By Mari Sciarappa, Project Consultant Margot Edwards, Property Co-ordinator Jay van der Westhuizen, Photography Nic Baleta
What would one get when creating a fusion between contemporary and tradition? This superb property serves to answer that question, and in terms of flawless decor and design, the fact that no designer was used is quite simply an eye-opener to what home owners can accomplish.
The decor was done by the home owners, and the style evolved as they progressed. The idea here was to modernise and update the old, rather than replacing pieces, with a more contemporary feel. The house was originally done in a Tuscan style, and the home owners wanted to replace that with sleek, modern finishes and a minimalist feel. While they had a clear picture of what they wished to create with the design, they mostly took existing pieces and either recovered or sanded them down in order to make them look a little different, and a lot more modern – in fact, a subtle yet complete reinvention took place in this space, matching the modern with the timeless.
Every room in this stylish home is different. According to kitchen and cabinetry specialist, Country Style Interiors, “the kitchen has a very classical, timeless look, with stainless steel finishes and fully built-in appliances that give it a slightly modern edge. It is in semi-solid mahogany with a ‘shaker-style’ door, which softens the look, taking it away from the very modern aspects”.
The resident’s favourite room in the house is the main bathroom. She views it as a sanctuary, “as it is spacious, cool, relaxing and very calming”. She also notes the patio, which is an extension of the living areas, as another favourite.
According to the home owners, when they are in this area, whether entertaining or just relaxing, they tend to feel as though they are on holiday.
While there was no particular theme in mind, the colour schemes and decor pieces lend themselves to a modernist and progressive home reinvention.
According to the owners, being closely involved in the renovation was definitely an advantage in the long run. The home owner says: “It was exciting to be able to see the transformation as it progressed.” Soft, natural colours were used throughout the house, with soft hues of blue scattered throughout. The furniture, however, lends itself to a slightly more African feel.
The carpet, for instance, below the dining room suite, is patterned with zebra stripes, and the chairs were upholstered with a touch of African nature. Dark woods were also used to brilliantly offset the soft and natural colour schemes.
As advice for future home owners, the residents recommend that one should never settle for second best. Wait for the ideal existing property, the right pieces of furniture and so on, rather than rushing in and consequently being disappointed.
“Also go with reputable architects and builders,” they advise, adding, “do not think the price as key. Rather pay a little extra for piece of mind and use suppliers of good reputation. Shop around and do your homework beforehand”.
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