In 1889, a portion of the Doornkloof farm, owned by wealthy businessman Daniel Elardus Erasmus, was bought by Alois Hugo Nellmapius, who named it ‘Irene’ after his daughter.  Making the most of the temperate climate, ample water and fertile soil, the land was soon transformed into a vibrant flower, fruit and vegetable garden of world renown.  Irene has maintained its pastoral environment going back to when it was first proclaimed a township by Albertus van der Byl in 1902. Today businesses and lifestyle developments line the streets and many of the beautiful original homes have been modernised in keeping with contemporary living.
 
Liza Gillett, Jawitz Properties’ Centurion franchise director says there are some 650 homes in Irene. “The property market experienced a steady growth towards the end of 2015 and beginning of 2016, with a record number of homes on the market.  Since then the market has slowed down slightly, as buyers await the outcome of the provincial elections and an uptick in the economy.”
 
At the luxury end of the market, homes vary in price between R2.5m and R6m for a beautifully renovated property.   On average Irene residents tend to remain in Irene attracted by the slow paced, peaceful lifestyle.  When they do decide to relocate, it is usually to a larger property in the area or to a smaller home when its necessary to downscale. 
 
One of these homes, first built in 1945, has undergone a total revamp and with a price tag of R10.5-million, it is the highest priced home in the area.  The home nestles in the centre of Irene on a half-acre (2503 m²) stand.  Many of the original features still remain amongst which are the wooden parquet flooring, the old fire places and the beautiful solid stone boundary wall that complements the grand design. 
 
No expense was spared in redesigning the living spaces without detracting from the charm and character of the traditional homestead.  The introduction of modern utilities brings the functioning of the home into the 21st century. High-end imported fittings and fixtures have been introduced to achieve a high building standard and energy efficiency required for modern living.  
 
The three upstairs bedrooms have en suite bathrooms with scenic views from quaint Juliet balconies. The spacious main bedroom has a private lounge and a balcony that overlooks the cherry orchard and the olive tree grove. Care has been taken on the ground floor to provide all the requirements needed for a welcoming granny-flat. A patio opening to the garden pergola reveals different varieties of grapes that hang temptingly.
 
Top local artisans have cleverly crafted the kitchen and built-in cupboards. Back-to-back outside fireplaces and a built-in barbeque with its stone chimneys add to the ambience of the traditional African way of entertaining.
 
“The tranquility of the suburb is maintained by an enforced 30km speed limit through the town.  Cyclists, runners and walkers take to the streets and families often spend the day at The Oval picnicking while watching the locals play cricket. Irene has that warm family feel, and the community takes pride in what the town has to offer its residents,” says Gillett.