A couple’s dream of a refined yet timeless retreat in Camps Bay came to life by blending sleek architecture and considered interiors with the raw beauty of its surroundings.
Envisioning their dream hideaway along Camps Bays rugged coastline, a Swedish couple sought an expert that would marry the natural beauty of the homes surroundings with refined, timeless design. Through the vision of Sumari Krige of LaGrange Interiors, with the contribution of Scott and Partners, this contemporary sanctuary came to life, just as imagined.
‘Creating a home is as much about reflecting the personality of its inhabitants as it is about celebrating its setting,’ says Sumari. For this project, they took on the challenge of transforming a newly built, four-level villa into a serene escape that blends modern architecture with the soul of South Africa’s natural landscape.
‘This collaboration was years in the making,’ she continues. ‘The clients first visited our Johannesburg showroom a while back and fell in love with its eclectic character. So, when their Camps Bay home came up, they approached us to create a space that echoed the uniqueness they saw in LaGrange Interiors.’
The brief was clear yet nuanced; the couple wanted a modern retreat that embraced the outdoors while offering warmth and laid-back sophistication. ‘They envisioned a sanctuary — a home layered with textures and personal touches that balanced their extensive art collection with a natural, earthy aesthetic,’ Sumari explains. But it was the home’s surroundings that truly set the tone for its design. The rugged cliffs, shimmering ocean views and generous natural light inspired a theme of refined coastal living. ‘We steered clear of the predictable blue-and-white coastal look,’ says Sumari.
Instead, the interiors reflect a palette of earthy neutrals, soft greens and muted blues. These hues are echoed in the custom blue-green print on the sunroom sofa, which playfully incorporates an African twist. Texture played a starring role in the design too. Layering light- toned woods, organic linens and handwoven textiles creates warmth and tactility within the sleek architecture. Moreover, each material was carefully chosen to connect the interiors with the outdoors, while bespoke finishes such as brushed metals and matte stone added a subtle elegance. Collaboration was key from concept to completion — ‘We worked closely with the architects and craftsmen to ensure every detail served both aesthetics and functionality,’ notes Sumari.
The villa’s four levels were designed to be rented either individually or as a whole. Spaces were considerately curated to feel intimate yet versatile and create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor areas to encourage relaxation and connection. Standout pieces punctuate the home, from sculptural chairs to curved custom sofas that beg to be lounged in. The thoughtful living room featuring sculptural lounge chairs and a curved custom sofa showcases the harmonious integration of form and function.
The pool area, a highlight for Sumari, features solid teak sun loungers positioned to frame the breathtaking views. ‘Indonesian teak was chosen not only for its beauty but also for its weight and durability — essential for withstanding Camps Bay’s dramatic winds — evoking a sense of tranquillity and understated luxury.’ Sumari wanted to ensure that the home retained some playfulness too. ‘The sunroom’s sofa, upholstered in a custom animal print fabric, is such a fun touch. It reminds us not to take life too seriously,’ she laughs. These elements, layered with textured rugs and handcrafted lighting add depth and character.
One of the most striking features in the home is the handmade woodcut Triboa Bay pendant lights suspended above the double-volume dining area. ‘They soften the space without obstructing the views, creating a whimsical yet grounded effect,’ says Sumari. Lighting was a vital element, as Greg Scott of Scott and Partners explains. Large windows maximise the natural light that floods the villa, while soft, ambient indoor lighting sets the mood as the sun drops behind the horizon.
Task lighting highlights architectural details, while understated outdoor lighting enhances the evening ambiance. This interplay of light and texture is especially evident in the dining area, showcasing the interiors layered warmth against the backdrop of Camps Bay’s dramatic views. The result is a home that is both contemporary and timeless, striking a balance between modern architecture and organic elements. ‘Our approach was to prioritise quality craftsmanship and clean lines while layering to keep the space warm and inviting,’ says Sumari. For her, the villa encapsulates LaGrange Interiors’ philosophy of curated timeless living.
‘Every piece was thoughtfully chosen to tell a story and enhance the overall experience of the space.’ It reflects its owners, celebrates its setting and elevates the concept of coastal living.’ To homeowners looking to bring similar principles into their spaces, Sumari says, ‘Invest in quality pieces that stand the test of time. Layer natural textures, embrace a neutral palette and personalise with art or textiles. Above all, design spaces that feel as good as they look.”
Text by Lynette Botha
