HOMEMAKERS Cape Town May 2023

With frequent power outages due to loadshedding and the constant rise in the cost of electricity, life often gets dark and expensive. We offer a turn-key solution to your energy supply issue that will save you time and money. Our team of professionals will be with you every step of the way for the consultation, assessment, design and installation of your solar power system or backup system.

Teak Ipe Antique Mica Ash Sand

Tile Trends To Cash In On

Mostly boring in design, we usually do not even notice tiles, but that should never be the case in your home. The majority of tiles on display in showrooms do not always effectively showcase what beautiful looks you can create and also re-create with the perfect tile.

We discover top tile trends at the moment and how you can use them to create stylish spaces in your home.

Geometrics

We have been seeing mixed geometrics in many coffee shops and trendy delis. Bring that feeling to your home by experimenting with interesting geometric tiles in different shades, This look works well in bathrooms and kitchens. Trapezoid, rhombus and diamond-shaped tiles allow for more interesting layouts than simple grids and running bonds.

Trippy Tiles

Bright, psychedelic patterns appeal to a wide range of people. Perfect for outside areas, you can find these fun patterns in paisly, kaleidoscope and abstract patterns. Pair busy tiles with muted walls, cabinets and monochromatic decorative elements.

Large Scale

Large-scale patterns can be hard to envision if you do not see great examples on the show floor. Large scale tiles work great on walls and floors, depending on the look you are after. This year we have seen a lot of patterns inspired by plant life. Expect to see designs of palm trees, big leaves and floral inspirations.

Precious Stone

Re-create the look of fancy marble and precious and semi-precious stones with this tile trend. If you are looking for a dramatic, opulent style, this is it. Tile designers are creating looks inspired by onyx and agate, to tiles with an iridescent finish like pearls. This style is great for a feature wall, countertop or backsplash.

Couscous; Quinoa; Polenta...

I Love it when you speak foreign!

You’ve heard these words, maybe even seen them in recipes or on menus. But what are they? How do you use them, and most importantly - are they any good?

Superfood or Superfad?

Couscous

(Basically a pasta made from semolina wheat flour and water)

North African / Mediterranean / Middle Eastern

Not necessarily classified as a superfood, bite for bite couscous does have a higher nutritional value than white rice, but a similar calorie value - so add it to your pantry as a healthier substitute for white rice or pasta...particularly if you choose wholewheat couscous.

Polenta

(Basically “pap” made from course maize meal)

Italian / Mediterranean

Even though it’s not technically a superfood, polenta still has health benefits. It’s a good source of Beta-carotene and antioxidants, while also being pretty high in fibre and protein.

Polenta has a final magic trick up its sleeve, it makes a truly delicious cake.

Quinoa

(Seeds from a flowering plant, pronounced Keen-wa)

South and Central American

Cooking time comparison

Couscous beats out all the others. Want couscous? Measure out the dry granules, add boiling water and a pinch of salt, and...wait. That’s it. A couple of minutes later stir through some butter with a fork and voila - You have cooked Couscous.

Polenta needs to be boiled, much like mieliepap, depending on the texture you want.

Quinoa is slightly more fiddle - requiring you to rinse, measure and simmer for about 15 minutes. But hey - it IS a superfood after all!

A true superfood! Packed with fibre, protein and a whole host of other vitamins and minerals in higher quantities than most other grains, quinoa is an extremely healthy option for anyone who wants to get the most out of their meals.