Bella Ikhaya

It's been almost a year since we took occupancy in our house here in South Africa and I'm embarrassed to admit that until now I have done little or nothing to improve it's appearance. Whilst it's not hideously inhabitable it has little or no character and built sometime in the 60's or 70's, with little improvement being done since, parts are falling to pieces.

I'm never one to shy away from DIY projects with a whole room in the house dedicated to my obsession. It's referred to as my art studio but these days could pass more as a dumping ground of old furniture, PVC pipes, canvases and wood for all the brilliant ideas for refurbishment and design I have in my head which I haven't yet had time to start or finish. 

And so my project begins....

I got to spend two hours this morning in Mica Hardware. I know SO many girls who would be jealous of this!

I was lost between aisles of tools, gadgets, door knobs, wood, decorative moulding, paint swabs and varnishing. Asked at least eight times If I needed help maybe I don't quite fit the part yet but I was in heaven. Seriously. 

I came away with a renewed bought of enthusiasm and have finally decided that I am going to tackle this house, one room at a time. I also came away with a Bosch PSM 160 A Orbital Multi-sander which I cannot wait to get out the box!

In my efforts to document my designs and ideas to inspire others, and share my knowledge and experience of renovating and refurbishing in South Africa I have started this page. One thing I noticed when moving to Johannesburg almost 11 months ago is the lack of availability or accessibility to information or advice when it came to home ownership, renovation and repair. There is little or no point trying to google things here and most 'yellow pages' date back to who knows when. I think mine is even a slightly yellow green colour now.  I found it's a case of who you know who knows someone who might know someone. A fat lot of help if you know someone  but for myself - with my limited 'friend' base I have struggled. 

For information on products, where to shop and reviews please see my ' I recommend' page. For a list of suppliers and services available in the JHB area please see the ' Stockists' page. 

For updates on my house and DIY projects have a look at the 'Mi Casa' and 'Projects' tab. 

I always think if only I knew then what I know now. If you're a new expat to JHB or even just a new homeowner looking for information (or inspiration) on what to do, I hope this help. 

Caroline .x