Sarah & Sebastian’s Playful Renovation

published Apr 21, 2010

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Name: Sebastian & Sarah
Location: Noordhoek — Cape Town, South Africa
Size: 2,360 square feet home
Years lived in: 2 (unrenovated) and 1 (as you see it)

Meeting Sarah and Sebastian in their wonderfully colorful home was a breath of fresh air — a home where you instantly fall in love with the building and its inhabitants. It’s inviting and interesting without overwhelming your senses — casual chic at its best! Architect Sebastian finds his inspiration in contemporary rural farmhouses and it formed the base for their renovation.

(Image credit: Apartment Therapy)

This was a simple farmhouse, with small windows buried in the maze of roads at the end of world famous Chapman’s Peak, but Sebastian had the vision to create an open family home with lots of light. The renovation took place over a couple of years and they are relieved it’s over since two became three with the arrival of their daughter. Sarah and Sebastian’s playful style is emphasized by their wonderful collection of contemporary art from some of South Africa’s most prominent artists.

(Image credit: Apartment Therapy)

Apartment Therapy Survey:

What are your hope and dreams? Enough time to enjoy life with my family and friends.

Inspiration: Contemporary rural farmhouses.

Dream source: Oshun in Noordhoek for all their outdoor things sourced in Bali and India.

Our Style: Whatever still looks good after India (our 3 year old) has made a food offering, or the dogs have chewed, on it.

What Friends Say: S**t it’s hard to find this place! — they love all the natural light.

Proudest DIY: Building the staircase up to the loft.

Biggest Embarrassment: The en-suite toilet stack vent sits dangerously close to the outdoors dining area.

Favorite element: The wrap around deck leading to an outdoor shower.

Biggest Indulgence: 4meter high ceilings and 6 meter built-in cupboards in the main bedroom.

Biggest Challenge: Getting the builder to not try his hand at modifying the design as he goes along.

Best Advice: If you are doing the project management yourself, understand the enormous amount of time and patience required to complete the task. It becomes a FULL time job and if you think the contractor does not follow something, they probably don’t.

Kitchen Hardware, Cupboards & Furniture: Custom designed cupboards throughout, with a Caesarstone top and self-closing Mepla hinges on doors, Breville Coffee machine from @home

Rugs & Carpets:: Weaved leather rug — Mr. Price Home, Oriental Kilim from somewhere

Tiles & Stone:: Black slate tiles— Just Tiles, mosaic from Penny Pinchers

Art:: Ooh, hmm, cowboy in lounge by Frank van Reenen. Stuff on lounge wall: Conrad Botes prints, Tracey Payne painting (from Bondage series), large Tracy Lynch painting over fireplace. Kitchen: 1 of 1 Pieter Hugo print, dining area: a Gabbi Raaff painting, Conrad Botes cabinet with Frank van Reenen things inside.

Thanks Sarah & Sebastian!

(Image credit: Apartment Therapy)

Images: Liezel Strauss

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