FROM THE EDITOR
One of the most creatively satisfying aspects of editing H&G is the panoply of confident, individualistic interior-design styles to which we are exposed when planning and compiling every issue of the magazine. While contemplating the mood for June, and seeking out homes in keeping with the shift to winter, it was not the obvious spaces that were eventually chosen, but rather those that complemented one another with their mix of design verve and originality. Character, customisation and collaboration emerged as three big ‘Cs’ to consider. And yes, they’re all just the right kind of warm, in keeping with our idiosyncratic climate. On that note, look to Garden Solutions (page 49) for some considered planting advice for the cooler season. Featured on our cover is a home that perfectly illustrates the spirit of this issue. Who’d suspect that this glamorous space (page 76) with its unexpected touches is a reimagined chalet in the French Alps, its chic grey parquet floor being the only exposed wood in sight? Similarly, the off-the-grid house in Far from the Madding Crowd (page 70) could be straight out of the Karoo rather than rural Australia. using timber alongside smoked charcoal glass and polished concrete, it’s equal parts rustic and modern minimalist.
Locally, interior designer Andrea Graff shows why she’s celebrated for her brave use of colour in French Accent (page 62), where teal and acid-yellow walls meet designers Guild Christian Lacroix fabrics and sumptuous rosa norwegian marble. The effect is nothing short of dazzling. In contrast, ebony designs’ Jo’burg space (page 88) is all classic restraint, though peppered with striking customised pieces and artworks, along with a view to die for.
If you’ve yet to meet Sithabile Mokgokong, the stylish cofounder of Liquid Works, we’re pleased to introduce this gogetting Jo’burg-based interior designer – whose work has taken her from Swaziland to Singapore – in Figure Study (page 144).
Our focus on other exciting interiors extends from the new, John Jacob Interiorsdesigned Luminance store in Sandton to Maira Koutsoudakis’s seriously luxe Gentlemen’s Arthouse in newtown Junction. This is design at its sexiest.