Simbithi Scene, Autumn 2017.
SPECS
BEDROOMS: A master suite with bespoke walk in closet opening onto a luxury bathroom with separate shower and toilet areas. In addition to this four en-suite bedrooms with a guest toilet and separate staff facilities.
LOUNGES: There is a formal lounge, open-plan to the kitchen, dining room and links directly to the front entertainment veranda and deck. A double volume family sun- lounge and a fully equipped home cinema in the media room behind.
DINING AREA AND KITCHEN: The main kitchen is our favourite area with a white clean lined kitchen, Caesarstone tops and timber contrasts edged with feature lighting give it the presence it requires as the central pivot of the home. The main hob area is completely open plan to the dining room and formal lounge. Linking to this area a walk in fridge, glazed wine room, drinks and coffee station. In addition to this there is a complete staff kitchen, scullery and service area to the side.
OTHER FEATURES: A double volume entry hall with a floating stairway takes you down to the main entertainment area. A view facing front veranda and deck with braai area and rim flow swimming pool overlooking the fairway to the sea. A winter entertainment area to a sheltered North facing courtyard.
SPECIAL SERVICES AREAS: There is a walk in linen room. A fully independent guest cottage/ staff room, triple garage space with geyser / pump room, an additional trailer and storage relate to this area along with a fully equipped laundry and drying yard.
BRIEF FROM CLIENT
Our client was very pragmatic – other than the accommodation schedule covered in the answers above – they were very particular in wanting a home with generous proportions and minimum fuss. They wanted a modern home with a warm relaxed feel, that allowed them to enjoy the South African climate and lifestyle. The Simbithi Estate encourages this with the textured language, requisite verandas and the allowance for indoor outdoor relationship
HOW DID THE PROJECT GO IN TOTALITY?
From start to completion, the project went to plan. Our client had a very clear idea of what they wanted and we were able to find a great language to work within. The project unfolded naturally and we were able to achieve practical, timeless and elegant home for them. Views are superb from all the main spaces, heightened by the elevated position of this steep site. The different levels and verandas and courtyards allow for an excellent outdoor living lifestyle.
The builder can be commended and gave an excellent service, their delivery and quality were great and their approach was practical and systematic.
WERE ANY CHALLENGES OR DIFFICULTIES ENCOUNTERED?
The biggest challenge was the gradient of this very steep site, getting the driveway to work and pull in the correct Northern light into the this South East facing site allowed for some interesting space making.
The project went well, the time it took to get through the council was the most frustrating part of the project, but we managed the process and the result speaks for itself.
Water shortages made the pool an expensive addition to fill and water had to be imported, also establishing a garden in the drought meant that the planting had to be very water wise and conservative for the time being.
One amusing anecdote is that the resident pet bulldog who has his own yard area, spends his time rather angling for the day-bed on the front veranda which has the better view.
