The client approached us with a unique and exciting brief for a new dwelling on a beautiful site in La Roche, overlooking the green belt with north-east orientation. From the start the client’s ideal design included a courtyard, a grand piano, bright colour and a strong connection to nature.

The significant slope on the site called for a split-level design, to allow ease of vehicular access to the garage as well as the possibility of a slightly lower living space that connects directly to the garden and green belt fynbos.   

The zoning of the floor layout also followed a clear demarcation from “public” to “private” spaces. The home office is situated close to the street to allow easy access for work-related visits. The central light-filled courtyard and level change creates a comfortable distance and separation between the office and the open plan living spaces. The most private bedroom zone is located on the upper level, with the north-eastern orientation allowing sunlight and beautiful views throughout the day.

The material choices were inspired by Danish design principles with the natural beige warm clay piazza brick complimented by the warm timber floor finish throughout. The bright pink kitchen accent colour was chosen to compliment the client’s collection of crockery and results in a warm and welcoming interior. The blue shades were used in the cooler south sides or water related spaces to create a calm and focussed atmosphere.

The exterior house design followed the estate aesthetic guidelines but aimed to create a simple relatable form with two sheds structures at 90degrees to each other. The garage will become an outbuilding eventually covered with the climbing fig creeper to compliment the white forms.

This was a project led by a client with a wonderful brief and great appreciation for teamwork from the start. When the family grand piano finally arrived, the client arranged a small and intimate piano concert that emanated a spirit of art and community that will stay with us forever.