Water Oak Farm

Nestled in the picturesque neighbourhood of Constantia, surrounded by vineyards and magnificent views, lies a sparkling gem of a garden, lovingly created by Wendy and Winston Floquet.

- Connall Oosterbroek

In Brief:

Where: Constantia, Western Cape

Size: 6 acres

Climate: Mediterranean

Style: An eclectic mix of different rooms

Owners: Wendy and Winston Floquet

As the old adage goes ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’ and this certainly proves true at Water Oak Farm. Reflecting on their journey, Wendy recalls: “We bought the property in 1986, but it wasn’t until 2001, when my husband’s work commitments allowed, that we were able to move to Cape Town and were able to finish building our house.”

The land presented them with an almost blank canvas. “We inherited just a few cypresses and one small oak tree,” comments Wendy. The ground was characterised by hard red clay soil that required years of nurturing with compost and fertilisers to reach its full potential. Wendy and her dedicated staff members have planted every plant in the garden, resulting in a personal touch that radiates throughout the entire garden.

Water Oak Farm takes its name from the magnificent avenue of water oaks (Quercus nigra) that lines the long driveway leading up to the house. Over the past 22 years, Wendy’s extensive tree plantings have begun to mature, lending an air of grace and grandeur to the garden. The panoramic views from the property are truly awe-inspiring, encompassing Table Mountain, Vlakkenberg, Constantiaberg, the Muizenberg mountains and a glimpse of False Bay. The borrowed views from the neighbouring wine estates of Klein Constantia and Buitenverwachting further enhance the garden’s natural beauty.