Keeping with THE TIMES

A WINNING RENOVATION WITH A CONTEMPORARY EDGE

- HASMITA AMTHA

Overlooking one of the oldest urban conservancies in South Africa, this KwaZulu-Natal property was once part of a 16-acre dairy farm which has since been divided into four plots of four acres each.

ABOVE: Simon Clements Garden and Landscape Design is a KwaZulu-Natal-based studio founded by landscape designer Simon Clements. Clements specialises in the creation of curated, natural landscapes that capture the essence of place. For this home, the brief from the owners was to create a beautiful outdoor environment that complemented the style and scale of the architecture, and also the family’s lifestyle. Valuing design that seamlessly interacts with its surroundings, Clements ensured the design and installation of this landscape was meticulously achieved with an emphasis on a strong concept, using stone terraces, water features and lighting for enchanting effect.

“We bought this freestanding plot 20 years ago when we were starting a family. Then we wanted a big garden and lots of space. The property ensures lots of privacy. We are situated at the end of a 150m panhandle, and the site overlooks a well-known conservancy,” says the owner.

“We wanted to bring our old farm-style home into the 21st century.” – the homeowner