal packed swamp ahead.

The tents have both indoor and outdoor showers, allowing guests to shower under the African stars. The communal dining area is the perfect place to relax at the end of the day and reflect on the day’s sightings. The intimate size of this camp makes it ideal for groups of friends or family who want to take it on an exclusive basis.

Walking in a National Park is a rare privilege

Activities at Oliver’s and Little Oliver’s are as diverse as the bird life in Tarangire! As well as traditional game drives, taking you off road for better game viewing, both camps offer walking safaris within the national park. To be able to walk in a national park is a rare privilege.

At both Oliver’s and Little Oliver’s walks can vary from a gentle morning game walk, where guests learn about tracks and spoor, to a 3 day wilderness adventure, sleeping out in a lightweight fly camp with nothing more than a tent and a small crew of staff. It is likely that you will get close to larger mammals with Oliver’s experienced walking guides but this is the chance to take a closer look at the little things and appreciate the African bush from the earth upwards.

Little Oliver’s will be built with the utmost respect for the environment in which it is situated. The original Oliver’s Camp was the first African accommodation to be certified through Sustainable Travel International‘s Sustainable Travel Eco-certification Program (STEP), the globally recognized gold standard in eco-certification, for its ongoing sustainability initiatives. Little Oliver’s will continue to uphold these high standards of sustainability.

Opening on the 1st July 2013 the rates start at US$ 580 per person per night on a full board basis, excluding national park fees. Tents can be booked on an individual basis or the entire camp can be booked for private groups.

Currently, Asilia’s portfolio of camps includes:

In Tanzania: Sayari Camp, Dunia Camp, Olakira Camp, Oliver’s Camp, Ubuntu Camp and Rubondo Island Camp.

On Zanzibar: Matemwe Lodge, Matemwe Retreat and Matemwe Beach House.

In Kenya: Rekero Camp and Naboisho Camp.

In Mozambique: Kubatana Camp. 

Asilia Africa. Believe in better.

www.asiliaafrica.com

The State of Opulence in Africa

The golden continent and the ethics of luxury.

It is a struggle to reconcile the dichotomy of deep social concerns for our African continent, rife with poverty, and the light-hearted revelry and opulence associated with the luxury sector. This is particularly true as the global financial crisis has not yet loosened its grip, currency volatility remains erratic and unemployment figures remain high - these are uncertain and difficult times.

Outside of consumption patterns, in South Africa there is a tendency to downplay the employment opportunities generated by the luxury sector. The most obvious sectors to generate employment through luxury goods and services are the mining industry, through which a myriad of jewelry businesses are generated, and tourism where high-end hospitality and exclusive safaris show South Africa at its best. But aside from these two monoliths there are in fact many other areas of growth.

The multi-billion Rand boat building industry employs over 3000 permanent employees that has seen South Africa recognized for its high-end catamarans worldwide. BMW is a leader in the manufacturing of luxury cars and has recently announced further investment of R2 billion into 'BMW World Plant Rosslyn', its South African facility. They anticipate that the upgraded plant will be capable of producing up to 60 000 units per annum.

Global luxury forecasts for 2012 seem optimistic, particularly for those businesses focused on growth markets. The 2011 Global Wealth Report by Credit Suisse comments that in many respects, South Africa is the model for many other African economies. Household wealth has grown vigorously over the last decade, quadrupling in value from US$8,400 in 2000 to US$34,300 in mid 2011. Global Wealth overall is showing an upturn led by increased wealth in South Africa, China, India, Brazil, Australia, Chile and Indonesia.

That is not to say that the volume of HNW individuals is homogenous, indeed it varies radically between these rapid emerging markets - China boasts 1,017,000 US Dollar millionaires (and 5,000 with a wealth of over US$50 million) and South Africa sports a comparatively meagre 71,000 US Dollar millionaires. Fortunately we too have a few exemplary billionaires who have travelled to space, built luxury empires, not to mention the obvious financial and mining empires.

Small and medium enterprises, well recognized in academic and policy literature for their economic and social importance, are perhaps where our craft-centric culture and the luxury industry could interest a government seeking job creation. There are many exemplary domestic luxury brands generating employment as well as being ambassadors for Brand SA. Avoova, for example, creates functional art and collectible items from the best fragments of ostrich eggshell that are carefully laid down as a fine veneered finish used as a decoration for objet d'art from bowls and bars to billionaires yachts. In doing so they support 40 artisans in the Karoo. For leather goods, Cape Cobra Leathercraft, who employs ninety people from the local community.

A new generation of designers has been born that has taken our raw materials and transformed them into world-class lines that are in global demand. Hanneli Rupert, daughter of Johann Rupert, has recently launched Okapi. The energetic, talented young designer, is a firm supporter of the potential job creation through luxury on our golden continent and as such she has committed to supporting local manufacturing and where necessary purchasing machinery to do so. She uses local suppliers in the creation of her new exotic handbag range with signature horns and has sourced rare leathers and materials from across Africa.

