By Karien Slabbert, Project Consultant Lorna Ioakim, Property Coordinator Gina Waldman-Balkind, Photography Nic Baleta
This active family of four likes nothing more than spending time outdoors, flyfishing, camping or entertaining friends at home. “We’re very earthy people. We like the simple things and definitely believe in a less-is-more approach to life. We were looking for a functional space that would reflect our personalities and approach to life,” says the owner.
Their brief to the architect was to create an uncluttered, unfussy home with a pastel undertone. Most importantly, the owners wanted a warm, inviting home filled with light-drenched open spaces. “We like our privacy, but at the same time we love to entertain. So our house had to merge these two elements,” says the owner; adding that they don’t have an affinity for super-modern, extravagant design.
In terms of the interiors, a subtle earthy colour palette, roughly hewn wood and exposed red brick remind one of a charming countryside homestead, while dramatic focal walls in night shades add a touch of drama. “Our architect was wonderful; he did everything we asked for – and more,”
she notes.
The home is geared towards maximised living and is filled with personal touches. Thanks to a well-devised open-plan design, one space seamlessly flows into another. “The kitchen, lounge and entertainment area are interlinked, which is perfectly suited to our inclusive lifestyle,” says the owner.
“Our kitchen is the heart of our home and is also a visual showpiece. As my husband loves cooking, we wanted everything to be modern, trendy and geared towards easy cooking. The centre island keeps everyone engaged. It’s where we touch base, have meals, chat and make plans for the future.”
The couple loves to open up the stacking doors that divide the dining and decked pool area. “We love the integrated indoor/outdoor aspect of our home, which maximises our link with our natural surrounds. As our kids are real water-babies, the pool is literally on our doorstep, so it’s easy to keep an eye on them.”
As with their lifestyle, their approach to decorating was straightforward and unfussy. “We have a lot of antique furniture, carpets and paintings that we’ve collected over the years, so we used what we had (and love) to decorate the house,” she notes. Less is more indeed.
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