The Origin of the Name: From Aidan House to Our Karoo Sanctuary (and a Twist in Time)

From the very moment we first set foot on the land in Brandvlei, selecting a name for our new endeavor became an essential step in our journey. After careful consideration, we chose "Aidan House," a heartfelt homage to our son. This name served as a meaningful way to incorporate our family’s narrative into the fabric of the Karoo landscape, symbolizing a personal touchstone as we embarked on the renovation process.

Initially, "Aidan House" embodied our vision—a family retreat where cherished memories would be created beneath the expansive Karoo sky. It was a name imbued with warmth and personal significance, marking the inception of our effort to breathe new life into the historic homestead.

Over time, however, our plans and perceptions evolved. While "Aidan House" remained a cherished starting point for this transformative project, both the property and our relationship with it deepened and matured through dedication and experience.

The subsequent chapters of this story reveal how the name of our beloved Karoo property was transformed, mirroring the profound connection we developed with this distinctive landscape and the stories it holds.

The birth of “Rusticana”