1. Keep your autumn décor simple 

Sometimes simple is best! No need to splurge on big ticket items, simply rearrange the furniture in your space. Whether you are looking at your bedroom or your living room, move the couch to a different wall or perhaps rearrange the plants to create a whole different mood. We get so comfortable in our routine that we forget to look up, shake things up and give our space something new without having to spend a cent.  

@hello_alexisangela The quickest way to ‘visually’ refresh your space is to rearrange the furniture. I have 4 living room layouts that I alternate throughout the year. I swap decor pieces from different rooms. I rearrange shelves and move things around. I get creative. . This refresh just happened to align with a new sofa delivery. But you don’t have to get a new sofa 🤣 Or you can. Whatever floats your boat and budget 🙃 Sofa details: Simon from @interiordefine in color Lavender . . . . . . . . . . . #curatedhome #eclecticdecor #afrocentrichome #moodyinterior ♬ Feelings – sonder the africanime

2. Warm autumn colour palettes 

In autumn, as the shades outside start to turn from bright and bold to muted and warm, this can also be reflected in your decor. Swap out a few scatter cushions as well as adding some throws and rugs in warm shades to build a more tonal room. Colour has a remarkable effect on us – it can make us feel warmer just by turning up and deepening the tonal range in our homes. Think browns and burgundy, sage green and mustard. If you don’t want to experiment too much with colour, stick to neutrals like off-white and caramel tones.  

@myhomeofzodiac Currently living my autumn aesthetic 🍂✨ Soft beige tones, warm wood, and quiet moments at home. #wooninspiratie #scandihome #japandi #interiordesign #interior ♬ původní zvuk – itgoesifyouletit

3. Faux plants and dried flowers for seasonal style 

With the change of weather, sometimes our plants can look a bit worse for wear. They lose their leaves, look a little malnourished and don’t add the pop of green we expect them to. Fresh cut blooms are also not that readily available and seem to dry up quicker than in summer. If you pop a few dried flowers in your vases, or a few faux green plants in the corner, no one will know the difference. It’s not about faking summer, but more about keeping a lush, jungle feel in your home as you transition through the seasons.

@homewithp1 Finally got a plant for my planter #indoorplants #fauxplants #jethome #homedecor #fyp #loungedecor #reset #viral #Coricraft #sama28 #homestyling #southafricatiktok🇿🇦 ♬ Ikhandlela (Acoustic) – Phila Dlozi

4. Light up the autumn ambience 

I’m sure you’ve heard this a million times over, but we will say it a million times more: lighting will always be key. Different lighting has a way of creating ambience in your space. From candles and overhead light fixtures to floor lamps and undercounter lighting, these layers add dimension to your home. When you want to create a warmer, autumnal living area, avoid harsh fluorescent light and choose warmer bulbs. Scatter the light across the room, consider adding candles on the TV cabinet and a floor lamp to add a warm glow to a forgotten corner. This lets you play around with how much lighting you need, as opposed to relying on your ceiling lights.  

@im_ericwang A love letter to lamps and cozy lighting ❤️ #homedecor #interiordesign #lighting ♬ original sound – Eric Wang

Words: Yashna Balwanth 
Photography: Pexels 

The post 4 Practical ways to transition your home décor from summer to autumn appeared first on TFG Media.

Bushes are great, but they are limited in terms of their growth. If you want to turn your home and garden into a green oasis, vines and creepers can help you achieve this aesthetic. They are great ground-cover plants, known for growing like weeds and sprouting out over a space. With low maintenance needs and a lush look, here are five varieties that are well-suited to the South African climate (and how to care for them).  

 

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Bougainvillea 

 This creeper is best known for its vibrant pink, orange and yellow blooms. But don’t let its good looks fool you — on the stalks you will find sharp thorns, making them somewhat of a crime deterrent. When dried, the flowers (or, rather, modified leaves) are popular as a natural confetti for weddings and other celebrations. Originating from warm climates, it thrives best in direct sunlight, requiring about six hours of sun a day. Their ideal soil is sandy and well-draining, and they don’t need regular watering, but seasonal pruning can help to shape them as desired.  

Ivy  

From Christmas to nobility, ivy is an evergreen plant that flourishes throughout the year and has several associations. Not to be confused with its poisonous cousin, which can cause a rash on the skin, the common variety, which is often found creeping up onto building walls, is a resilient vine that grows best in partially shaded areas. It is adaptable to different types of soil and can withstand very dry conditions. Being a perennial plant, you can enjoy its green splendour all year long. Ivy should be trimmed regularly, though, as it can be invasive.  

