COMPILED BY Michaela Stehr PHOTOS Elsa Young/Frank Features; Micky Hoyle; Henrique Wilding; Jan Ras; Dear Heart Photography; Wil Punt; Grace Charlotte Photography; Greg Cox/Frank Features; Mathew Van Niekerk; Greg Cox/Bureaux

From big and bold to nautical chic, these beach homes are a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city living.

Kommetjie House

Nestled atop a dune in Kommetjie, the family home that architect and ceramicist Emma Day shares with her businessman husband, Chris, and their two teenage children is a triumph of intuitive design. It’s the realisation of a long-held dream for the couple, who had wanted to give their children the kind of coastal lifestyle they’d had growing up. “I grew up in Ramsgate on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal, while Chris grew up in Kommetjie,” says Emma. “So it definitely felt like a homecoming for us when we found this plot in Klein Slangkop eco-estate.”

Read the full story on this Kommetjie house.

Onrus Beach Cottage

The little white cottage that Megan and Casper Geldenhuys built in Onrus 30 years ago speaks of precious times with family and friends, a life lived close to nature and a deep respect for the setting. The little white cottage is perched as though airlifted there on the shores of Onrus Lagoon. At first glance it is an unremarkable clapboard structure. Sitting off-kilter on a large stand, it is rectangular, made entirely of timber painted white from top to toe both outside and inside, and has big windows – not a burglar bar or ostentatious element in sight.

Read the full story on this Onrus beach cottage.

Modern Marine Home

A marine-meets-modern beach house on the west coast embraces open spaces and a peaceful palette for the ultimate low-key retreat. An intimate understanding of the small coastal town of Yzerfontein has made Evi Elsner something of an expert when it comes to creating beach homes in this idyllic enclave. Originally from Germany, Evi and her husband Jochem lived in Somerset West for 15 years before relocating to Yzerfontein, where they established themselves as sought-after dream-house developers. Combining architectural, interior design and building skills, the husband-and-wife team found a winning formula: Home Concept, their business, starts from the ground up, quite literally.

Read the full story on this modern beach house in Yzerfontein.

Yzerfontein Beach House

Built on what is probably the most perfect plot in Yzerfontein on the West Coast, this incredible beach house actually magnifies the effects of its beautiful surroundings. The house, named To the Moon and Back, is located at the very end of the southernmost beach road in Yzerfontein, bordering on Tygerfontein, a private nature reserve with pristine strandveld vegetation. The owners fell in love with “the best-kept secret of the West Coast” after attending an auction in town. As soon as this plot became available, they snapped it up.

Read the full story on this Yzerfontein beach house.

Bakoven Beach Escape

Struck by the magnificent mountain-and-ocean setting of this three-level Bakoven bungalow, interior designer Susanne Brodnik, founder of My Place in Cape Town, sought to create a unifying design language and a bright, light, open interior. The brief to Susanne from the property’s well-travelled international owners was for a home away from home. “As a parent myself, I immediately understood when the owners, who have a young son, said to me: ‘We want to arrive at this house and be at home.’ Everything is built around that sentence. I needed to create an easy living, open plan, holiday home; a second home for the owners to unwind and simply relax as soon as they arrive,” she says.

Read the full story on this Bakoven beach house.

Floating Dune House

Architect Johann Slee’s latest creation hovers over and among milkwood trees above the dunes in Sedgefield. The name ‘Floating Dune House’ comes from its minimal impact on the sensitive and unique dune vegetation. “The footprint of the house was kept as compact as possible,” explains Johann, “by introducing a cantilevered building edge that is raised above the vegetation, giving the illusion of floating on the dunes.” During the building process alien plants were removed, leaving gaps in the indigenous milkwood trees that created natural portals to the sea views. The brief was to embrace the milkwoods, and the result, in fact, was to be embraced by them.

Read the full story on this Sedgefield beach house.

The Boat House

Designer Rhett Williams-Jones and architect Lawden Holmes transformed an unused storage room in Yzerfontein into this tranquil West Coast hideaway, aptly named The Boat House. The renovation of the tiny space embodies a contemporary coastal charm, purposeful in its intention to connect to the exterior landscape.

