“Against all odds” Johannesburg Sumayya Vallly, founder of the architectural firm Counterspace. “The city is a world of inspiration, with its legacy of segregation and discrimination. There’s always work to be done.” Vally’s work has been shown at the Venice Biennale First, you need to direct the first Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. She has worked on a number of projects, including a community and wellbeing center at Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp. Oslo; and 2021 Serpentine Pavilion, London. Here are Vally’s favorite places to visit in JoburgShe also shares her favorite spots to shop for South African fashion, and the best dosas on earth.
Bring your appetite
You can always count on good food at Yeoville Dinner ClubIn the inner suburb Yeoville. Sanza, the host and chef of the restaurant, prepares seasonal dishes for a communal dinner. “The food is sensational and tells a story of our history, of Yeoville’s cosmopolitan past—and extremely cosmopolitan present,” Vally says. The sidewalk markets in downtown are her favorite for grab-and go food. Vendors sell fresh vetkoek (fried dough bread). Dosa Hut Fordsburg “makes some the best dosas that I’ve ever had.”
Forward-looking
Vally is a resident of Randburg. Magugu HouseThebe Magugu’s store: “Every collection reflects South Africa, both the South Africa where he was raised and the South Africa of today.” She also recommends the work of conceptual artist Lezanne ViviersViviers Studio is located in Parktown, an upscale neighborhood. Guests are welcome by appointment. Vally says that if you want something made-to-measure, you can meet the women who work with her. It’s an amazing experience.