Granadilla  

Few things are more satisfying than being able to harvest ripe fruit from your garden. Also known as passion fruit, this vine grows abundantly so it requires regular pruning and a sturdy trellis to support it. As for soil, it needs consistent moisture, and it grows best when it has access to warm temperatures and direct sunlight. This creeper starts to produce fruit between six and nine months after planting and, in the spring and summer months, you can expect beautiful purple and white flowers that look almost otherworldly  

Jasmine  

If it’s fragrance you’re after, you can’t go wrong with jasmine, which has a sweet and intoxicating scent often used to create perfume and is thought to promote relaxation. Blooming in the warm seasons, it’s synonymous with sunny days and balmy nights. Easy to train on trellises, fences or pergolas, jasmine is best planted where it has access to full sun and only light shade. It should be watered regularly in the dry seasons and hot weather to keep the soil consistently moist. Manipulate the size and shape, and encourage new growth with occasional pruning.  

Philodendron 

 Turn your garden into an elegant urban jungle with this low-maintenance, air-purifying plant. Often gifted in potted form, being symbolic of health and abundance, they can be replanted outside if you can give them access to indirect light. When the conditions are wet, watering them is unnecessary and in dry months, they only need water when the topsoil has dried out. One way to grow them is in hanging baskets — which can be indoors or outdoors -as they look especially attractive with the leaves trailing down.  

Controlled chaos  

Not every garden requires strict rows and flowerbeds. Chaos gardening — which is tossing different seeds into the soil and letting nature take its course —is currently trending, and this hands-off approach can yield spontaneous and charming results. Want to give it a go? Consider your climate and pollinators when selecting your plants, then group them based on their sun and water needs to make maintenance easier. Now you can sit back and be taken by surprise by what you’ve created. 

Words: Helen Wallace

The post How to let these vines thrive in your outdoor space  appeared first on TFG Media.

Fabric fusion 

Unlike paper, fabric can be reused again and again, reducing waste while adding a touch of elegance. A silk scarf, linen or even a patterned kitchen tea towel transforms simple wrapping into part of the gift itself. Folding and tying fabric around a box or a bottle doesn’t require tape — simply tie a few clever knots. The end result is beautifully draped packaging that feels contemporary and is still practical.  

Scent-sational 

Scent is a subtle yet powerful way to elevate gift wrapping — turning the unwrapping process into an experience. By tucking in a sprig of lavender, rosemary or eucalyptus beneath the ribbon, or lightly misting the tissue with essential oils, you infuse the package with personality and care. Fragrance evokes memory and emotion, adding a sensory layer that lingers long after the paper has gone. It signals thoughtfulness, making even the simplest gift feel indulgent. Choose a fresh, floral scent that complements the season or opt for a warm cinnamon and spiced nutmeg aroma. 

Nurture nature 

Adding natural elements to gift wrapping creates a sense of authenticity and charm that can’t be replicated. A dried orange slice, some pine cones or even a floral element instantly connects the gift to nature, offering texture and visual warmth. This organic detail feels personal and gives grounding to the gift, while focusing on sustainability and signalling mindfulness not only towards the receiver but the planet too. Weave in twine, herbs and foraged finds to level up your wrapping from decoration to storytelling that is intentional and from the heart. 

 

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Reuse, recycle 

Have you got old boxes along with ribbons and extra accessories lying around in your home? Use them as gifting solutions for your next present. You can choose to decorate the boxes or leave them plain — either way, it’s a more sustainable choice! 

Words: Yashna Balwanth
Photography: Bureaux

Also read; 2025 Interior design trends to love (and leave)

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The hot list 

Hello maximalism 

Maximalism had its major moment in 2025, proving that more really can be more. Forget the sterile, all-white minimalism of the past decade – today’s homes are bursting with layered colours, bold patterns and statement pieces that feel unapologetically personal. Maximalism isn’t about mess, it’s about curating your space with attitude. 

