As if this hideaway would be the home of a horticulturist, The Garden House makes its gilded statements in the verdancy of the land it occupies. A stone’s throw away from the main hub of the voguish village of Franschhoek, settled on the scenic La Cotte Street, this enchanting winelands escape has been seamlessly stitched together by its architect owners.
Having been delicately renovated to retain its unique features and cleverly opened up to reveal its contemporary virtues, The Garden House is all about the landscape. The immediate foliage, the valley that unravels, and the mountains. And all of that delightful north-facing natural light that comes flooding in.
Expansive sliding windows and doors dissolve the boundaries between the refined interior and the exuberant exterior spaces. The open-plan kitchen, dining, and living areas of the lower level flow effortlessly with one another, in and out of the courtyard. Two of the four ensuite bedrooms open directly onto the garden. The upper-level main ensuite achieves its palatial purpose with sweeping views of the mountains, set within a vaulted ceiling.
A second lounge opens onto a terrace, complemented by a dedicated studio-office area. The fourth bedroom has its own separate bathroom, accommodating as many as eight of your clan. All of the furnishings, the earthy materials, textures and tones, and the sentimental collectables have been sourced and placed with intent. Evoking a stimulating countryside narrative throughout the home.
Synergy, symmetry and sophistication
The wonderful thing about The Garden House is its proximity to everything in the wine region. Yet it’s tranquil seclusion in equal measures too. You and your travelling team can walk to most of the town’s attractions or an easy drive to the wine estates. You’ll leisurely pivot from the property, exploring all that’s on the itinerary. But you’ll be just as eager to settle around the seating areas.
Gather around the tables and the fireplace, allowing the laidback ambience of the home to set the tone. Someone will be at the grand piano, playing their best versions of Bach. Others will be in the glorious swimming pool. The designated cook will be doing what they do best beside the built-in braai.
One thing’s for certain, all of you will be absorbing the garden’s aromas, the light’s embrace, and the boundless views of the mountains. From those golden moments before dawn, until well after those violet moments at dusk.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie