Ecologically Sensitive Security Estate on the Slopes of Hout Bay
Category Property news
Applegarth Estate, with dramatic views of the pristine Orange Kloof Nature Reserve, originally one of many small subsistence farms above Hout Bay comprising 30 erven and a central wetland natural greenbelt on the 3,4 hectares site.
The estate offers a mix of 30 three and four-bedroom contemporary styled homes within an indigenous landscaped environment, priced between R5,6 million to R9,5 million (VAT inclusive). With over 25% of available properties sold already, the development offers a special and rare opportunity in Hout Bay.
Careful consideration was given to conceptualizing Applegarth, respecting its beautiful, natural surroundings and incorporating the rehabilitation of the wetland area which was central to the overall design, with minimum disruption of the existing mature trees.
Natural stone cobbles and cladding elements using the colours and textures of the mountain stone, along with carefully considered hard landscaping elements create moments of surprise and delight in the development, giving it a unique and upmarket character.
Security has been at the forefront and includes a host of high-tech systems including a 24/7 manned gate house at the entrance, electrified security fencing, thermal-imaging and optical cameras. Biometric fingerprint access control for residents, driver’s license/ ID scanning of contractors and visitors complement the CCTV installation to ensure access is monitored and recorded.
No development in the Western Cape can be complete without acknowledgement and consideration for the province’s dire water scarcity. An on-site borehole will be used to water the common indigenous vegetation landscape and a full reticulation system for borehole water is included to reduce consumption of treated municipal water. All erven will therefore have a separate connection for borehole water that can be used to irrigate water-wise indigenous vegetation-type gardens.
Conscious of the energy footprint associated with the development and increasing cost of utilities, the homes have been designed to surpass the latest energy requirements of the updated building regulations with a combination of both passive and active energy saving measures. These not only increase comfort levels, but reduce energy consumption and related monthly costs. In addition the orientation of the house, passive solar shading, additional underslab and roof insulation, LED lights and solar geysers are standard in every home.
Heat pumps and other water heating packages, as well photovoltaic energy sources are available as optional extras with investors being encouraged to make use of these technologies.
Each home was designed to make the most of natural light, views and rare greenbelt. The contemporary architectural style reflects the needs and desires of a modern home owner whilst demonstrating ecological sensitivity.
The higher mountain-side homes offer uncompromised views of the mountains north and south, while those arranged around the forest area of the old avenue and the green belt offer a sense of rural serenity.
Functional and sophisticated finishes are used throughout with emphasis on space, light and flow to ensure the outdoors is welcomed in, making living spaces blend seamlessly into the indigenous garden surrounds.
This quiet suburb is centrally located to some of the best schools and academic institutions the Cape can offer, such as the International School of Hout Bay, Llandudo and Kronendal Primary Schools, Hout Bay Montesorri and also the Kronendal Music Academy.
Author: Greeff
