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BLUE HILLS | SEPTEMBER 2018

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1 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18<br />

Magazine<br />

YOUR UNIQUE LIFESTYLE<br />

September <strong>2018</strong> | Issue 5


contents<br />

<strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> <strong>2018</strong><br />

04 IMPORTANT CONTACT DETAILS<br />

05 FROM THE ESTATE MANAGER<br />

07 FAREWELL TO PERCY<br />

09 UPCOMING EVENTS<br />

10 SALES UPDATE<br />

13 IDEAS TO CREATE A STATEMENT STAIRWAY<br />

17 SECURITY UPDATE<br />

19 ESTATE MAXIMUM SPEED<br />

22 BUILDING TIMELINE<br />

23 TROPICAL SPRING PARTY<br />

26 IT IS TIME TO PLANT YOUR HERBS<br />

29 REASONS TO BUY ORIGINAL FINE ART<br />

31 AGM MEETING<br />

32 WATER AT MOPANE ROAD<br />

33 BEAUTIFUL LIVING SPACES<br />

37 GLOBAL TRENDS<br />

39 CHRISTMAS IN JULY<br />

3 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


Publisher: K-Studio (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Blue Hills<br />

Advertising Sales: tobia@k-studio.co.za<br />

sales2@k-studio.co.za<br />

Editor: Tobia von Zwietring | Chantel du Plooy<br />

Design & Layout: K-Studio (Pty) Ltd<br />

e tobia@k-studio.co.za t 082 962 8255<br />

f KreatiefStudio<br />

IMPORTANT<br />

CONTACT<br />

DETAILS<br />

ESTATE MANAGER<br />

Percy Manenzhe 083 512 2005<br />

SALES MANAGER<br />

Musi Motsuenyane<br />

082 806 1735 / musi@century.co.za<br />

SECURITY SITE MANAGER<br />

076 771 9082/ 061 704 0111<br />

Bluehills@thompsec.co.za<br />

EMERGENCY<br />

Eskom 086 0037 566<br />

JHB Water 0860 562 874<br />

Police 10111<br />

Ambulance 10177<br />

SPCA 011 265 9935<br />

SNAKE CATCHER<br />

Mike 083 448 8854<br />

<strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong><br />

EQUESTRIAN ESTATE<br />

MANAGEMENT BODY<br />

The Blue Hills Equestrian Estate management body<br />

has been developed to ensure that should you<br />

have a query or wish to address anything on the<br />

Estate, we have a team of individuals you can refer<br />

your concerns to. This committee goes beyond our<br />

monthly Directors’ Meetings, and is instead aimed<br />

at ensuring that the running of this Estate is handled<br />

with all due care.<br />

THE BOARD IS MADE UP OF:<br />

• Nick Crow, Century<br />

• Ugen Govender<br />

• Joel Mokgohlwa<br />

• Caesar Mtetwa<br />

• Kanyane Mathibe<br />

THE COMMITTEE IS SUPPORTED BY<br />

TRAFALGAR WHO ARE REPRESENTED BY:<br />

• Michael Schaefer / Director of Trafalgar<br />

• Shahiem Carr / Director of Trafalgar<br />

• Ella Louw / Estate Portfolio Manager<br />

• Percy Manenzhe / Estate Manager<br />

• Head office support Birdhaven<br />

Should you wish to be involved and have a spare<br />

couple of available hours per month, please<br />

contact Percy and he can put you in contact with<br />

the relevant Committee Heads.<br />

4<br />

Disclaimer: This Newsletter is produced especially for residents/owners of Blue Hills Estate to provide updates and useful information. It is produced by K-Studio on behalf of Blue Hills Estate HOA.<br />

Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of content, Blue Hills Estate HOA and/or the Publisher, cannot be held liable for any inaccurate information, and may not agree with all opinions<br />

expressed in this publication.


