This house, in a Simonstown conservation area, is a subversion of the oppressive town planning laws requiring faux Victoriana. While rebelling, the architects succeed in creating a place whose architecture integrates perfectly into its community.
The plan is structured by a movement route of very cleverly designed ramps and stairs to the front door, thereby experiencing a variety of changing views of ocean, town and house before moving inside. The rooms are quiet and understated, designed to direct one’s vision towards the view.
The house itself is arranged as a series of small sparkling white buildings on the slope, recalling the massing and proportions of old Simonstown. Each element is perfectly conceived. The designer’s skill and deep understanding of site, prospect and context make this house a worthy recipient of an Award of Merit.
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