fairhaven house

Residential design located on the ‘Schapenberg Hills’ in Somerset West, South Africa. The client approached me to design a cost effective home that sits humbly on a very steep site, yet maximizes all the views overlooking the False Bay and horizons strecthing to Cape Town and Table Mountain. Challenges included a tight budget and privacy within a country estate. Furthermore, strict municiple by-laws and natural light were hurdles that informed the design.

 

The concept for the design entailed having a strong linear element, in the form of a concrete roof /‘spine’. This linear element includes a very thick wall which hosts all the services and becomes a membrane between the private and social living spaces of the house.

 

The notion of two folds coming together around two chimneys anchoring the building formed the concept for this design. A large deck overlooking the views and ocean allowed for a private courtyard for the apartment located on lower ground floor. A private outdoor lounge is also incorporated in the design with a beautiful garden for the family to enjoy lovely summer days.

 

Ultimately the design allows for beautiful views over the False Bay and surrounding mountain ranges, whilst having a private and ‘cozy’ social living.