Architect and Builder Jul/Aug 2024 | Page 69

NEW TRENERY FLAGSHIP STORE
Trenery unveiled its brand-new concept store at the V & A Waterfront in Cape Town in May 2024 . Trenery , in South Africa since 2009 as part of the Woolworths Country Road Group ( CRG ), embodies timeless simplicity and sophistication offering premium apparel and accessories for men and women .
Trenery announced its rebrand in August 2023 , unveiling a new vision and refreshed look . This newly revamped store is the first in South Africa to boast the rebrand , blending natural beauty and environmentally conscious design . Store elements are responsibly sourced and include a range of locally crafted art and
furniture . Shoppers can expect an inviting space featuring clay-rendered walls , soft lighting , and bronze fixtures . The ambiance is elevated by commissioned works from local artists including , among others , Jan Ernst and MŪVEK Studio .
Capetonian artist Jan Ernst explores functional art , sculpture and spatial design across a range of diverse mediums . While his primary focus is ceramics , he also favours the tactility of plaster and bronze , blending organic forms with abstract sensibilities . MŪVEK is a Cape Town design studio known for its focus on structural and material refinement and the elegance of simple forms .
CAPE GRACE TRANSFORMED AFTER RENOVATIONS
After nine months of renovations , Cape Grace , A Fairmont managed hotel , unveiled its design transformation , reopening its doors with a new look inspired by South Africa ’ s heritage , culture and artistry . Cape Grace has been gracefully redesigned by globally renowned interior and architecture firm ,
1508 London , who have paid homage to Cape Town ’ s evolution from a bustling trading port to a cosmopolitan hub . Cape Grace will now embark on a new chapter as it joins a collection of 90 distinctive Fairmont properties worldwide .
Under its new guise , the interiors are a curated celebration of the country ’ s diverse narrative , from its landscapes and languages , vibrant art and fascinating cultures . Handpicked artwork from local artists will be showcased throughout the new hotel and materials chosen for a contemporary , understated look that harmonises with Cape Town and its natural surroundings . With unrivalled views of the city , each of the 112 rooms and suites features large French windows or balconies that look out onto either the Marina or the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain . The stand-out suite will be the two-bedroom Cape Grace Suite with an expansive terrace offering panoramic views of Table Mountain , a stylish lounge and a dining area with a private bar and butler ’ s pantry , perfect for families or entertaining friends who are in town .
For its culinary vision , Cape Grace is working with well-known Cape Town Chef , Gregory Czarnecki to offer locals and international guests elevated South African-inspired cuisine at the new restaurant Heirloom . The new dining experiences also include a Pool Bar for relaxed afternoons spent by Cape Grace ’ s beautiful outdoor pool . Meanwhile , the Library Lounge offers the perfect setting to enjoy afternoon tea , with the evenings saved for a pre or post-dinner drink in the revamped Bascule Bar & Lounge , renowned for its extensive whisky collection , exclusive wine cellar .
Situated on the doorstep of Cape Town ’ s finest cultural , culinary and historical landmarks , Cape Grace quickly developed a reputation for being the best in town following its opening in 1996 . In its new chapter , the hotel will build on its legacy of playing host to luminaries from the world of politics , film and business , offering a new era of hospitality and the perfect destination to explore the very best of South Africa .
Interior Watch 69