New Babylonstoren Fynbos Cottages by Malherbe Rust Architects
Designed as an extension of the foothills of the Simonsberg and Franschhoek mountains, Babylonstoren holds space once again for those in search of respite. Two new cottages, composed by Malherbe Rust Architects on the landscape designed by DDS Projects, add impeccably to this Western Cape sanctuary amongst the fynbos.
In the Cape Winelands surrounded by views of natural splendour, the dynamic Babylonstoren working farm has extended its open arms to more visitors. Increasing capacity for tranquil overnight stays, two new Fynbos Cottages have opened their doors, offering discerning travellers a sweet escape into farm life. The cottages are surrounded by fynbos on the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountain with views overlooking a farm dam — the epitome of a space for respite.
The wonder of a working farm stay
The cottages’ distinct Cape Dutch building style, with limewashed walls and elegant gables, honours the heritage of this working farm. Despite the link to architectural heritage, the interiors take on an altogether contemporary feel with farm-inspired features that spark reconnection with nature. The same understated elegance that underpins Babylonstoren’s existing Fynbos accommodation is emulated in the new design. The decor boasts broad beamed Oregon pine floors, organic fabrics, and neutral textures, while fine linen on the four-poster beds offers a sense of elegance. Sleek glass extensions with a modern kitchen ensure unspoiled views of the surrounding fynbos and the terracotta terrace with bright green potted citrus has the perfect vantage point over the farm’s orchards, vines, and private dam.
An avian affair
In perpetual flight above the hearth in one of the cottages is a flock of Delft-blue ceramic birds crafted by mosaic artist Aletta du Toit. The birds have been composed of pieces of old crockery, reminiscent of the Delft shards unearthed from Babylonstoren’s grounds when the garden was first planted. The design elements in the new cottages marry classic minimalism with the barefooted simplicity of local farm life. In the living room, a collection of endemic birds’ nests in an antique curiosity cabinet also honours nature — a whimsical celebration of the art of ornithology. The use of discarded objects (as seen in the ceramic wall art) and organic materials (such as the birds’ nests and dried seed pods collected on the farm), evokes a feeling of homeliness. Frames of pressed plants by botanical artist Tina-Marié Malherbe adorn the rooms and corridors, completing a theme of flowers and feathers that brings the farm’s spirit indoors.
Managing an ecosystem
Outside, the winding dirt tracks and natural pond in front of the cottages are the playground of dragonflies and a sanctuary where visitors can soak in the sunshine. Designed and managed by DDS Projects, the gardens and landscape are an endeavour where Danie Steenkamp and his team took a new approach to traditional garden maintenance and shifted to focus on the management of an ‘ecosystem’. A two-hectare tract of Renosterveld encompasses the Fynbos guest cottages, with the garden acting as a celebration of the indigenous flora of the area.
‘We designed the planting to imitate the patterns and groupings observed in the veld, layering it to create a richly biodiverse planting scheme. Renosterveld is an extremely complex biome and consists of a large variety of bulbs, shrubs, and grasses, and we worked closely with renowned South African botanist, Dr Ernst Van Jaarsveld, as well as Dr Sue Milton Dean and Johan van Biljon.’ – Danie Steenkamp
This pristine landscape hosts a private pool room with a sunbathing deck and bespoke bar. Here, guests can enjoy a splash in the crystal-clear swimming pool or soak in the integrated glass-fronted vitality pool overlooking the natural pond, cleaned naturally by oxygenating plants. The elevated position of the cottage above a natural farm dam gives glorious vineyard views accompanied by the farm’s natural soundtrack. With peace, purity, balance, and calm, the Fynbos Cottages exude the ultimate charm.
Images courtesy of Babylonstoren
This article is an extract from our July issue. Read the full issue here.
