Don't Move, Improve!

The addition of a contemporary sunroom has totally transformed this Melville home.

- By Beatrice Moore-Nothnagel

WHO LIVES HERE?

Milan and Maryke de Wet with Scottish Terrier Tula

WHERE Melville, Johannesburg

We’ve always loved the old-school charm of Melville homes: the timber floors, pressed ceilings and cottage pane windows,” says Maryke de Wet.

“Our new home had it all, but the kitchen and backyard were a little too outdated. My husband Milan prefers a more contemporary look, so when we planned our renovation, we decided to combine our styles by adding some modern elements to complement the old house.”

The exterior wall with a backdoor opening onto the small stoep was demolished and the floor area incorporated into the new sunroom, creating a lovely open-plan living space. Scatters on chairs from New to You; others from Mr Price Home

Plenty of light

The small living area was enlarged by extending the space onto the back stoep. Although it was a minor alteration, the transformation was massive – and greatly enhanced by the addition of striking steel-framed cottage panes.