Zim’s home make-overs

Senior Lifestyle Reporter
Some can only dream of them, others struggle and eventually get one while others have them thrust upon them, in the form of an inheritance, with apologies to Shakespeare.
Housing is a basic need and almost everyone has got a roof of some sort to shelter under. But most of us would want to go further and step into the realms of luxurious and gracious living.

To live in the kind of houses that we often see in the movies whose majesty blows our minds away to the extent that we are left wondering if these are really houses or hotels because of the spectacular designs, alluring accessories and style that characterise them – not forgetting the interior that is like heaven on earth.

With a lot of property development taking place in Zimbabwe in recent years this also means that new and novel trends in as far as house makeovers are concerned are making their way into the local scene.

At the click of your fingers, you can have your dream house in a short space of time, a feat that can leave the likes of world’s celebrity green with envy to see a Zimbabwean version of their house, right in our neighbourhood.

With enough cash in your pocket, your dream home can easily come into existence. Many designers and property developers are plying their trade in the country to help one make that reality.

Recently Brance an organisation that does up houses and other premises, showcased at the Good Living Expo which was held at the Rainbow Towers.

With their wares from out-of this world they took the crowd to another level when they displayed a bath-tub in the shape of a stiletto.
“I couldn’t believe what I saw. The tub is elegant. Yes, Zimbabwe is getting there it is just that a matter of time,” said Memory Kalango from Arcadia.

Brance Head of Sales and Marketing Tsungai Mashava maintains that it is important for Zimbabweans to know of the latest trends and not be limited within the box of the old and boring.

He also advises clients to go for a total package instead of having several contractors working on different areas. And he says that even those with existing structures need not feel left out of the latest developments as make-overs can easily create a whole new look.

“Just re-doing your tiles, walls, ceiling and lighting can make the kind of make-over that will give you a house that you will always want to rush home to. And you will be the envy of the neighbours and relatives too.”

He advises against opting for “cheap” alternatives as they will end up costing more.
“It is good to go with a contractor who comes recommended by someone you trust and who is willing to sign a guarantee. Otherwise you will find yourself back at square one or even worse off as all the things fall apart,” he warns.

According to Mashava another important factor in gracious living is owner involvement in every stage. No one knows your needs more than yourself and the professionals should be there to guide not lead you.

“Nowadays you should have wallpaper rather than painting. This is not a new invention but if you are very stylish and trendy, then you need to get on board. It is very beautiful I tell you,” he explained.