MOOIKLOOF FAMILY RESIDENCE
This house is situated on a one hectare stand in Mooikloof Equestrian Estate to the east of Pretoria. Established indigenous trees, shrubs and rocky outcrops characterise the north eastern sloping stand with views to the northeast.
The house was positioned and designed to minimize impact on the natural vegetation. The floor plan is fragmented with the intention of the house being positioned between the trees. Main living areas, home office and bedrooms are positioned on ground floor level. Utilising the slope a lower level accommodates the three garages, gym, guest bedroom, and domestic and storage rooms. A centrally positioned entrance foyer provides access to the living areas and home office on one side, and the private bedroom wings on the other. Externally focal walls clad in natural granite stone, place emphasis and leads visitors to the entrance foyer.
The open plan living areas flow onto the large covered patio, pool and lawn terrace. The terrace around the pool is the only area of the property that was levelled to create additional outside lawn space, leaving the rest of the property’s natural features undisturbed.
Large areas of glass provide views and maximise on natural light in the interior spaces. Sun protection is provided by concrete and tiled roof overhangs, resulting in desirable summer and winter interior temperatures. The house is self and energy efficient by use of solar panels for electricity, borehole water is used for household purposes, and an eco- friendly Calcamite drainage system is installed.
Externally the house blends into the natural landscape through its low level, fragmented architecture, and use of materials to minimise maintenance. Finishes are exposed concrete, flush jointed facebrick, Karoo Granite stone walls, clay roof tiles, and minimal areas of plastered walls painted in earthy colours.
The low pitched roofs are covered in aesthetically pleasing natural clay Coppo Domus in Rustico Etrusco colour, imported by Coverland. These natural clay tiles require no maintenance, give good weather insulation, and should age well and blend even further in time with the natural surroundings.
BRIEF COMMENT FROM THE CLIENT
“The design definitely fulfils in our needs of providing a refuge away from city life. A home to return to and enjoy family life, providing modern conveniences, and a home that is low on maintenance. All of our expectations are met, in the period we have enjoyed and lived in this house. Above all, our expectations are met in a house blending with nature, while also utilising what nature have provided us, on this very special piece of land”
PROJECT TEAM
Andre Mellet – Design Architect
Willem human – Technical Architect
Contractor – LOMBARD BUILDING
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.