It is widely regarded as one of South Africa's most ostentatious homes, but style icon Gloria Theiler says she has no problem with the paintings of a naked porn star at her new Cape Town mansion, Enigma House.
"I like them. Knowing the creativity and history that went into this house, I definitely will not be changing anything," she said this week.
Theiler, the sister of fashion designer Errol Arendz, is married to Swiss banker and property mogul Rolf Theiler.
Together they own a portfolio of luxury properties across the world, and the Camps Bay residence - which boasts gold-plated doors and a swimming pool tiled with a Versace logo - is their latest acquisition. It was included in the deal when they bought a company from the seller, German businessman Francis Schnetzler.
The house was on the market at R300-million for four years. It is believed the Theilers bought the house for R99-million, although they are keeping mum about the cost.
Enigma has gained a reputation as a "porn-star house" that hosts famous parties, but Theiler said it was "the most magnificent property".
Speaking from The Cove, her 2000m² home at Pezula Private Estate in Knysna, she said what appealed to her most was the La Cornue kitchen, with its three fridges. The property has a sauna, gym, teahouse, massage temple, 3D cinema, staff quarters, and herb and vegetable garden.
Naked portraits of Schnetzler's wife, Veronika - a former porn star - have been moved from the lobby and pool area to the gym.
"He designed the house for seven years - every plug, every piece of furniture he had designed before it was built."