From The<br />

ESTATE NEWS<br />

Estate Manager’s Desk<br />

Dear Owners,<br />

Welcome to our newsletter which is packed with<br />

tips and ideas as well as information regarding<br />

the activities in the Estate.<br />

Over the past 17 months,Blue Hills Equestrian<br />

Estate has seen progress on a lot of fronts, thanks to<br />

the partnership of the Home Owners Association<br />

board and Trafalgar Property Management for<br />

contributing towards the success of the Estate to<br />

date.<br />

The progress on the sale of the stands on the Estate<br />

has been tremendously encouraging. Despite the<br />

economy of the country showing limited growth,<br />

sales on the Estate continue to increase at a steady<br />

rate. The progress on the sale of the stands on<br />

the estate has been tremendously encouraging.<br />

Despite the economy of the country showing limited<br />

growth, sales on the estate continue to increase<br />

at a steady rate. As of July <strong>2018</strong>, 97 of the 128<br />

stands have been transferred with a further 6 in<br />

the process of being transferred. This leaves only<br />

29 (22%) stands that are still available for sale. In<br />

2017, 16 homes commenced with construction.<br />

There are currently 11 completed homes and a<br />

further 26 under construction.<br />

We look forward to many new owners<br />

moving into the Estate in the next 12<br />

months which will further entrench<br />

the high value of all properties on the<br />

Estate<br />

With the last bit of winter air still around, kick back<br />

with a cup of coffee a cosy blanket and sink into<br />

the pages of this issue. I would like to encourage<br />

members to give us their feedback with regards<br />

to the newsletter and activities within the HOA, to<br />

ensure we meet everyone’s expectations.<br />

We would like to encourage you as homeowner<br />

to be involved as a community and take part in all<br />

the fun activities, therefore we are launching our<br />

first competition and planning to have something<br />

exciting in issues to come. Read through the<br />

publication to be sure you don’t miss out!<br />

Feel free to write your comments or share your<br />

news with our new community by e-mailing:<br />

percym@trafalgar.co.za<br />

Percy Manenzhe<br />

5 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


6 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


Percy<br />

A FAREWELL TO<br />

Manenzhe<br />

"Life is meant for spectacular adventures. Let<br />

your feet wander, your eyes marvel, and your<br />

soul ignite."<br />

We regretfully annoucne the resignation of our Estate Manager Percy Manenzhe, he will be<br />

leaving end of August. We will miss you, but realize that exciting opportunities and challenges<br />

await you. It has been an honour to have you as our Estate Manger for the past few years. We have<br />

all benefited from your wit and wisdom and wish you every success on your career path.<br />

