bomax + OKHA design luxurious south african house with integrated natural feature

located in a small beachfront community in south africa, ‘la belle vue’ project is a creative design collaboration between bomax architects and OKHA interiors. the house intends to provide a place of sanctuary and repose from the fast-paced life of the client who is an international executive.

‘la belle vue’ project is a creative design collaboration between bomax architects and OKHA interiors

from its elevated position, south african based practices bomax architects and OKHA‘s collaborative project has spectacular views of both the mountain and ocean which are visible from every corner of the house. there are extensive balconies and terraces both at the front and back of the building and large windows framing the mountain and sea views from the interior — a key design element attributed to architects.

the house is set in a small beachfront community in south africa

the ‘la belle vue’ house has been an extensive alteration of an introverted building that now literally unzips across the entire front facade allowing direct access from the dining, living, entertainment and master bedroom to the exterior on both levels. the house breathes the sea air and allows the beach to become one with the natural matte finishes selected for the interiors.

a giant boulder remains inside the house adding to the seamless integration of the indoor and outdoor environments

the existing old house was remodeled by bomax architects entirely, while retaining the existing concrete frame which rests on large boulders. a giant granite boulder remains inside the house adding to the seamless integration of the indoor and outdoor environments. utilizing existing materials together with sustainable building components allowed bomax to improve the overall energy consumption and thermal performance of the house.

much of the furniture items were custom designed to subtly articulate an african modernism and luxury

although the bomax architecture expresses a modern, almost minimalist aesthetic, the client has wished to express his african heritage through elements of the interior. subsequently, much of the furniture items are custom designed to subtly articulate an african modernism and luxury. OKHA has designed a sculpted and carved front door inspired by traditional african motifs and sets the tone for further contemporary interpretations found throughout the interior.

the ‘la belle vue’ house has been an extensive alteration of an introverted building

the ground floor’s formal lounge area is soothing in its chalky monochromatic palette, allowing natural light to sculpt and enhance the interior design and stucco walls. the furniture uses strong lines, clean forms and materials such as etched raw oak, vintage leather, satin brass and granite to create a timeless elegance. the entertainment level which houses the audio-visual home cinema system is a more vibrant experience with rich african earth-inspired colors, custom graphic rugs and a classic retro feel which gives the upper level a distinct attitude.

strong lines, clean forms and materials such as etched raw oak, vintage leather and satin brass create a timeless elegance

the ground floor houses a soothing and formal lounge area

its chalky monochromatic palette allows natural light to enhance the interior design and stucco walls

the entertainment level which houses the audio-visual home cinema system is a more vibrant experience

african earth-inspired colors, custom graphic rugs and a classic retro feel gives the upper level a distinct attitude

the house intends to provide a place of sanctuary and repose from the fast-paced life of the client

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: apostolos costarangos | designboom