‘We Bought This House Without Viewing It'

Melanie and Jonty Rhodes snapped up this historic, coastal Cape Town house, despite its modest size and unusual layout

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Melanie and Jonty bought the house online four years ago, when they were based in India, where Jonty was coaching the Indian Premier League cricket team. ‘It was the kind of old-style, heritage house that I’m naturally drawn to,’ says Melanie. ‘It ticked the practical boxes, too, with a garage, garden and a natural spring. Having rented properties in the area, we knew and loved the fabulous coastal location. I was pregnant and we were looking for a permanent home in South Africa to accommodate all of our children. We wanted a relaxed, family space where we could all hang out together.