R60 million Rooi Els beach house becomes a reality

When a businessman from Joburg met friend and architect George Elphick, co-founder of Elphick Proome Architects (EPA), this innovative dream began to take form on a small paper serviette. Derived from the idea that one house can be one complete space, EPA had free reign in designing and conceptualising the client's vision, ultimately creating a global first. "Our client had the courage that enabled us to create an entirely unique concept, essentially combining elements that we, as architects, have explored but seldom been able to implement and achieve. We were allowed uninhibitedly to expand on our existing creative aspirations," explained Elphick.

He continued: "We are extremely proud to see this vision become a reality and are confident that the future owners of this home will be in awe of the experience that it offers."

The most remarkable home in the world?

More than four years since the original concept was imagined, the Rooi Els Beach House has finally become a reality and, more notably, has created a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for an individual or syndicate to own arguably the most remarkable home in the world.

Capitalising on a magnificent environment with panoramic views across the Atlantic Ocean and stretching all the way from Cape Point to Hangklip, the house is conceived as a minimal steel-framed glass box with a hull-shaped timber-clad roof to enhance distant views of the surrounding mountains. All the external walls are sliding folding glass doors and are filtered by slatted timber shutters that open hydraulically to become verandas when open, and a continuous secure screen when closed. All interior walls slide away during daytime hours to create a single large living space that flows out on all four edges on to the cantilevered broad decks. The effect created is, thus, an umbrella, connecting isotropically to the environment that cradles the house.

To ensure minimum environmental intrusion to the sensitive fynbos vegetation and dunes that form the site, the house is elevated to allow the fynbos to be extended under its footprint. Situated in a charming seaside town in the Western Cape, the magnificent Rooi Els Beach House ensures that the beauty of the ocean and the mountains are enjoyed from every inch of the house, which freely flows out onto a deck overlooking the natural beauty of a World Heritage site, Rooi Els.

Minimalism and simplicity

"I have been an architect for 27 years and the design and development of this home was unlike any that I have ever been involved with before," confirmed Elphick. The house is, essentially, a one-room space that embodies minimalism and simplicity. "Our client lived in Japan in his formative years and therefore understood the functional concept of a single-room house. The one-of-a kind home is an antithesis of the traditional concept of a home and is derived on principles of creating a unique vacation experience, embracing the remarkable location while engaging minimal environmental intrusion," explained Elphick.

This uniquely crafted beach house is an extraordinary living experience in the most exquisite setting. In addition to the distinctive design, almost all of the components in the assembly of the house, save the taps, sanware and appliances, have been invented, designed and created specifically to compliment and complete the individuality of the home.

Embracing a vision that encapsulates the expanse of sea, sky and mountains, propped up by the richest of the world's six floral kingdoms, you have little choice but to fall in love with the Rooi Els Beach House. Elphick said: "The home has been designed to be climatically responsive, with all the surrounding natural elements in mind. The area has one of the most intensive weather patterns in Africa and, through the design and materials used, the concept of living in the 'eye of the storm' has come to life. From the home, you have the most breathtaking views, nestled between shimmering silver beaches and rich vegetation."

Reiterating the brilliance in the design of the Rooi Els Beach House, EPA has already been awarded two major accolades since the completion of the home less than a year ago, namely the Design et Al International Design & Architecture Award 2014, and the SAISC Residential Award 2013.

"Working on this project has been extremely rewarding and has been a significant highlight in my career. It is most certainly a beach cottage with a difference," ended Elphick.