The Reserve House
Grant Pitcher
Product Spec Sheet

ElementBrandProduct Name
Marble / granite topsAfrigran
ElectricalAmped Electrical
kitchenBrett Muller
Sanitary wareClassic Trading
Built-In cupboardsConrad Inspired Furniture
Aluminium Doors & WindowsGT Aluminium&Alulogic

Product Spec Sheet
Marble / granite tops
Electrical
kitchen
Sanitary ware
Built-In cupboards
Aluminium Doors & Windows

The Reserve House

Metropole Architects as Architects

With the site facilitating a wide ocean frontage, the design was able to respond with a "Wingspread" type architecture that appears to float over the indigenous dune vegetation, taking full advantage of the panoramic beach and sea views.


The Reserve house is a fusion of Tropical Modern Architecture with a number of bold Futurist elements, including a 4.3m high angled offshutter concrete wall that penetrates through the entrance hall, a splayed "T" shaped feature concrete column that supports a significant cantilevered top storey, and upswept cantilever pools that project out towards the ocean, which all combine to evoke the impression of movement.


The vibrant and eclectic interior spaces exhibit a rich and high-energy fusion of Mid-Century Modern and Industrial design styles that complement the architecture.


What existed before the land was purchased?


Greenfield site


What was the brief that was given to yourself?


Create something that was as unique as possible within the confines of strict Estate Architectural Guidelines that capitalized on the spectacular elevated sea facing location. How did you approach this brief?


Maximizingthe length of the building along the sea facing edge of the site in order to maximize the 180 degree sea views from Durban to Shaka’s Rock.


Were there any specific problems, if so, what?


The sea facing side of the building is also exposed to a prevailing onshore wind and is also in shadow after midday. As such, the outdoor entertainment area and swimming pool has been positioned on the inland protected and sun filled side of the building, and done in a way so as to retain sea views.


Elaboration on the brief itself:


Inspirations, i.e.: to use certain colours, materials, art, another country, for eg: Morocco, modern, eclectic etc?


Architecturally, John Lautner’sArango House in Acapulco inspired the cantilevers, balustrade pool and planked off-shutter concrete finishes. The eclectic industrial mix and choice of artwork is a fitting representation of the vibrant home owners.The colour palette of both strong, dark textures and bright fabrics reinforces this vibrant eclecticism!


What special features are present, eg: lighting, landscaping, something different and possibly any unusual architectural features?


The design incorporates cantilevers on all sides of the house in order to “release” the structure from the edge of the natural dune. This reinforces the forward motion of the house as well as emphasizing the “wingspread” aspect.


The swimming pool played both a visual and functional role in this project. Visually, the pool wraps around 3 sides of the house creating an island type feel and eliminating the need for a view impeding balustrade on the seaward side.


Particular attention was given to the lighting, off shutter concrete and timber detailing in order to create a visually stimulating and tactile feeling of comfort.


What did you want to achieve from the overall project, how was it approached?


We wanted to achieve a finished home that was worthy of the absolutely spectacular site. A home that not only responded to the breathtaking site but that could hold its own architecturally against the strong surrounding features.


This was achieved through the use of sweeping architectural gestures and unique spatial interaction of rooms combined to produce a product that we as the Architects are proud of, but most importantly, that we not only met but exceeded the clients expectations.

Project Spotlight
Product Spotlight
News
10 public buildings that demonstrate architectural applications of precast concrete
27 Mar 2024 Specification
10 public buildings that demonstrate architectural applications of precast concrete

Precast concrete is made by casting concrete in a reusable mold. These molds are made of various mat... More

Sameep Padora and Associates creates a flowing, organic art center in southern India
26 Mar 2024 News
Sameep Padora & Associates creates a flowing, organic art center in southern India

Mumbai-based Sameep Padora & Associates (sP+a) has completed Hampi Art Labs in Toranagallu, a vi... More

Introducing Partner Thermory AS
26 Mar 2024 Partner News
Introducing Partner Thermory AS

Thermory AS offers a diverse product range that includes durable exterior cladding, decking, interio... More

Brooklyn Tower by ShOP Architects showcases a unique materiality
25 Mar 2024 News
Brooklyn Tower by ShOP Architects showcases a unique materiality

Brooklyn Tower, standing an impressive ninety-three stories tall with a unique neo-deco crown, is al... More

Doriana Fuksas, Martin Lesjak, Li Xiang and Steven Wright join Archello Awards 2024 jury
25 Mar 2024 Archello Awards
Doriana Fuksas, Martin Lesjak, Li Xiang and Steven Wright join Archello Awards 2024 jury

Doriana Fuksas, Martin Lesjak, Li Xiang and Steven Wright have been announced as Archello Awards 202... More

Vurpas Architectes converts former brick and concrete market into light-filled primary school in Lyon
22 Mar 2024 News
Vurpas Architectes converts former brick and concrete market into light-filled primary school in Lyon

The Eugénie Brazier school project in Lyon, France, undertaken by regional architecture studi... More

Detail: Pleated facade geometry of Bonfiglioli HQ by Peter Pichler Architecture
21 Mar 2024 Detail
Detail: Pleated facade geometry of Bonfiglioli HQ by Peter Pichler Architecture

Designed by Peter Pichler Architecture, the new Bonfiglioli Headquarters is located in Calderara di... More

Introducing Partner Linea Light Group
21 Mar 2024 Partner News
Introducing Partner Linea Light Group

Linea Light Group is an Italian company known for its innovative lighting solutions. The company off... More