Suzette Hammer – CEO
SBE Africa creates bespoke luxury residences and developments, uniting international expertise with African context to deliver timeless, highly detailed homes.
What legacy would you like to leave in the industry?
That we raised the standard for what a South African luxury home can be. Not imported ideas, but African innovation – homes that respond to our climate, our light, our way of entertaining. If SBE Africa is remembered for timeless design and uncompromising detail, I’ve done my job.
How do you celebrate other women in the home industry?
By collaborating intentionally. Our best homes come from synergy with women-led interior studios, landscape designers and artisans. I mentor through projects: bringing younger designers into client meetings, crediting their ideas publicly, and pushing their names forward for awards. Excellence recognises excellence.
What is your life affirmation that you live by daily?
As a Christian, I believe life cannot be lived without serving others, forgiving others and loving others. I live my life in service, and I find my deepest happiness in leaving people better off than I found them – whether it’s a client, a colleague or a stranger.
What is the one book that you recommend every woman needs to read?
I’m writing my own. It’s about humble beginnings in a mining town, surviving multiple recessions, 40 years of architecture, raising children, navigating marriages and building a global firm from a drawing board. No filters. My book will be unique because it covers the real stuff – hardship, work, love and the pencil lines that held it all together. Until mine’s published, read the story you’re living. It’s the most important one!
If your life were a movie title, what would it be?
Site Specific – because every great home, and every meaningful life, is a response to its unique context.
A woman to me is … the client who signs off the final plans. She’s discerning, decisive and deeply invested in how her family lives. She understands that true luxury is not excess; it’s precision, privacy and peace of mind.
Contact:
076 309 2626
visionintoreality@sbearchitects.co.za
www.sbearchitects.co.za
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