SAOTA is a name among world renown architects that has become an integrated part of Cape Town’s real estate scenery.In such a surreal place on Earth, luxury is the primary characteristic and a lifestyle choice.Big modern mansions appear over night and take over the rocky coast in order to take advantage of the beautiful, serene landscape and view of the infinite blue ocean. And Nettleton 198 is no exception.
“The building provides a volumetrically dramatic and dynamic interior space on a grand scale. The objective of the interior décor was to create a softer and intimate counterpoint whilst not jeopardising the clean, geometric lines of the architecture. These elements can harmoniously co-exist and work off each other,” says Adam Court of OKHA Interiors.
The location is,of course, an exquisite one: on the side of Lion’s Head with breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean.Drama is a key element that defines the entrance hall, create in opposition to the living space that visually communicates with the exterior space.The bedroom space was designed to float and to create the sensation of it being hung by the roof.Contemporary elements o decor, decadent textures, finishes but not neglecting comfort which is of the most importance describe this incredible modern mansion. The obtained atmosphere is one of calm, serenity and relaxation.
Nettleton 198 by SAOTA:
“The clients, a British couple living in Cape Town, requested a six-bedroom, seven-level home that makes the most of the site, the views and the mountain. The lower levels of the existing structure were totally remodelled while the upper level was demolished to allow for two new levels.
“Inspiration was drawn from the mountain and dark colours were used on the facade, allowing the building to visually recede into the mountain instead of being an obtrusive construction,” says Greg Truen, Project Partner. The site enjoys spectacular views, both of the sea and Lions Head and these views and the impact of the sun were key informants contributing to the overall design.
The sun being both a defining and also harsh influence on the property inspired the choice of screens, shutters and louvres that give the lower levels its distinctive gravitas. The living room can open up onto the west and the east completely, giving it the feeling of an open pavilion.
The finishes and detailing have been very carefully considered to achieve an integrated and visually effortless whole. The exterior of the building is clad in powder-coated aluminium which resulted in a very robust and precise surface finish. Internally, a much warmer look was achieved by using walnut timber. Black marble & glass were integrated into the design as accents.
The home is peppered with unusual design ‘delights’. The circular entrance area, clad in walnut timber, is one of the main features of the house. The space is amplified by a fascinating lighting installation of backlit slumped glass, that renders an “other-worldly” effect. An elegant floating timber staircase employs hanging stainless steel rods for a refreshing take on a balustrade. Others include the walnut-clad kitchen box, the granite-clad rim-flow pool and the sculptural cantilevered carbon fibre bar.
The clients wished to keep the interior as lean and focused as possible and the selection of furniture and lighting is both graphic and strong.”
Photo Courtesty to SAOTA
