remote outsource studio
arch element .
CAPE OAK
Constantia , Cape Town , South Africa
m
2
380
123
629
1747
ground
first
coverage
site
If you have had the fortune of spending time in the old oaky suburbs at the Southernmost tip of Africa, you will recognise this Cape Town classic. Cape Dutch style architecture is an inherent part of this region's identity, revealing an impactful culture of early European settlers set into stone and mortar. As strong and sturdy as this building may stand, the time has come for future generations to take ownership of its transformation. We have introduced a design that pulls the 21st century lifestyle of a modern Constantia family into the shell of an existing Cape Dutch beauty.
In the world of architecture and preservation thereof, a common debate is often brought forward - you know the one. We believe that architecture can be beautiful, functional and inspire in its ability to morph through the ages, adapting to the needs of each user.
In this case, we got to introduce an open plan living design into this historic abode. To maintain it's deep routed ties to the region, we introduced elements of local timbers, vineyard grow media, and indegenous landscaping. The iconic geometric facade, symmetry and limewash exterior remains.
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FRONT FACADE
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The building is made up of a South Wing, which makes use of the Cape Dutch shell to host formal family entertainment and the formal entrance; and the North Wing, which includes the casual entertainment area, daily living spaces in one half and the bedroom quarters in the other.
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GROUND FLOOR PLAN
The bedrooms and bathrooms consist of clean lines and warm wood textures that create an inviting cozy haven for its inhabitants.
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
The bedrooms and casual entertainment area open up onto a private garden space. Views of the lush landscape are optimised from every possible opening. The lifestyle of a true South African interlinks closely with the natural environment. Throughout all walks of life - the space and facilities for a "braai" outside with friends - is a must.
SECTION AA
SECTION BB
The kitchen and family room are the heart of the house, where the residents might all come together and share a sense of home. It is important for us to use this function as an opportunity to create flow and enclosure simultaneously. Lighting and natural ventilation are core factors to all of our designs.
