All In Good Time

After purchasing the property they’d had their eye on for years, the Groenewalds dressed their new home up in exquisite wallpaper they designed themselves.

- Kim Arendse

Whenever the Groenewalds drove past what they called “the house with the beautiful garden”, they’d slow down a little bit to admire it.

“We just loved it. Everything about it was so charming. It was our dream home and we’d often joke that we’d own it one day,” says Alana. In 2017 their dream became a reality.

The house is located in the couple’s neighbourhood – in fact, Jan-Hendrik’s parents live on the very same road. When the Groenewalds decided it was time to look for a new home to accommodate their growing family, Jan-Hendrik’s mom mentioned their plan to an estate agent friend. On a whim, the agent decided to take a chance and knock on the door of the “home with the beautiful garden” to ask the owner if she would ever consider selling…

“The owner said she’d had many similar visits over the years, but that she was finally ready to let go of her beloved home as it required too much maintenance for her. That knock at the door came at just the right time! Needless to say, we viewed the property that same day and made an offer the next,” Alana says.

Rands and sense!

The Groenewalds love to visit auction houses. “You can find the most beautiful items for a fraction of the price,” Alana says. “We always decide on the maximum price we’re willing to pay and stick to it. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of bidding and go over your budget.”

Easy comfort

The front garden that the couple fell in love with extends to the side of the home and this gorgeous nook nestled between a bougainvillea, a pride of India and a hibiscus tree is where they decided to set up a chill spot.