Located on Jan Smuts Avenue, Nine Yards is a gift that keeps on giving. At first glance, it appears unassuming, yet that quiet allure is exactly what draws you in. Before long, you find yourself wandering through its hidden corners, where exploration becomes the order of the day
The launch of Nine Yards happened quietly, midweek. To be honest, I didn’t think much of it at first. When Art Media Specialist at ThinkArtMedia, and our host for the day, Bronwyn Coppola handed me the quest card, I didn’t even bother counting the number of stores. I happily agreed to visit each one, collecting stickers as proof of life along the way, unaware of the wonderful surprises waiting for me. There was a refreshing strawberry sorbet from Gelato Mania, fresh produce from Garden Fresh, crispy French fries from Zuney, and a freshly baked pizza from Ole Ole.
The garden trail unfolds like a lush escape, with every store inviting guests to step inside. I leaned into the experience wholeheartedly. The art gallery became a welcome pause, a moment to catch my breath. Time suddenly stood still, as it often does when art asks that of you, a gentle reminder from the universe to savour the moment.
Fittingly, my next stop was The Well, a serene healing space where a breathing class had just begun. Naturally, we joined in. Within moments, the stress of deadlines and lingering anxiety melted away, replaced by a calmer energy and renewed perspective. The space is designed for relaxation, featuring a yoga studio, books, and even a pool on site.
A nap room would have been the perfect addition to the already tranquil atmosphere, especially considering the amount of walking it takes to get there (but I jest.)
Another unexpected gem was Something Good Studio, a collaborative textile design studio and home to two beloved sister brands: Something Good Homeware and Romaria Knitwear. The space represents a harmonious tapestry of culture, art, and style, rooted in a philosophy of “weaving forward together. It was lovely to spot familiar works, including pieces by Yay Abe and other local creatives whose artistry aligns with the studio’s ethos of collaboration and community. The blend of South African talent with a distinctly European appreciation for perennial beauty and craftsmanship gives the studio a warmth that feels both grounded and aspirational.
Fitness enthusiasts will also appreciate Bodytec’s presence in the lush precinct.
Realising I had visited only 17 of the 30 stores with just 30 minutes left on the clock led me straight back to Ole Ole, where I decided to pause for a pepperoni pizza before continuing my adventure. Alas, time slipped away, and before I knew it, the experience had come to an end. Yet instead of disappointment, what filled my heart was the excitement of returning to Nine Yards with my daughter, knowing there is still so much left to explore.
Hopefully, next time I’ll leave being able to say: I completed the entire Nine Yards.
It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later.
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