By Jo Borrill, Project Consultant Debbie Grey, Property Coordinator Wadoeda Brenner, Photography Fiona Barclay Smith
A fresh beach cottage is what this semi-retired couple went for, but they didn’t want to go over the top. The result is a quaint, rustic space with beautiful scenery and abundant bird and animal life, including the occasional tortoise or porcupine.
Situated in a compact estate, in a small town near Cape Town, this beachy haven is in a conservation area, with uninterrupted views of the ocean and serene sounds of the sea. The home owners enjoy the surrounds to the full, often going for long walks or a bike ride. “We cycle a lot, as it’s nice and flat,” the owner says. The exterior is a skilful mix of brickwork, shiplap boards and galvanised stainless steel, allowing for an unobtrusive blend into the surrounds. The interior consists of a living area with open-plan kitchen, two bedrooms, a study and a deck. There is also a charming indigenous garden, with a neat vegetable patch.
“I’m not a fan of doors,” adds the home owner. Needless to say, the central areas are open and bright.
The decor is an eclectic mix of old and new furniture that easily fit together, against a backdrop of different shades of grey. The owners chose the decor themselves, with some help from the architect. Wooden tables and the whitewashed pine of the kitchen drawers provide a cool complement to the palette of earthy shades and natural stone countertops, while exposed trusses enhance the cottage-like character of the home.
The kitchen is warm and inviting, with red earthenware displayed on the floating shelves, giving the area a bright, cheery appeal, echoed by the cosy fireplace in the living area. The home owner loves cooking, so it’s no surprise that the spice rack takes centre stage as her favourite feature. “The kitchen and living area allow for easy entertaining,” the home owner says.
A few steps down lead you into the study, which mirrors the greys of the ocean in its corkoleum flooring. The room opens up to a quaint outside area made up of pebbles and stepping stones, covered by a matching pergola.
The bedrooms and bathrooms are at a slightly higher level, with a balcony leading off the main bedroom, opening up the space and allowing the view to be fully appreciated.
In the bathroom, a white freestanding bath and white vanity-topped basins further add to the seaside aesthetic. Aluminium blinds ensure ample privacy and contribute to the calming elegance of the room. Sliding aluminium doors with safety glass open up onto the deck, which is the perfect dinner spot in warmer weather, where you can simply savour the view.
With so many lookout points to choose from, the home owner says: “The best view is upstairs, from the balcony – my morning coffee spot.”
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