House and Leisure - House of the Year 2013

Showcasing eleven amazing homes, all unique and special, appealing to a variety of styles and tastes the House and Leisure House of the Year 2013 competition delivers some of the most exceptional homes in the country.

Narrowing options down to my top 3 was a tough decision between Go with the flow, A clean start and Barefoot luxury choosing number one took some deliberation. In the end House #9, A clean start captured the imagination most.

The epitome of a family home with an earth-toned aesthetic its use of space and natural materials is made for living. The minimalist interiors don’t challenge its natural surroundings or its spectacular outlook over the city.

A passion for contemporary architecture and the needs of a growing family informed the design of this modern marvel set on the slopes of Higgovale, Cape Town. The owner a respected structural engineer with a clear vision for his dream family home, it’s little wonder this striking dwelling checks the boxes when it comes to design and the lifestyle it affords its occupants.

A complete rebuild of the previous house, two architecture firms were brought on board, SAOTA and Three14 Architects, which handled its conceptual and more detailed aspects respectively. The result is a multi-level abode in off-shutter concrete and glass juxtaposed with natural stone, warm timbers and polished concrete floors.

Creating a tailor-made courtyard home with a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere around a welcoming central kitchen and multiple entertainment areas. The house takes an honest approach to aesthetics with an expression of tactile materials remaining cutting edge with clean lines and details.

Owners Craig and Colleen Sutherland. Home design by Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects (SAOTA), saota.com; Three14 Architects, three14.co.za and Sutherland Multidisciplinary Engineers, sutheng.co.za.

The House of the Year Competition ends 31 August 2013.

Vote for your favourite – the one that epitomises you! By voting, you will not only stand a chance to see your favourite home win; you could also be the winner of R30 000, courtesy of SA Home Loans.

A proud sponsor of the competition for the past two years. It’s a perfect match: a home-loan provider that offers an amazing home-loan experience and a publication that provides pure inspiration to homeowners. SA’s only non-bank home-loan provider the company believes in the personal touch and has a team of specialist consultants dedicated to their task for 11 years.

Last year a contemporary Hout Bay home in Cape Town, designed by architect Paolo Deliperi, took top honours. Inspired by its natural surrounds, it is cleverly staggered over four levels and follows the contours of the land, making liberal use of wood, glass and steel to maximise outdoor living and breathtaking views.

Happy voting – and, if you win, happy spending!

Vote for your favourite house online or by sending an SMS that reads ‘HL, House (the number of your choice)’ and your name to 35443. Each SMS costs R1, 50. You may vote as many times as you wish via SMS, as well as online.