Once a grand manor house dating back to the 1920s, Palm House has always been an iconic fixture in the leafy suburb of Wynberg. Now this sanctuary of old-world charm has been infused with fresh energy thanks to Dutch-born entrepreneur Max Jong and Capetonian Shelagh Wood, who took ownership in 2023.
While the refurbishment entailed a full overhaul, the Cape Dutch architecture and stately elegance remain, and the heritage of the century-old main house – a National Monument designed by a protégé of Cape architect Sir Herbert Baker – is carefully preserved. Other key elements that have been retained are the grand staircase leading to the first floor and the wood panelling around the lobby fireplace. Every detail has been considered, from the thoughtful restoration of original features like oak floors, high ceilings, and chandeliers to the tasteful introduction of modern design elements like bespoke wallpaper, plush furnishings and hand-picked art.
“We placed enormous energy into curating a new look for Palm House to ensure the feel of the property, that almost indefinable character, was just right,” says Max, who divides his time between the Netherlands and Cape Town.
The result is a space that manages to bring home comforts, authenticity and a boutique experience together seamlessly.
I arrived on an overcast and chilly day, so I was happy to revel in the comfort of my room and oversized bathroom, but I couldn’t resist venturing outdoors to enjoy the gardens. Green and lush with birds flitting between the trees, a palm-lined pool terrace and secluded seating nooks invite slow mornings and lazy afternoons. Accommodation includes rooms in the main house and Garden Suites, the latter offering one to three bedrooms, a private lounge, and a patio.
The refurb extended to the restaurant, which now offers a whole new culinary experience under the lead of executive chef Gregory Henderson, who has gone all out with seasonal menus and dining options. Breakfast at Palm Terrace gives the morning meal a dash of style, both in terms of taste and elegant plating. Here you can also enjoy all-day dining with a clever selection of small plates, which you can ‘upsize’ to a main course portion.
The slightly more formal dinner in de Tafel serves a four or six-course sustainability-conscious set menu (including a plant-based menu) paired with local wines under the superb guidance of sommelier Richard Goza. The menu is beautifully designed to show the culinary journey, with an intro by Gregory on his foraging inspiration. “Each dish on this menu is a chapter in the Cape’s story. As both a chef and a forager, I invite you to experience the essence of the Cape in every bite,” he says.
And then there’s the option of a Picnic on the Lawn and the delectable Sunday Roast. “People love choice, so we have made sure that the menu allows diners the freedom and flexibility to dine and indulge as they see fit,” explains Gregory.
If you’re in the mood for a pamper, the Açaí Spa & Wellness Oasis – adjacent to the main house – is a cosy space offering hand, foot, face, and body treatments using the Healing Earth range. A must-do is a session in the Banya Sauna – the barrel-shaped sauna made of Nordic pine set in the courtyard – and the most picturesque sauna I have ever seen!
Indulging in all that Palm House has to offer is made even easier by the location. This tranquil spot in Wynberg is on the border of Constantia and just 20 minutes from the city. Whether you’re in town for business or leisure, or simply want to pop in for a special meal, Max and Shelagh have made sure that there is a very good reason to make a stop in this southern suburb.
