Architect designs South African home that looks like an extension of the beach

Modern beach houses are an Australian architecture staple recognised worldwide.

Take House Maritz in Britannia Bay, South Africa, which draws on this distinct style for a living experience that brings the outdoors in.

“I wanted to be able to see the ocean from wherever I stood in the house,” owner Caroline Maritz says.

Architect Luke Scott was tasked with bringing Maritz’s ideas to life, including the home’s U-shaped floor plan surrounding a central pool area.

This layout not only protects the pool from the elements, but also enables water views on either side of the kitchen.

“The west coast is known for wind, so this was a great solution, but I also loved the idea of the home facing onto the pool and being able to watch everything from my kitchen. 

“[That] is where you’ll usually find me because I love cooking,” Maritz says.

In stormy weather, the sandstone brick fireplace is lit, and steel doors and windows seal the house.

This creates what Maritz calls an equally enchanting space to inhabit.

“The waves look like they are going to engulf the house; the wind, thunder and lightning is incredible and wild.”

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Take a virtual tour of the property here