Inspired by opulent detail in a farmstead-style home in the Boland

Surrender to the beauty of this Boland home.

The U-shape of the house and the garden with its cobblestone pathways, perfectly manicured hedges and lollipop trees give it a distinct French country feel. But once you take a closer look, it’s unmistakably South African: the Cape Dutch gable on the main house is a sure sign that you’re in the Boland; as are the yellowwood and wild fig trees behind the house.

This is Jean and Teresa Groenewald’s dream home. After many years in Johannesburg, the couple decided to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind them and make Stellenbosch their new home in 2006.

“Two years prior to that, Jean had the opportunity to buy a portion of the historic Libertas farm, which was being developed into the 30-hectare Patrysvlei Estate,” says Teresa, a former nurse. “Jean bought 15 hectares, which consisted of four plots, and we sold three. All of the properties on Patrysvlei Estate have their own dam and olive grove and the style of each house had to be in keeping with the history of the area and stay true to the original Libertas farmstead, now a heritage building.

I feel very fortunate to live here. The Eerste River runs in front of our house and there is a dam with 50 bird species in our backyard. The outbuildings with their stone finish are very special because all the stone was sourced here when the foundations were excavated.” >>

As you pull up to this charming ‘farmstead’ outside Stellenbosch, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’ve arrived in France.

The large floor tiles (600 x 600mm) were washed with acid to give them an aged, weathered look. For a luxe look... A pretty ornament under a glass dome is always striking.

Common ivy has been espaliered up the wall.

Teresa loves wrought-iron detail; this railing in the kitchen was designed by Renée de Waal of Xperiencemakers.