Former Calgro M3 executives Wikus Lategan and Wayne Williams have expanded into hospitality with the launch of Zomerlust Boutique Hotel and SMEUL Restaurant in Paarl, combining heritage restoration with a people first business philosophy.
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Former Calgro M3 executives Wikus Lategan and Wayne Williams have expanded beyond large scale property development into the hospitality industry with the launch of Zomerlust Boutique Hotel and SMEUL Restaurant in Paarl.
The founders of ION Holdings officially opened the 15 room boutique hotel and fire driven restaurant in May, marking their first hospitality venture while continuing to pursue major property developments across South Africa.
Located on Paarl's historic Main Road, Zomerlust occupies a Provincial Heritage Site with the earliest recorded structure on the property dating back to 1792.
The development team originally intended converting the site into a residential project before recognising the commercial opportunities presented by the Cape Winelands tourism market.
Lategan said the move into hospitality was driven by the same principles that had underpinned their success in property development.
"When it comes to our latest Cape project, the naysayers will say we know nothing about hospitality, but sound business principles apply across industries," he said.
"In property development, you are a problem solver, and the developer who solves them in the shortest amount of time and most efficiently is the most successful. We've brought that same thinking here."
The restoration project was completed over approximately six months and included the careful refurbishment of the heritage building using local craftsmen, with all work approved by Heritage Western Cape. The hotel features 15 individually designed rooms created by interior designer Misi Overturf, with each room offering a unique design inspired by the Boland landscape.
Despite managing large development projects elsewhere, both Lategan and Williams remain actively involved in the day to day running of the hotel.
"Guests like to see owners on the ground. It's something that is important to us both when we visit small hotels and now as owners of one," Williams said.
The hospitality offering also includes SMEUL Restaurant, led by acclaimed chef Kevin Grobler, whose career includes serving as Head Chef at the Michelin starred JAN restaurant in Nice. Grobler also earned an Eat Out One Star award during his time at Vrymansfontein in Paarl.
The restaurant centres on wood fired cooking and open flames, with its name referencing the Afrikaans word for "smoulder".
Since opening in May, the restaurant has attracted a growing base of regular customers.
"We knew Paarl wanted something new in the dining arena and it's been heartwarming to see everyone's commitment here pay off," Lategan said.
While hospitality is a new venture, ION Holdings continues to focus on major property developments. Its flagship Vorentoe student accommodation project, adjacent to the University of Johannesburg, is expected to deliver approximately 2,000 student beds across multiple phases with an estimated completion value of between R800 million and R1 billion.
Beyond bricks and mortar, both founders said their approach to business remained firmly centred on people.
"The most important capital within any organisation is its people," Williams said.
"That belief doesn't change whether you're delivering thousands of homes or running a 15 room hotel. We create environments where people can grow, are remunerated above market average, and share in the success of what we build together. You build the culture first, and the business follows."
Lategan said creating employment opportunities remained central to the company's broader vision.
"If we are in a position to create jobs, we must do so intentionally. We must create meaningful opportunities where people can grow, earn with dignity, and build better futures for themselves and their families. Uplifting people is not a side initiative for us. It is central to how we measure success," he said.
Reflecting on the values that shaped his business philosophy, Lategan added, "He always said that without your people, there can be no business, and that has stayed with me in every decision I've made."
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