Inyati declares its Hermanus heritage with pride, blending its early 20th Century bones in harmony with its contemporary counterparts with views of the Overberg landscape, just a stroll away from the winding cliff paths of Voelklip.
One of the alluring things about the flourishing fishing town of Hermanus, is its history. Centuries of change and a gradual evolution of the architectural landscape. The owners of Inyati have nurtured every aspect of this old soul. Fostering the stories that live in the walls, the floors, the original features and the grounds of the homestead. And allowed those stories to take a new narrative, in its modern expansion, so that its character comes to life with all of the essential new-age comforts.
It’s perfectly positioned, facing the Kleinrivier Mountains of the Overberg, bordering the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, moments away from the cliff footpaths. Slivers of the sea can be seen from certain points around the home. But Inyati is about the ancient Camphor and the Waterberry trees. So that the resident owls have somewhere to live too. It’s about absorbing the light and the reflections of the verdant landscape. Letting the seaside air engulf all of the spaces of this multifaceted home.
Set on 2,000m², the original farmhouse has been extended by a modern north-facing wing that, together with the main house accommodates up to seven guests in three bedrooms. The home is arranged around the original vernacular, with the history of the property engraved into the Norfolk pine timber that’s been ardently repurposed throughout the home.
The light-filled modern extension is designed to embrace its surroundings. Full-height sliding windows open across the northern façade, connecting the interiors with expansive mountain views, the Mossel River and, from the front of the house, a glimpse of the ocean. Morning light fills the sunroom, where a large dining table sits alongside a six-meter kitchen island with a pivoting table that seats eight.
A separate heritage cottage with a contemporary interior accommodates another two members of the clan, in a single-bedroom suite with an en-suite bathroom. Framed by a remarkable 200-year-old Camphor tree, that’s become a symbolic statement throughout the home.
Timeless living, rooted in nature
Hours will be spent on the wraparound verandahs, sipping a morning brew or an evening tipple, listening to the sublime silence – and the prolific birdlife. An eco-friendly circular pool, with a built-in seating step, is orientated towards the mountains. Oh yes, you’ll be spending many a blissful hour in the water, bobbing about like the whales do just below.
The owners of Inyati come from a design-artist background, so naturally the home’s interiors reflect a discerning blend of old and new. Handmade furniture, collected objects, family heirlooms, textile works and some special pieces of art by the owner and her artist mother-in-law, create spaces that are rich in texture and character. Every piece tells a story, and it becomes one that you enjoy listening to over and over again. There’s even a lovely herb garden that adds to the generosity of the home, as the story continues to evolve with curiosity and creativity.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie
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