2 February 2007
Johannesburg — HYDE Park is a well-maintained suburb that is conveniently close to many schools and shops, entertainment facilities and the CBCs of Sandton and Johannesburg.
It has a well-supported, proactive resident's association that has been pivotal to maintaining the character of the suburb, which is known for its large stands and peaceful atmosphere. Even with the extensive development in recent years, Hyde Park has still managed to maintain a somewhat rural atmosphere due to the large size of its properties, some of which are still zoned as agricultural holdings.
One of the residents association's success stories was the prevention of a Damelin College site in Sixth Road, but since then, city planners have announced the densification of most suburbs, including Hyde Park.
Since it is neatly located between Rosebank and Sandton, property in Hyde Park is always in demand by home owners and developers alike. The area is made up of an eclectic mix of architecture from rustic farmhouse-style homes to ultra-modern mansions. This week's showcased property is one of the finest examples of architect Michael Sutton's work.
Sutton became prominent as a domestic architect in Johannesburg during the 1960s. As a deaf architect who graduated from Wits University's school of architecture in the 1950s, he represents an important era in South African residential architecture. His signature style is a timeless architectural language with sophisticated spatial ideas.
This residence reflects his sense of balance and peace and displays the formal characteristics of the visual, climate and material. His architecture is influenced by a Mediterranean style -- the inspiration for which many assume was a result of his regular travels between SA and Greece where he lived since the early '70s. He often used rough materials and simple detailing, which is a feature of this double-storey home.
Features of the residence include four beautifully proportioned reception rooms with large picture windows and doors that look out onto a solar-heated swimming pool surrounded by tall palm trees and an established, landscaped garden.
Every room has a view created by the use of courtyards, fountains and lush foliage.
There is a ground floor family wing with three bedrooms and a separate main bedroom with an
en-suite bathroom. The staircase leads to a private lounge and a guest suite with two bedrooms.
In total, the home boasts five bedrooms, four bathrooms, four reception areas, a kitchen with a scullery and pantry, and a wine cellar. There is also a staff suite for three and garaging for four vehicles.
Sutton -- whose buildings display sensitivity to material and to the subtleties of function, space and place making -- has created a residence with clean architectural lines and a sense of simplicity that gives it an international appeal.
Hyde Park is an area that has seen rapid value growth in terms of residential properties. Pam Golding Properties, who are marketing this home, report that entry-level homes in the area can be purchased in the region of R4m, while mid-range homes are priced between R6m and R7m. The highest price of a home sold to date is R33m.
The Knowledge Factory's SAPTG indicates that properties in the area have appreciated at a phenomenal rate, well above the national average. The one-year appreciation trend shows growth of 73,33%, with the three- and five-year trends coming in at 27,23% and 26,82%. SAPTG says the average price of a full-title property in Hyde Park is slightly more than R5m.
Even though every suburb has its flaws too, an interview with the resident's association highlighted that occupants are lucky to have such a dedicated team committed to solving any issues. Residents are encouraged to pay the association an annual fee of R2000, which contributes towards a fully fledged suburb manager who monitors and deals with council concerns; such as street lights, pot holes and water and sewage leaks.
In addition, the association has a weekly litter collection to keep pavements clean, contests any applications for rezoning that are not in accordance with the city code, and promotes the precinct plan to ensure that densities comply in terms of the council code.
Security is unfortunately always an issue in South African suburbs, but the resident's association is involved with the co-ordination of a security strategy which is implemented street by street in conjunction with the residents.
PRICE:
Offers in the upper R10ms
CONTACT:
Pam Golding Properties
Craig Berman 082 444 4144
Lilian Dooley-Phororo 083 263 8578
Hyde Park Office 011 380 0000
MICHELLE SWART
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