7 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


8 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS SPRING<br />

Red Bull Cart Race <strong>2018</strong><br />

16th of September<br />

The Red Bull Box Cart Race is a<br />

global event for fearless, fun-loving<br />

and foolhardy amateur drivers<br />

racing soapbox carts.<br />

The handmade racing machines<br />

are non-motorised and teams are<br />

judged for their speed, creativity,<br />

and showmanship.<br />

www.soapboxrace.redbull.com<br />

The Soweto Wine Festival<br />

1 to 2 September<br />

Over 100 South African wineries<br />

come together for over 6 000 wine<br />

lovers to taste from the available<br />

wines.<br />

Venue: University of Johannesburg<br />

Soweto Campus, Chris Hani Rd,<br />

Power Park, Pimville, Soweto<br />

www.uj.ac.za<br />

9 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18<br />

FNB Joburg 10K CITYRUN<br />

24 September<br />

The annual FNB Joburg 10K<br />

CITYRUN features a path alongside<br />

a 10km route for guests to compete<br />

on or just run for fun.<br />

Venue: Mary Fitzgerald Square,<br />

Newtown<br />

Time: 8am<br />

Cost: R170 – R850<br />

Book tickets<br />

Jeremy Loops in the Garden<br />

8 September<br />

Kicking off the first-ever Sunburn<br />

and Wonder event, the Pretoria<br />

National Botanical Gardens<br />

transform into a playground, as<br />

Jeremy Loops and a host of other<br />

bands take to the stage for a live<br />

event for the whole family.<br />

Book tickets


ESTATE NEWS<br />

UPCOMING EVENTS<br />

Blue Hills Estate represents the ultimate in country living, included<br />

in this lifestyle is the numerous events that play host to residents<br />

and their guests.<br />

We will be hosting an<br />

exciting colour ride and<br />

run for the kids in spring<br />

so time to get fit and join<br />

in the fun!<br />

10 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> JULY '18 '18


ESTATE NEWS<br />

SALES<br />

UPDATE<br />

If you have been looking at<br />

investing at Blue Hills Estate or<br />

know somebody who has, now is<br />

the right time as property sales are<br />

extremely strong.<br />

The long-term value of the Estate is set to make it an unprecedented<br />

investment. Contact us now to experience this wonderful Estate which<br />

is On Show daily 9am-5pm.<br />

Contact Musi now on 082 806 1735 or musi@century.co.za for more<br />

information or to arrange a viewing of these new stands. This is your<br />

opportunity to build your dream family home in this incredible Estate!<br />

11 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


12 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


Ideas to<br />

create<br />

a statement stairway<br />

13 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


LIFESTYLE & DÉCOR<br />

A<br />

stairway is not just a flight<br />

of steps leading to the<br />

next level of your home.<br />

At least, it can be so much more.<br />

Even if it is narrow, it is a space<br />

you pass through frequently, so<br />

make more of it. Utilise the area<br />

with some clever design and<br />

décor tips and tricks that are not<br />

only fun but cost-effective too.<br />

Stairs<br />

Paint: Paint the step risers a striking colour,<br />

or better yet, paint each step riser a different<br />

colour. Ombré steps are trending at the<br />

moment.<br />

Tiles: Mosaic and other decorative tiles are<br />

ideal on step risers. They can give your home a<br />

European feel and complement your staircase.<br />

Runner: A staircase runner is a great way to<br />

bring some warmth and character into your<br />

home. And, because you’re not committing to<br />

any fixtures, you can change it up whenever<br />

you like.<br />

Pot plants: If you have a wide enough stairway,<br />

adding a pot plant to every second step is a<br />

great way to make a statement.<br />

Walls<br />

Hanging pot plants: With kids or pets in the<br />

house, pot plants placed on the staircase could<br />

become somewhat of a hazard. But if you<br />

are keen to bring nature into your stairway,<br />

try hanging pot plants against the wall.<br />

Alternatively, add a few floating shelves and<br />

add pot plants on top.<br />

Wall treatment: The simplest way to make<br />

an impact on your staircase is through a wall<br />

treatment. There are many options to consider,<br />

including:<br />

Painting it a solid colour, opting for two or<br />

more colours, or painting patterns etc.<br />

o Giving it an exposed brick look.<br />

o Adding wood panels.<br />

o Tiling your walls.<br />

o Using wall moulding.<br />

Walk-through gallery: Use your stairway as<br />

a walk-through gallery where you showcase<br />

things that tell a story about you i.e. a gallery<br />

of family portraits, art pieces, travel souvenirs,<br />

vintage or music instrument collectables.<br />

Bookshelves: A very clever and beautiful way to<br />

utilise unused space on your stairway walls are<br />

