An Architectural Masterpiece

An Architectural Masterpiece With Interiors To Match

- Trisha Harinath

PROJECT CONSULTANT GLYNIS KEARNEY

PROPERTY COORDINATOR MARLIZE DU RAND

NICO VAN DER MEULEN ARCHITECTS 011 789 5242

The design brief to Nico van der Meulen Architects from these clients called for a modern, state-of-the-art residence that would be sustainable and as self-sufficient as possible with an indoor pool. Using its expansive experience, the superlative architectural firm interpreted this brief to give the clients a home that exceeded all expectations. The clients required an underfloor water-based heating and cooling system connected to a heat pump and solar panels, and an extensive photovoltaic installation.

The elements used include steel, glass, concrete and natural stone. On the exterior walls, dark grey limestone blends with the exposed aggregate concrete driveway and honed concrete podiums. Internally, the theme is monochromatic with wood and brass adding some highlights. In the living areas, the internal floors are honed granite, and wood was used in the bedrooms. Steps between the levels in the living room are made from Neolith in a darker grey to emphasise them. The indoor pool is lined with the same honed granite as the living area floors to create a sense of continuity. Solid oak strips are used in several places to line walls, as well as padded fabric panels as a counterpoint to the harshness of stone and glass and to reduce echoes. A few internal feature walls are off-shutter concrete.