Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, and designed by Nico van der Meulen Architects, Sandton Residence is a contemporary home defined by its extensive folding aluminum screens. Covering much of the exterior, the perforated panels introduce texture and depth while helping shape the home’s distinctive appearance.
The screens first appear on the front facade, where they frame an entrance enhanced by water features, sculpture, and concealed lighting. Combined with the home’s concrete-clad walls, the metal elements create a bold first impression.
A Facade Wrapped in Perforated Screens
The first thing that stands out about the home is its extensive use of perforated aluminum screens. Covering much of the exterior, the panels add texture and depth while helping shape the home’s distinctive appearance.
The screens first appear on the front facade, where they frame an entrance enhanced by water features, sculpture, and concealed lighting. Together, these elements create a memorable arrival experience.
Screens That Open and Close With the Day
The perforated screens continue around the home, becoming one of its most practical design features.
On one side of the residence, the panels fold open to allow sunlight and breezes to move through. When closed, they provide shade and privacy while maintaining the home’s sculptural appearance.
Outdoor Living Around the Pool
At the rear of the home, the screens wrap around outdoor spaces that include a water feature, swimming pool, fire pit, and lanai.
The lanai provides a shaded setting for a kitchen, dining area, and lounge, extending the living spaces outdoors and creating an ideal place for entertaining family and friends.
Sculptures Integrated Throughout the Home
Adding another layer of visual interest is a collection of steel sculptures by artist Regardt van der Meulen.
Positioned throughout the property, the artworks complement the contemporary architecture and create striking focal points both indoors and out.
Open-Plan Living at the Heart of the Home
Inside, the main social spaces are arranged within an open floor plan that connects the family room, dining area, and kitchen.
Large openings and expansive glazing create a sense of flow between the interior spaces while maintaining views toward the outdoor entertaining areas.
A Double-Height Family Room
The family room is one of the standout spaces in the home. A dramatic double-height ceiling adds volume, while a wood feature wall with concealed lighting introduces warmth and texture. Large windows frame views of the swimming pool and surrounding outdoor areas.
A Kitchen With Bold Material Contrasts
The kitchen combines black cabinetry with timber and metallic accents, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming space. A large island serves as the centerpiece of the room, with a casual dining area incorporated at one end. Nearby, the main dining area features a large glass table supported by a sculptural timber base.
A Lounge Overlooking Water
Before heading upstairs, there is also a formal lounge that opens directly toward an exterior water feature. The connection between the interior and the water outside adds another visual element to the room while allowing natural light to filter through the space.
A Glass Staircase With Hidden Lighting
Linking the different levels of the home is a glass staircase illuminated by concealed lighting. The transparent design helps maintain open sightlines throughout the interior while creating a feature that becomes especially striking after dark.
A Spacious Dressing Room
Upstairs, the private areas of the home continue the refined aesthetic seen throughout the residence. A generous dressing room provides extensive storage, mirrored surfaces, and plenty of closet space, creating a functional and luxurious environment.
Bathrooms Defined by Lighting
The bathrooms showcase the home’s attention to detail through the use of integrated lighting features. In the primary bathroom, lighting is embedded within the ceiling, creating a clean and contemporary appearance. The guest bathroom introduces a different effect with a backlit mirror that adds warmth and visual depth.
The combination of architecture, art, and indoor-outdoor living creates a home that is visually impressive while remaining highly functional for modern family life.