The Boat House sits adjacent to a greenbelt in the ever-expanding West Coast town of Yzerfontein. Due to the increased development in the area and the threat it poses to the fynbos and ‘beach vegetation’ endemic to the coastal areas around Cape Town, Rhett wanted to enforce the space’s connection to the outdoors. “It was something we wanted to be clear from the moment you step through the front door – the connection to the fauna and flora,” says Rhett. “That flow between interior and exterior also makes the small space feel that much bigger”.

Read the full story on The Boat House.

Scarborough Home

The inspired architectural design of this contemporary weekender works as a series of controlled openings that respond to the area’s wild weather conditions while cleverly merging African and Mediterranean design principles with the owners’ distinctive sense of style.

What started as an occasional getaway to the coastal village of Scarborough grew into a full-blown love affair for the owners of this home – a creative director and a surgeon. “Just 45 minutes from Cape Town, Scarborough is the last village before Cape Point – a little piece of heaven within walking distance of the beach,” they say.

Read the full story on this Scarborough home.

Llandudno Beach House Renovation

For the renovation of this beach house, architectural designer Hanno de Swardt of Onnah Design made use of texture and colour to give this outdated Llandudno villa a new lease on life.

“My clients wanted to maximise the view from this plot so our design brief for this project was all about increasing the outdoor entertainment spaces and giving the interior of the house a much-needed update,” says architectural designer Hanno de Swardt.

While the main house remained intact, the outside needed some major structural interventions. Hanno raised the previous lawn level by almost 750mm through the use of terraced terraforce blocks. “This allowed the inside to flow easily to the outside, and kept the lawn and pool all on one level. By raising the lawn level we actually reduced the amount of excavation needed for the pool, which benefited the final budget,” he says.

Read the full story on this Llandudno beach house renovation.

Vermont House

Location, estate agents like to say, is everything. And this newly built home’s position in Vermont – a holiday hamlet on the pristine shores of Walker Bay – is exceptional. Tucked into the fynbos just steps from the ocean, the plot of land on which it stands has been in the family of one of the two homeowners, Alida Kannemeyer, for 60 years. Throughout her childhood, Alida spent her holidays in the house next door (the rest of her family still does so); in 2014, she was given this adjacent plot by her parents.

In 2017, Alida and Piers Buckle – her partner in both life and work (they run a graphic-design agency together) – decided to build their own holiday home on the property. At the time, the couple were living in Observatory, Cape Town, and the new build was envisioned as a weekend escape from the city at which they could also spend longer holidays. The initial plan, done with the help of an architect friend in Cape Town, was a simple single-storey cottage; it was later amended slightly by Onrus-based architecture firm Engelbrecht & Scorgie, who also assisted with the build.

Read the full story on this Vermont House.

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WORDS Neyani Mphephu PHOTOS Karl Rogers

Nestled along the dramatic coastline of Elandsbaai on the West Coast, Huis Kaalvoet is both a beach and holiday home rooted in an intentional blend of subtle African elements with nautical themes. The beach house speaks to the soul of barefoot living and demonstrates the harmonious union of thoughtful architecture and welcoming interior design. Architect and interior designer Hanno de Swart of Onnah Design envisioned the house to effortlessly complement the landscape through appropriate sizing, scale and aesthetic.  
 
The design philosophy emerged from a meticulous analysis of the site, in response to the sun, prevailing winds, and breathtaking views. “With it being a beach house and holiday home, the design approach was to create a relaxed and calm atmosphere first and foremost,” explains Hanno. The final design resulted in an H-shaped plan with two zones: one wing, defined as a black barn, houses public spaces, while the opposite wing contains private bedrooms and bathrooms enough for family, friends, and guests. 
 
The home’s most compelling architectural gesture is the corridor linking these zones.  “This zone becomes a celebration of movement and discovery – transforming the ordinary into something memorable,” says Hanno. It features two oversized circular porthole windows that speak directly to the nautical inspiration. The ocean-facing porthole includes a built-in window seat with decorative display recesses, while the opposite window frames the views into a private courtyard. 
 
Although transportation logistics posed to be a challenge occasionally during the process, multiple reliable suppliers and manufacturers were utilised to achieve a rich and textured look. Material choices prioritise durability and easy maintenance: cretecote floors and countertops, bagged walls, and untreated SAP scaffold planks reinterpreted as joinery throughout. “Many decor pieces I have had in storage for years, and some were newly procured specifically for the house in mind. We also recycled a few items, incorporated travel treasures, gifts and a family heirloom from Germany,” explains Hanno. 
 
