90a_Bellamont is a unique four villa enclave set on the elevated crest of a dense subtropical forested dune overlooking the Indian Ocean. The two sets of villas are sectionally arranged on a sloping site, with the upper villas overlooking the lower ones in an arrangement that maintains and protects the outlook and privacy of all indoor spaces, verandas and outdoor courtyards.
Each villa is arranged over two levels, with all living areas extending to elevated covered terraces facing the sea and formally landscaped courtyards on the inland side. Deep verandas interface family living spaces and swimming pools in private garden courtyards allowing seclusion and protection from prevailing ocean winds. The living spaces are broad and open with stacking sliding glass façades promoting a relaxed coastal lifestyle. This open arrangement effectively creates a living ‘umbrella’ to capitalize on the verdant indigenous landscape and seaside climate. Generous kitchens enjoy a prominent position in the open living space promoting family focused living. Each villa enjoys a slightly different configuration on the lower level which accommodates four bedrooms and a gallery space. Small double height courtyards provide a landscape focus in these lower galleries, admitting light and promoting natural ventilation. The bedrooms all have open en-suite bathrooms with the master suites enjoying broad views of the ocean.
Architecturally the villas exhibit a contextual response and sculptured aesthetic characterized by wide overhanging roofs, angular walls and juxtaposed terraces. Off-shutter concrete was selected as the medium to achieve this expression, imparting a raw crafted construct and providing materiality with solid longevity to cope with the enclave's coastal location. Impossibly slender cantilevered roof planes stretch way beyond the buildings' envelopes and extended spans are made possible with the inverted triangular concrete roof form. These solutions serve to deliver extraordinary form and breathtaking spaces. The off-shutter concrete shell is reflected internally on all surfaces and this, together with polished concrete floors throughout, creates an air of simplicity and quiet sense of seclusion.
In the architect's villa, the spirit of a casual ocean-side villa is amplified with a selection of low slung leather couches, white dining seating and a selection of classic furniture pieces. This backdrop is counterpointed with a collection of brightly coloured South African oil paintings and African stone carvings, capturing the spirit of the locale. The spare quality of the interior spaces of these villas is ultimately designed to frame the azure blue vastness of the Indian Ocean as an ever present focus upon the panoramic horizon.