Stylish security options
Home security need not spoil your décor, thanks to stylish and savvy safety measures.
While it might not be a pleasant topic to talk about, good home security is an absolute must in our beautiful country with its high crime statistics. For most people, there are two main considerations: keeping the bad guys out when you’re not at home and staying safe when you’re asleep at night – in essence, creating safe zones inside your house.
Traditional burglar bars and security gates can be unattractive. “Security measures such as gates and burglar bars are often a grudge purchase,” says architectural designer Jenny Collins of Red Cat Design. “We know we need them, but we don’t really want to spend lots of money on them, especially if they’re not aesthetically pleasing. Fortunately, there are some good-looking options available these days.”
A layered approach is best, with a variety of barriers and warning systems that will alert you if there is an intrusion. They can be expensive but choosing the right products will add value to your home, which makes it a good investment.
[ LASER-CUT SOLUTION]
With entrance areas often nothing more than dead space, the porch of this family home in Green Point, Cape Town was transformed into a secure outdoor room where shoes and sports equipment can be stored. “The homeowners wanted to be able to keep their front door open for ventilation, without compromising on security; this stunning security gate met those criteria while also adding to the overall aesthetic of the home,” explains interior designer Etienne Hanekom of Etienne Hanekom Interiors.
The design, inspired by the Popham tiles used on the floor, was custom made in laser-cut steel that was then powdercoated. The manufacturer is no longer in business, but Etienne recommends Wehmeyer Manufacturing. >>
[ STYLISH SHUTTERS]
While these aluminium shutters are not security shutters in the traditional sense, they do come with a good locking mechanism, hence providing some form of protection. They were retrofitted when the cottage was renovated and the black colour blends well with the dark grey exterior walls.
Shutters by BB Glass & Aluminium
EASY ON THE EYE
There are various aesthetically pleasing security options on the market; architectural designer Jenny Collins of Red Cat Design shares her favourites to work with:
• Security shutters are secure, attractive, and easy to use.
They come in a variety of colours and can be configured in multiple ways to suit your space. Their advantage is that they act as security and a window treatment all in one. In addition, they increase the value of your home. Security shutters can be used on windows and doors, as well as to close off a stairwell, keeping you safe upstairs if you live in a double-storey home.
• Roller shutter doors are an excellent option for closing off the passage to your bedroom wing or a stairwell at night.
The tracks aren’t obvious and they roll into a slim box that can be concealed within your ceiling space or a bulkhead.
• Custom-designed metal security gates can be very attractive. If your interior style is more contemporary, consider a laser-cut steel option with a modern design. For an older or more traditional home, a classic design works very well. These gates will add lovely detail to your house.
• Another option is Trellidor’s Clear Guard security screen. It consists of a stainless-steel woven mesh screen inside an aluminium frame. You can see right through it, so it doesn’t clutter or block your view.
This is a good choice if you need security as well as protection from baboons, monkeys, mosquitoes and other pests.
• If it’s just simple window or door protection you’re after, a lock latch is the answer. Unobtrusive latches are fitted to your window or door and restrict the distance that it can be opened. >>
[ BEAUTIFUL WITH BURGLAR BARS]
When it comes to security, this homeowner prefers traditional steel burglar bars as she feels this is the most secure option available. Previously, the stoep was protected by garden beams, but she decided that wasn’t sufficient. The homeowner designed the burglar bars for all the interior windows as well as the sliding gate on the stoep with the same look. All the bars were finished in Oxirite Xtreme Forged Black.