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VISION BY MILSTEAD & HAYTER HAS ESTABLISHED A REMARKABLE REPUTATION FOR TRANSFORMING HOMES IN EXCLUSIVE ESTATES NATIONWIDE.
With over a decade of creative excellence, founders Shaz Milstead and Josey Hayter continually raise the bar in luxury design by harmonising estate-specific aesthetics with bespoke interiors that showcase their clients’ individuality.
The team includes the talented Head Designer Maxine Upton, who has recently become a shareholder. Jenna Martin, the newest addition to Vision, brings her own distinctive flair to the team. Each member contributes a unique set of skills and perspectives, fostering a collaborative environment where teamwork, innovation, and mutual support thrive. This synergy allows every team member to fully contribute, leveraging their diverse backgrounds, talents, and communication styles.
A DISTINCT APPROACH TO ESTATE DESIGN
Designing homes within estates is far more complex than standalone properties. Each estate has its own architectural identity, colour schemes, and aesthetic rules, requiring a tailored approach. The process also involves navigating intricate planning guidelines and building relationships with estate management teams — an area where Vision excels.
Shaz Milstead, a long-time homeowner on Mount Edgecombe Country Club Estate in Durban, offers invaluable insights into estate living and design. Having lived, built, and worked on the estate, Shaz possesses an in-depth understanding of its planning regulations and aesthetic guidelines. Her knowledge extends beyond Mount Edgecombe to other prestigious estates, making her an expert in managing the nuances of estate design. With offices located near the estate, Shaz and her team are well positioned to handle every aspect of these projects seamlessly.
For example, Mount Edgecombe is known for its strict regulations regarding colour palettes, wraparound verandas, and outdoor living spaces. Shaz’s firsthand experience of living in the estate has shaped her ability to navigate these complexities, especially when managing projects for overseas clients who rely on Vision to oversee every detail.
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‘Each estate has a distinct identity, and as designers, we cannot create homes in isolation. The estate’s overall aesthetic must guide the design while ensuring individuality in each home,’ explains Shaz. She continues: ‘Zimbali, for example, is the epitome of luxurious estate living, setting a global standard for elegance. Designing in such estates requires us to honour the brand and its ethos, ensuring that each home reflects its prestige.’ Vision’s design philosophy is rooted in blending each client’s personality with the broader estate identity to create spaces that feel authentic and harmonious.
A TEAM DRIVEN BY SYNERGY
Vision’s success is underpinned by its exceptional team dynamic. ‘Our team is highly specialised, and the synergy between us is extraordinary,’ says Shaz. This collaborative approach allows them to deliver designs that are not only personalised but also perfectly aligned with the estate’s unique character.
MASTERING ESTATE DESIGN CHALLENGES
Designing within estates involves overcoming several challenges, such as:
- Strict estate guidelines: Adhering to specific rules on colours, materials, and architectural styles.
- Balancing uniformity with individuality: Creating designs that complement the estate while reflecting the homeowner’s personality.
- Building relationships: Working closely with estate management to understand community nuances and expectations.
These challenges have enabled Vision to develop specialised expertise, earning them a loyal client base in South Africa’s most prestigious estates.
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE
‘Once we complete a project in an estate, we often see more residents turning to us. We’ve built strong relationships not only with homeowners but also with estate management teams,’ says Shaz. Josey adds: ‘The trust our clients place in us inspires us to continually push boundaries and deliver unforgettable spaces.’
