Words by: Charnre Toweel (Luxe Interiors)
Photos by: Lisa Woest Photography
This spectacular residence located on the slopes of Durban, overlooking the breathtaking Indian Ocean coastline, was built in a new gated estate in Sibaya which has a modern and contemporary architectural design. The design of the home was inspired by the dramatic views of the ocean, capitalising on the blue seascape as you enter the house – this set the tone for what we’d hope would become a sophisticated, luxury oceanfront getaway. Tactile natural finishes combined with bold, simple forms were used to create a contemporary masterpiece.
The house is stacked vertically with the living areas and infinity pool situated on the uppermost double volume level area, creating the effect of the pool and ocean being one. This home can cocoon itself into indoor-outdoor living spaces with a garden courtyard and a protected garden where another pool is accessible for those more intimate gatherings in a more private setting.
The interior was inspired by the architecture which is clean, easy-living and contemporary, and achieved through the use of light and minimal finishes throughout the house, incorporating sophisticated light timbers and stylish brass detailing. The interior means to create a sense of ‘barefoot luxury’ through the seamless flow of the indoor-outdoor spaces. The landscaped exterior together with the blue hues of the ocean help make the surrounding rooms feel tranquil and cool, and this inspired the use of neutral tones in fabrics and finishes of the furniture. Soft colours and luxurious fabrics used throughout the house complemented the easy-living contemporary feel of the home.
Upon entering the home, the ocean views are framed perfectly by the double volume space and carefully designed and positioned furniture pieces, drawing the eye to the seascape ahead. The large sofas are anchored by soft neutral tones and counter-anchored by a dramatic, jeweled-like oversized gold chandelier, creating balance and harmony.
My vision was to accentuate the high ceilings to capture the breathtaking views and draw natural light into the area – the result is a clean, calm and memorable modern space, in which the spectacular Indian Ocean takes centre stage.
Floor-to-ceiling, smokey grey mirrors that clock the walls behind the sofas, together with the dramatic fireplace, create an illusion of space and once again reflect the glorious views whilst also creating a focal point.
Timber wall cladding together with warm-toned wallpaper add a layer of warmth to the interior palette and the simplicity in the design of the furniture doesn’t over-clutter the sense of tranquility.
Nestled to the left is a cosy hideaway informal TV lounge that reflects a less sophisticated and more inviting area where the family is able to relax and feel at home despite the more structured elements surrounding them.
The kitchen is modern and spacious and is conveniently accompanied by an informal, round dining area. The formal dining room was an opportunity to be a little more bold and adventurous with new design trends, and the use of wall paneling was welcomed by the client as a feature and a twist in making a small space more interesting.
One of the highlights of this home for us to play with was the inconspicuous lower living area, which is quietly tucked away on the bottom level of this five-bedroom home. It is a completely isolated, self-serving space where extended family or visitors can stay. With three of the five bedrooms positioned here, it also includes a large living area, kitchenette and a quaint yet quirky reading nook under the staircase. The upper level consists of a pyjama lounge with plenty of luxury storage space and a small office area, whilst the main bedroom becomes the ultimate R&R sanctuary.
The home is complemented by carefully selected pieces of art and sculptures which almost create a sense of living in an art gallery. Custom-designed, hand-carved rugs were commissioned throughout the home for specific rooms, which solidifies furniture layouts and adds a layer of depth and warmth that truly ties the spaces together.
Most of the home was customised, from the interior architecture to the lighting, joinery, and most of the bespoke furniture pieces too. We also did all of the turnkey styling, from the books to the accessories – these elements play such an important part of the project and bring everything to life. The finished product is a true masterpiece and embraces coastal living entirely.