 

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Picture velvet sofas in jewel tones, vintage lamps with quirky charm, oversized art that dares you to look twice and bookshelves stacked with treasures from every chapter of life. It’s a trend that rejects cookie-cutter interiors and instead embraces individuality, warmth and a touch of drama. People are craving spaces that feel alive, soulful and reflective of who they are, not just what’s on trend. That’s why maximalism is as much a lifestyle as it is a look, encouraging thrifting, mixing eras and celebrating imperfections that make a home truly unique. Of course, it’s not without risk. Leaning too far into the chaos can make the room feel overwhelming. But when done right, maximalism has the power to transform interiors into immersive experiences, each corner telling its own story. 

In a world saturated with fast furniture and disposable style, maximalism feels refreshingly rebellious. It’s bold, eclectic and definitely not for the faint of heart – but that’s exactly why design lovers can’t get enough of it. 

Want to see what other trends is on the list? Subscribe to Livingspace magazine to read the full article!

Words: Yashna Balwanth
Photography: Future Content Hub, Getty, Unsplash

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African design is a mosaic of different styles, patterns, textures and expressions. Shaped by centuries of artisanal craftsmanship, oral tradition, migration and ritual, it offers a visual language that’s rooted in each of the respective locale and culture. Whether handwoven, hand carved or handed down, African design reflects the beauty of landscapes and the people who inhabit them. From Morocco’s maximalism to Uganda’s intricate weaving, African aesthetics are anchored by its people, so we’ve highlighted a few destinations across the continent that showcase this diversity and how you can incorporate these design styles into your home.  

Morocco 

Influenced by its landscapes and diverse history, Moroccan design is characteristically sensorial, blending Andalusian architecture and Islamic artistry with shapes, patterns and colours that speak to the North African country’s cultural heritage. This cultural layering is reflected in its interior design style, where colour and comfort are paramount, creating spaces that are instantly recognisable and maximalist yet curated. Tactility is what sets Moroccan design apart: surfaces are rarely flat or undecorated, and every texture tells a story. Handwoven Berber rugs ground spaces in warmth and tradition, while carved wood features and accents in brass or hammered silver are staples. Intricate zellij tiles, arched doorways, arabesque motifs and lanterns evoke a sense of tradition. They also maintain a contemporary feel, where ornate details meet earthen tones to create its distinct visual language.  

To bring this style into your own home, opt for handwoven kilims or rugs to instantly bring texture into the space or a colour palette inspired by North African landscapes, such as sand, taupe, beige, royal blue and terracotta. Add in brass accents, low-slung seating and tactile ceramics for a space that feels grounded and cosy. You can even incorporate tagines, wooden bowls and hand-painted ceramics on the kitchen counter for good measure. Moroccan style is all about colour and expression, so go wild with textures, fabrics and patterns to create a space that makes you feel like you’re in a riad in Marrakech. 

 

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South Africa  

South Africa is where contemporary design and traditional craft coexist effortlessly, culminating in design expressions that vary from Cape Dutch architecture to colourful Ndebele patterns. The country’s style is richly layered: you’ll find interiors that embrace contrast, such as industrial materials warmed up with natural finishes, and African antiques styled alongside modern art.  

South Africa’s diverse landscapes, from the wilderness of the Kruger to the bustling streets of Johannesburg, allow for multiple design languages to be incorporated into your home. This cultural depth translates beautifully into interiors: cowhide rugs over concrete floors, carved wooden stools and headrests, and walls adorned with contemporary art or photography that honours traditional forms or places. South African style is about storytelling and the best place to start is with textiles. Shweshwe fabrics make for striking upholstery, cushion covers or table runners, while Basotho blankets over a sofa or bed add warmth and a tactile richness. For a more subtle approach, draw from the country’s natural palette: earthy reds, clay browns, ochres and muted greens. Mix these tones with organic materials such as wood, leather and stone to create a backdrop that allows handcrafted elements to shine. In a South African-inspired interior, every object holds meaning. It’s a celebration of diversity and creativity. 

@rafaels.restoration The bespoke Ndebele-inspired accent wall is complete . 🇿🇦🎨 I really had fun doing this wall and expressing South African culture with a modern flip straight into the bedroom. Sleeptite Mzanzi!!! #AccentWallMagic #FinishedProject #SouthAfrican #wallart #decor #homedecor #MzansiMasterpiece #southafrica #capetown #bedroom #renovation ♬ Mwaki – Zerb

Uganda  

Uganda may not be as internationally known for a singular interior design style as Morocco or South Africa, but it has a distinct aesthetic rooted in craft and regional traditions. Ugandan interior design is usually grounded in nature, drawing heavily from the country’s rural traditions and abundant natural resources as well as indigenous materials such as banana fibre, papyrus reeds and clay. Olubugo, commonly known as barkcloth, is made from the bark of Mutuba trees and is one of Uganda’s oldest and most distinctive materials. Traditionally, barkcloth was used as clothes to distinguish members of royalty and commoners. But its rich, red-brown colour and its soft texture make it the ideal upholstery for contemporary interior settings. Think tapestries or room dividers.  

