South Africa boasts an array of different architectural styles. If you think about it, we have a little bit of everything … from Tuscan to Spanish, and Cape Dutch to Grecian … we have them all.
Just like in the clothing industry, various fashions come and go and, while a Spanish villa (complete with turret) was the way to go in the 70s, those who are designing homes now may well choose to go for a more eco-friendly look and structure that incorporates steel, wood and stone in their designs.
As with hot pants (which hit the fashion industry in a big way in the 70s) some designs, thankfully don't last while others (that could be likened to the timeless little black dress) not only hang around, but become more beautiful and classy as time goes by.
Reclaiming the past
Tastes may vary but there are very few who wouldn't agree that a traditional, thatched Cape Dutch home is a thing of true beauty. Indeed, these magnificent homes have stood the test of time, which, given that the architects of the day didn't have the training and expertise of our modern experts, is pretty impressive.
The presenters of Private Property's Win A Home competition, which is currently airing on SABC3 every Thursday evening, have picked a number of homes that are currently for sale and will tonight take a closer look at their architectural styles.
Eco design for the future
An eco-friendly home designed by renowned architects Van Der Merwe Miszewski epitomises all that is good and green about modern architecture. The multi-story dwelling, which is on the market for R58-million, not only boasts superb high-end finishes throughout, but embraces Bantry Bay’s views.
For those looking for something a little olde worlde, there is a classic Cape Dutch design (with a modern twist) available. This 86-hectare wine farm, situated in the second oldest town in South Africa – Stellenbosh – offers uninterrupted views of the sea and Table Mountain, and is on the market for R55-million. No doubt the views add value to this hefty price tag!
Colonial glory – and more
Durban has its fair share of colonial properties and many of the homes in the leafy suburb of Kloof reflect this trend. Billed as a directors’ lodge, a historical stone mansion has recently graced the pages of the Private Property portal. The 10 en-suite bedrooms are only part of the attraction of this property, which is zoned for business and commercial use in Everton (an exclusive area nestled in the heart of Kloof).
Want to live on the wild side? Hluhluwe, a small town on northern KwaZulu-Natal's Elephant Coast, is home to an outstanding property that is on the market for R20-million. This architect-designed five-bedroom home, set in a private Big 5 game reserve, will appeal to those who are looking for that “out of Africa” experience – and the price includes all fixtures, fittings, furniture and vehicles.
Sandhurst emerged as a suburb some 50 years ago and each and every home in this exclusive area fairly screams class. The home that was showcased on Win A Home is no exception. It sets the benchmark for contemporary living. Measuring a staggering 2 600m² and priced at R45-million, the home features a snooker room, cinema room, art gallery and palatial master bedroom wing, and is surrounded by park-like gardens.
Silver sunsets
Silver Lakes in Pretoria highlights the best of the best in golf estate living. The first of its kind in the country, the estate is ideal for those who enjoy the great outdoors. Set around the lakes after which it was named, the secure estate is home to a palatial, recently refurbished home. Measuring 1 101m² and priced at R14.999-million, the property offers exclusive living for those who yearn for the finer things in life. Set on a 2 000m² stand the home offers six bedrooms, two dining rooms, a heated swimming pool and garaging for four cars.
And that’s all Win A Home has time for this week! But to see more exquisitely-designed homes start clicking. And being able to do this in the comfort of your own couch, no-one’s going to worry if you wear your comfy old hot pants …
