Completed by SAOTA in 2010, Silver Bay is a modern house located in South Africa that faces East over the bay. There are three contextual conditions that form the design of this house. This project is a contemporary interpretation of vernacular architecture.
Design
Here are three contextual conditions that form the design of this house:
The first contextual condition is the elevated entrance. This entrance places the playroom and bedrooms on the lower level and living spaces on the upper level.
The second is the prevailing South-Easterly wind. The challenge is that the views are in the direction of the wind. Thanks to the large set of glazed sliding doors, a maximum view can be provided.
The third is the North side sun. In order to respond to this, the pool is positioned in a courtyard on the Northern face that creates a wind-free outdoor space and captures the sun.
Spaces
The upper floor of this house is used as a single space that holds a kitchen with a large table, an elevated entrance hall, the pool courtyard, and a dining and living space.
Level changes can break the L-shaped space so different spaces can be created. There is also a conical flue made from Corten steel that can create a visual element to reflect the coastal environment.
Silver Bay Gallery
Photography: SAOTA, Adam Letch & Enda Cavanagh