Bosjes Continues to Evolve with Tranquil Wellness Facility Die Stalle Spa, Designed by Meyer & Associates
Well-known and -loved as a historic working farm that dates back to 1790, Bosjes is an extensive sanctuary found in the Breede River Valley near Worcester. The farmstead first hosted only three structures: a manor house, barn, and stables, built in a line facing the valley with the Waaihoek mountains forming a backdrop. Today, the expanse of land has evolved to offer an array of luxurious experiences in this humble valley, the latest of which being the Bosjes Die Stalle Spa designed by Meyer & Associates.
From stables to spa
The addition of the spa facility followed multiple other additions which have turned the site from a homestead to a shared haven. Meyer & Associates began this journey with an expansion of the Bosjes Guesthouse, which led to the start of the development of the spa — a remodelling of the stables also known as Die Stalle — in 2019. As was the case with the guesthouse, the design of the spa was guided by the need to protect the heritage façade. Built from stone and mud-brick masonry, this exterior was retained and a new interior fitted into the structure.
The old informing the new
The project includes treatment rooms, a sauna, hydro pool, and a modern take on a Rasul chamber. The Cape Dutch architecture and original stables informed the architectural theme in elements and finishes such as the timber stable doors, rough plaster work, small aperture windows, and reconstructed water trough. The interiors, designed by Liam Mooney Studio, create an appropriately warm, embracing feel with soft lighting, generous plaster cornices, basketweave floor tiling, brass ironmongery, and sanitaryware. The extension of the spa that began in 2022 formed part of the reconfiguration of the guesthouse complex, which included a circulatory spine passing through the whole complex. This route guides visitors through a collection of guest rooms in the old Schuur (barn) building, ending at the entrance to the renewed version of Die Stalle.
“As was the case with the guesthouse, the design of the spa was guided by the need to protect the heritage façade.”
A wing mirrors the old stables across this route’s axis, with the reception building placed symmetrically between them to receive the axis. A courtyard is then formed amongst these, opening on the southern side to an exquisite garden designed by Franchesca Watson.
A gentle reminiscing
Reminiscent of the stables, the new wing is a quiet, low-slung block with white plastered walls and a parapet roof. The architectural and interior themes from the first stage of development were continued in the new buildings, with the addition of a klompie clad vault at the entrance to the reception, and klompie floors in the passages.
The transformation of Bosjes from a simple homestead into a luxurious sanctuary exemplifies the harmony of heritage preservation and modern innovation. By retaining historical elements like stone and mud-brick façades and blending them with thoughtful, sophisticated interiors, Die Stalle Spa at Bosjes continues to evolve without losing its storied roots. This marriage of old and new creates a space that offers visitors an unforgettable journey through time and tranquility in the heart of the Breede River Valley.
This article is an extract from our 2024/25 Coffee Table Edition. Click here to read the full issue.
