Estate Living Magazine Precinct Living - Issue 33 | Page 54

Spring FEVER
The spring is sprung, the grass
is riz. Wondering what the latest
outdoors trend is? Look no further.
Spring is a season of blushing blossoms and warm
breezes. It’s lazy Sunday afternoons around a colourful
lunch table sipping a glass of sav blanc. What could be
better? Only these 10 top outdoor design and decor
ideas!
Shutter up
Nothing says ‘spring’ as much as throwing your home
open to your garden or patio, and plantation shutters are
an ideal way of doing just that. Compatible with a wide
range of architectural and decor styles, plantation shutters
are low maintenance and stack effortlessly to one or two
sides of an opening. Adjustable louvered shutters allow
fresh air and fragrant spring smells in, and keep bright light
– and prying eyes – out, offering privacy, good looks and
security. Durable, cordless (peace-of-mind bonus if you
have toddlers racing around) and easy to clean, they’ll also
keep direct sunlight off your furniture. Choose wood or
aluminium for extra external security.
Pool party
Making a splash with a new swimming pool is a great way to
have fun and add value to your home. A classic, rectangular
shape with a rim-flow is the crème de la crème. If you’re into
trends, remember that black pools are out, and sparkling
blue water is in. ‘The average increase in your property
value when you put in a pool is around 15%,’ says Rhys Dyer,
CEO of bond originator, Ooba. As he says, ‘Included in our
idea of home ownership is a picture of braaiing by the pool
on hot summer days, with giggling children leaping onto
lilos.’ Choose a reputable pool company registered with
the National Pool and Spa Institute. www.nspi.co.za
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Backyard braai
Is it even spring in South Africa if you
can’t throw something yummy on the
braai? Some enthusiasts are installing
a whole outside kitchen with built-in gas
cookers, charcoal or wood-burning kettle
braais, outside sinks and bars. Charcoal
braai masters swear by the smoky smell and
flavour of charcoal, but gas braais have
their place. They’re quick – just push
the button to ignite – and easy to
clean. Some models come with side
cooktops, rotisserie kits, multiple
burners, and Weber’s iGrill Mini even
comes with Wi-Fi capabilities for its
smart thermometer. If you have space constraints, basic kettle braais
are as popular as ever. The Lotus Grill, newly launched in South Africa,
is a portable smokeless braai, available in funky colours and perfect
for small spaces. Weber Mastertouch Charcoal Braai, Builders
Warehouse, R3,990