An extensive renovation of an old Newlands home that has seen many alterations and additions over its 70+ year lifespan. The main focus for the renovation was to simplify the layout and remove previous building forms which did not function well, or that was built poorly.

By removing the dividing wall between the kitchen and dining spaces the flow of movement in the living spaces was restored and the cross views to the beautiful landscaping surrounding the house opened. Carefully placed openings in the first floor bedrooms celebrated the views of Table Mountain and its waterfalls during the rainy seasons.

A design philosophy of good architecture is always at the forefront of my approach and when it comes to renovation work this usually appears in thoughtful detailing and well-made additions. The selected finishes are contemporary and warm in texture and colour.

The established garden was enhanced with the removal of water needy plants with water-wise fynbos and indigenous grasses. Our client’s passion for Japanese culture saw the introduction of three specially sourced red maple trees for the entrance garden, combined with large black boulders with grasses surrounding them to soften the edges. The idea was enhanced with Yakisuki elements in the pergolas and entrance ways which was reclaimed yellowwood from the original house. This all tied in beautifully with the light timber entrance pavilions alongside the garages and at the pedestrian entrance. These pavilions in turn frame the views of the maples, and more importantly the magnificent mountain backdrop.

The home is fully off-the-grid with a photovoltaic system and all rainwater is collected, filtered and used as the initial main water supply for the house.

Within the interior design the majority of the pieces were sourced from local Cape Town based furniture makers and artists - celebrating their creativity and how far this sector has come in providing work at an international level of quality.