A monochromatic theme is present throughout the house. A selection of warm neutral tones, including off-whites and creams, which are associated with beach sand dunes to create calm, inviting spaces. Each bedroom makes a bold statement through “drenching”, where rooms are enveloped in single colours derived from the spectacular sunsets. “The tone-on-tone approach guarantees calm and cosy, uncomplicated spaces, perfect for rest,” notes Hanno. | onnahdesign.co.za

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From sculptural fixtures to sensuous surfaces, the latest bathroom trends blend artful design with everyday function.

In addition to the four key themes for bathrooms we’ve identified for 2025, there are also a few other trends that have caught our eye within particular categories of fixtures and fittings. Here are 10 cool ways to bring your bathroom up to date.

On the Curve

Asked how she’d alter her own bathroom if price were no object, Lavo Bathroom Concepts’ interior designer Kirsten Stigling says, “I’d add anything from Agape. Their products are beautifully designed and would elevate any space.” We agree – the Italian brand’s DR bathtub, which comes in freestanding and built-in options, and various materials and finishes, is currently at the top of our wish list. Designed by Mariana Ruzante and Marcio Kogan of Studio MK27, this “flexible tub for two” is “a friendly, sensual, charismatic object”. No matter your budget, you should “curate your sanitaryware with the same care as you would a sculpture exhibition”, says Pieter Mathews, founding principal and architect at Mathews + Associates Architects. “On the flipside, pragmatism and ergonomics are important too,” he adds. “So try out that rectangular toilet seat before you decide to purchase it!” lavo.co.za | agapedesign.it | maaa.co.za

Super Showers

Shower technology has come a long way. From steam showers to massaging sprays, rain showers and multipanel models, there is something for every preference, including those whose priority is water-saving technology. (If you’re in the latter group, look out for a new system by Grohe set to launch later this year, which actually reuses water as you shower.)

If she could choose anything at all to add to her own bathroom, says Elsjé Schonken of Schonken Interiors, it would be “a luxurious, custom-designed steam shower. Just imagine stepping into a sanctuary of relaxation, and being enveloped in soothing steam that melts away the stresses of the day…” Seen here is Dornbracht’s new rain shower, which can be integrated into the ceiling or mounted on it, and has two spray modes as well as integrated lighting options; and the ShowerComposition system designed by Philippe Starck for AXOR. Available in a variety of configurations, the latter is controlled by an all-in-one panel that can operate an overhead shower, a body shower, a thermostatic module and a hand shower. There are many ways to configure and add to the system, which is available in a full range of finishes. grohe.co.za | schonkeninterior.com | dornbracht.com | axor-design.com

Light Fantastic

When it comes to layered bathroom spaces, “It’s no longer just about putting in down lighting,” says Bilala Mabuza of Cocoon Lifestyle. “You need to think about directional lighting and pendant lighting too.” The gorgeous bathroom pictured here was created by interior designer Lisa Storer, and includes a shell chandelier she sourced while travelling. “Much like a bedroom, a bathroom should be a sanctuary,” says Lisa. “I take inspiration from hammam bath rituals in Morocco; they’re a celebration of body and soul.” Similar cabinets can be sourced by The Storer; the basins and taps are from The Bath House, and the artwork is by Zarah Cassim. cocoonlifestyle.co.za | thestorer.co | thebathhouse.co.za

Sleek Peek

For those with a yen for the sleekest possible bathroom, solid cladding on walls and floors is the ultimate in luxe choices – with the added bonus of never having to clean grouting again! This minimalist bathroom features an eye-catching, fully integrated basin in Caesarstone’s Rugged Concrete (4033), from the brand’s Metropolitan Collection – the perfect contrast to the surrounding marble-inspired porcelain. caesarstone.co.za

Glow up

A study in warm, tactile appeal, this vanity also gets our vote for its organically shaped mirror with backlighting, which is a custom design by local mirror specialist Arkivio. Mirrors with integrated lighting – or options backlit like this one – are increasingly popular for very good reason: not only do they look great, they also enable you to see your reflection more evenly when compared to side sconces or lighting from above, which can cast shadows that make everyday tasks such as shaving or applying makeup more difficult. arkivio.co.za

