By Rami Moorosi, Project Consultant Candice Bailey, Photography Nic Baleta
Situated on an exclusive golf estate in Gauteng, this home is where style, sophistication and functionally meet. When the owners set about designing their ultimate home, the main objective was comfort combined with luxury. Their efforts resulted in a warm and inviting dwelling with comfortable spaces that are not only visually striking, but also fit the requirements of a growing family.
“The other imperative issue was to create a house that will stand the test of time, a home that will not date in the years to come, and one that will remain fashionable throughout all the seasons,” explain the owners.
Neal Nel from Archen Architecture goes on to say: “The estate’s architectural language is based on a Tuscan theme, so Archen pushed the envelope to give the client a design that is more contemporary and timeless.”
The site was chosen mainly because of the security that comes from living on an estate as well as the scenic views of the golf course. The architecture of the house made maximum use of the picturesque surroundings by making sure that all living spaces in the home would enjoy the magnificent landscape.
The owners say that the awkward shape of the stand was the main inspiration for the entire structure of the house. The brief for the architecture was simple – to create “an entertainer’s dream with large outdoor spaces that would complement the indoor spaces without compromising comfort and elegance”.
The patio is a great example of how this vision was turned into a reality. This is the entire family’s favourite space and is large enough to have three different themed areas. In order to make full use of the space, the patio is enclosed with frameless stacking glass doors – an excellent idea as the area can be enjoyed all year round. The kitchen is another family favourite and is affectionately referred to as “the heart of the home”. This is because it has been designed in such a way that the residents can all come together as a family and spend some quality time in this space.
The interior decoration reflects the owners’ desire for a habitat that is both comfortable and luxurious. The couple goes on to add: “We decided not to use the services of an interior designer as we wanted to be instrumental in the creation of the interior living spaces – we let the feel of the house inspire us.” Harmonious blends of modern and classical pieces were used to create interiors that are elegant and reflect the owners’ sense of style.
“We sort out superior quality furniture and fabrics that will last for generations to come, and the result is not only aesthe-tically pleasing but also one which gives off a wonderful warm and homely effect. We believe that a house is a very personal space and therefore should reflect who we are; we let both our personalities reflect throughout the home by combining different textures in all spaces.”
Eye-catching feature walls throughout were created using flocked wallpaper from Europe. Fine imported silks and cotton curtains adorn the windows. Attention to detail is also seen in the custom-made luxurious bed linen with embroided initials in silk threads that were further enhanced by cushions, throws and accessories.
Each generously sized bathroom has its own theme. Like the rest of the home, the bathrooms use both classical and contemporary elements. In these rooms focal points are fashioned with mirrors, sanitaryware and high-quality wall tiles.
The finishes complement the contemporary yet timeless architecture. A few examples include bulkheads as well as light fittings that are art pieces in their own right. A stainless steel handrail that fits the 12mm glass balustrade adds an interesting element to the graceful and grand staircase and once again illustrates the great attention to detail that was placed on even the smallest element of the home. With its location that is easily accessible to highways, a great entertainment area and spacious living spaces, this home meets its owners’ lifestyle requirements to the T.
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