Basketry is another key element in Ugandan design. Intricately handwoven from raffia and palm, baskets are both decorative and utilitarian, bringing warmth and texture to interiors. Although traditionally used for carrying produce, in contemporary interiors, they fit in perfectly with bohemian-style interiors. In parts of Uganda, colourfully dyed palm raffia is wrapped around a coil of bukedo, the local term for banana leaf stalks. These handwoven baskets feature one-of-a-kind designs and look gorgeous filling an entire wall, or as a decorative element on a table or shelf. 

Nigeria  

Nigeria’s design identity is as bold, energetic and diverse as its inhabitants. Lagos, specifically, is a nexus of contemporary creativity, but traditional influences remain strong, from Benin bronzes to the indigo-dyed Adire textiles of the Yoruba. Colour, as seen in most Afrocentric design, takes precedence in Nigerian interiors, and is often warm and earthy. Think terracotta, ochre, deep reds and browns. Tribal masks, sculptures and figurines are used as prominent decor elements, often representing ancestral spirits and a deep sense of cultural richness. Another fundamental aspect of Nigerian interiors is the inclusion of woven textiles and fabrics. Traditional Nigerian textiles such as the popular Aso Oke and Adire (traditional Yoruba textiles) are used for upholstery, curtains and scatter cushions.  

On the other hand, modern Nigerian interiors often fuse global aesthetics with local forms, where minimalist spaces come alive with Ankara (a colourful textile widely popular in Nigeria and West Africa) accents, carved stools and brass details. Furniture is often hand-carved and meaningful, while colour is used with purpose and confidence. To infuse Nigerian flair into your home, start with the textiles mentioned above. They offer an immediate sense of texture, history and identity. Layer Adire throws over neutral-toned sofas, upholster dining chairs in Aso Oke for a tactile statement, or use Ankara prints as bold bursts of colour in otherwise pared-back spaces. Nigerian design is fearless and full of expression, decorative yet rich in culture and African pride. 

Words: Shai Rama
Photography: Future Hub, Bureaux, Pexels, Supplied, Courtesy Images

Also read: How to break these decor rules

The post How to adapt these African decor styles into your own home  appeared first on TFG Media.

Gardens are personal escapes. The beauty of gardening lies in its flexibility — blending ideas, adapting them to your climate or simply borrowing small elements from each one to enrich your own outdoor space. From serene minimalism to flowery abundance, different garden styles offer unique ways to transform your outdoor space. We spoke to esteemed landscape designer Craig de Necker about these different garden styles and how you can include them in your own garden.  

Zen garden 

 The Zen garden, also known as a karesansui garden or a Japanese dry garden, is all about simplicity. Its minimalist layout features gravel or sand raked into patterns that mirror the ripples of water alongside carefully placed rocks to represent mountains or islands. Plants are sparse, often limited to small shrubs, moss or bonsai trees, emphasising a sense of serenity and order.  

This ancient yet deeply symbolic garden is designed to create a sense of calm, emulating the essence of nature as a space for meditation. “This type of garden is ideally suited to South African water-wise gardens as it embraces the use of pebbles and rock instead of using thirsty lawns,” says Craig. “Plants are used sparingly, and a paperbark Acacia tree works exceptionally well as a focal point. You can also add a spot light or two under the tree to add a little sizzle to the space.”  

Desert oasis garden 

A desert oasis garden draws inspiration from arid landscapes to showcase an array of drought-tolerant plants, sculptural forms and unexpected bursts of colour. “If a tropical garden and a desert garden had a child, it would be a desert oasis,” says Craig. “These gardens can be very similar to the Japanese Zen gardens, but less formal and not necessarily as minimalist. Being an oasis means that a palm tree or two will not be out of place (providing a cool, dappled shade), and most palm trees are drought-resistant, which fits well with the desert plants such as cacti and aloes.” This type of garden is particularly popular in regions like the Karoo and parts of the Western Cape, supporting water conservation by using native plants such as succulents, cacti and hardy desert shrubs. Despite its rugged origins, a desert garden doesn’t have to feel barren. It can be richly layered with plants of different heights and textures, interspersed with decorative rocks, bold ceramic pots or even a small water feature to evoke an oasis-like feel. Desert oasis gardens can be integrated into courtyards, pavement designs or back gardens and are ideal for those who want a low-maintenance, water-wise garden without sacrificing visual impact.  