Tap That

“Don’t compromise on tapware quality,” says Wendy Douglas, interior designer and creative director at Douglas and Douglas. “A bathroom is a functional space that gets used many times a day, so the functioning parts need to be able to withstand this.” Beyond functionality, however, lies captivating design – and tapware manufacturers are offering an increasingly wide range of options that could easily become the loveliest element in your bathroom. Examples include the award-winning FFQT series of taps seen here (below left), which were designed by Formafantasma for QuadroDesign and are available locally from Lavo Bathroom Concepts; as well as the supremely elegant MEM tapware range by Dornbracht – now with the option of handcrafted crystal glass handles created by Glass Design – which can be sourced in South Africa via Flush Bathrooms. douglasanddouglas.co.za | quadrodesign.it | lavo.co.za | dornbracht.com | glassdesign.it | flushbathrooms.co.za

Sink In

We’ve been seeing the combination of a low shelf with a tall countertop basin everywhere – and the tweaked proportions feel both playful and contemporary. The elements featured here are by Italian manufacturer Antoniolupi; you can source a similar basin by Krion through The Sourcing Lab, or a Ceramica Globo version from Lavo Bathroom Concepts. A word on ergonomics: the standard installation height for a bathroom basin is 80cm from the floor, and this height is calculated to suit an “average” person who is 1.76m tall. No matter what style of basin you’re installing, this is something to discuss with your designer or builder, as getting the height of your basin just right is something you’ll be thankful for at least twice a day, every day. antoniolupi.it | krion.com | thesourcinglab.co.za | ceramicaglobo.com | lavo.co.za

Bench Press

Both aesthetically pleasing and practical in terms of usability and accessibility, a built-in shower bench is always a good idea – and it can be fitted into a relatively small space. Consult an interior designer or your builder to ensure that it’s constructed properly. For pink tiles similar to those deployed in this retro-chic shower, try Akashic Tiles, Italtile or Leroy Merlin. akashictiles.com | italtile.co.za | leroymerlin.co.za

Counter Intuition

A great way to add opulence to your bathroom without breaking the bank completely is with a vanity counter clad in natural stone – as seen here in architect Lisa Rorich’s home in Durban. There are plenty of suppliers to check out when selecting your own preference: try WOMAG, The Sourcing Lab, Studio Masson and Interslab. womag.co.za | thesourcinglab.co.za | studiomasson.co.za | interslab.co.za

Wall and All

“My clients are having fun with their bathroom design, using bold feature floor and shower tiles, pops of colour on vanities, and floor-to-ceiling wallpaper to pack in the personality and individuality of the family who lives there,” says interior designer Tammy Holmes of Ivy Décor & Design. This unique bathroom, created by Hanno de Swardt of Onnah Design, features water-resistant, seamless VividTex wallpaper in the Undress design from the Art Effects collection by Cara Saven Wall Design. You can source a similar towel rail from Bathroom Butler. ivydecor.co.za | onnahdesign.co.za | carasaven.com | bathroombutler.com

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This high-end holiday home in Bakoven has undergone a contemporary facelift that strikes a fine balance between luxury living and laid-back practicality.

Located in the coastal enclave of Bakoven, the upscale home needed an interior renovation that combined aesthetic appeal with a user-friendly, durable design. “My interpretation was to keep the guest experience top of mind by providing a high-end product associated with all the luxuries and modern-day comforts one would expect from a holiday home in Bakoven,” says interior designer Hanno de Swardt of Onnah Design. “Yet, at the same time, ensuring easy long-term maintenance and property management.”  

The project required substantial building work before the interior design phase could begin. To coordinate this, the team followed a carefully structured schedule to ensure the smooth overlap of different trades. “This can often prove to be rather challenging and requires a clear, focused mind, good communication and organisational skills… and plenty of patience. In a nutshell: teamwork and dedication,” says Hanno. Another challenge was the tight timeline; the property needed to be ready for the festive season to maximise its rental potential. “The house was fitted out in a record period of just three days, ready to be photographed.”

The dark exterior walls of the home inspired the double-volume lobby space. A bold choice to “establish visual continuity and to create a strong contrast,” explains Hanno. Decorative pendant lights were introduced in select areas to accentuate surfaces and emphasize volume. Additionally, a few mirrors were added to enhance light reflection.

The living areas were designed to be warm and inviting, featuring neutral tones that are both stylish and laid-back, without being overly formal. “I had to apply some restraint in terms of decor and the amount of furniture pieces to avoid a cluttered look.” A light, ‘crisp’ approach was used for all the bathrooms, featuring a harmonious mix of oak and white tiles and countertops.

