- Name: BEACHYHEAD
- Location: Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
- Architect: SAOTA
- Project architect: Phillippe Fouché Mias Claassens
Hovering over the dune and a stone throw from Robberg Beach
in Plettenberg Bay, the design was conceived as a simple box
which captures and frames the ocean view. The outer shell of the
box is finished in a rough natural texture that references back to
the dune, contrasting with the smooth reveal and soffit that tapers
to create a delicate frame
From the road, the scale of the house is modest, with living
spaces concealed on a lower level. Strong horizontality is
articulated in the entrance canopy, which is planted with
indigenous shrubs cascading over the slab edge.
Taking advantage of the remarkable views - with Robberg
peninsula to the south-east and the Outeniqua Mountains in
the distance towards the north - the southern section of the
house is higher and appears to be sliced off from the northern
part in a sculptural way. This opening extends vertically through
the building, washing northern light into the deeper spaces of
the house. Lit from a skylight above, the stairs are delicately
suspended in this void, also allowing views through it.
The geometry of the staircase continues as a diagonal line that
extends the cantilevering entertainment terrace. The centrallypositioned kitchen serves the living spaces and northern
courtyard. The kitchen volume opens upwards to the bedroom
gallery, allowing northern light into the space.
Located on the lower terrace, the pool connects to the main
entertainment spaces by means of a stone staircase, articulated
as part of the plinth. With a water level that is slightly raised above
the deck surface; a rim flow all round creates the impression
that this reflective water body slots into the timber deck. This
further creates unity between this refined, easy-flowing home
and its natural surroundings.