Situated on the Kwazulu Natal North Coast just south of Umhlanga, La Lucia beach house perfectly balances luxury and comfort with its uncomplicated spaces.
Designed by leading South African Architects SAOTA the property is nestled between protected milkwood trees and offers stunning ocean views – both of which inspired the design of the property.
“The surrounding beauty of the environment was the inspiration behind this design. As designers we are passionate about creating spaces that reflect both the location and our clients – that is how life-enhancing spaces are crafted.” – Mark Rielly, ARRCC Director.
Bronze aluminium sliding screens cocoon the house and offering protection from the elements as well as providing a unique signature look for of the building.
A contemporary yet relaxed looking property, nature pervades throughout the property. The entrance framed by two milkwood trees has floating timber step platforms and pergola leading towards the front door of the home. Upon entering, the panorama is only revealed as one reaches the double-volume hallway - the aligned timber slat cladded ceilings draw the eye to the seascape ahead. Ocean views are framed perfectly by the screens that envelope the building.
The ground floor is designed to seamlessly integrate with the external terraces, pool decks and landscaping while maximising the views across the beach and sea. This area can be enjoyed as one continuous space or arranged into more individual and private spaces. Sliding screens provide flexibility to do this. All the areas open up either onto the sea facing pool deck or to the afternoon sun lit garden on the West.
The interiors express simplicity and restraint while making the home comfortable and cosy. Sand-coloured polished concrete floors, bleached timber, natural leathers and grey linens are anchored by soft neutrals and countered with touches of charcoal, teal and azure. The indoor and outdoor decor are aligned to allow for maximum entertainment space. The formal dining table and outdoor terrace table are positioned adjacent each other to accommodate large parties. The lounge and terrace lounge furniture were also chosen to read as one space. The four sea-facing bedrooms are located on the upper level and open onto private individual terraces. When closed, the aluminium screens add an interesting design element to this level.
The pool, deck and entertainment areas were placed on the sea facing side of the house, elevated slightly to provide views over the dune plants to further reinforce the connection with the ocean. Materials chosen for the external spaces echo bleached driftwood and the sandy beach.
Weathered iroko decking and ceiling slats, honed sandstone and polished light coloured concrete floors form the predominant materials and create a direct relationship with the surrounding environment.
Photography by Karl Beath