The bedrooms were designed around beautiful artwork, which served as the focal point in each room. “I am an avid open water swimmer and was instantly drawn to the art commissioned from Cobus Erasmus for the bedrooms. I love the uniqueness of the lilac and purple bedroom. All the colours and textures are in beautiful harmony and are extremely soft on the eye, creating a cosy, intimate space,” says Hanno. | onnahdesign.co.za

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Whether you’re looking to embrace 90s minimalism or experiment with bold patterns, these expert tips will help you approach your next redecorating project with confidence.

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, staying updated with trends while keeping your space timeless can be tricky. We spoke with three experts – interior designer Susanne Brodnik, Hanno de Swardt of Onnah Design, and Julia Finnis-Bedford, founder of Amazing Spaces – to gain insights into current decor trends and how to incorporate them.

Achieving a 90s Minimalism Look While Keeping the Space Warm and Inviting

SUSANNE The key to 90s minimalism is blending function and design. Clean lines, glass, and metal elements were softened by warm textures like wood and cosy fabrics, fostering a balanced aesthetic. This approach ensures that while the design is minimalist, it doesn’t feel cold or sterile.

HANNO Adapting 90s minimalism today is about simplifying and personalising these trends… keep things relaxed and use colour strategically to highlight certain elements. Soft pastels and earthy tones add a modern twist to the trend, creating a serene space.

JULIA Play with pastel surfaces like pale blue walls or light pink cabinetry and soft lighting to keep the space inviting.

Adding a Futuristic Touch to Your Space

SUSANNE If you’re looking for a sleek, modern space, incorporating futuristic elements is the way to go. But futurism doesn’t have to be harsh. Curved furniture, circular lighting fixtures, and soft furnishings help introduce a more inviting, comfortable feel, balancing the stark, industrial look that typically defines futurism.

HANNO Introduce geometric shapes and minimalist decor while combining them with warmth – it’s all about balance.

JULIA Integrate soft hues with modern materials like frosted glass, polished concrete, or brushed steel to help create a futuristic look with a warm twist.

Incorporating Bold Geometric Patterns Without Overwhelming a Space

SUSANNE When mixing bold geometric patterns, ensure that at least one or two elements, like scale or colour, are consistent across the patterns to create balance. There’s a fine line between eye-catching and overwhelming.

HANNO Feature walls are great if you want to make a statement with patterns. Choose a focal point and identify one feature wall to celebrate that wall only in a bold geometric pattern.

JULIA For those seeking a subtler approach, use geometric patterns in entryways or bathrooms for a statement that doesn’t overwhelm.

Using Vibrant Colour Palettes in Smaller Spaces

SUSANNE Vibrant colours can energise a space, but in smaller rooms, it’s important to use them wisely. Use neutrals as a base and add pops of colours with soft furnishings.

HANNO The key here is to follow the 80-20 rule – 80% warm neutrals in combination with 20% cool neutrals for a balanced colour scheme.

JULIA If you are going to add colour to your walls, opt for softer tones like a soft coral or pale turquoise to add vibrancy without making the room feel cramped.

Incorporating Mid-century Modern Elements for a Timeless Appeal

SUSANNE Mid-century modern pieces are timeless because they emphasise quality craftsmanship and functional beauty. When paired with more contemporary pieces, they don’t feel dated but rather create a rich, layered look. Incorporating wooden furniture with organic shapes, as well as metals like brass or copper, will help you maintain the integrity of the style while adding a modern twist.

HANNO These pieces are like the perfect canvas – you can play around with them to introduce new trends. For example, combining mid-century modern furniture with vibrant accents adds a contemporary vibe to the room without overpowering the elegance of the furniture. Start with staple pieces like a low-profile sofa or a sleek sideboard and build the room’s design around them.

JULIA While the original mid-century palette favoured warm neutrals and wood tones, today’s version often incorporates more colour. Use soft tones on accent pieces or textiles to keep the room feeling light and airy while still honouring the mid-century modern aesthetic.

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For the renovation of this outdated beach abode on Cape Town’s Dolphin Beach, Hanno de Swardt of Onnah Design used colour and light to give the apartment a contemporary facelift.

“This apartment was rather outdated with signs of much-needed TLC evident everywhere,” says architect Hanno de Swardt. “The owners wanted a space that felt more like a ‘holiday home’, so my task was to inject the apartment with contextual references that connect it to its location and improve the flow of the space,” he adds. The resulting makeover transformed the tired, dark holiday home into a light-filled contemporary apartment.

