Honey years

By Anna-Marie Smith, Project Consultant Ruanda van der Walt, Photography Fiona Barclay-Smith

When the owners of this home, who are hardworking professionals from up-country, discovered the breathtaking beauty of Betty’s Bay during their honeymoon, they realised it would just be a matter of time before they would spend more time here.

They say several visits made the area familiar territory, and when the ideal piece of land became available for purchase, all they needed was an astute estate agent and modern technology to conclude the deal that would generate untold dividends in the future.

Added to this was the fortuitous introduction to their architect, master builder, designer and project manager Martin van Rooyen of Architectural Design Studio, a local who happens to specialise in these owners’ preferred building method of timber-frame homes and eco-design.

The owners say when considering that this project was conceptualised and completed remotely, to have taken delivery of a project that was on brief, on time and within a totally transparent budget, explains the new family friendship that ensued.

Possibly the most striking visual element of this home is the restfulness it exudes within such a natural setting.

From the timber-frame structure and exterior finishes that blend with the outdoors, to the interior that was designed for easy living, the overall ambience of this home is one of total relaxation that “speaks to the soul”.

Apart from the design of the house, the owners’ personal style is also reflected in the fine selection of fittings and finishes, and a tranquil decor theme throughout that also allowed for family art to be treasured in special spaces.

Commenting on this assignment, Martin says that for him to produce successful turnkey projects of this nature, is to only ever work on one project at a time.

He says that although affordability needs to be addressed in providing detailed plans and costing, by not compromising on quality materials such as the Nutec roofing and cladding products by Everite Building Products sustainable homes can be built.

For these fortunate home owners and keen “foodies” who indulge in the decadent pleasures of cooking while rejuvenating their souls, the exotic supplies of a nearby village delicatessen are enough to give new meaning to “time spent in the kitchen” while on holiday.