HOUSE GP
A compact contemporary home designed for indoor outdoor living in a farm estate on the Highveld
Featured in Garden and Home, January 2015
Area: 370m²
Project Team: Nadine Clarke
Contractors: Blue Cube Construction / Lighting: Rebel Lighting / Kitchen: Optima Kitchens / Joinery: AE Joinery
House GP is a compact, contemporary home designed to support an easy flow between indoor and outdoor living on the Monaghan farm estate in the Highveld.
As our first commission as meik architects, the project was created for a professional couple working within a very limited budget. This required careful decision making, creative use of standard components, and a straightforward layout that could deliver both comfort and character without unnecessary cost. The resulting design is an L-shaped home with a pitched roof, two bedrooms, and an open plan living area. Its orientation maximises the striking views across the site while preserving privacy from the neighbouring property to the south.
Budget, Materials and Design Approach
Our clients set the challenge of keeping costs tightly controlled, which shaped many of the project’s decisions. Economical materials were selected not only for affordability but also for long-term practicality. For instance, the patio shading is constructed from basic steel lip-channel sections. By simplifying and rationalising the structure, we were able to reduce the number of components while still delivering a robust and functional result.
Roof Strategy and Light Management
The corrugated iron roof, chosen to comply with estate requirements, plays a key role in managing light and heat. Its form pitches downward to the west to shield the interiors from the harsh afternoon sun, while the eastern pitch rises to welcome softer morning light. To further brighten the internal spaces without altering the overall aesthetic, a section of polycarbonate sheeting, matching the corrugated metal profile, was integrated directly into the roof. This simple substitution replaces a metal sheet and introduces natural daylight in an efficient and unobtrusive way.
Indoor–Outdoor Living
Throughout the home, the design encourages a strong connection to its surroundings. The outdoor living area opens onto a central courtyard that includes a splash pool and views over the nearby Highveld, creating a relaxed hub for daily life. A steel-framed modern carport complements the home’s contemporary character, while the planted entrance courtyard offers a calm transition from the exterior landscape into the home itself. This entry sequence is anchored by a glass pivot front door that introduces softness and transparency to the architecture.
Contemporary Farmhouse Influence
Inside, the living spaces follow a contemporary theme. The main living area extends directly to the open patio, allowing the home to function as a blend of sheltered interior rooms and open, outward-looking spaces. In the main bedroom, an en-suite bathroom connects seamlessly to an outdoor shower and private courtyard, reinforcing the home’s emphasis on light, air, and a direct relationship with nature.
Open-Plan Living
The open plan kitchen and living zone is designed as a modern interpretation of a farmhouse shed, with a focus on openness, simplicity, and functional comfort. Across the home, the living spaces remain bright and uncluttered, supported by the thoughtful use of materials and the clarity of the overall layout.
House GP demonstrates how a modest budget, paired with careful planning and resourceful design, can produce a home that feels generous, connected, and well suited to its landscape.
Ready to Build Your Dream Home? Let’s Talk.
If House GP has sparked inspiration or affirmed your dream of building a one-of-a-kind home, we’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re planning a modest retreat or a bold architectural statement, we’re here to help bring your vision to life and will work within your budget.
Give us a call or drop us an email to set up a consultation. Let’s explore your ideas and see how we can craft a home that’s tailored to your lifestyle and built to last.
Nadine: 082 809 1970 || Studio: 011 025 8318 || email us: meik architects