Private House in the Suburbs of Cape Town

A private house in the affluent suburbs of Cape Town, South Africa, is located in a picturesque corner that has preserved almost pristine nature. The architects of Metropolis Design took advantage of the property's location, attempting to establish the closest possible relationship between the building and its surroundings.

The clients, a family with adult children, wanted a house with an open-plan layout and three bedrooms — for themselves and for occasional guests. The project focuses on ideas of simple living, functionality, enjoyment of well-chosen natural materials, and experiencing the sense of unity with nature. The single-story structure stretches along the perimeter of the plot, grouping its volumes around several courtyards and patios that offer various opportunities for interaction with nature depending on the time of day, season, or weather.

From the inside, the rooms are generously glazed to allow contact with the surrounding nature. The exterior side is protected by a massive concrete wall that shields the building from road noise. The courtyard at the entrance is almost square, bounded by massive concrete and stone elements, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and silence that defines the character of the house. The kitchen and dining area are fully open to the adjacent patio; the living room is bordered by two internal courtyards — one planted with greenery, the other containing a long natural pond.

The entire southern facade extends into a wooden decked courtyard that provides a smooth transition between the interior of the house and the garden. The walls visually separate from the roof, creating the impression of no boundaries between interior and exterior.

Photos: Wieland Gleich - ARCHIGRAPHY