By Trisha Harinath, Project Consultant and Property Coordinator Michael Daly, Photography Nic Baleta
Step into this home and be transported to the French countryside – you can almost smell the lavender fields as if they were right outside, bursting to life in vivid purple hues. Although it is not located anywhere near rural France, the essence is there.
From the outside, with its shingle roofing system in onyx black, bay windows and cobbled accent walls, all the way through the interior, where you will find pieces reminiscent of the decor style of Provençal homes, this home encapsulates a laid-back, relaxed and warm lifestyle.
Every space has been designed to encourage living life to the full – this is a place for homely meals, heartfelt hugs and laughter that brings tears to your eyes.
A highlight of the home is certainly the kitchen – the design so steeped in country-house chic that it is no wonder this really is the heart of the home. The centre island has a seating area that serves as the ideal place for a quick catch-up after a long day, while dinner is being prepared. From here, there is easy access to the other parts of this open-plan living space, including the lounge, dining room and a home bar that encourages guests to “just enjoy”.
Different areas in the home have been furnished to be functional – for example, positioning a breakfast table and two chairs at the bay window has created a space that is perfect for a cuppa or morning breakfast, overlooking the beautifully landscaped gardens.
The double-volume staircase is the focal point of the house – from the entrance, commanding your attention and letting your eyes wander the length and breadth of the house.
Throughout the home, the soul of France has been captured through various decor pieces, furniture and fixtures. Freestanding baths, wooden Provençal wardrobes, brass door handles, wooden floors and muted tones all come together to ensure that each room ties in with the overall theme.
Special attention has been given to lighting, which was designed before the house was built. The company responsible for the design and supply of the lighting worked closely with the architects and electricians throughout the project to ensure it was implemented perfectly. The aim was to highlight striking architectural features, and chandeliers and lanterns were custom-made to suit the style of the home.
And since entertaining is such a big part of life for these home owners, the outside area is an entertainer’s dream – winter or summer. Complete with a rustic, wood-burning pizza oven and modern six-burner gas braai, this area is easily accessible from inside, making indoor/outdoor entertaining a breeze.
Attention to detail has guaranteed that the theme of this home is clearly evident – it is a true French Provençal gem in the heart of Gauteng.
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