A Touch Of The Tropics

“Bold, brave and beautiful” perfectly describes this impressive family home.

- Beatrice Moore-Nothnagel

I like to sneak into the enclosed veranda to read or do a bit of work; nobody bothers me in here. – Sam

When Craig and Sam Chapman first laid eyes on this original 1970s home close to Umhlanga’s beachfront, it really was a case of love at first sight.

“I was immediately drawn to the architectural style and could see huge potential in the property,” says Sam. “From that very moment, I started making plans as to how we could improve the flow while maintaining the integrity of this incredible structure.”

It’s been nine years since the Chapmans moved in and with money being tight, alterations and additions have had to be made over time. They also took to heart advice from their architectural friend Lisa Rorich who suggested that they live in the house for a while before making any changes.

This helped the couple to determine where to install additional windows to maximise winter sun, for example. They were also able to establish where the family gathers regularly and make the most of those rooms.

Today, the almost 50-year-old home with its five bedrooms and three bathrooms is just right for the Chapman family – even though there is still work to be done!

Carry through the theme

Not everyone manages to extend their décor and colour scheme throughout their home, especially when it comes to children’s rooms, but Sam has mastered this art.

To keep the look cohesive, the floors are the same throughout the house. “I specifically wanted all my floors to be one colour and texture as my previous home had a mixture of tiles and carpets and I felt it broke the space up too much,” says Sam. A dark screed works well with their monochrome look and is softened with loose rugs.