By Mari Sciarrapa, Photography Daniel Lurie
A New York loft meets Alice in Wonderland with this amazing home in Gauteng. And while the house could also operate as a boutique hotel, wouldn’t you just love living here. This home takes themed décor to a new, wholly artistic and comical (excuse the pun) playing field.
“We designed and built the home in 2009. We wanted something that was perfect for us and the only way to go was to build it. It is very much a reflection of our personalities and relationship,” says the lady of the house, adding that the theme in her mind is fun, fun, fun.
The estate they live in is made up mostly of Tuscan homes, so they decided to be the difference and go with this theme instead. It’s something completely different and far more modern – and while we do love the classical looks here at SA Home Owner, this just takes the cake.
But it wasn’t an easy ride…
“Finding just the right architect who understood exactly what we wanted was not easy. Riaan Visser, out of 27 architect options, ended up being the perfect choice. We loved working with him so much that we are busy designing another house with him.
We faced building challenges as the rocks just seemed to be never ending. We drove away close on 25 huge trucks filled with rocks.”
On a couple of occasions, they’ve even discovered little faces (the neighbourhood kids) pressed against the glass front door checking out the comic book wallpaper. They run off screaming and giggling when caught.
One of the most interesting aspects of this home was the design and installation of the modern chandelier in the TV room. Picture the man of the house on the highest old scaffolding with the lady shouting directions below. “Left or more right,” she’d shout between keeping her eyes tightly shut. “It was a nerve wracking experience.”
But definitely worth it in the end. And the proof is in the pudding.
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