A former lodge in the heart of Sea Point, Planet Africa is a unique development with a distinctly African flavour. A pair of double-storey residential blocks connected by a common area in the form of a thatched boma and swimming pool, the project has all the appearances of a wildlife retreat. However, unlike its bush-dwelling kin, Planet Africa is located in the concrete jungle.
The shops of Sea Point Main Road are within walking distance and routes to Clifton and the City Bowl are easily accessible. What’s more, behind its rustic facade, the development’s 32 units sport high quality finishes. These include stone or granite counter tops as well as stoves, ovens, and extractors. DSTV and ADSL connections also show up the development’s urban location.
Situated on a 3000m² piece of land on Kei Apple Road, Planet Africa is a low-density alternative to similarly-priced faceless blocks. As a two-storey building, its views are generally restricted, with only a handful of flats enjoying the looming presence of Lion’s Head. A large wooden door with decorative carvings is the showpiece of the 16 unit main block. Consisting of eight one-bedroom and eight two-bedroom apartments, the main block offers internal spaces that range between 51m² and 101m². An entrance hall with a staircase gives the building a feeling of openness and apartments with terraces offer owners or tenants up to 43m² of additional space to play with.
In contrast with the African ambiance of the main block, Planet Africa’s studio block is infused with a Mediterranean aesthetic. Apartments are separated by a cobbled courtyard and shuttered kitchen windows are highlighted with rectangular boxes bursting with colourful flowers. Predominantly white, selected parts of each unit have been made over with pale colours. With between 36m² and 45m² of internal space, apartments in the studio block are open-plan affairs. Light from floor-to-ceiling windows provides an antidote for the shortage of space and stony gardens lend greater possibilities to units on the ground floor.
Shaded parking bays, electric fencing, and a full-time caretaker round of the Planet Africa package. With prices starting at R675 000 and soaring to R1.975 million, the development seeks a variety of buyers. Owing to its African stamp, it’s sure to attract buy-to-rent investors with an eye on foreign tenants. Those seeking a low-maintenance or lock-up-and-leave option in Sea Point or Green Point will find something refreshingly different to what the area normally has to offer. Planet Africa is being handled by Vered Estates (194 Main Road, Sea Point). | 
