The stamp, ‘leisure’, is vehemently emblazoned across the walls of The Pearl. Settled upon the northern curve of Knysna’s Leisure Isle, this remarkable home commands a view of the Garden Route landscape that could quieten even the most loquacious visitor.
It’s a family beach home that has been lovingly layered together. Every piece of art hangs as a cherished sentiment from the owner’s friends. The eclectic furnishings have been discernibly sourced over a lifetime of adventures, and decidedly placed to accommodate every member of the clan. Especially the little ones. It’s a hideaway that’s swimming in colour, character and conversation, while the water laps and nature wraps around it.
The lagoon stretches across the surrounding terrain like a constant flow of invigorating energy. Sometimes silver, sometimes indigo, it canvases the views that are framed by yellowwood, stinkwood and milkwood trees. The neighbouring wattles lend their branches to the resident owls. Adding to the conversations every evening. You can walk out the back of the property and head straight for the shallows. Depending on the tide, you’ll be knee-deep in bliss within minutes.
A sweep of emerald lawn rolls out from the house, perfectly level and positively begging for croquet or a lazy afternoon of garden cricket. The doors of the living, dining, entertaining and reclining spaces fold away, allowing the activity of inside to spill out into the garden, and vice versa. Creeping bougainvillea, a burgeoning herb garden, hydrangeas and viburnum hedging adding more colour. Beyond the boundary rests a small harbour where the sail boats are privately moored. Awaiting any nautical whim you may wish to follow.
The house is a graceful double-storey contemporary construct, that’s as generous in spirit as it is in proportion. Five substantial ensuite bedrooms, with three enjoying the luxury of outdoor showers. Oh how we love those revitalising moments beneath an open sky. The ground-floor rooms step directly onto the lawn, while those above extend to balconies that capture the wafts of salty-sweet fragrances. The main ensuite – rather regal in scale – includes a bathroom so spacious, and a cosy lounging area that entices you to linger as long as possible.
Verandah stories embellished by colour
Gathering around the main living area of the home will be embedded into your daily itineraries. Vast cavity sliders erase any division between the house and garden, merging the lounge, bar, and verandah into one continuous flow. The dining table seats fourteen with ease. The chairs command your occupation like being summoned to sit, feast and bond for hours. Then out to the swimming pool. More games on the lawn. The kids will likely congregate around the low table, on the Malawi stools, cutting, painting and creating to their crafty holiday hearts’ content.
Some of you will be on the loungers, others in the quiet reading nooks that are scattered around the property. Many will be in the water of the lagoon, and a handful snoozing in their comfy suites. Lapping up the leisure that relentlessly pops up as a reminder. Even when you’re working out in the gym, it somehow refuses to make any demands. Facing directly onto the lagoon, the views ensure that the slightest exertion feels like a privilege.
At the core, it’s all about family time. Surrounded by the calming waters and curious collectables of the home. As the owner earnestly shares, “I decorate my homes with all of the things that make my eyes happiest.” A tangible gesture to you and your clan, as you plant yourselves beneath the parasols and pergolas, embracing the sublime life of leisure you’re perfecting.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie