A beautiful boma

Beatrice Moore-nöthnagel Elza Cooper Amanda van Wyngaardt From a neglected area filled with rubbish to an inviting garden nook.

The boma is demarcated by low sandstone walls which also provide extra seating. Bernard acquired the sandstone rocks from a customer in exchange for the felling of trees on his property. It was only the second time he’d built with sandstone, and he says the challenge is choosing stones that fit well together. “But Bernard comes from the Kalahari and in that place you quickly learn to tackle anything,” says Elmerí with a laugh. The stump stools come from trees that Bernard’s team felled elsewhere, and make the perfect addition to the seating arrangement.

Try to do everything yourself – you’ll not only save money but you’ll also learn new skills. What would you do differently next time? We would hire an industrial cement mixer if the amount of construction work justified it. Where did you get your ideas? Home magazine, of course! We also gather ideas and take pictures when we’re on holiday. What do you enjoy most about your completed project? The cosy atmosphere in the boma and getting together with friends and family – in the heart of the city!

A built-in herb corner next to the kitchen. Wooden poles and latte Lynnridge Timbers (012 809 2285, lynnridgetimbers.co.za) Pebbles and wooden bench C&M Landscaping Supplies (012 807 7359, cmlandscaping.co.za) Wendy house NLW Factory (011 972 0154, nlwfactory.co.za) Outdoor furniture Plantland (012 667 6330, plantland.co.za)