By Justine Olivier, Project Consultant Stacey Cowden, Photography Grant Pitcher
From the outset, the owners of this home wanted to incorporate natural elements into the design of their house.
“The building drew inspiration from the natural and earthy African contemporary theme, and is based on the historical Natal Farmhouse as the preferred architectural style of the estate,” explains the architect, Mark Leslie-Smith, of Mark Leslie-Smith Architect.
While the use of glass serves a dual-purpose – maximising views and allowing a plethora of natural lighting to fill the home, through the sliding timber solar screens – it also has the effect of drawing nature in, thereby successfully fulfilling the home owner’s wishes.
Triple volume glass windows behind contemporary pillars, which finish off at a pitched roof stand welcoming at the entrance of the home. Upon entry you are met with an open-plan design seamlessly combining the dining, kitchen and lounge areas.
A simplistic and minimalist approach was taken for the interior spaces, further enhancing the contemporary design of the architecture.
The downstairs living area, made up of the kitchen, dining area, TV room, lounge and patio, opens up from five distinct spaces into one interlinked open-plan space capturing the full essence of what the residents were hoping to achieve.
Keeping the residents’ entertainment requirements in mind, the architect positioned the kitchen environment at the front of the home.
While the interior of the home stands testament to contemporary architecture and interior design, the exterior puts up an equally intriguing visual feast. Equipped with a striking entertainment area, furnished with comfortable yet stylish pieces, this space contains a braai area along with a generous sized pool that is surrounded by a distinguished decking to complete the desired look in this space.
The residents can now sit back and raise their glasses while relaxing and enjoying endless hours of entertaining in their inspired African home.