English garden 

English gardens present a perfectly balanced mix of hardscaping and the subtleties of lush greenery and hedges. To bring this style home, consider planting generously, layering different flowers to create depth and interest throughout the seasons, including features such as ponds, fountains or bird baths to bring in natural reflection and a sense of serenity. “In South Africa, this could include indigenous flowering species such as Agapanthus, Dietes and Tulbaghia as well as grasses such as Aristida junciformis. This style of garden is well-suited to the addition of edible plants such as rosemary, thyme, citrus trees and some chilli plants,” adds Craig. Classic touches such as wooden benches, a flower-laden pergola or a sundial lend an air of old-world romance to invite wandering, lingering as well as endless moments of discovery. 

Vertical Garden 

The rise of compact, urban living has inspired the popularity of vertical gardens — an ideal solution for small balconies or courtyards, where floor space is at a premium but walls or fences are waiting to be brought to life. Vertical gardens are perfect for South Africa’s urban environments, where space can be tight but sunshine is abundant. A vertical garden doesn’t just add greenery — it brings texture, depth and a range of other benefits to both indoor and outdoor spaces, including air purification and being used as a natural privacy screen, bringing a burst of nature to a space that might otherwise feel sterile or confined. “These gardens can easily accommodate succulents and grasses, which both tend to be water-wise,” says Craig. The key is choosing plants that suit your light conditions and watering schedule to ensure your living wall thrives. If you’re a foodie, including culinary herbs such as basil, oregano and mint could be a deliciously practical way to combine beauty with function. 

Words: Shai Rama 

Photography: Getty Images, Pexels, Shutterstock, Unsplash 

Text courtesy of Livingspace magazine 

Also read: Garden Day: A celebration of beautiful blossoms

The post Garden styles that transform your outdoor space appeared first on TFG Media.

One of the first things I do when I design a garden, is to work out how it will flow,” says Alexander Warren-Gash, lead designer and co-owner of Mashamba Garden Design.  

When Alexander was first approached by the owners of a recently completed country estate near Puigpunyent in the Tramuntana mountains of Mallorca, his brief for the garden was very straightforward. “Keep it simple and romantic — so in essence I had free rein!’ he recalls. Choosing the right plants was key to the design. “I start with statement trees, then list the medium-sized clipped shrubs before filling in the gaps with smaller plants – the flowers and herbs. Once we have a concept that everyone’s happy with, we then make the magic happen! It really was a blank canvas – there was nothing there at all.” The soil on the terraces was imported after the house build: “I always say it’s better to invest in proper ground preparation rather than bigger plants in poor soil.”  

To read more about this Mediterranean marvel, subscribe to Livingspace magazine.

By: Annette Warren
Photography by: Clive Nichols
Text courtesy of LivingSpace magazine

Also read: Gardening tips for beginners

The post A Mallorca garden in full bloom appeared first on TFG Media.

In abundance  

Besides the beloved bride and groom, a wedding tablescape is the centre of attention, setting the scene for the rest of the wedding decor by reflecting the couple’s chosen aesthetic. Recent trends view tablescapes as an artistic canvas beyond a table drenched in traditional white candles, flowers and crockery. It’s about mixing statement centrepieces, unique crockery and glassware, eccentric accent colours, fabric drapery and ambient lighting. Organic and colourful ‘fruit & veg’ have been made focal points of tablescapes to embrace the trend of farm-to-table. Including fresh fruit and veg as decorative components in a tablescape is a means to honour the season you’re in by displaying seasonal produce, as a working metaphor for vibrancy and abundance.  

As for the physical form of the tables, serpentine tablescape shapes are formed by elongated banquet tables which curve to create an intimate setting that flows throughout the space. 

 

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Perfect posies  

White roses, peonies, baby’s breath or dahlias are all symbols of a Western white wedding. However, modern couples are opting out of tradition and looking to be more inspired, especially when it comes to their flower arrangements. Unique bouquets can be created with bold scent, texture, sculptural shape and cascading movements. Recent trends have also seen unexpected colours and clashing flower types in bouquets that are able to embody the couple’s personal style and character. Either handpicked wildflowers or carefully curated bunches, this latest floral phenomenon is mixing it up and pushing creative boundaries in the wedding and events space.  

