Interior designer, Dorothy van’t Riet of Dorothy van’t Riet Design & Décor (DVR) specialises in interior architecture, space planning, décor and styling. Led by the company founder, Dorothy van’t Riet, DVR is well-known for fully upgrading and renovating existing homes as well as new builds. DVR takes projects from the design brief, to conceptualization stage, visual presentations, space planning and layouts, the finishes to installation stage and final handover to clients. 

The project 

One of the many projects DVR has completed was a Cape Town family home with magnificent views in one of the city’s most sought-after suburbs. 

These before and after images show the scope of this renovation project in Cape Town. 

The home underwent extensive renovations and refurbishments. The clients, the architect Robyn Millenaar and DVR together with construction by Kieron Palframan of PS Projects formed a strong team that meticulously executed the project. The architect skilfully enhanced the functional layouts and overall size to meet the family’s needs. 

There was a beautiful dance between the view, the architectural elements and the interior spaces – spaces that are expansive yet intimate. 

The entrance staircase wall underwent a revamp, creating a smooth wall as a backdrop for a striking custom-designed facial mask, theatrically backlit to create a captivating focal point upon entering the home. 

Entrance wall before the renovation. Here the alcove sliding doors were removed. The new look is a smooth painted wall.

A large back-lit custom designed mask was installed on the new entrance wall to dramatic effect.

The outdoor living areas were maximized by enclosing the patio and redesigning the swimming pool; all captivating the exceptional mountain views. 

Bespoke design 

Every aspect of the home’s design was tailor-made to create a client centred home. Custom-designed shopfitting and furniture using contrasting textures, organic materials, detailed finishes, creative and innovative solutions for each area were tailored to the client’s preferences. 

Dorothy states “My aim was to create a home that reflected a lifestyle of uncomplicated beauty for my client – curated spaces that represent quality, comfort and aesthetic harmony.”  

“One of the ways I did this was to use different layered, customized textures, from finely polished stone to the rich wooden floors, textured rugs and beautiful fabrics – all quality materials with timeless appeal. Furniture was custom designed to seamlessly complement the spacious settings.” 

“Every line, texture and hue was deliberate and thoughtful in creating a client centred modern and luxurious home; a sanctuary inspired by the splendour of nature’s colour palette.” 

Timeless, versatile colours that soothe the senses and unifies the space were carefully selected.

By integrated lighting, ceiling details and bulkheads ambiance was created to the interior spaces.  

Window treatments frame the breath-taking mountain views visible through large windows and sliding doors. 

The DVR team carefully designed each interior space with meticulous attention to detail & creative flair.  

A fully customised renovation design brings new life to a family home in Cape Town. 

For more information, contact Dorothy van’t Riet Design & Décor Consultants (Interior Designer) 

Tel: +27 82 553 7227 

Millenaar Architects – Architect 

Tel: +27 82 534 0991