PROJECT JNA Group
Professional team Architects: Eco Design Architects Construction: Assegai Projects Engineers( Rammed Earth Walls & Timber Structures): JNA Group Exposed Timber Roof: JNA Group’ s Timber Division Bushveld Kitchens: Billy Smook Bio Pool: EcoPools
The home is oriented southward, away from the region’ s intense sunlight, while living areas are spacious enough to allow heat to rise naturally, improving ventilation.
Earthen floors and living roofs enhance thermal comfort, blending seamlessly with the surrounding terrain. Roof gardens planted with semi-succulent Plectranthus species thrive alongside naturally occurring grasses, creating a whimsical, soft forest that covers the compost-and-soil roof.
Remarkably, local baboons leave these plantings untouched, allowing them to thrive undisturbed. Nature’ s acceptance of the building is further demonstrated by the presence of Horned Rockdweller dragonflies, which have perched on the rammed earth walls since construction, signalling a subtle but tangible integration of architecture and ecosystem.
The main living space is inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright ' s philosophy, rising to harmonise with the surrounding landscape and creating a U-shaped courtyard bordered by bedrooms.
This configuration, evocatively called the“ dragon’ s wings”, offers sheltered outdoor areas while revealing internal rooms with spectacular views of the Blyde River Canyon.
Verandas and west-facing rammed-earth walls provide shaded areas, protecting the interiors from the intense afternoon sun. The building ' s structural lines are deliberately emphasised to improve perspective, strengthening the connection between interior spaces and the natural world outside.
A notable feature of the residence is its bio pool, subtly nestled between natural boulders within the riverine wilderness. Designed and built by EcoPools, the pool serves both as a cooling feature and a relaxation spot, utilising plants and gravel instead of traditional chlorination or salt systems.
This feature exemplifies a holistic approach to sustainability that permeates every aspect of the property, where each intervention is carefully considered in relation to the surrounding ecosystem.
Inside the home, period pieces like heavy Zanzibari doors and dark timber cupboards create a sense of antiquity, complementing modern finishes and subtly bridging past and present.
Interiors are oriented towards south-facing views, enabling residents to fully enjoy the timeless beauty of the Blyde River Canyon and its flowing river. Every room is designed to frame these vistas, making sure that the striking Lowveld landscape remains central to daily life.
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