The December–January 2026 issue of House & Garden South Africa is a celebration of summer living, festive ease, and inspired design — perfectly timed for long days, open windows, and gatherings that stretch from lunch into golden-hour dinners. This is our most joyful issue of the year, filled with ideas to help you entertain beautifully, live more slowly, and start the new year feeling inspired.
What not to Miss
Another Side of the Aegean
Greece may be well travelled, yet the Cyclades still hide low-key luxury escapes for those seeking peace. Scattered around Delos, these whitewashed islands offer variety just a ferry ride apart. On Folegandros, Gundari blends wellness, sustainability and Michelin-starred gastronomy into cliffside tranquility. Serifos hosts Perma Serifos, a secluded, adults-only sanctuary where minimalist design, private pools and mindful living meet raw landscapes. Meanwhile, Paros balances charm and sophistication at Andronis Minois, a refined retreat combining resort space with boutique intimacy, seamless service and elevated dining for effortless island living.
Midsummer Arts Dream
More than an art gallery, the Norval Foundation remains Cape Town’s must-visit cultural destination this summer. Set among the vineyards of Steenberg in the Constantia Valley, it seamlessly blends art, architecture and nature. Inside, compelling new exhibitions by Brett Murray and the late Githan Coopoo invite reflection through satire, wit and distinctly South African perspectives. Outside, the Sculpture Garden unfolds as an open-air gallery, where works by William Kentridge and Mark Swart mingle with new additions. With long summer hours, guided tours and leisurely picnics, Norval rewards both lingering visits and repeat exploration
Sacred Stones
In Woodstock’s industrial heart, sculptor Sarah Heinamann creates totemic works in stone and bronze that fuse ancient symbolism with a contemporary feminine voice. Drawing on millennia-old totem traditions, her practice explores cycles of ending and renewal, balance and transformation. From raw, physical processes in the foundry to contemplative studio refinement, her sculptures embody a dialogue between strength and delicacy. Seedpods, stones, coral and sacred geometry recur as motifs, reflecting personal transition and universal beginnings. Whether monumental or intimate in scale, Heinamann’s heart-led creations stand as powerful markers of renewal, duality and becoming.
Designing for Dualities
This Bishopscourt family home masterfully reconciles contrasting design sensibilities into a cohesive whole. Drawing on Cape Dutch revival, Victorian and contemporary influences, the newly built house honours its southern suburbs context while avoiding ultra-modern tropes. Interior designer Abi Brodie of Head Interiors balanced classic order with an artistic, slightly gritty edge through bespoke detailing softened by vintage imperfections. A consistent palette, varied flooring and tactile materials create flow, while bold tiles, sculptural lighting and meaningful custom pieces add character. The result is a layered, soulful home where structure and eccentricity coexist in effortless harmony.
From sun-soaked Cycladic escapes to Cape Town’s cultural gems and thoughtfully designed homes, this December/January issue of House & Garden South Africa is a celebration of summer, creativity, and mindful living. Whether you’re seeking travel inspiration, artistic encounters, or interior ideas to refresh your home, each feature invites you to slow down, savour the season, and embrace beauty in every detail. Let these stories guide your summer rituals, spark your imagination, and set the tone for a joyful, inspired start to the new year.
Credits
Images: Tegan Smith, Wieland Gleich, Mickey Hoyle, Supplied
These stories were originally published in the House & Garden December/January 2026 Issue