Hanno used soft, neutral tones, clean lines and rich textural layers to create a soothing and calm visual story. This design language runs throughout the apartment, ensuring visual continuity and enhancing easy flow between spaces. Hints of colour here and there introduce moments of drama whilst sensitive furniture and fabric choices fuse laid-back comfort and understated style.

The new large format floor tiles from Stiles Tiles were the source of inspiration for the wall colour running throughout the apartment. “A soft, sandy, earthy tone was the obvious choice for the intended calm mood throughout,” says Hanno. A murky blue feature wall in the living room links two bedrooms and the bathroom, adding drama and the perfect backdrop for art. This same dark colour is repeated in the study and guest bedroom, dubbed the ‘Sea Spray Room’, dedicated to the ocean outside. “The dark colour used in the living room is repeated in the study and guest bedroom for various reasons. It provides visual continuity and acts as a backdrop for the blue headboard and sleeper couch, making both pop nicely in the space,” explains Hanno. There is a sense of balance and equilibrium as this dark colour mirrors the joinery on the opposite wall… and in the kitchen.

The open-plan kitchen is one of the standout features of the apartment. “All the luxurious walnut elements repeated everywhere elevate the various spaces whilst the deep shadow lines within the ceiling create a lovely floating effect enhancing the feeling of airiness. Floor-to-ceiling pivot doors leading into two bedrooms are packed with punch, appearing deceivingly simple whilst celebrating ceiling height,“ says Hanno.

In keeping with the beach holiday theme, all the wall art was meticulously sourced to make sure it celebrated the coastline in all its glory. “From beach pebbles painted by Kurt Pio to a piece of ‘kalp’ blowing in the wind, craftily constructed by Danny from Moonbasket, right down to simple mirrors reflecting amazing views and bouncing off light, the decor all reinforce the apartment’s beautiful context,” explains Hanno.

The choice to use round coffee and side tables, the addition of the round woven chair from Maputo to the lounge setting, the circular pendants over the dining table and the pebble artwork are all deliberate design choices. They soften the look and create a welcome contrast against all the clean, straight architectural lines defining the shell of the apartment.

“This is now the perfect space for a relaxed beach holiday in stylish surroundings that never tire,” says Hanno.

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A tired and outdated apartment on Cape Town’s Dolphin Beach received a refreshing facelift by Hanno de Swart of Onnah Design.

The brief from the owners for the Cabana was to create a pared-back Hamptons-like retreat that promotes relaxation and a sense of calm. When Hanno de Swart embarked on the project he had to take interior and exterior space layouts, colour schemes and fittings and fixtures into consideration when converting the space with promising bones into a home that lives up to its full potential.

“The previous interior was completely outdated with impractical, problematic layouts, odd wall colours and underutilised spaces, lost opportunities basically,” explains Hanno. “The main areas that required attention were the lounge and bedrooms, all filled with bulky furniture pieces, in the wrong locations and consuming too much valuable space.”  

READ MORE: Llandudno Beach House Renovation

Downstairs, the kitchen, teak floors and aluminium sliding and stack doors remain untouched. Upstairs, the two bedrooms and study received a complete overhaul whilst the two bathrooms received only a more subtle refresh, retaining existing plumbing points but only replacing certain key fittings. 

The client’s favourite colour is blue which had to be introduced wherever possible. An effortless flow between inside and outside was also key, with an emphasis on relaxed, comfortable luxury.  

Hanno used his brief and years of experience to create a space that has a contemporary classic edge and exudes sophistication and timeless style in a way that appears natural and effortless.

When asked about his favourite design elements in the home, Hanno elaborates, “The exquisite dining table for me is a personal favourite and takes centre stage in the living room, beautifully crafted by Brisago. In addition, I would say the little courtyard flowing off the kitchen is a super special cosy corner, much loved by the client and guests alike.”

The space houses some renowned local names from Haldane Martin and Cara Saven to artists Mbali Dlamini and Barry Salzman, to create a space that celebrates and showcases local designers and makers.

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An old and neglected farmhouse, originally built in 1882, has been transformed from its current sad state back to its former glory by local design studio Onnah Design.

The purpose of the renovation was threefold: To act as a residence for the current farm foreman, to provide a future place of residence for any of the Kitshoff family members, and lastly, to provide a future prospect of being transformed into a functioning boutique guesthouse.

