Nestled within the serene landscape of Val de Vie Estate in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley, the Winelands Villa is a testament to the seamless integration of luxurious living with natural surroundings. Crafted by the collaborative genius of ARRCC and SAOTA, this architectural marvel epitomizes a modern interpretation of Provençal and Cape vernacular styles while pushing the boundaries of design innovation.
The Cruciform Arrangement
At its core, the Winelands Villa embodies a cruciform arrangement of five overlapping squares, ingeniously reimagining the original H-shaped footprint. This innovative layout maximizes panoramic views of the Drakenstein, Simonsberg, and Paarl Rock Mountains and fosters a harmonious relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. Through floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors that effortlessly pocket into the walls, the villa transcends conventional boundaries, inviting the surrounding landscape to become an integral part of the living experience.
Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
On arrival, visitors are welcomed by an impressive double volume / through-foyer accentuated by a tower-like pitched roof, contributing to its overall vastness and grandiosity. This amazing space is the continuation of a flowing sequence of several lounge zones connected by others but, at the same time, are intimately designed for human scale and comfort. Instantly, we are welcomed by bespoke, hand-chiseled sandstone plinths that provide a sturdy foundation for this space and give it a raw yet refined appearance.
Contemporary Elegance in Material Selection
The modern ARRCC and SAOTA bring a new level with the unconventional pattern choice: a blend of stylish modernity. Fresh, sleek timber-clad roof beams and bold, unique features create an atmosphere of modernized rusticity in the naturalness of raw exposed beams. Similarly, integrating off-shutter concrete, timber cladding, and natural stonework against white plastered walls creates a visual tapestry that seamlessly blends with the surrounding fynbos landscape.
Beyond its architectural prowess, the Winelands Villa transcends the confines of a mere residence, offering an oasis of relaxation and entertainment. The interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces is further accentuated by resort-like amenities, including a floating island over the swimming pool and an elegant canopy that delicately frames the sweeping vistas. These extensions not only enhance the horizontal lines of the architecture but also provide shelter and privacy without compromising the immersive experience of nature.
The outdoor emphasis of the villa's bathrooms can be credited to both ARRCC and Studio/OTA, who role as orchestra master in that rain forest-inspired moment. The builders demonstrated their mastery through symmetrical design principles and the functional placement of openings. These sanctuaries create tranquility so that the residents can enjoy the beauty of their surrounding areas and relax in luxury.
The Winelands Villa is not a mere replication of the existing paintings but rather a composition that creates a modern style that complements the structural aesthetic of the estate and merges art and nature to create a harmonious overall ambiance. Through the precise and focused design and the constant dedication of the designer to improving it for the owner, the house represents the pinnacle of architectural mastery among Wineland buildings.
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