by adding shelves for your collection of books.<br />

They will be easy accessible, yet out of the way.<br />

14 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


LIFESTYLE & DÉCOR<br />

Landing<br />

Bold, statement art: Use this space to showcase<br />

a striking piece, or pieces of art. Like a big,<br />

bold painting or several smaller pieces of art,<br />

sculptures or decorative wall art.<br />

Quiet nook: If you have the space for it, the<br />

staircase landing is a good place to create a nook<br />

with a chair, small couch etc. with some reading<br />

material and complementary décor.<br />

Chandelier: Striking lighting can not only create<br />

a wonderful look but also set the mood you want<br />

for your landing.<br />

Table décor: Add a beautiful table (it doesn’t have<br />

to be big) with stunning décor items. Absolutely<br />

anything can work here i.e. plants, copper,<br />

porcelain, a striking glass vase with a single King<br />

Protea...<br />

15 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18<br />

Photo Credit: Pinterest


16 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


ESTATE NEWS<br />

SECURITY UPDATE<br />

Once an owner resides in the<br />

Estate, he/she can register on the<br />

“Click-On” system in order for their<br />

visitors to gain access to Blue Hills<br />

Equestrian Estate.<br />

We reiterate importantly:<br />

Residents of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate<br />

who are interested in getting panic<br />

buttons, which will be linked to the<br />

reaction officer’s vehicle and the control<br />

room, may contact Percy or the Security<br />

Manager for arrangement of installation<br />

at their homes.<br />

If ever you are travelling home to Blue<br />

Hills and you feel unsafe & suspect that<br />

you are being followed, Thompson’s<br />

security have offered to meet you<br />

at a safe collection point to escort<br />

homeowners to the Estate. This option is<br />

only available from two spots. The Cnr<br />

of R55 & Summit road/Olifantsfontein<br />

and from the robots at Crowthorne<br />

shopping centre.<br />

Thompson’s site security manager can<br />

be contacted on 071 230 1627 (Joe<br />

Williams) & 076 771 9082 (Reaction<br />

officer) to have your own personal Alarm<br />

system & panic buttons installed for rapid<br />

response by the on-site armed reaction<br />

officer.<br />

Owners are welcome to contact Percy to<br />

arrange to have their fingerprints loaded<br />

to the access system for easier access<br />

into the Estate.<br />

The Estate has installed a state<br />

of the art thermal CCTV system,<br />

which is monitored by Thompson’s<br />

24/7/365. Cameras have been<br />

strategically placed around the<br />

Estate to monitor and report<br />

on any transgressions. Thermal<br />

cameras have been placed along<br />

the wetland area separating<br />

Blue Hills Equestrian Estate from<br />

Blue Hills Country Estate and<br />

these will assist in alerting any<br />

transgressions in this area.<br />

17 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


I’ll tailor the holiday of your dreams<br />

TAMARIN SEYMOUR<br />

Travel Counsellor<br />

082 877 3603<br />

tamarin.seymour@travelcounsellors.co.za<br />

www.travelcounsellors.co.za/tamarin.seymour


ESTATE NEWS<br />

The Estate's<br />

MAXIMUM<br />

speed limit.<br />

The speed limit is 30Km/h in the Estate.<br />

We don’t have stopstreets in the Estate yet but the HOA<br />

is looking at installation of road signs/speed signs<br />

throughout the Estate, please ensure that you drive as<br />

safe as possible.<br />

There are children walking and riding their bikes to<br />

school please ensure that you keep to the speed limit.<br />

19 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


20 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


21 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


ESTATE NEWS<br />

BUILDING<br />

Timeline<br />

The Board urges all homeowners to begin<br />

submitting and finalising their building<br />

plans to ensure they abide by the rules and<br />

regulations and avoid being penalised.<br />

homeowners have been given 24 months<br />

to commence building from date of<br />

transfer of stand, therefore all home<br />

owners need to adhere to this in order to<br />

avoid penalties from being incurred.<br />

22 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


LIFESTYLE & DÉCOR<br />

tropical<br />

spring party<br />

It's that time of year again...new beginnings, sunshine,<br />

laughter, braais with friends & family, swimming<br />

pool fun and bright happy colours! SPRING HAS<br />

ARRIVED, and I am overjoyed! Winter was too long, so<br />

let's shake it off, and celebrate with a fun filled tropical<br />

paradise party to get Summer going!<br />

Pinterest<br />

23 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


I adore natural tones and textures,<br />

and even more so when I can combine<br />

them with something fun and vibrant.<br />

