Obsidian - Landmark Listing
Category News
Designed to mirror the colour of the mountain upon which it sits, transitioning from dark to light as you ascend each floor, Obsidian has become known as a landmark home not only in Cape Town but around the world. Located in Clifton, South Africa, the specifically selected site was chosen for its astounding views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Twelve Apostles and are by no means the most remarkable features of this build which is the culmination of a four-year construction process, ending in December 2018.
Obsidian was designed by the internationally renowned architectural firm SAOTA. This remarkable home has received local and international awards for both its architectural and engineering design. The structure rises more than 28 meters from the ground to the top floor of the home. A structural void separates the home from the mountain protecting it from any moisture and ensuring longevity to the home. The 6 levels of the home deliver a luxurious space of 1590m2 under roof, all serviced by two elevators with a glass and wooden staircase with cleverly positioned lightwells allowing for an abundance of natural light throughout.
Nicolas Whitehorn Landscape design was responsible for the detailed garden spaces on three of the home's levels and feature terrace gardens with eye-catching seasonal flora. A rare 150-year-old olive tree is a standout feature located on the main entertainment level. The growth of forest bushwillows is accommodated by cavities in the terrace above. A sandstone water feature enhances the sense of tranquility. Deliberate use of greenery contrasts beautifully with the use of stone and concrete on these levels, accentuating the contrasts of its natural habitat the home so artfully mimics. As per Whitehorn "strong peripheral planting allowed us to settle this home softly into its environment".
The exterior aspect of the home is a feast for the eyes: the varied hues of the stone gabions set off the complementary tones in the feature powder coated aluminium vertical slats, contributing to both visual impact as well as providing adjustable shade, protection from the elements and privacy on the mid-level. The meticulous detail exhibited in the exceptional finishes elevate it to a multi-sensory level with exemplary volume allowing for ceiling heights of up to 6 meters: labradorite and marble finishes by WOMAG provide the gloss which contrasts with the extensive use of off shutter concrete which is in turn softened by wood cladding as well as wire-brushed oak floors, in some areas, provided by Oggie Hardwood Flooring. Carbon filled tiles also feature prominently. Cork is another natural element incorporated into the myriad of natural finishes. Even the ceilings garner interest with the application of pressed concrete creating the impression of a natural wood finish.
This level of attention is further extended to the lighting ably executed by Professional Illumination Design and includes the copper Leaf chandelier in the main living area by Lampadari. The interiors thoughtfully enhance the use of the natural materials used in construction and were tastefully curated by Cecile & Boyd's who also commissioned a number of bespoke furnishings for the home. The inclusion of magnificent artwork; such sculptures by the likes of Dylan Lewis, Angus Taylor and Lionel Smit, as well paintings by numerous local artists, provide the finishing touches to this masterpiece.
In addition to the five en-suite bedrooms this home also features a 25m infinity pool installed by Island Pools, full home automation, air-con and underfloor heating throughout, phase 3 power, a full water purification system, a powerful borehole and garaging for 4 cars with additional parking space and off-road parking.
Hamilton's Property Portfolio Cape Town is delighted to be representing this superlative home. For more information and additional images please visit the listing page https://www.hamiltons.co.za/results/residential/for-sale/cape-town/clifton/house/1856/ or contact Devon Tame (083) 576-1961 or Colleen Tame (083) 288-0889.
Author: Lisa