“The designers followed a sympathetic approach to the renovation, keeping intact the main facade front with the original roof, gable, sash windows and doors while having a more modern take on the remainder of the building, with emphasis on a modernised look and feel of the interiors,” explains Onnah owner Hanno de Swardt.

Previously, the house consisted of many dark, impractical rooms (with a few add-on rooms over the years) that were not conducive to the design brief and current modern-day living. The only way forward was to completely reconfigure the entire internal layout – adding open plan living, free-flowing spaces and room for flexibility.

READ MORE: Llandudno Beach House Renovation

The team started by opening up an enclosed kitchen and converting two smaller rooms into one large space, now the spacious laundry and scullery. Two bedrooms to one side of the house were joined and converted into the main bedroom with a generous, luxurious walk-in en suite.

The three bedrooms on the opposite end of the house were also reconfigured and now all boast en suite bathrooms, ideal for a guest house. A previous store room and a cold store are now beautiful bathrooms whilst one large room allowed ample space to add a third en suite.

The client was hoping to restore and retain the original wooden floors inside, but sadly, after lifting the carpets, these were found to be completely rotten. A combination of tiled and vinyl flooring proved the most suitable and practical replacement. In retrospect, these design interventions for the flooring turned out to be more in keeping with the desired contemporary interior and contributed positively to the lighter and brighter look and feel of the space.

READ MORE: Lazari Coffee Shop Redesign by Onnah Design

Original dark wooden ceilings were painted white, combined with new warm white coloured walls and light grey joinery transforming rooms into havens of light, bright calmness. In addition, larger windows were introduced to celebrate stunning views over the expansive countryside, allowing in much-needed natural light simultaneously. Strategically positioned downlights further enhance the required light levels inside all the rooms.

To accomplish the desired open plan concept it was necessary to knock down several walls which proved to be quite the challenge. After chipping off the plaster, the builders were confronted with extremely thick stone walls, some as thick as 800mm – an arm’s length! Removing these stones was no easy task for the crew.

And to add ‘oil to fire’, most walls were invaded by rice ants… which resulted in walls having to be demolished and built from scratch. Fortunately, a few stone walls were in good nick. It was decided to keep them raw and exposed, making for very effective, eye-catching interior features.

“As an architect, this made me extremely happy because these walls tell a beautiful, rich story — the story of a farm built in the 1800s. A story of traditional honest building methods with raw material sourced from the land,” explains Hanno. “A story of new beginnings for a farmer and his family once upon a time. A story now, of a beautiful and exciting future for the next generation. And what a huge privilege to be part of this transformation and protection of this important part of the Kitshoff family history and legacy.”

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For the renovation of this beach house, architectural designer Hanno de Swardt of Onnah Design made use of texture and colour to give this outdated Llandudno villa a new lease on life.

“My clients wanted to maximise the view from this plot so our design brief for this project was all about increasing the outdoor entertainment spaces and giving the interior of the house a much-needed update,” says architectural designer Hanno de Swardt.

While the main house remained intact, the outside needed some major structural interventions. Hanno raised the previous lawn level by almost 750mm through the use of terraced terraforce blocks. “This allowed the inside to flow easily to the outside, and kept the lawn and pool all on one level. By raising the lawn level we actually reduced the amount of excavation needed for the pool, which benefited the final budget,” he says.

“The rather restrictive and sloping site posed the biggest challenge for the entire team,” says Hanno. A retaining perimeter wall with an agricultural drain had to be introduced on the sloping side of the garden in order to create the raised deck and outdoor lounge. An existing deck flowing off the dining room was also replaced and extended into the garden by almost 1500mm. This was accomplished by cantilevering the extension in order to create a “floating effect”.

READ MORE: Before and After: Rosebank Home

Hanno introduced pops of colour throughout the house to replace the previously bland all white interior and exterior. “The clients had a deep rooted love for Africa, especially Kenya and Cape Town, which were the main source of inspiration for the interior. The context of the magnificent setting, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, was also acknowledged through the use of several nautical decor pieces,” he explains.

In the dining room there are a cool mix of colours, textures and reflective surfaces. “The circular and organic shapes are in contrast with the rectangular table and architectural envelope and it introduces a softer, relaxed and more informal look,” says Hanno. The celebration of colour extends into the corridor leading off the dining area which is painted in an eye-catching blue. “What a difference a little bit of colour can make to a space. And art. And lighting. It’s all related. And all relevant. And yes, even a corridor can (and should) be fabulous,” he says.

