House envy

Whenever I walk into his house, I turn a bit green. And it actually suits the beautiful colours you'll find in this place. My talented friend Pieter hosted his birthday party last weekend and as usual, I was in awe of 1) the food and 2) his lovely house. I love how he is not afraid of bright, bold colours and how his sentimental objects become a part of the quirky playfulness of the decor. He lives in a charming old house in Capital Park.

Yum

If you want Feesh and Cheeps like in the good old days, you should go to Toni's Fish & Chips in Pierneef street. We went on a mission on Friday night to stuff our faces with as much cholesterol-inducing substances as possible. But boy, it was goooood! The fish literally melts in your mouth. The chips are big and wholesome and just perfectly fried. They also acquired a liquor license if you want to wash it all down with a beer. They serve the food in the wrapping paper on your table. I would recommend that you also get the home-made mayonnaise - divine!  Be warned, the place gets packed on a Friday night.

A visit

I had the opportunity to visit the Department of Architecture at the University of the Free State this week. Their new building has recently been completed and all of a sudden I wish I was a student again. The architects, Typology Architects (no website yet), managed to achieve an amazing result: within budget and way before the estimated completion time. They essentially added a mezzanine floor and new roof structure to the existing building. The studio space now gets amazing natural light and ventilation and the spaces are utilized much more efficiently. Here are a few snapshots.

Thoughts for the week ahead

November is a tough month. It's the crazy season. In our industry this is the month where we need to cram in as much as possible before we go on our much-needed December break. Because yes - the world will come to an end when architects go on leave (slight hint of sarcasm). So, here are 33 thoughts, just to get us through the last bit. Found at A note on design.

Vintage Design Fair @+27Cafe

Oooh, the Vintage Design Fair is on right now. I'm so glad I went, it was one of the best ways to begin a Saturday. The people are friendly, the merchandise is inspiring, the music is beautiful and the coffee is great. Here are a few glimpses, but you should go - it's local, it's Pretoria, it's pretty. It's still on tomorrow between 9am and 2pm.

Modeontwerpers

This guy here is called Vanmerwe and he is a very talented musician. Go see him whenever you can. Love his folky style.

My loot: Pretty wooden heart earrings from i feel_________

A wooden heart from Mill'k

And some ribbon from the fair itself.

A gift

My husband. The carpenter, the Scrabble player, the jewelry maker. He made this for me today - a Scrabble brooch. Loving it!