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CITY VIEW HOUSE, GROENKLOOF, PRETORIA
The brief for City View House was for a modern, functional, energy efficient house. The footprint of a demolished house on the site had to be incorporated in the design. The property is situated against a north sloping hill in the established suburb of Groenkloof, Pretoria. The large, steep stand affords views over the city to the north, and borders a nature reserve to the south. The client wanted these views to the incorporated in the design.
Groenkloof is a sought after suburb due to its’ moderate climate, established character, vegetation and central location. Older homes mostly built in the 1960’s to 70’s are bought by a younger generation and either changed or demolished to make way for homes better suited to a modern lifestyle.
The challenge in architecture is to provide a solution to the client’s requirements that is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and within the merits of good architecture.
In our designs, we always keep in mind the experience of architecture, should be a journey of discovery. City View house is approached from the north along a steep driveway. The nature reserve lies ahead, a northern view of the house is provided, the parking area is reached passing the house on the east through a narrow alleyway. A visitor is not yet aware of the view behind. The foyer is entered, and moving to the right the ground floor living areas open up and the spectacular view is exposed.
Using the original footprint was ideal. The house is positioned at the highest point of the property providing unobstructed northern views. In order to provide accommodation requirements another floor was added, creating the opportunity to visually link the first floor with the nature reserve on the south.
The total floor area of the house is 590sqm. Ground floor accommodates the main open plan living areas, guest bedroom and study. A glass skin of sliding doors links the view, and extends the interior onto a covered patio, pool deck and boma.
A low wall separates the main bedroom sleeping area from the bathroom, creating an open plan effect, and giving views even from the bathroom.
The lower ground floor is totally separate and private from the main house with outside access. It can function as a self-contained flat, but currently used by the owner as a hobby room and to house a collection of South African memorabilia.
The design offers the modern, functional living the client required. It also incorporates sustainable initiatives. The building has the correct north-south orientation. Insulation is provided by walls, floors and roofs being insulated; and double glazing on doors and windows.
Our fondness of Brazilian architecture inspired the aesthetics of the house. Externally an exposed concrete frame is a feature of the north elevation. It acts as architectural feature, is structural, but also provides sun control. Its’ extension to the west creates the covered patio next to the pool. This concrete frame collects rainwater from Chromadek, and diverts the water to galvanized rainwater tanks. These rainwater tanks are expressed as architectural features around the house, and below the pool deck.
Solar power is provided through a Tesla powerbank, sufficient to support in all electricity needs and appliances. Energy efficient air-conditioning is installed, as well as solar geysers. A heatpump maintains comfortable pool water temperatures. A freestanding pellet stove in the lounge helps to heat the interior during winter.
Our client moved into the house a few months back. They are satisfied with the design and functionality of the house. We, as architects, are also satisfied. Our client decorated the house with furniture complimenting the architecture and concept of the house.
PROJECT TEAM
Andre Mellet – Design Architect
Willem human – Technical Architect
Contractor – Mammu
BouprojekteDesign Architect
Award-Winning Architecture
Mellet & Human Architects is an award-winning South African firm recognised for design excellence, innovation, and timeless architecture. Our work reflects a legacy of quality and visionary impact.