What makes a house feel South African?

From braai areas and stoep living to security and space for entertaining, property experts look at some of the features that make a house feel like home in this beautiful country.

As Heritage Day approaches, we’re celebrating the things that make Mzansi feel like home. From our food and music to our unmistakable sayings, our country has plenty that makes it unique. But in a nation as diverse as ours, are there certain features that make a house feel distinctly South African? Let’s look at some things that can make a home feel a little more lekker.

According to REMAX SA, while the features that South African buyers value the most will differ from person to person, what makes a home South African isn’t really about a specific architectural style or décor choice; it’s about how we live in our homes. For many South Africans, that means having somewhere to gather, entertain, spend time outdoors and feel safe.

Entertaining

With Heritage Day often affectionally referred to as “National Braai Day,” the most obvious place to start is a braai area. Whether it’s a built-in braai, outdoor entertainment area or just having enough patio space for a Weber (let’s not even get into the charcoal, wood, or gas debate), entertaining around the braai is a big part of how many South Africans use their homes. It’s also why a good braai area can be such an appealing feature when buyers are searching for their future home.

Entertaining, however, extends beyond just the braai area. Features such as open-plan kitchens, dining areas, patios and entertainment rooms all speak to the importance of having somewhere for friends and family to gather. For buyers who enjoy hosting, these spaces can influence how they assess a property, with the flow between the kitchen, living and outdoor areas often being an important decision factor.

Security

A reality for many South Africans is the importance of security, and when it comes to their homes, this is a big priority. Buyers are increasingly appreciating features that offer peace of mind without compromising the look or enjoyment of the property, making features like access-controlled estates, electric fencing, alarms, cameras, beams, and secure parking, an important consideration.

Gardens

Lastly, in a country known for its beautiful weather, outdoor space can be another sought-after feature. In addition to a home’s appearance, gardens can act as an extension of the living place, whether it is where the kids play, Mom grows her veggie garden, or Pa relaxes with a cold drink after a long day.

REMAX SA concludes that there’s no single definition of a South African home, just as there is no single South African way of life. Our homes reflect the different cultures, communities and lifestyles that make up our amazing country. Yet, as the saying “Eendrag maak mag” goes, there is strength in unity, and perhaps what makes a home truly South African is the way we can come together to create something distinctly Mzansi.

Issued by Kesia Cloete