Of the earth

This is my favourite season and time of the year. And probably also my favourite type of edition of House and Leisure to work on and compile. There’s just something so cozy about winter, and comforting about its associated colour palette and textures (sorry summer!) that translates so well into our features and stories for our winter volumes.

And this winter offering and this issue is no exception. Take a flip through these pages that follow, and you’ll catch the drift: Earthy tones, warm textures, glowing fireplaces, layered interiors. But the best part? The rugged terrain, beautiful landscapes, open views, sunset hues, and being at one with, or within, nature. The curation of the homes and spaces will undoubtedly inspire you, and hopefully some might even move you. I have a particular favourite (though I’m not allowed to confess). The donkey is your clue…

For this edition, our team has explored far and wide to gather a curation of homes and stays that are all “of the earth”, each inspired, informed and even made out of its surrounds and environment: From a wooden cabin in the Knysna woods (p166), to a stone fort beyond Plett (p144), to a retreat made out of mud in the Boland (p84) to a tented camp in the Great Karoo (p120). There’s something for every taste and touch. And of course special mention to our cover star: The showstopping sanctuary projecting straight out of the slopes of the earth (p98). You saw all of it here first.

And for something a little more down-to-earth, turn to p198 for a dreamy Karoo escape – the cutest collection of huisies. This is where you’ll find me this winter: On the stoep, next to the fireplace with my moerkoffie (and kondensmelk) in hand (or sherry), watching out over neverending views of veld, and donkeys. I think I just revealed my favourite feature. Whoops. What’s yours? 😉

If winter’s also your thing, and you missed out on our previous winter volumes (Escape, Retreat & Cocoon), head over to our website houseandleisure.co.za and order it online to complete your collection – hope you find a cozy spot for your read and nap. And see you again soon in spring for Vol 14, my next favourite season, ;p.

One last thing: Turn to p80 for a very special treat… (woof!)