So for this celebration, don't be afraid<br />

to mix and match a little. Create some<br />

interest with different textures and try<br />

keep the tones all complementary.<br />

Here I have mixed some natural<br />

earthy tones, with the leafy greens of<br />

a tropical paradise and then included<br />

bold brushed metal cutlery and<br />

coasters to complete the table.<br />

The glassware has a special touch<br />

with its gold rim and ties the entire<br />

combination of your set up together<br />

nicely. If you use a vibrant printed<br />

tablecloth, keep your napkins plain<br />

and simple so you don't overwhelm<br />

the eye. But if you are using a neutral<br />

table covering, go wild with the<br />

napkins to create an interesting focal<br />

point.<br />

We are going tropical and earthy<br />

here, so instead of using napkin rings,<br />

tie your napkins with a long leaf or<br />

even some twine! And don't forget a<br />

centrepiece. Use simple arrangements<br />

of natural leaves or even cream roses.<br />

Keep it minimal and you'll stay in tune<br />

with the flow of your table.<br />

So now you have a natural<br />

earthy scene with a touch of<br />

elegance. Nothing better than<br />

that!<br />

Sunshine and poolside fun calls for<br />

a meze of interesting goodies to pick<br />

and nibble on as the laughter and<br />

chatter keeps everyone entertained for<br />

hours. I like to place a long wooden<br />

board down the entire length of<br />

my table and fill it with interesting<br />

goodies. Cheeses, cold meats, fruit,<br />

crackers and interesting breads, pâtés,<br />

finger snacks, veggies and dips. With a<br />

large variety to pick on every guest will<br />

find something they love. Throw some<br />

edible flowers in the mix and you<br />

are sure to have a spectacular colour<br />

explosion that will entice all.<br />

I wish you the bests Springtime yet,!<br />

See you next month!<br />

Yours in style & design,<br />

Lee xox<br />

LIFESTYLE & DÉCOR<br />

24 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


25 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


HEALTH & WELLNESS<br />

It’s time to plant your<br />

herbs<br />

Herbs are so versatile. Chances are if you shop at Checkers<br />

you have stacks of seeds waiting to be planted. With<br />

planting season starting in August, we think it could be a<br />

good idea to get started on your herb garden this month.<br />

It could be a fun family activity for you and the kids.<br />

26 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


HEALTH & WELLNESS<br />

Reasons to plant your<br />

own herbs:<br />

It saves money: With herbs growing<br />

lusciously in your own little herb garden,<br />

you will have access to free herbs most of<br />

the year.<br />

It’s healthy: Herbs add flavour and are<br />

packed with vitamins. Having it available<br />

in your garden allows you to use it more in<br />

your cooking. Plus, the time spent outside,<br />

nurturing your herbs is also good for your<br />

mental health.<br />

It’s beautiful: Herbs are not only<br />

nutritious but attractive to look at too.<br />

Wherever you choose to create your herb<br />

garden, it will add to your curb appeal.<br />

Ideas for leftover herbs<br />

If you’ve cut off more than you need, or if you<br />

need to prune your plants, try this with the<br />

leftovers:<br />

• Wrap it in a moist kitchen towel and place<br />

inside a ziplock bag/airtight container and store<br />

inside the fridge.<br />

• Clean and cut your herbs, place them<br />

inside empty ice cube containers and fill with<br />

olive oil. Freeze and once frozen add the cubes<br />

into ziplock bags and keep them frozen. Simply<br />

add a block to your dishes when cooking.<br />

• Create your own herb-infused oil. Heat oil<br />

and the herb of choice in a pot on the lowest<br />

setting on your stove. Let it go for a while,<br />

strain and pour into a bottle with a lid. Store<br />

your infused oil in the fridge.<br />

Tip: Any of the above will make<br />

a great “gift” for family and<br />

friends.<br />

Planting tips<br />

Choose a semi-sheltered, sunny (4-7 hours of<br />

direct sunlight), non-windy spot.<br />

Plant your herbs in containers that drain well<br />

(drainage is key) using fertile potting soil.<br />

Water regularly the first two weeks, and<br />

thereafter only when the first 2 cm of the pot is<br />

dry to the touch.<br />

• Prune regularly.<br />

• During August – April fertilise monthly.<br />

• Mulch once a year.<br />

• Repot annually.<br />

• If you have pests, use organic pesticide.<br />

27 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


HEALTH & WELLNESS<br />

Recycled herb “pot” ideas<br />

You don’t have to start out big or make a large<br />

investment at first. Instead, test your skills with<br />

these recycled “pot” ideas:<br />

• A shoe organiser<br />

• Empty tins<br />

• Pellet wood<br />

• Gutters<br />

Photo Credit: Pinterest<br />

