44 Stanley is Joburg's best kept secret!

Published : 26/03/2010 | Author: HOMEMAKERS | Verity Sewart

What used to be a series of industrial buildings, dilapidated and abandoned workshops and the home of the old AA garage is now a picturesque and charming village of speciality shops, restaurants and design studios.

44 Stanley Ave in Milpark would fit in perfectly anywhere is Europe, with its 1930’s architecture and refreshing ambiance giving any visitor to the quaint buildings a unique experience each time they visit. Because of the interesting spaces there are to work around, walkways seem to lead all over and nowhere at the same time, creating a labyrinth of mystery and intrigue. Its overall urban industrial character remains intact, with some places left unpainted and untouched in order to appreciate the pure beauty of the architecture.

Need a conversation piece?

If your home is missing that one conversation piece that everybody has something to say about each time they visit your abode, then this is definitely the place to find it. The first store on 44 Stanley opened in September 2003, and over 6 years later, the proof is definitely in shoppers proving of a demand for the eclectic.

The initiative of this in town gem is to create a space of retailers that all have something creative to offer, while focusing on urban renewal, and a combination of shops, services and restaurants catering for a mix of adventurous, inquisitive and inspiring customers.

So many tastes and sights...

Anyone looking for something different will have their expectations exceeded after a visit to 44 Stanley. From quaint little bookshops to interior design for your home to hand crafted jewellery pieces, the individuality and creativity of each shop fits together like a highly original jigsaw puzzle.

It is clear to see that the aim of this cluster of shops is not for each shop owner to get rich and to commercialise their products, but is more and opportunity for the artistic and creative to demonstrate their offerings to the public.

Atomic Orchid, one of the shops located at 44 Stanley is pure sensory delight, with their exotic orchid blooms and inspiration for design of the most beautiful floral gifting.

A second shop where you can find great inspiration for the home is Design is a Good Idea, a real world show room housing designer collectables and modern heirlooms.

Dokter and Misses is a contemporary South African outlet, offering ceramics to lighting and furniture to jewellery and stationary. A real playground for shoppers.

Be sure not to miss L’Elephant Terrible, a bookstore that seems as though it comes out of a fairytale with a well-selected variety of books which can be picked up and leafed through at one of the open air cafes while you enjoy a hearty lunch at Il Giardino Restuarant, cappuccino at Bean There or light snack at the Salvation Cafe but to name a few.

Any Green Drinkers?

Be sure not to miss Green Drinks – an informal monthly meeting for green drinkers to meet, chat and network. This takes place the first Monday evening of every month at one of the restaurants at 44 Stanley. Visit their website for more information and be sure to tell your friends... there are no fees!