Guilty pleasures  

Big wedding cakes are always a great idea in theory; they’re traditional and honour the ritual of marriage. But honestly, when it comes down to it, the best desserts are everything but a fully iced, fondant three-tier cake. Think varieties of bite-sized treats as a spread, petit fours or a champagne tower of your favourite pudding. Certain sweet treats can serve as small wedding sentiments for the lovely couple, whether it’s elevated milk and cookies, ice cream scoops, custom doughnuts – the more the merrier. If you’re trying to keep the party going, then bring out the midnight snacks! Served from opulent silverware or decked out at the bar, oily, salty and tasty late-night snacks are essential crowd-pleasers —from toasted sandwiches, French fries, boerewors rolls or samoosas and many more.  

For the girls  

Redundant silhouettes and dull colours are a thing of the past. While multicoloured bridesmaid dresses are not a completely new trend, the latest is all about fashionable styles. Mix-and-match bridesmaids dresses add flavour to your wedding party, where each friend can be comfortable in their dress all while contributing to your chosen colour palette. A variety of dress styles bring interest and authenticity to your wedding, where each dress is an accessory to your big moment and allows each friend to be uniquely themselves. By: Claudia Da Silva
Photography by: Pexels, Getty, Shutterstock
Text courtesy of BalancedLife magazine

 

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Also read: What to wear as a wedding guest (that’s not a dress)

The post Wedding season: The surprising latest trends appeared first on TFG Media.

About six years ago, we all went to a childhood friend’s farm for Sunday lunch. It was late in the afternoon, we were sitting at a table under the trees, our host had just brought a pitcher of lemonade for us to drink and the kids were riding horses while the sun was setting — it couldn’t have been more picture-perfect and I leaned over to Angela and said ‘this is what life is about’ — that was the moment for us,” says Justin Gomes.  

Justin, an owner of a successful advertising agency is one of those people who thinks in visual narratives. From that moment of rural bliss, he and Angela began developing the vision for a semi self-sufficient life on a beautiful piece of land, a place that could offer them an opportunity to lean into a life they wanted while still located close enough to schools for their three children. Their Noordhoek property Jardim consists of a sprawling self-sufficient food garden, horse paddocks and stables, as well as a yoga studio built using reclaimed doors and windows from their home renovation. “Originally the property consisted mainly of horse paddocks and felt hemmed in by trees, but removing some of them to reveal the mountain view is one of the first things we did and it was a revelation,” says Justin of their sun-filled property in Noordhoek, Cape Town.  

The original house was a typical ’80s face brick family home but it was perfectly liveable and besides, the first endeavour the couple had planned for the property was outside in the garden itself. “We had no idea how much land we needed to create the food garden we had in mind, but we had very clear ideas why we wanted the garden, so we just cordoned off an area and hoped it would be big enough,” laughs Angela. In just five years, she and her team of talented gardeners built the garden into an impressive organic community enterprise where local restaurants buy produce to cook, nearby soup kitchens are given vegetables for their feeding schemes and where people can come and pick their own veggies to buy and take home. It is a true circular economy that feeds the family on many levels. Wedding feasts have been celebrated at the central harvest table (built using wood from the property’s felled trees) and, of course, weekend lunches with family and friends are a regular occasion here too. 

Above: The entrance hall is a contemporary take on a traditional farmhouse entrance, with its covered entrance portico and inviting double open doors. The ceiling is a nod to Angela’s childhood home in Johannesburg. “So many houses on the East Rand have these beautiful details and I love that we could bring some of it into our family’s home,” she says.  

That’s why they call it the blues

Central to the cooking and dining space is an oversized kitchen island. “I really wanted to have an informal feel of free-standing elements like you find in an old-fashioned country kitchens but still keep it modern and relevant,” says Angela, who is a very keen cook. “I really really wanted a very dark blue and finally we settled on this colour, it’s called Sushi Wrap and I love it,” she says.

When it came time to plan their house renovation that kicked off three years ago, the Gomes’ sat with architect Alex Stewart. “We loved how he really wanted to know how we wanted to live, and what our goals were as a family and for the property as a whole. From there, he developed a space where you can always see and feel connected to the garden — he just got us so perfectly,” says Justin — pointing out how at every turn, the garden can be seen or engaged with “We love our home, but the garden is the thing we’re ultimately most proud of especially because its at the centre of the process and was the trigger for so much of what was to come,” says Angela.  