READ MORE: ‘Lock up and Go’ Seaside Apartment Renovation

The main bedroom features a yellow wall dressed up with two old rowing oars. “It gives the space a lovely nautical feel and directly relates to the stunning ocean view outside. By painting the ceilings white the room is transformed into a calm, light and bright haven” explains Hanno.

There are two lounge areas which flow effortlessly and open up to the garden with views of the ocean beyond. Both the sunken lounge and the ‘pajama lounge’ ooze laidback style and comfort. “The combination of colour and textures here, and throughout the house, reflect the client’s personal style,” says Hanno.

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Lazari, located in Cape Town’s Vredehoek neighbourhood, has been revamped by architect and designer Hanno de Swardt of ONNAH DESIGN.

Lazari Coffee Shop, a long-standing neighbourhood favourite, has been given a Mediterranean revamp by Hanno de Swart of ONNAH DESIGN. “My main goal with this interior design project was to meet the client’s brief, budget and timeline but also pay homage to the previous owner Chris Lazari who owned and ran the shop for 18 years, no less,” says Hanno. 

The new owners wanted Hanno to transform the cozy eatery into a lighter and brighter space that would encourage customers to linger longer. Warm blues offset against calm, relaxing, earthy tones in the newly refurbished eatery. “The space could almost be compared to a “big fat Greek wedding” – something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue,” explains Hanno. “I wanted the interior to compliment the exciting Mediterranean dishes which have been added to Lazari’s new menu”.

To make sure that the circulation and flow of the space remained easy and practical, Hanno introduced banquette seating and a new bar counter along one length of the shopfront. Oak lookalike melamine was used for the new table tops and to define the custom made banquette seat, by Bespoke Living. The front of house kitchen counters also received new cladding in the form of thin vertical oak strips on a black backdrop.

READ MORE: Before and After: Cafe Manhattan Redesign by Hanno de Swardt

“Lazari is blessed with ample floor to ceiling height so I celebrated the volume by adding woven wire pendants and terracotta pots with dried Eucalyptus Populus, hung upside down, just for fun,” says Hanno. An existing cantilever slab was extended over the front of house kitchen counters which allowed the interior team to hang 75 coffee cups, lit by small star lights. This installation introduces an eye-catching and super fun element to the shop.

The most popular corner in the shop, the cosy lounge area, also boasts a fresh new look. “We upcycled the shop’s original retro sofa with Hertex’s fun ‘Swimmin Lagoon’ fabric, and reupholstered the two vintage armchairs in Spunky Sky, also from Hertex,” says Hanno. “The blue feature wall behind the sofa is painted in Plascon Blue Eyed Sailor, which is quite apt description for the theme of the space”. The wall, previously clad in a bright repeat retro design wallpaper, remains a focal point in the space. Hanno chose an abstract, out of focus landscape image off Shutterstock and had it printed as wallpaper. “The idea behind the wallpaper is to transform you to another place, another time even. It could be Positano in Italy, or somewhere on the French Riviera. Wherever you want really,” he says. 

READ MORE: Villa 47’s Martini Terrazza by ONNAH DESIGN

The bathroom which was previously the darkest corner in the restaurant, also received a much needed makeover. The dark walls and ceiling have been painted white, and new geometric patterned wall tiles add interest. A practical oak floating shelf, ideal for resting one’s handbag, has been added below and next to the existing basin. The vintage round mirror from the ‘old’ Lazari has been recycled in the bathroom and compliments all the new finishes and colours perfectly.

With renovating any existing space, one is often confronted with structural elements that need to remain intact. One such element in Lazari is a column carrying a concrete beam overhead. “I introduced another fake column next to the existing column and clad the space between the two with tinted mirror. We also added floating shelves to display an array of objet,” says Hanno.

The team also used the void behind the banquette seating, in front of the two columns, to create a planter filled with natural mini Baby’s Breath and used concealed led strip lights to highlight this element. Hanno is a firm believer in ‘greenifying’ spaces wherever possible, and introduced four freestanding pots with greenery from Fohla.

“At the end of the day I wanted Lazari to look fresh, lively and inviting,” says Hanno. “And with a very tight deadline, I think we achieved that”.  

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