52 Oak

This new home is built on a neglected portion of open ground which remained from the original town planning scheme for Atholl, an established Sandton suburb, and measures 1 700 square metres. Natural advantages included well-established trees – many of which are exotic – and an overall cool garden ambience.

The brief to the architects was to create a dwelling that was unlike current typical ‘brand architecture’ with a structure that would respect and preserve the trees on the site. Tranquil courtyards and a strong connection with the garden and distant views were to be incorporated into the design. And the house had to suit a globetrotting family; as a calm retreat, forming a neutral and warm backdrop for art and collectibles from all over the world. Cues were to be taken from the limited use of materials prevalent in contemporary Japanese architecture.

Source: Habitat Jan/Feb 2015 Issue