Did the positives outweigh the negatives, did this country really benefit from the FIFA event? Or, were the benefits – grossly financial / rather than grossing financially – enjoyed largely by thatAugust sporting body and its presidential Gnome of Zurich: Mr S. Blatter? Future largely unused, statuesque billion-rand stadiums notwithstanding?

In any event, 2010 and the FIFA World Cup are history; as is perhaps the SA legal system? But these are subjects of endless postulation. No time, space or inclination to comment further here. And it’s not actually my job to do such.

Happily, our story is short, simple and one of fulfillment. Habitat showcased some great work in the 6-issues of this momentous 12 months, plus the results content-wise have looked better than ever, according to certain reports we’ve received. And this was achieved in a very difficult financial environment, which incidentally looks likely to continue.

We maintain that Habitat is an international design magazine published in South Africa, and therefore will continue to include projects from around the globe, as well as those that we feel are representative of modernism in this country. This issue again features notable international work, with singular South African contributions; on the coast and in the bushveld. Also within is our annual architecture FOCUS; so Habitat should represent a good holiday read for those whose hearts are in their homes. Enjoy the end-of-year festivities and get ready to withstand 2011. The future might not be what it used to be, but it’s going to happen anyway.
 
Colin Ainsworth Sharp – colin@habitat-mag.com
December 2010