AtholPlace House & Villa

"It takes an experienced, informed eye to design hotel rooms that are both hardworking and ravishing. Designer Sumari Krige transformed what was originally going to be her family’s private residence into this ten-bedroom urban retreat in the heart of cosmopolitan Sandton. Decorated in a palette of cool white and smudgy grays, as if to soothe the senses after a frenetic day, the rooms are enormous with tranquil garden views, sitting areas, glamorously appointed bathrooms, and luxury home comforts (Frette linens, flattering lighting, underfloor heating). Most of the furnishings, a high-style mix of contemporary and antique, were sourced on buying trips for the owner’s chic interior design store; African objects, glassware, and natural wood add textural interest. The hotel has a well-stocked library, a lounge cum dining room with an in-house chef, a large pool, and gardens just big enough to stroll in. Stay here if you want finely tuned advice on where to shop and what to do."