She explains the interiors mood they were after: “We wanted a rustic feel with easy indoor outdoor flow but we didn’t want to fake the ‘country’ aspect, so the living room extension is a nod to a barn structure and also takes into account that we really wanted the view of the mountain to come into the space too.” With that in mind, the new design resulted in the interior being gutted and rebuilt from the engineered oak floors up. The kitchen and living room is predictably the heart of everything for this busy family of five. “We made sure to split the kitchen in half so that the prep and reality of life can be hidden when we entertain,” laughs Angela. Custom designed free-standing kitchen units echo the modern farmhouse feel, as does the intense charcoal colour that Angela chose for them.  

 

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The space is infinitely comfortable and effortlessly elegant, with myriad references and often sentimental nods to the family’s journey thus far. The entrance hall is fitted with a beautiful pressed vintage metal ceiling (a nod to Angela’s childhood home) while a huge poster of The Great Wave Off Kanagawa by cult Japanese artist Hokusai, bought for Justin in New York, sits comfortably next to a Cape table by local designer Gregor Jenkin. Like the Gomes’ themselves, there is little pretence in their family space: It’s designed for kids, dogs and all day traffic, but always there is an underlying commitment to living life as mindfully as possible. It’s a work that changes with the seasons -from the family’s original dreams, so much has grown and there is so much more to come. “We are in the process of conceptualising a space where people can come for group breakaways,” explains Angela, “be it for business or leisure breakaways, and experience the joy of picking and cooking the food we grow at the same time. It’s how we want to live, making progress in our lives but still feeling connected to the garden that started it all.”  

Above (left): A passage peels away from the entrance hall and reveals bedrooms for the children Olivia, Sam and Amber, a central work and homework station as well as Angela and Justin’s plant-filled bedroom and bathroom.  

Above (right): Comfort is key to the look and feel of the Gomes’ family home in Noordhoek, Cape Town. The elegant velvet Chesterfield is a perfect pop of light-hearted jewel-like colour, while the oversized Persian rug helps to frame the living room zone of the open plan barn extension.  

Above: While the main living areas of the house have a few, the couple’s bedroom is a proliferation of plants — known for their soothing properties, Angela is a self-confessed ‘plant lady’. “I love nurturing them and seeing them grow,” she says. The couple’s bathroom is a clean-lined minimalist space with a wet room appeal and, of course, a window letting in the light and views of the garden. With an innate talent for display and a passion for plants, Angela’s green fingers are on display on this custom-built unit in the couple’s bedroom. 

Earthen oasis

Central to the garden is a harvest table (built using reclaimed wood from the property’s felled trees). Weekend lunches with family and friends are a regular occasion and they have even hosted a wedding for a close friend

Get the look 

1. Bali Occasional Chair and Cushion Combo R10 999 Coricraft
2. Juliana Scatter Cushion in grey and black 60x60cm R999 Coricraft
3. Aristocrat Desk Lamp R2 399 @home
4. Round Mirror in black frame 80cm R1 999 @home
5. Faux Spikey Aloe In Ceramic Pot R229 @home 
6. Issa Side Table in black R7 999 @home 
7. Moulded Fluted Nipped Candle in black 12×5.7cm R99 @home 
8. Organic Folded Bubbled Glass Vase 28.5x27cm R2 499 @home
9. Large Casey Basket R799 Coricraft.

*Prices correct at the time of publishing. 

By: Vicki Sleet
Photography by: Warren Heath/ Bureaux, Supplied
Text courtesy of Livingspace magazine  

The post Contemporary country home in Noordhoek, Cape Town appeared first on TFG Media.

As locals, we flock to the beaches, pools and each other’s yards for hours filled with liveliness, endless chatter and copious amounts of gees. To accommodate all the celebrations, a well-planned and durable outdoor area is vital — even more so throughout the seasons.  

Light it up  

If your outdoor area is ‘indoors’, such as an enclosed patio, a spacious garden room or entertainment area, then light is vital. “You would want to dine here all year round, so you need to take into consideration what could protect you from the elements throughout the year,” says interior designer Chantal Maree. For an outdoor room, she suggests blinds or folding/stacking doors (with glass panels) to allow light to filter in during the day while also creating a seamless harmony between the indoors and outdoors.  

