I received a call from Wessels and Gina, who had bought land with a beautiful view over a dam and mountains in the background:
“I would like three sides of the house to have views over the dam and of the mountains in the background, with as much glass/windows as possible and a wraparound veranda on three sides,” said Wessels. “We’d like an easy-flow, open living area.
“We need four bedrooms to accommodate our children and grandchildren, two en-suite and the other two sharing a bathroom. A double storey would be nice with the main en-suite upstairs and a balcony.
“Two large garages, no thatch, and we will put in solar power. I will fax you a sketch with the orientation to the dam,” he concluded.
Hi Wessels and Gina,
Thanks for your brief on your new house requirements. Views over the dam, a north-facing situation and prime property in the KZN Midlands all add up to a home that needs to suit the location.In the layout, all the living rooms face the views. The upstairs bedroom turned out to be a bit larger than expected, but fits snugly over bedrooms three and four below. This upstairs bedroom area could also be an open area for many extramural activities or accommodation for those visiting grandchildren.
The living area and kitchen has an open-beamed ceiling, but with an essential fireplace to heat that extra space. On sunny winter days, however, the glazed gable end will allow the living area to be passively heated. Solar panels can be placed on the shallow roof section over the dining porch. If things get too hot, there’s always the splash pool. A home for all seasons, bru! Let me have your comments.
Jonno
