House jvV

The 500m² family home has an L-shaped ground floor plan that optimizes northern exposure and provides scenic views of the surrounding green spaces. Garages and service areas on the western and street sides offer shelter and privacy from the African sun respectively. A four-meter high wall, constructed with clay bricks and a durable cementitious finish, enhances insulation and showcases the functionality of the spaces. The wall features a planter that softens the intersection between the monolithic wall and the first-floor structure while providing shade and privacy through plants. A gate made of Lunawood timber laths adds articulation to the entrance. The timber construction complements the design concept, offering a lightweight and warm element that connects inside and outside as a type of filter.

Lunawood, sourced from Nordic pine or spruce, addresses the maintenance challenge posed by the Highveld climate. The thermally-modified timber is dimensionally stable, weatherproof, and doesn't require chemical treatment. It is sourced sustainably from Finland, where forests have a positive growth rate, reducing CO2 emissions. Over time, the timber changes colour, adding to its natural appeal and emphasizing the connection between the building and its surroundings. The house, completed in December 2021, demonstrates structural integrity and dimensional stability.

Vertical screens made of timber laths create a connection between the interior and exterior while offering privacy and shade. They extend along the east-west axis, providing additional shade and preserving views of the golf course and tree-lined street. Timber-clad walls and a pergola structure guide visitors towards the entrance and highlight the adjacent green space. Inside, timber screens act as balustrades, draws the façade in and through the interior and maintaining spatial transition between the ground floor living areas and the private bedrooms on the upper floor.

The completed house showcases the harmony of design, functionality, and natural elements. It seamlessly integrates with the surrounding greenery and maximizes natural light and views. The durable and sustainable materials used, such as Lunawood and Cemcrete, ensure long-term performance and minimal maintenance. The house stands as a testament to the connection between architecture and nature, providing a comfortable and visually appealing family home.