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Up Close & Personal With GSQUARED Architecture and Interiors

GSQUARED is a Cape Town based creative, compact architectural practice that prides itself on delivering projects that are imaginatively conceived, well-designed and respond entirely to client objectives and aspirations. 

Their experience has taken the team from high-end luxury residential architecture to commercial developments and some bespoke furniture design.

Today we step inside one of their latest builds in de Waterkant, Cape Town and find out more about the style of this exquisite dwelling.

What is the size and measurement undercover of the house, and the entire stand/property?
106m² – this is the site – what is the area of the units?
Unit 1: (1 Bed) 143m²
Unit 2: (2 Bed) 223m²

What existed before the land was purchased?
When we first met with the client there was an existing two storey single dwelling. This building had no heritage significance and therefor allowed us to completely demolish the structure.

What was the brief given by the client to the designer / decorator?
The brief to the architects was to design a luxury town house development which consisted of a one bedroom unit and two bedroom unit each with their own off street parking, bedrooms, en-suites, living area and entertainment roof terrace. The client wanted a unique design that maximized the best use of space within the city with breathtaking views.

How was this brief executed?
The street edge was treated with a hard concrete structure to provide privacy to the owners. Carefully punctured openings on the street façade allowed for natural light and ventilation. The large window on the street edge was screened using a bespoke custom made metal screen, which filters the afternoon sun.

Each unit has off street parking with stairs connecting all the different floors. Bedrooms were designed on the first floor, each with an en-suite. The living room and kitchen on the second floor, maximizes panoramic views towards the city and the harbour.

The roof terrace each has its own plunge pool and entertainment area. Roof planters soften the edges and provide privacy between the two units.

Were there any specific problems, if so, what?
Obtaining approval from Heritage, municipal zoning by-laws and the ratepayers association.
During construction, the limited space and access onto the site had been coordinated between suppliers, city council and neighboring properties

What was the inspiration?
Inspiration was drawn from the context and city living. The needs for privacy but still capturing the views of the city, harbor and mountain. The use of contrasting colours like black, white and natural timber kept the interior simple and minimalistic, which allowed the space to feel light and bright. This colour palette was used both externally and internally.

Metal and timber with smooth plastered surfaces contrasts as the day changes and the sun shines on the façade. Strong geometric forms were used as the medium to render shadows on the building and filtered light into the spaces.

What special features are present, e.g.: lighting, landscaping, something different and possibly any unusual architectural features?

The bespoke floating metal stair allows for vertical circulation that is light and unobstructed. A custom-made steel screen filters the afternoon sun and provides privacy from the street and the neighbours.

Feature track and spotlights were used to highlight architectural and interior features throughout the building. A metal spiral stair connects the living with the entertainment roof terrace which captures 360-degree views of the city, harbor and Table Mountain.

The following suppliers were involved:

  • Architecture and Interior Design: GSQUARED Architecture and Interiors
  • Photography: Niel Vosloo Photography
  • Interior Rugs: Hertex / LUND rugs
  • Bathroom/s by: All fittings supplied by Flush Bathrooms. Black Taps from Meir. Bespoke Corian basins by Infin8 Surfacing
  • Tiles by: Nikki Soloman – TacTile
  • Timber Flooring: Oggie Flooring
  • Timber Cladding: Vintage Flooring
  • Landscaping: Oasis Design
  • Contractor: Pinnacle Project Management

As a young service driven firm specializing in architecture in all forms, the focus of GSqUARED is entirely on the site and brief versus imported or borrowed styles. They have produced works throughout the country as well internationally and are currently busy with works in Harare, Lagos and Luanda.

For more visit GSQUARED.

 


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