Lighting sets the mood too; candles and fairy lights can create a warm and cosy environment, while a floor lamp is key to enhancing the ambience. “All these combined create a gorgeous space during the night-time. And then, of course, natural sunlight in the space warms it up – creating shadows and dapples that are forever changing throughout the day. It’s a beautiful space to watch…” says Chantal. With light bulbs, she emphasises warm bulbs instead of cool tones to elevate the romance…  

Sweater weather 

While we revel in warmer nights, a little cold weather never stopped a braai! “If you are able, this room would be ideal if it had a fireplace — whether it’s a closed, wood-burning fireplace or even an open fire that could double up as an indoor braai. There is also the option to have a gas fireplace instead,” says Chantal. “It’s really important to have warmth in an outside room so that you and your guests will not be uncomfortable and therefore would linger for as long as you would like — I love it when my friends never want to leave.” On the other hand, to avoid stuffiness, windows and doors that open are lifesavers. And the blinds and stacker doors will allow you to control the harshness of the light or wind play throughout the room.  

Prioritise flow 

An outdoor dining area is typically connected to the home, the patio or even a built-on area that includes an indoor braai. No matter the layout, connecting these two spaces is first prize to ensure a natural flow. “From a convenience point of view, you don’t want to be carting everything to and from the main house. This doesn’t make the space easy and accessible to use and in the long term won’t be used nearly as frequently as it should be,” says Chantal. She suggests planning the space to include a second storage area — such as a kitchen, server or bar — so you have all your functional items ready for use. “You may not always have the luxury of this, but a stunning cabinet with glass doors, shelves and cupboards below could be handy here. Even a simple trestle could be elegantly curated too. Imagine a beautifully set up ‘make-your-own bar’ as well as your plates, knives and forks and an area to arrange your food to plate up a yummy meal,” Chantal enthuses.  

Create comfort  

Beyond the aesthetics, your outdoor space should be an environment in which guests (and you!) can feel relaxed and cosy. For an outdoor dining area, Chantal suggests upholstered armchairs or modular seating such as a small love seat for guests; and spare chairs or ottomans can be dotted about the space for the times when you’re hosting an event. Alternately, designating specific ‘zones’ for specific activities can also create a space for endless entertainment; a quiet corner for reading, a fire pit or braai, or a large open area for gathering. In many patio or gazebo designs, L-shaped seating creates ample space for guests or for days where you’d much rather lounge outside with a good book. Rattan benches with a low backrest are always in season, and deep-seated cushions made of all-weather fabrics allow for durability.  

Add colour 

A simple way to add colour is foliage. Climbers such as jasmine are marvellous along pillars, walls or even overhead — but indoor planting suffices on tables, shelves or panes. Chantal states that there are copious amounts of greenery available — while your choice depends on the size of your space and height of your overhead covering (be it a ceiling or canopy), your selection should be hardy and attuned to the green of your thumb. “Most of the time I love picking from my garden and having fresh greens in glass vases throughout my outdoor room,” says Chantal. “Indoor plants are not as easy to manage as you think, so choose wisely”  

Besides foliage, colourful outdoor rugs, cushions, throws or painted furniture can quickly uplift the mood of a space. Among a neutral colour palette, a burst of colour can be incorporated through smaller details such as accessories or textiles. Mosaics are wonderful and sophisticated choices, while bespoke lamp stands or shades can also introduce vibrancy.  

 

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Monthly tip  

As much as we love making use of our exterior furniture and -fittings, the maintenance and aftercare of these items is just as important. Paying special attention to what you use is the way to ensure you get maximum usage, without all the dreaded wear and tear involved. Introducing the two products from the Woodoc Range, namely Woodoc DECK Dressing and Woodoc DECK Sealer. These are great for summer as they are specially formulated to seal and beautify your exterior decks. Woodoc DECK Dressing is ideal for decks and decking made from dense woods, such as Balau and Teak, that don’t readily accept a conventional penetrating sealer. For your soft, porous woods that readily accept a penetrating sealer, such as Pine or Meranti, Woodoc DECK Sealer works beautifully. Both of these products are easy to use, provide UV-protection, do not crack or flake, and are non-toxic once dry. 

By: Saadiqah Schroeder
Photography by: Bureaux, Future content hub, Pexels
Text courtesy of Livingspace magazine 

Also read: 6 lighting styles for your home

The post Tips to design your outdoor space  appeared first on TFG Media.