Nestled in just over two hectares of land, the House Laniakea is surrounded by uninterrupted mountain views, abundant fynbos, and a pristine river meandering through a shaded forest. The name ‘Laniakea’ translates from Hawaiian to ’immeasurable heaven’, this formed the central theme of the design brief. Whilst the land held such ancient wisdom, the dated existing buildings on the property fell remarkably short of the opportunity, relating poorly to the land, sun orientation and each other. The response was to alter and connect the disparate buildings into a compound, thus combining them to form an integrated whole. This was done by re-orientating the existing buildings to optimize sun orientation, connecting each separate building with a series of garden courtyards and integrating the whole into the natural environment. The refreshed architectural language of each building is unique in response to the program and context. This concept formed the guiding principle from which lesser ideas unfolded. The palette of materials used was chosen to complement the natural environment and enhance the contemporary re-interpretation of the existing buildings. The brief called for a nourishing sanctuary for family and friends to be deeply connected with nature. The four elements are integrated into the design and landscape of House Laniakea further enhancing the connection to the natural world. These are represented in the form of a labyrinth (earth), courtyards treated as rooms left open to the skies (air), fireplaces, boma an organic sweat lodge (fire) and a raised water trough complete with a natural organic pool (water).  Sustainability was a key factor in integrating solar power elegantly into the design, using a hydronic underfloor system for heating optimization and an organic food garden enclosed in ‘werf’ farm walls.

site: 21032 sq.m
building: 732 sq.m
project architect: paolo deliperi
structural engineer: prostruct engineering
contractor: dean matthews projects
joinery: dennis hofmeyr
photography: paolo deliperi