28 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


LIFESTYLE & DÉCOR<br />

REASONS TO BUY<br />

original fine art<br />

Decorating a home is an exciting and on-going project and<br />

choosing the right wall hanging to complement your space and<br />

style is perhaps one of the most thrilling of the process.<br />

29 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


While there is a time and place for limited edition<br />

and fine art prints, it is always a good idea to<br />

look at buying original first, and here’s why:<br />

1. It doesn’t have to cost a small fortune – It is<br />

a misconception that only very expensive artworks by well-know<br />

artist are worth investing in. As the popular saying goes, “Beauty is<br />

in the eye of the beholder”, and so also is art. Browse the internet, flea<br />

markets, art fairs etc. for paintings by up and coming artists that you<br />

adore.<br />

LIFESTYLE & DÉCOR<br />

2. You’ll be supporting an artist’s livelihood – Imagine how boring the<br />

world would have been if everyone worked in the same industry. The<br />

creative industry is extremely undervalued and artists need support<br />

from the community to continue doing what they do.<br />

3. It’s unique – With the vast amount of things that are massproduced,<br />

it is nice to know you own something unique and one-ofa-kind.<br />

It makes it even more valuable.<br />

4. Inspire conversation and thought – Original fine artworks convey<br />

a unique story. Not only the story the artist aimed to tell (and how<br />

others interpret it), but also the story of how you came to acquire the<br />

painting.<br />

5. It is an investment – Original fine artworks become more valuable<br />

as time goes by. While this shouldn’t be your main outlook when<br />

looking to decorate a wall with art, it is definitely nice to know.<br />

30 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18<br />

Pinterest


ESTATE NEWS<br />

AGM<br />

MEET<br />

ING<br />

The HOA has set a date for the AGM to be on the 12th September<br />

<strong>2018</strong>, at Reddford house school auditorium.<br />

It would be great to see you all there.<br />

DATE<br />

31 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


ESTATE NEWS<br />

WATER AT MOPANE RD<br />

We would like to inform you that Century are currently<br />

undertaking a water reticulation project to supply grey water<br />

to the Landscaping done at the front entrance of the Estate.<br />

This exercise will take some time as they are planning to extract waste water from<br />

the sewage water treatment plant to supply our entrance. The cool seasons grasses<br />

has experienced some strain and will die but there is a plan to replace the dead<br />

grass. We ask that you be patient during this process.<br />

32 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


BEAUTIFUL<br />

LIVING<br />

SPACES<br />

Article written by Studious Architects<br />

33 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


Make provision for Northern sunlight to<br />

enter the building.<br />

Have you ever stayed in a hotel and<br />

noticed the difference between the south<br />

and north facing rooms? The north facing<br />

rooms, generally, have a comfortable<br />

climate, whereas the south facing rooms<br />

are generally colder.<br />

As winter is finally turning into spring, we at<br />

Studious Aesthetics are working harder than ever<br />

to assist the Estate Management, homeowners and<br />

their architects in making Blue Hills the benchmark<br />

for future residential developments.<br />

34 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18<br />

Herewith some basic tips:<br />

We as Studious Aesthetics have made it our<br />

mission to enhance and protect the value<br />

of the Estate and the investment that every<br />

homeowner has made.<br />

It is, therefore, my privilege to share some<br />

insight and experience on the proses of<br />

building your dream home In Blue Hills.<br />

Having recently completed the construction<br />

of my own home, and after living there for<br />

a few months, I have further developed my<br />

understanding on internal climate control<br />

and how it is primarily affected by some<br />

basic architectural principles.<br />

It is of utmost importance that your living<br />

areas and bedrooms are orientated to face<br />

north, or slightly east of north.<br />

It is a common misconception that<br />

northern orientation is required to bring<br />

light into a building. Although this is also<br />

true, it should be noted that the primary<br />

reason for the northern orientation of<br />

living areas, is to allow direct sunlight to<br />

penetrate the interior of the house, heat the<br />

floor and radiate heat into these areas that<br />

are most frequently used.<br />

The concept of proper northern exposure<br />

should be kept in mind when considering<br />

the addition of a new patio or planting<br />

large trees that could cause overshadowing<br />

of northern windows.


