The reputable property owners of Dawn Villa had a vision for their family, and how their home would be consciously stitched together like the finest tapestry of all time. They called upon the brilliance of Kate Delfante – a South African architect who’d worked with some of the greats and had a clear understanding of the owners’ concepts. Employed the hands of their father – a meister of the building industry who was naturally privy to the threads of their tapestry. Together they layered together their ideas, expertise and passion, and produced a contemporary masterpiece that evolves as an immediate extension of Table Mountain’s own emerald tapestry.
Set on two hectares of lush, indigenous gardens – inspired by the imposing canvas of green of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Constantia Nek, Skeleton Gorge and Cecilia Forest immediately in front – this magnificent hideaway is a statement of familial love from the roots up. Two levels of off shutter concrete, stone, timber, glass and vast, open spaces have been built around a series of courtyards and water features, allowing the natural light and foliage to permeate every space. Its four ensuite bedrooms, cosy study and wine cellar, pyjama TV lounge and secluded reclining spaces are all enveloped entirely by the expansive views of the garden and her mountain. The entertaining spaces all pivot from the exquisite Bulthaupt Kitchen that’s as functional as it is fancy. It generously opens out into the living area, allowing for large gatherings around the hub of the home. The dining area sits slightly separate from the kitchen, connected to the formal lounge with a beautiful big fireplace. A lovely large verandah leads you outside to the outdoor dining space beside the braai. Extending across the rolling lawn down towards the swimming pool, where it’s likely you’ll be spending a large portion of your time on loungers, listening to the birds sweep through the Yellowwood forest, the indigenous walkways, a fairy garden housing a trampoline, an acrobranch course and flourishing vegetable garden.
Whether you and your family choose to spend your days ensconced in the blissful surroundings of Dawn Villa’s gardens and relaxing entertainment spaces, or onto the mountain trails, into the tasting rooms of the neighbouring wine estates or venturing towards the great beaches nearby, the hideaway lends itself as an avant-garde retreat where your own tapestries will be stitched together. You’ll weave together memories of doing cartwheels on the lawn, telling stories around the fireplaces, exploring fairy gardens and dancing beneath the stars. You’ll indulge in all of the finest foods, treats and tipples that the great Cape furnishes us with. As you allow the mountain and her revitalising air to add those natural hues to the vibrancy of your timeless tapestry.
What we love!
- The colour tones used in the interiors are bold, yet neutral. With the use of charcoals, greys and different shades of green to soften the palette, the outside and inside are seamlessly met with a mirroring complexion. The refined furniture, signature pieces of art and ornamental features have been consciously hand-selected by the owners to layer the texture with colour, curiosity and style.
- The main ensuite houses a steam room, for those in need of a mini spa treatment after a busy day.
- The Views are truly spectacular and transform with the changing seasons from summer shades of green to autumnal reds and oranges. With the house being so secluded it does feel as if it’s just you and the wilderness of the mountain.
- The sentimental sculptures in the garden commissioned by the owners for their children, depicting family life. Including Dylan Lewis and Graeme Quinn.
What you need to know…
- There is a one-bedroom guest cottage close to the main house.
- There is another two-bedroom cottage. This was originally a staff cottage, it is comfortably decorated and works perfectly for teens seeking some privacy, or indeed any guests who may appreciate the option of spending time away from the main group.
- For those who love to venture out into the mountain there are a number of mountain biking, hiking and running trails on the doorstep. Simply hop onto the green belt that leads you up towards the Nek. It’s perfectly safe as there are always other people walking their dogs or riding their bikes.
- Revered for its award-winning vines and world-class restaurants, Constantia is surrounded by lush greenery. It is central to great schools, incredible restaurants and shopping malls. Constantia Village being the nearest shopping centre to the villa, you have access to all of the essentials you’ll need.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie