This suburb in Pretoria’s Moot area enjoys an excellent location and great selection of property.
Singer Joseph Clark, well known for his incredible performances of the music of Freddie Mercury and Queen, feels privileged to live in the suburb of Waverley in Pretoria’s Moot area northeast of the city centre.
Joseph grew up in Amarillo, Texas, and came to South Africa in 1983 to join the South African Ballet Theatre (formerly known as PACT Ballet) as a guest artist in a production of Swan Lake. “I fell in love with the country and stayed.” Joseph also fell in love with South African actress Elzette Maarschalk. The couple have lived in Breyer Avenue, Waverley, since 1995. This street is particularly sought-after for the magnificent views from its elevated position against the slopes of the Magaliesberg mountain range.
Joseph says the Waverley of 22 years ago was “pleasant, quiet and open. There were no fences between us and our neighbours. You could walk directly to your neighbours without going out onto the street.” Over the years, Waverley has changed quite a bit in some regards. “Fences have gone up and lots of property subdividing has increased the amount of traffic considerably.” Quite a few townhouse complexes have emerged, too.
“Deep down it’s still such a pleasant neighbourhood. Waverley has an amazing amalgamation of people. Every street has its own character, like a different suburb in itself. From our front yard, looking out over the Moot is like seeing a forest with houses hidden among the trees. I don’t think we would ever move to another location in the city. The climate, safety and security of the area are the main considerations,” says Elzette.
The couple’s favourite place to visit is Cappuccinos in Waverley Plaza. “It's also our dog Freddie’s favourite eating establishment,” says Joseph. Retreating to the peace and quiet of this neighbourhood and their home is the perfect antidote to Joseph’s hectic work schedule.
When asked about what makes a house a home, Joseph says: “Creating an environment that pleases you; making it your own, not for resale value or cosmetic looks. A home is to be lived in, loved in – not to be showcased.”
Embrace where you live and be proud of the suburb you have helped created over the years by your presence and love of the area and its residents.
-Joseph Clark.
Key attractions:
- Location: Easy access to the N1 and N4 and the main streets linking Waverley to other parts of the city.
- Self-sustaining: The area boasts its own schools, churches, hospitals, businesses and shopping centres.
- Variety: Waverley offers a home for everyone – from affordable bachelor flats and traditional homes in the lower lying streets to modish apartments and beautiful family homes generous in size against the mountain.
Things to do in the Moot area:
- Enjoy a production or performance at the intimate Pierneef Theatre.
- The many art galleries and fascinating antique shops will keep you busy for hours.
- The Moot area boasts a good number of interesting eateries.
- Order a true farm breakfast at Oppiplaas.
- For a superb atmosphere and value for money, visit Sinkhuisie.
- Celebrate special events at the renowned Mediterranean fine-dining La Pentola restaurant.
Top schools nearby:
- Laerskool Voorpos
- Laerskool Totiusdal
- Curro Academy Pretoria
- John Vorster High School
- Hoërskool Staatspresident C R Swart
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
