Open House

Strathmore Road is one of Camps Bay’s best-kept secrets: it’s a cul-de-sac so it invites little traffic, plus it’s literally a five-minute stroll to the beach via a stepped pathway. It also commands some of the best views of the coast and as a result, the street is lined with architect-designed homes. Well-known local architect Bert Pepler broke new ground with this multi-storeyed villa that captures the best of the sunshine and the spectacular views of the Twelve Apostles and the coastline below, without compromising on privacy. Access is from a double garage via steps or a funicular taking you directly into the library and study area that leads to the main living area upstairs. This glamorous double-volume space has a large fireplace in the living area and is surrounded by glass with fabulous views by day or night. The living area leads onto an equally well-designed outdoor terrace with two covered eating areas and an inky blue pool with a stone water feature. An ancient palm tree provides additional shade and the whole area is conducive to laid-back lounging with plenty of seating for friends. Inside, the sleek designer kitchen is fully concealed and looks onto the 12-seater dining table that is perfectly positioned next to the pool terrace, which is beautifully lit at night. A counter divides the stainless steel and white kitchen from the dining area and is lit up at night for added glamour. The utility room is outside and the scullery area hidden around the corner. Original art and some interesting photography grace the walls of the house and the library area is a quiet, restful spot. Wooden shutters surround the exterior glass windows so that in the heat of the day, they may be drawn to provide dappled shade to the interior. Each of the five bedrooms is well-appointed, with the top two on the upper terrace commanding spectacular views. The main suite is in the upper mezzanine area overlooking the living room and feels enormous as a result. The glass walls from below continue up to the ceiling so the wraparound view is probably one of the most spectacular on the coast. It has a walk-in dressing room, and a designer bathroom that has found its way into interiors magazines on several occasions. The bathroom has views of both mountains and sea and a hot outdoor shower that adds to the holiday vibe. The adjacent upper level bedroom suite has its own terrace on the mountain side of the house and is equally open, airy and luxurious with great views. The remaining three bedrooms and two bathrooms are all on the lower floor of the house and each one has sea views through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. This villa’s showstopper views and eye-catching architectural features make it one of the most interesting to experience on the peninsular.