We are mindful of what we have and optimistic about what lies ahead

Focussing on the best of 2023

Reflecting on a year gone by always feels like a double-edged sword. On the one hand it is good to take a moment to think about what has happened in the last 12 months, but on the other hand you might feel like you haven’t done enough.

That is why we are simply focusing on the highlights of the past year.

The HOME highlights, to be specific. We asked some of the Homemakers team to share what stood out most to them in 2023 as well as what they were looking forward to for the next year.

Embracing home as a LIVING space.

“In 2023, transforming my living space into a cozy haven was a highlight.

Vibrant hues on my the walls, while embracing tranquillity.

I also spoiled myself with smart, energy efficient home upgrades, like my Google Nest & back-up power supply, creating a tech-savvy sanctuary.

The pièce de resistance of 2023: a sun-drenched reading nook, where all my cherished books make my home an everyday retreat.

The standout home trend of 2024 is sustainable decor. Embracing eco-friendly materials, upcycled furniture and energy-efficient/alternative power solutions, homes have become havens of conscious living, blending style and a commitment to sustainable future”.

Caryn Ellis (Media sales executive)

A Change is even Better than a holiday!

“My personal Home highlight would definitely be “Changes”. Simply ditching unhelpful ‘service providers’ gave me so much peace. (Not to mention the positive health benefits of not spending frustrating hours waiting for the operator to take my call.)

A semi-permanent trend in SA is still – energy solutions. Make life easier and keep the lights on. There are many options for back-up power. Make the sacrifice to make the change and upgrade your quality of life.

Change up colours, throw things out, declutter, donate… Re-using and re-utilising space would be my DIY / Renovation highlight for 2023”

Celeste Aweries-Isaacs (Sales Coordinator) 

Renting shouldn’t stop you from making your space your own.

“I did a room makeover this year even though I rent 😉 we took the “blue room” and we managed, with new carpet tiles, a lick of paint, and some decor to transform it into a bar and entertainment area.

My favourite décor trend this year has been, Maximalism: Vibrant & Bold.  The complete opposite of neutral and minimalism!

Bid adieu to subtle, it’s all about making a statement with bold and vibrant patterns. Maximalism encourages you to mix and match colours, prints, and textures fearlessly. Don’t be afraid of this one, it truly can be a fun time to just go for it!”

Cindy Cousins (Media Sales Executive)

Embracing an “old house” and making it a modern home.

My best move when I bought my new “Old Home” in a quite Pretoria neighbourhood was to skip the kitchen remodel (for now) and simply take the plunge to install a proper solar power system. The lights stay on, and I can always have a hot shower.

My home is on the “old” side, but I have a maintenance to do list and tick off one thing each year.

I’ve also been growing and developing my garden – I love my little green haven!

Next up I’ll be looking into water solutions and taking another step towards suburban off-grid living – Self-sufficiency will stay on trend for the foreseeable future.

Berdene Kumm (Business Development Manager) 

Even small changes can make a big difference.

“I have always dreamt of enclosing our front stoep/patio. There was only a very small window, but no real liveable outdoor space. Changing this small part of our home has allowed us to enjoy sunsets and birdsong year-round!

We now use this area on a daily basis, from enjoying our morning coffee there to relaxing there after a day’s work. (Even though construction is done, and the ‘room’ is in full use, we still have to add the final touches to make it homey. It’s a work in progress.)”

Zeldra Enslin (Finance)

Use your home as a family bonding zone

After my dad passed away last year, I realised that life is short, and we need to appreciate every moment we have together, so I converted our Lapa into an entertainment area.

Blackout curtains all the way around, subtle curtain lights to enhance the atmosphere, beanbags inside with a gas braai, mini fridge and popcorn machine…Now we do either a family movie night or we have a games night where we have fun together as a family. We even have a real projector to be able to watch our movies on the “big screen”.

One of the key trends that I have picked up for 2024 is alternative ways to keep the lights and the WiFi on in your house (for those who cannot afford solar).

Sandra Gibson Gooderham (Media Sales Executive)

Even small spaces deserve love.

I live in quite a small space, so I like keeping it simple and functional. I gave my lounge some love this year. I finally tossed out the old TV unit and put my TV flush up against the wall, which gives me space for a little coffee table, and it looks great.  A few soft beige throws, to cover my grey couches, to give the place a new look and to bring in some warm tones, some lush green plants to round it off… Voila!

Looking ahead at decor trends, it has to be the revival of colour and patterns! I mean, have you seen the maximalism interior trend?!”

Stefanie Barnard (National Events Coordinator)

Never mind the monkey business!

“My veggie garden was on track until the monkeys raided it! Monkeys – 1 Veggies – 0, (pros and cons of living in KZN). I will rather try my luck with a koi pond next year😊”

Natasha Hammond (Media Sales Executive)

Who knew …?

“My personal home highlight was the day we installed an inverter, I never thought a machine can bring so much joy.”

Alicia Potgieter (Media Sales Executive)

Take a moment to find your own Home Highlights and reflect on what you have achieved. Self-love and positivity are our biggest trends for 2024!