PROJECT Devco Group
field of luxury real estate. Their holistic approach, combining financial acumen, marketing expertise, and a deep understanding of what discerning buyers seek in a luxury estate, has set a new standard in the industry.
Gardener Ross: Ernie Els opening course
Devco Group, as development managers, orchestrated the transformation of vacant land into a fully serviced site, culminating in a world-class golf course designed by Ernie Els himself. Their meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality earned significant recognition, with the golf course receiving the prestigious“ Best New Golf Course in Gauteng” award in 2008 – a clear validation of their vision and execution.
The scale of the project was impressive, encompassing 1 131 plots and paving the way for the later addition of the Els Club, which was renamed Copperleaf Golf Estate, complete with a clubhouse and spa. Devco Group’ s multifaceted role as development manager, financial advisor, and marketing strategist was instrumental in steering the project toward success during its critical formative years, from 2003 to 2008.
What sets this development apart is not just its scale or amenities, but the deep personal connection it holds for Ernie Els. The 690-hectare estate is situated on the very land where Els’ s grandfather, Ernie Vermaak, spent his formative years around 1918. This poignant family history enriches the project, making it more than just another luxury development – it’ s a tribute to legacy and family heritage.
The golf course is a masterpiece, seamlessly blending with the natural topography of the area. Wide fairways wind through grasslands and rocky outcrops, while water hazards and strategically placed bunkers challenge golfers of all skill levels. This integration of world-class facilities with the raw beauty of the South African landscape exemplifies Devco Group’ s approach to development.
Beyond the golf course, Devco Group’ s vision extended to creating a comprehensive lifestyle destination. The estate’ s location – just 12 km from Fourways, 20 km from Centurion, and 22 km from Midrand – offers residents an ideal balance of accessibility and seclusion. Once inside the high-security gates, the bustle of city life fades away, replaced by the tranquility of country living.
The success of this project underscores Devco Group’ s ability to exceed expectations in the highly competitive
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While Devco Group’ s direct involvement with the project concluded in 2009, the foundation they laid has allowed the estate to flourish and evolve. The subsequent rebranding to Copperleaf Golf Estate & Spa, and the construction of the Ernie Els Clubhouse under Investec’ s stewardship, are testaments to the groundwork Devco Group established.
The Els Club at Copperleaf stands today as a shining example of modern design principles. Its exceptional facilities offer golfers and residents a place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the fruits of Devco Group’ s labour. The five-star golfing experience promised by the Els Club is the product of the meticulous planning and execution that characterised their involvement from the outset.
A key element in the success of Copperleaf’ s golf course was the collaborative effort between renowned golf course architect Greg Letsche and Ernie Els. In 2003, Letsche brought his expertise to the project, working closely with Els to create a course that challenges and delights players of all skill levels. Letsche’ s ability to interpret Els’ s vision and translate it into a practical, playable design was instrumental in crafting a course that seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape while offering an exceptional golfing experience. This partnership resulted in a golf course that meets the highest standards of design and playability, capturing the essence of Els’ s golfing philosophy. The success of this collaboration is evident in every carefully crafted hole, strategic bunker placement, and thoughtfully designed green, making this course a testament to the power of combining architectural expertise with professional insight.
Reflecting on this project, it ' s clear that Devco Group’ s contribution extends far beyond the physical development of the estate. Devco Group has created a legacy – a place where families can build homes, where golf enthusiasts can pursue their passion, and where the natural beauty of Gauteng is preserved and celebrated.
The success of this project serves as a blueprint for future luxury developments, highlighting the importance of visionary planning, respect for the environment, and a commitment to creating lasting value. Devco Group’ s ability to navigate the complex challenges of large-scale development while focusing on quality and sustainability has set us apart as pioneers in the field. ■
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