COPPERLEAF ESTATE RESIDENCE
CENTURION, GAUTENG
Completed: 2015
SNAPP Team: Patrick; Bruce; Clare
The estate guidelines along with the Client brief defined much of the design process for this farm style residence. The client required a family house with maximum garden area and an open, inviting living space with a focus on entertaining.
The resulting design is of two farm-like sheds connected by a covered walkway which also forms the boundary between the street and private garden. The sheds are simply constructed with open ceilings, exposed trusses and large north facing windows to create a light and airy interior. Portions of the building are highlighted with face-brick, adding to the rustic charm of the style, while stealing additional space beyond the boundary of the rectilinear shed. The covered walkway is closed off to the garden with sliding timber screens which can be opened when entertaining becoming an inviting entrance straight from the terraced front garden and street into the large private entertainment area. Sliding timber screens are also used for privacy and solar shading at the large street facing window into the lobby and main living area.
Due to the high winds experienced in the area a new roofing system was chosen for its previous industrial uses and the method of installation. The system of simultaneous installation of rigid insulated ceiling panels with the roof sheeting and solar panels resulted in flawless internal junctions with the exposed roof trusses and eliminated the need for cornices or an additional ceiling finishes.
Internally a floating timber staircase was proposed as the main visual and spatial feature upon entering the house. One then progresses through to the kitchen, the heart of this home, and then on to the more formal entertaining areas with the family rooms located on the level above. The house is positioned so as to allow for maximum garden space and the rooms are organized linearly throughout the main shed form with a continuous timber deck running the length of the northern side allowing each space to open directly into the garden beyond. The dining area opens up completely onto a covered patio with an extension of floor covering and level, thus creating an inside outside space with natural flow and infinite flexibility.
Photography: Bruce McLean