One often overlooks the impact of high-end consumption and disregards the more obvious arenas such as the gourmet sector, championed by master-chefs like Margot Janse, Reuben Riffel and Giorgio Nava, that employs and trains staff for numerous restaurants. Beyond fine foods, consumers are presented with an ever greater number of fine wines and spirits from farms and niche distilleries, that are reaching a new price echelon, whilst creating employment in the winelands and broader drinks sector.

South African fashion is achieving international acclaim - from Gavin Rajah to Malcolm Kluk, home grown labels have not only a solid local following but are being welcomed to the world run way from Paris Couture to New York Fashion Week. The work by Precious Moloi Motsepe, wife of billionaire Patrice Motsepe, in creating Africa Fashion International has seen the emergence and strengthening of many African couturiers and labels.

South Africa boasts a wealth of diamonds and gold but the bulk of manufacturing and finishing happens internationally. Johannesburg based African Romance has invested in local diamond finishing and the training of diamond polishers to retain value in South Africa. With the mining industry constituting one third of GDP, an estimated 50% of the world's gold reserves in SA and a huge 10 million carats annually of diamonds mined annually (with 90% of the diamonds being exported), it stands to reason that we should look at methods to retain value locally.

The Southern Africa Luxury Association, through the SALA Artisan Accelerator, has recently worked with Keith White to develop an initiative to build up the expertise of black jewelry designers, taking them through an apprenticeship to become master jewelers. De Beers Shining Lights Awards is another noteworthy program supporting the industry that has recognized his talents and those of other jewelers using our natural resources for world-class finished products.

Luxury eco-tourism in South Africa is globally revered and companies like the Mantis Collection and &Beyond are spearheading a sustainable, considerate view of engaging with nature at the top level.

Businesses which take a more thoughtful view of luxury and succeed in carving out a unique niche for themselves, with consideration for people, planet and profit, will be firmly entrenched on the road to success by adhering to a new definition of local luxury that exemplifies 'Proudly South African'.

Issued by the Southern African Luxury Association.

Full Article

Fundudzi - Eco Luxe Couture

Clothing with a conscience is the mantra behind Africa’s premier eco luxe label, Fundudzi by Craig Jacobs.

Appointed one of 50 global Range Rover City Shapers along with Georgina Chapman of Marchesa, Henry Holland of House of Holland and Francesca Versace. 

The spring/summer 2012 collection draws inspiration from growing global disillusionment from Moscow to Tunis, London to New York and was simply titled: Protest.
“As a designer I cannot ignore what is happening around me, so this collection is simply my way of encouraging people to step up and make their voice heard,” says Jacobs, who founded the label in 2004.

Washed out prints with statements including “Eat The Rich” (inspired by a poster seen at Occupy Wall Street), “Revolutionary Road” and “Nationalize Your Mind” (a play on calls to nationalize the country’s mines to reduce economic inequality) punctuate tank tops, t-shirts and t-shirt dresses made from organic cotton sourced in Lesotho. Another print, featuring an African mask with a taped over mouth, graphically evokes the mood of the collection. The pristine white of the t-shirts is complemented by a muted palette (which continues into flowing sorbet pinks, mints and powder blues in the softest chiffons and hemp fabrics) is juxtaposed with tribal optical prints.

“You can calmly make your point, even when the subject matter is quite charged, so I gravitated towards a relaxing pastel palette moving to greens, cobalt blues and fuchsias to add interest,” Jacobs explains. Channeling spirited, individualistic women who enjoy wearing pieces which reflect a modern African aesthetic. The Protest spring summer collection will also soon be available in key independent boutiques in South Africa from August. Follow on twitter @Fundudzi

Also  available online in the US through JP Selects the e-commerce marketplace for socially aware and eco-friendly brands and products. The label has grown out a desire to help change the perception of Africa and has shown in Paris, Stockholm, Maputo and Luanda and most recently, SA Fashion Week. In 2009 Fundudzi formed part of an international exhibition on sustainable design in Copenhagen, as part of the World Climate Summit.

Wherever possible, the label incorporates ecologically sensitive and locally sourced materials including cashmere/lamb’s wool through a project in conjunction with the CSIR in the Eastern Cape, and organic cotton sourced from Lesotho. The label also actively supports sustainability through a host of initiatives including collaborating with local crafters to highlight indigenous artisanal skills, upcycling projects and philanthropy (supporting Cheesekids for Humanity, CANSA SA and The Trust). Fundudzi on Facebook

Providing a capsule wardrobe for free spirited individuals seeking pieces with a distinctive signature. The name Fundudzi is inspired by a body of water, Lake Fundudzi, which is one of our most precious ecological treasures as well as being a sacred site for the vhaVenda tribe.

Fundudzi milestones:

Featured twice in Womens Wear Daily, the world’s most influential fashion newspaper and showcased as part of C’est Couture at Paris Fashion Week (an SA Tourism Initiative) in July 2007.