Within what are the most noticed spaces in any home, the contribution of both kitchen and bathroom far exceeds their spatial dimensions; yet the outlay they demand is considerable.

Spring in South Africa – the season of re-birth – very quickly becomes full summer. Ever more useful crossover interior / exterior spaces are refreshed and re-equipped, areas that can take full advantage of eight months of great weather. Our current architecture encourages an outdoor lifestyle by expanding on and exercising the uses in versatile entertainment spaces. Integration and functionality are key for living areas, terraces, patios, courtyards and pool decks.

The shell of any interior is basically a three-dimensional canvas on which to apply the textures and tones that constitute the décor. Its three key elements are: ceiling, walls / windows and floors.

There’s more to lighting an interior than hanging a globe or two from the ceiling. Although, this was not the case in SA just a few decades ago, in 2011, lighting has become an integral part of interior design and is recognised as a vital element in the success of any scheme, whether residential or corporate.

The furnishing of dwellings has been a priority for human beings since we first took refuge in caves, shelters and later shacks. What provided very basic support for the human body in rest mode has today evolved into a globally vital industry worth billions of US$ annually. In South Africa it’s a significant sector within the economy.

At the southern tip of Africa we live in temperate climes and yet this is a region that can become very cold in winter. It’s a fact that much of SA experiences extremes of temperature; coping with this in large homes is no easy task.