Arts & Culture
SIMPLY BREATHTAKING
A London-based architect proves that design can be both functional and beautiful.
| BY ERIN ZILIS |
J
ust over an hour’s drive from Cape Town, surrounded by the Slanghoek and Waaihoek Mountain ranges, Bosjes Farm in South Africa’s Western Cape region has become a destination for weddings and a daycation spot for families looking to spend time in nature. The working farm includes vineyards and orchards, along with gardens, play areas, a spa and a guest house. And, most notably, three architectural gems including a chapel, a restaurant and a café and gift shop, all designed by South-African born London-based design architect Coetzee Steyn of Steyn Studio. The project, which presented a number of structural challenges, occurred in two phases over seven years, and was executed in collaboration with South-African based consultants. The first phase, which included the chapel and the restaurant, was done in collaboration with TV3 Architects and cndv Landscape Architects. The second phase, which included the cafe and gift shop, was accomplished in collaboration with Meyer & Associates Architects and Square One Landscape Architects. The end result is a blend of architecture and landscape that celebrates the Breedekloof Valley and truly takes your breath away. (bosjes.co.za)
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THEAGENCYRE.COM | SPRING 2022
THE CHAPEL | The serene sculptural form of the chapel, which is used for weddings and events, mimics the mountains in its view and appears to rest lightly on the pool of water before it. Constructed from a slim concrete cast shell, the roof draws inspiration from a biblical theme important to the farm’s owners. It has, since its completion, attracted worldwide attention and has been the recipient of numerous awards including an Architizer A+ Award as well as a Civic Trust Award. “To achieve the visual ‘lightness’ of the roof, the structure had to be simple, unifying and as structurally efficient as possible,” says Steyn. “It was therefore decided that the roof can also become the walls/columns; its own supporting structure. We created a sculptural form that emulates the surrounding mountains as well as the poetic motion sought. This lightness and motion is further emphasized by means of a strategically placed reflection pond.”
THE ARCHITECT | “Steyn had to pitch for the project. At the time, he was a young and promising architect,” says Bosjes GM and Head of Marketing Carlen Vorster. “As he grew up in Montagu, not far from the farm, he had a good sense of the natural surroundings, climate and the terrain, which was important for us.” Steyn believes design has the power to solve problems, inspire and improve lives. His passion is the creation of buildings and environments that are not only commercially practical but culturally meaningful. And nowhere is that better on display than at Bosjes Farm.
