St Leon 10 in Bantry Bay, Cape Town

Project Name: St Leon 10
Location: Bantry Bay, Cape Town
Architects: SAOTA - Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects
Project Team: Stefan Antoni & Philip Olmesdahl
Interior Decor: ANTONI ASSOCIATES
Project Team: Mark Rielly
Completion Date: 2006
Photographs: SAOTA

Project description:

This home was designed for a family with 2 young sons who wanted a house which simultaneously created spaces for casual intimate family occasions or large get-togethers. The site allows for unprecedented views towards the 12 Apostle Mountains, Clifton Beaches and Robben Island. The building is cut into the slope with approximately 50% of its rear face below the natural ground level. The upper level floats over the essentially glazed South West facing first floor and this exaggerates the height of the building relative to the adjacent ground level. The house is organised in a linear manner with all rooms facing the sea view. The rear of the house offers privacy with no openings other than the glazed double volume entrance space. This space is screened with a steel framed timber screen and access off the street is through heavy timber gates. The double volume entrance space leads onto the main living wing of the house including 2 lounges, dining room and kitchen. A sculptural stair leads up a triple volume space from the entrance up to the second floor and bedroom levels. The ground floor is accessed through the same stairwell and accommodates a generous pool entertainment room with a feature sunken lounge, back-lit onyx bar and wine cellar. A gym and second guest room are also accommodated on this lowest level. ANTONI ASSOCIATES were appointed as the interior decorators. On the entrance living level the interiors are kept to a neutral palette with a subtle play on texture in materials and fabric selected. Soft cream leathers and weathered timber finishes layer the interior with luxurious elements. The overall feel is warm and inviting.