INSIDE STORY Charlene & Ruan’s home

Who lives here? Charlene, an interior decorator and founder of Live Simple interiors studio, and Ruan, an economist, with their son Viljoen, five, and Olive the dachshund. Best renovation tip?

Charlene: “If you have a budget, double it – it’s always more expensive

than you think.”

What’s your decorating style? “Minimalism with plants – we added lots of greenery.” What’s the key to bringing the outside

in when decorating?

“In the bedroom, big floor-to-ceiling windows and lots of pot plants. In the living area, sliding doors bring

the garden into the space.”

1. Charlene mounted the vintage wooden letters, once used in newspaper printing, on the back wall of the entrance. 2. A silo-inspired tower was added to the farmhouse in a 10-month renovation. 3. Steel shelving is the ideal place to display lush plants and figurines. 4. The freestanding bath in the ensuite is from Victoria + Albert. 5. Charlene says the marble island is her favourite feature in the kitchen. 6. A covered outdoor entertainment area extends the living space. 7. The serene main bedroom. 1 4 2 3 5 67