house desemberg
A Contemporary Farmhouse Harmonised with Nature
Cradle of humankind - gauteng
House Desemberg:
At The Two Homers, we take pride in crafting spaces that seamlessly blend traditional architecture with modern living. House Desemberg, perched atop a grassy hill within an eco-estate in the cradle of humankind, north of Johannesburg, epitomises this balance. With a breathtaking vantage over the majestic Magaliesberg mountain range, this contemporary interpretation of a traditional farmhouse was designed to be both timeless and adaptable.
A Vision Inspired by the Landscape
The design brief from homeowner Sebastien Desemberg was clear: to create a home that captures the stunning views while remaining flexible enough to grow with his family. In response, we conceptualised a series of stand-alone living spaces, or "pods," interconnected by glass links. These links offer a unique experience—moving between the built forms, one is momentarily immersed in the natural landscape, enhancing the connection between the home and its environment.
Designing with Flexibility and Sustainability
One of the defining features of House Desemberg is its ability to expand without disrupting the initial structure. This phased construction approach not only caters to the growing needs of the family but also minimises the impact on the site. The design strategically places picture windows to frame the surrounding vistas while screening out neighbouring properties, ensuring that every corner of the home offers a connection to the outside world.
Eco-Friendly Living at Its Best
House Desemberg is a model of sustainable living. By minimising the building's footprint to just 30% of the site and incorporating eco-friendly practices such as rainwater capture, greywater harvesting, and the use of recycled materials, the house is both environmentally conscious and luxurious. Natural materials and an earthy colour palette further anchor the home within its surroundings, allowing it to blend harmoniously into the landscape.
Craftsmanship and Collaboration
The construction of House Desemberg was a collaborative effort that spanned just over six months, thanks to an exceptional team of professionals. The first phase, completed in 2018, marked the beginning of a home that is as much a retreat as it is a residence. With phase two on the horizon, set to begin in 2022, House Desemberg will continue to evolve, just as the landscape around it does.
House Desemberg stands as a testament to thoughtful design, sustainability, and the power of collaboration. At The Two Homers, we believe that a home should be more than just a place to live—it should be a reflection of its environment and the lives of those within it. Explore more of our projects atThe Two Homers and discover how we can help you create a space that resonates with your vision and values.
Credits
David Homer
Lead Designer
Matthew Liechti
Lead Designer
Anna Claude
Project Co-ordinator
Sebastian Desemberg
Client