ARCHITECTURE<br />

Windows are<br />

the eyes of<br />

the building.<br />

Design and plan windows carefully<br />

The lens in the human eye is protected from<br />

the sun by eye lashes and eye brows and set<br />

back into your eye socket.<br />

In the same way the windows of a building<br />

should be protected from over exposure.<br />

Overhangs above windows or glass doors<br />

should be carefully calculated and designed<br />

to allow winter sunlight into the building but<br />

keep harsh summer sunlight out.<br />

A good rule of thumb is that overhangs above<br />

large north facing windows or doors should<br />

protrude by a distance approximately 1,4 times<br />

the height of the window.<br />

35 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


Make use of performance glass.<br />

Cross ventilation<br />

ARCHITECTURE<br />

In recent years, the technology<br />

around glass has improved<br />

greatly. Many different options<br />

are available on the market that<br />

allows you to create spaces that<br />

feel more open toward the garden<br />

area. Your architect is qualified to<br />

calculate the specific requirement<br />

for performance glass in the<br />

building. Please take note that<br />

some performance glass has a dark<br />

tint or a reflective appearance,<br />

which is not allowed in the Estate.<br />

Avoid unsightly and expensive air conditioning units by<br />

allowing the building to breathe naturally.<br />

The most effective way to regulate thermal comfort in<br />

your house is by means of well planned and executed cross<br />

ventilation. Make sure that your architect allows for openable<br />

windows on two sides of a room to ensure a sufficient level<br />

of air changes.<br />

Window positions can be cleverly designed to bring cool<br />

air into the building on a low level from the southern side<br />

and expel air on a higher level on the north.<br />

For more tips on thermal comfort and sustainable housing guidelines,<br />

please visit our website at: www.studiousaesthetics.co.za.<br />

Insulate concrete slabs.<br />

It is required by law to insulate all concrete roof slabs. The thickness of the<br />

polystyrene is usually calculated to be 90mm thick and placed on top of the<br />

concrete slab before the screed is laid over.<br />

The addition of a 50 mm thick layer of stone pebbles over the waterproofing,<br />

as required by the Estate, will also contribute to the insulative qualities of the<br />

building envelope.<br />

Proper installation of insulative materials makes a substantial difference in the<br />

internal comfort of a room, especially at night, when uninsulated roofs radiate<br />

