Nettleton Ridge is one of Cape Town's most prestigious residential neighborhoods and is home to several signature works by Cape Town's leading architects.

Set high on the western slopes of Lion's head, Nettleton Road overlooks the famous Clifton beaches below and boasts panoramic views southwards to the 12 Apostles mountain peaks.

This north-facing, steeply sloping site posed the challenge of how to create as large an outdoor living space as possible while ensuring the occupants live primarily over a maximum of two floors as, due to an agreement with neighbours, the house could not rise above the line of Nettleton Road.

The brief was for a bold and uncluttered design that optimised the extensive views of the beaches, Camps Bay, the 12 Apostles and the Atlantic Ocean. It had to work for a family with a young child as well as for entertaining and outdoor living.

The result is a private and secure home with uninterrupted ocean views and open-plan living areas that flow out onto expansive outdoor entertaining spaces.

The top Garage and Entrance level is accessed via a gentle cascade of steps or the vehicle ramp. From here one proceeds down using the lift, which reveals glimpses of views over Camps Bay, or the timber clad stairs, which guide the visitor down past part of the client’s impressive art collection.

On the Bedroom level, stack-away glass doors open onto a balcony with incredible sea views. As well as the master bedroom suite and the children’s wing, it includes double bathrooms, and his and hers dressing rooms, two private lounge areas with a kitchenette.

Visitors by-pass this private level, using the lift or the stairs, to arrive on the main Living level. Here the home opens up towards the landscaped garden, rim-flow pool and outdoor entertainment spaces, which include a sunken fire-pit and a play area. Inside, there is a family living area and more formal living/entertaining area. The family area links an open-plan kitchen to living room, study space and playroom, while the formal lounge accesses a cinema room and bar.

The lowest level of the house contains an office, a gym, bathroom, steam room and sauna, two guest rooms and, in a separate wing, two staff suites.

Status Completed works

Type Single-family residence / Interior Design