The brief for this project was to design a family home inspired by the principles of the Bauhaus and the work of South African modernist architect, Pius Pahl.  The site is located in Stellenbosch, with a small nature reserve at the Northern boundary and panoramic mountain views over the Simonsberg.  The natural slope of the site was optimised to incorporate a basement storey, while allowing the living spaces to spill out onto the garden on the higher end of the plot. The building’s position on the site was strongly informed by a large existing Celtis Africana tree which shades the new proposed bonsai courtyard.

All bedrooms as well as the kitchen and living areas have North facing mountain views and optimal sunlight. Sculpted courtyards, planters and large glazed openings are used to create transparent boundaries between the inside spaces and the garden. Delicate pergola structures inspired by the work of Pahl allow for shading of the glazed facades while creating opportunities for vine growth. The indigenous landscaping and eco-pool is visually continuous with the natural landscape of the adjacent park.