requests for renovations and updates. Each and the ‘swallows’ from Europe like to watch
application is reviewed by the architectural streamed European TV.
committee and the architects to ensure that the
aesthetics of the estate are not compromised, COMMUNICATION IS KEY
while allowing for contemporary trends and a In the past, HOA communication was done via
move towards sustainability. newsletters and email, but building a community
requires more interaction. Erinvale is now
The estate encourages, but does not enforce, implementing a new tailored community app,
adherence to the Green Building Council Spotlight Social, which was designed by two
guidelines for renovations. Solar panels and Erinvale residents.
water tanks are recommended but must be
hidden from view.
The app gives push notifications for
emergencies, updates on roadworks, repairs,
One immediate impression is the pristine beauty news and events. It can be tailored to the
of the estate. In contrast to the manicured golf community needs, and offers separate
course, Erinvale has its own fynbos reserve at platforms for various interest groups, and –
the top of the estate with sensibly integrated of course – golfers, where they can engage,
walking trails for the residents. ‘These areas chat and share photos, news and events. ‘Via
are classified as a critical biodiversity area (B1) the app we are able to encourage a multi-way
as part of the greater Cape Floristic Region. communication among our residents; no matter
The current board of trustees has a full A lot of attention and effort is going into this if you are on site or spending half of the time
complement of seven members as allowed by recreational asset to protect and maintain the somewhere else in the world, you can stay
the constitution, each with their own portfolio. biodiversity in our estate.’ connected with your community.’
the Erinvale board has a good mix, with two INVESTING IN THE FUTURE This app is a game changer and could become
members in office since 2011, one new member As an estate, the move towards sustainability in a modern version of traditional portals.
in 2014, 2015, and 2016, and two new members in public areas is constantly ongoing. ‘Apart from 2018. This keeps the board fresh without losing location, property owners and investors have Erinvale is part of the greater community,
the knowledge, experience and historical input a number-one priority: security and a peace- supporting local charities and schools in the
from longer-standing members. of-mind lifestyle of really feeling safe! This is area. Estate residents are a happy, forward-
what Erinvale offers to a great extent. We can thinking group, and the HOA, trustees and
‘The trustees have a very hands-on role; we freely go for a walk at any time, our kids can employees work as a team, ensuring the
have a good and very knowledgeable team play outside and we do not have the need of ongoing success of this luxury estate.
who are committed and prepared to invest a extra security at each property.’
Trustees are elected for a two-year term, and
lot of time on their portfolios. All seven of us
meet once a month, but other meetings take Erinvale continuously looks at keeping security
place between relevant members and staff to the highest standard. The perimeter fencing
when required.’ and cameras have already been upgraded, and
the estate is presently enhancing all security
Much of Erinvale’s success, Dinklage measures to the latest technology available,
emphasises, is due to long-serving HOA implementing biometric hand scan access, and
staff and trustees, granting continuity and a comprehensive guest management system.
sustainable management. ‘Our committee has investigated over four years
MOVING WITH THE TIMES
to decide on the best solutions available for
our estate.’
Erinvale’s board and HOA acknowledge that
the world is constantly changing, so the rules In 2016 Erinvale was also one of the first estates
may need to change too, in order to conform in the region to implement fibre to the home
to current lifestyle requirements. (FTTH), providing up to 100Mbps internet speed
to every property in the estate. ‘We have a great
As a mature estate, all homes are built, and mix of residents here at Erinvale and we need to
unlike other estates, Erinvale allows individual cater for all sorts of different requirements and
style of the buildings, which creates the unique needs. The families with kids want to be able
look. However, there are architectural guidelines to stream, surf and play simultaneously, the
that were written 25 years ago. Erinvale has working-from-home professionals require stable
revisited these guidelines to accommodate internet connectivity for video conferencing,
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erinvale.com | spotlightsocial.app