Mud Island (UK), remains appealing to some and for those who might have hundreds of millions of Rands to pack into their suitcases, we’ve included two London homes in this issue.

The high standard of design and finish in both is indisputable, but what does one get for several million pounds in a damp, grey metropolis that lives on past grandeur and an empire lost? Most obviously what you don’t get is space, sunshine and certainly fresher air. Further, the homes we’ve illustrated are for the very fortunate few, likely with unfolded money – as the Texan’s say.

South African foils are architect Luis Ferreira da Silva’s home in tranquil Greyton – a village in the Cape hinterland – and Silverhurst, a SAOTA project nestled above Cape Town. Incomparable to London?  Surely,  yet a very relevant option for quality of life on this ever-shrinking, increasingly troubled globe.

Fine Focus

Happily, matters should begin to look better with the threat of load-shedding in the colder months removed. Spring is imminent and, as always, it will engender re-birth, new growth and the promised warmth of a coming summer. There is still time to ponder how best to spend those months outdoors and what may need re-furbishing / extending / re-laying. The choices in indoor / outdoor furniture for relaxation and al fresco dining have never been better, and likely as good value. It’s a buyers’ market and our annual FOCUS feature Room Outside showcases the best of what’s on offer.

Habitat’s bi-annual kitchen and bathroom FOCUS and a look at balmy Lamu Island off the Kenya coast complete this issue. So, there’s plenty to smile about – and Spring is in the air.

Colin Ainsworth Sharp – colin@habitat-mag.com

August 2011