too much latent heat into a room.<br />

36 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


CONSTRUCTION<br />

global trends<br />

shaping the local residential<br />

construction industry<br />

37 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18<br />

written by HLP Construction


CONSTRUCTION<br />

We are all part of the global village, and now, more<br />

than ever, it is changing the way we build our homes.<br />

These trending technologies are right on our doorstep:<br />

Going Green<br />

This trend has now moved past its infancy stage and has<br />

created a growing awareness amongst home owners that this<br />

is the route to go. Life at the southern-most point in Africa is<br />

shadowed by issues relating to electricity supply and security,<br />

the quality and supply of water, as well as the reduction of<br />

waste. Home owners need to seriously contemplate the<br />

advantages that building a resource-efficient building will<br />

bring.<br />

On the practical side of things, homes should be designed<br />

to optimise the use of natural lighting, as well as adding<br />

adequate facilities for waste recycling and management.<br />

Other options to consider are:<br />

• Install water-efficient devices such as low-flush toilets.<br />

• Landscapers can incorporate waterwise plants and shrubs,<br />

and rainwater harvested for irrigation.<br />

• Heat pumps could be used to heat geysers.<br />

Admittedly, the initial cost could be a bit pricey, but<br />

benefits such as being “off the grid”, and creating a healthier<br />

environment for people and a less damaging impact on our<br />

planet, certainly makes it worthwhile.<br />

Drones<br />

Drones are being used more and more on residential<br />

construction sites than ever before.<br />

Drone photography from various angles can be used to create<br />

a 3D image of the property. This can be used to update a client<br />

on progress, in a visual manner, irrespective of whether the<br />

client is at the contractor’s office or on the other side of the<br />

world.<br />

For the contractor, on the other hand, site inspections can<br />

be done far easier than before, by providing quick access to<br />

areas that are difficult to come by. Photographs and video<br />

footage of possible problem areas can be discussed and<br />

analysed afterwards if need be.<br />

Building Information Modelling<br />

Also known as BIM, it can be defined as a technology that<br />

produces an accurate and exact digital representation of a<br />

building in 3D. The precision with which BIM operates, is<br />

the key to its success.<br />

Implementing BIM could have the following benefits for all<br />

parties involved:<br />

• Design flaws (such as a window intersecting with a roof<br />

line) and variation orders can be reduced considerably,<br />

as changes to the design could be made during the initial<br />

stages.<br />

• Construction cost are estimated more precisely, minimising<br />

the chance of overbuying of material.<br />

In general, BIM increases effectiveness and collaboration<br />

like no other tool.<br />

Virtual Reality<br />

Virtual Reality (VR) initially saw the light as a tool for the<br />

computer gaming industry. Now VR has moved outside the<br />

gaming world and is being implemented in many different<br />

industries for various reasons and benefits. Virtual reality is<br />

defined as a digital constructed reality, which resembles real<br />

life.<br />

3D modelling and BIM programs can overcome their lack<br />

of depth, by being adapted to VR tools, whereby creating a<br />

fully virtual representation in a new dimension at a relatively<br />

low cost.<br />

VR users can see a 3D display through a headset which<br />

allows for an “all-round” view with navigation within the<br />

interior space of their soon-to-be-built home. Home owners<br />

therefore experience the space and may make changes during<br />

the design phase, rather than during construction, which<br />

saves time and money.<br />

The process of building a home can now be more rewarding<br />

and pleasant than ever before, to the home owner as well as<br />

the contractor, as the residential construction industry in<br />

South Africa is changing right before our eyes – literally.<br />

for more information visit<br />

38 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18<br />

info@hlp-construction.co.za | www.hlp-construction.co.za


ESTATE NEWS<br />

A winter<br />

wonderland<br />

comes to<br />

Gauteng as<br />

Century hosts<br />

Christmas in July<br />

events<br />

Winter is supposed to be cold – but doesn't a winter<br />

wonderland in Gauteng seem a little farfetched? And it turns<br />

out that thinking Christmas only comes once a year is also<br />

completely wrong! Over four weekends in July, residents<br />

of Waterfall Estate, The Hills Estate, Blue Hills Estate and<br />

Crowthorne and Carlswald Luxury Apartments were<br />

greeted with a magical winter wonderland.<br />

The clubhouse areas of each of the estates were<br />

transformed into a Christmas snow scene with<br />

frosted white winter trees with bright red lollipops<br />

dangling in the falling snow. Children laughed<br />

with joy and delight on a white jumping castle to<br />

the tune of classic Christmas carols with free hot<br />

chocolate to shake winter's cold nip. In the artsand-crafts<br />

marquee, children decorated paper<br />

Christmas trees. In the centre of the arena was<br />

a large Christmas tree with two big gift boxes<br />

– one for animal donations and one for human<br />

donations.<br />

Whilst the Christmas in July events were free<br />

for our residents and their children, we did ask<br />

for them to donate to our nominated charities -<br />

Kitty and Puppy Haven and Yenzani Children's<br />

Home, both located in Midrand.<br />

It was Century's honour to collect and handover<br />

the 3 carloads of generous donations. On<br />

Wednesday 1 August, we visted both charities<br />

to deliver the collection of food, blankets, toys,<br />

clothing and cash. It is the residents of our various<br />

developments who are the heroes for donating<br />

so generously, THANK YOU!<br />

Kitty and Puppy Haven based in Midrand was<br />

our nominated charity to receive the animal food<br />

39 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18


ESTATE NEWS<br />

and items donated. Kitty and Puppy Haven is a prolife<br />

sanctuary started in 2000 with the sole purpose<br />

of rescuing neglected, abused and abandoned<br />

animals. Their aim is to provide the animals in<br />

their care with the best medical attention, dietary<br />

requirements and above all love and attention while<br />

they nurse them back to health before placing them<br />

in suitable, loving homes.<br />

Yenzani Children's Home was our<br />

nominated charity to receive the food<br />

items, clothes and toys we received.<br />

Yenzani is a registered children’s home,<br />

Public Benefit Organisation and<br />

Non-Profit<br />

Organisation/Company<br />

operating since 2002. They rescue<br />

children from the court system and<br />

provide a safe, loving home for them<br />

to flourish until adulthood. The home<br />

currently supports 12 children, all of<br />

whom attend school and are just the<br />

most pleasant and appreciative kids.<br />

40 <strong>BLUE</strong> <strong>HILLS</strong> <strong>SEPTEMBER</strong> '18

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