‘Even a brick wants to be something,’ architect Louis Kahn once said. This compact dwelling, designed for an architect and his writer wife, is composed of rectangular structures, varied in volume and constructed with raw brick. Internally, the brick finish of the superstructure is expressed on all the walls, reinforcing the monolithic quality of the forms. Over time, the external walls will develop their own patina, and become a backdrop for climbing plants, allowing the house to become increasingly absorbed into the garden landscape.
Guided by the desire to celebrate the earthy tones of the bricks, few surfaces are painted. Only the garage door, entrance gate, and steel staircase are painted with bright, orange hues and reds that echo the tones of this unassuming material.
MEET THE TEAM: Architect & Interior Designer: Thomas Leach Architects | Contractor: Berdien Builders | Structural Engineer: STRUCT-M
Changing patterns This project proposes an alternative typology to the rectangular bungalows with pitched tiled roofs common to suburban Fish Hoek. The programmatic requirements of this home are contained within an assemblage of rectangular ‘blocks’, arranged to create maximum north and west facing garden space. On the first floor, a roof terrace benefits from the surrounding mountain views. Extending the height brought certain sensitivities, and care was taken to avoid overlooking into neighbouring properties. Structuring comfort From the street, the building presents an uncompromising brick façade with crisp forms. The zig-zag boundary wall is primarily a structural response, designed to strengthen the single skin wall. Secondly, it echoes the angular character of the architecture, operating as an aesthetic feature. Next, Thomas Leach has ensured that ample light is available for warmth and comfort. Sun angles were carefully considered to allow the warm winter sunlight to penetrate the interior and the morning sun to flood the main bedroom. By contrast, the mid-summer sun is shut out with roof overhangs and fin walls. In the spacious living room, there is a bright, lofty feeling achieved by its 3.8-metre-high ceiling and a skylight over the kitchen counter providing additional natural light. The large end-window is a pivotal feature, inviting the space to connect with the outdoors. Restraint brings opportunity The palette of materials is deliberately restrained: predominantly brick, concrete, and timber. Internal doors and frames are made from local South African pine and a white tinted sealer, lightening the natural tones.
In keeping to an over-used and exhausted material as his base, Thomas Leach demonstrates incredible innovation: through clever design, each brick becomes something more – and every piece belongs.
