A VISION WITH A VIEW

The renovation of Johannesdal 1207 pays tribute to the farm’s rich history and magnificent location

Like most good stories, the one of Johannesdal 1207 started with a group of friends and a simple dream. Theirs was to create an exclusive venue with spectacular views to share with those closest to them. and it was not that hard a dream to bring to life considering the location of the farm. set in the breathtaking mountain range of the Banhoek Valley, the last century has seen this area occupied by wild elephants, the huguenot settlers and humble fruit farmers. The rich and diverse history of this stretch of the winelands was ultimately what inspired architect Johann slee to turn the simple farm into a premier destination for holiday-goers.

The farm had existing structures, including terraced orchards, ponds, cottages and an old farmhouse, which served as the centre of the renovation project.

‘The farmhouse had poorly executed extensions,’ says Johann. a‘ nd so it needed a complete rebuild. From there, the other existing structures could be renovated to fit in with our vision.’

Wanting to ‘retain the ghost’ of the original house, Johann designed what he calls a ‘contemporary garden shed’, set among the orchards and gardens. While the result is striking, each element was carefully considered and kept purposefully simple and pared back.

‘The architectural palette is simple and honest,’ he says. ‘The klompie brick floors, timber-clad ceilings and internal walls speak to that.’

Johann adds that while there is an air of simplicity that resides on the farm, there also exists an undeniable sense

‘the architectural palette is simple and honest... klompie brick floors, timberclad ceilings and internal walls’

JOHANN SLEE

of modernity and luxury. The farm has five suites for guests to stay in. These rooms, while boasting modern comforts (television, Wi-fi and a minibar), have for the most part been kept simple, quiet and unpretentious, perfect for those escaping the bustle of city life. each room has a private verandah where guests can take in the views in complete quiet and isolation.

The renovation also saw the completion of a function hall (with enormous floor-toceiling windows, with space to seat around 200 people), the Blue room (which doubles as a conference space or a cocktail venue), as well communal breakfast areas named ‘die Veranda’ and ‘die stoepkamer’, which are both also available to guests who are staying overnight.

But, of course, the main attraction on the farm is the outdoors, which Johann made sure guests could enjoy to the fullest. The terraces, water garden and lawns complete the experience of this hidden gem, making it the ideal place for an unforgettable and picture-perfect getaway. Johannesdal 1207 johannesdal1207.co.za; Slee & Co Architects slee.co.za

RIGHT The mountains surrounding The banhoek valley offer views from every corner of The farm. The entrance To ‘die voortuin’ leads directly into The Johannesdal hall, a large venue with floor-toceiling windows That can be used for events

OPPOSITE PAGE The ‘kardomom’ room is a secluded bedroom, ideal for a quiet and intimate stay on The farm. The room also has a balcony with uninterrupted views of The surrounding mountains

LEFT ‘onder-die-eik Terras’ is an open, paved space That leads To a water garden nearby. it is another ideal place for functions and gatherings

BELOW The ‘silwerboom’ suite is a private room with a large and spacious bathroom That opens up directly onto a verandah