Envisioned by Metropole Architects, Casa á Beiramar is a 750m² modern four-bedroom home situated in the prestigious Simbithi Golf Estate on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast. The design philosophy revolves around a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and the natural environment. 

The house commands attention, perched proudly on its site with a cantilevered form that emphasises horizontality. It stands as a bold testament to refined modernism, utilising materials such as steel, glass and concrete with meticulous detail. Clean lines juxtaposed with tactile elements such as timber and stone create a sophisticated yet understated ambiance. 

Indoor/outdoor 

Clerestory windows allow natural light to penetrate deep into the plan.

The architecture unfolds into a voluminous space at the upper level. An open-plan living, kitchen and dining area seamlessly integrates with the outdoor spaces through sliding glass doors. The covered veranda, supported by a striking steel “spider” column, extends the living space outdoors, offering shelter for an entertainment area, braai space, pool and small garden. 

The expansive oak timber-clad ceiling above adds warmth and visual continuity to the internal spaces. The master suite at this level is orientated towards the sea view and is a haven for private rest and relaxation, complete with a walk-in dressing room and opulent full master en-suite bathroom. An adjacent balcony allows one to venture outside to the edges of the cantilever on a veritable “lookout point” and engage with the sun, sea and breeze. 

Standout features 

A sensual organic curved oak timber-clad ceiling is the standout feature of the home.

A standout feature of the home is the sensual organic curved oak timber-clad ceiling. This provides the “wow factor” on entry, enhancing the vertical volume of the entrance hall and open-plan living areas. Coupled with clerestory windows, it allows natural light to penetrate deep into the plan. 

Descending via the main staircase, the spatial experience transitions to a more intimate experience. A TV lounge, study, double-sided Neolith-clad fireplace and a wine cellar offer a cozy retreat. Three en-suite bedrooms, each with garden access, cater for privacy while providing glimpses of the adjacent forest and distant sea views. 

Materiality 

The material and colour palette of Casa á Beiramar is a delicate balance between man-made interventions and the natural landscape. The extensive use of glass for building an enclosure and balustrading breaks down the traditional visual barriers between inside and outside. This promotes an immersion in the sights and sounds of the coastal forest context, as well as providing reflections of the natural vegetation. 

Generous overhangs allow for effective solar screening. The combination of solid slabs and pergola extensions in a steel and aluminium overhead provides a variety of experience and graded exposure to the sun and a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. 

Interiors 

The fusion of colour and texture in the styling, furniture and finishes complements the architectural spaces, presenting a cohesive and contemporary aesthetic. Considerations such as views, orientation, privacy and the response to the sub-tropical climate extend the overall success of the product. 

Architects: Metropole Architects. 

Location: Simbithi Eco Estate. 

Country: South Africa. 

Area: 750m². 

Year: 2023. 

Photographs: Grant Pitcher, Mo Heine. 

Lead architect: Nigel Tarboton. 

Interior designers: Metropole Architects. 

Builders: Sygnatur Projects. 

Landscape architects: Lynch Frog Landscapes. 

Project architects: David Louis, Frans Marx. 

For more information, contact Metropole Architects: 

Tel: +27 31 303 7858 

Website: www.metropolearchitects.com