At home with SELMA Zaifoglu

Architect and co-owner of Linear Concepts Selma Zaifoglu loves the beauty of bespoke design, the Johannesburg skyline and entertaining on her patio. And she'll thank you for not smoking.

- Nia Magoulianiti-McGregor

Who I am is an architect and a co-owner at Linear Concepts with my husband, Yakup. I’m a Virgo with an inexhaustible passion for aesthetic and functional design. I’m also sociable – we like to entertain friends and family at home. I’m a mom to my only son, Doga, who moved to London recently.

The style of the home I live in is modern contemporary with loads of natural light to enjoy the beautiful views over the Johannesburg skyline. The sunsets are especially magnificent.

The thing I like most about this style is that spaces merge seamlessly from kitchen to dining room to living room, resulting in airy and comfortable living with no ornate designs and cluttered features.

My home is important to me because it has always been a gathering place, shelter and sanctuary, providing an escape from the busyness and intrusiveness of the world.

I share it with Yakup and Coco, our cat, named after Coco Chanel.

We chose this site because of its stunning views of Johannesburg. As we have architectural experience, we wanted to build a new home from scratch using our knowledge and expertise to create a bespoke, one-of-a-kind home.