Perched in a region famed for its extraordinary luminosity, this residence was designed by Michele Throssell. Cape Town's distinctive glow has made it a premier choice for international film, TV commercials, and fashion shoots. Clifton, an exclusive enclave, stands out as the city's crown jewel, boasting some of Africa's priciest properties thanks to its breathtaking blend of mountains, pristine beaches, ocean, and—of course—that unparalleled light. No filters are needed here.
The compact two-bedroom unit spans two levels and overlooks Clifton's First Beach. The constant roar of the waves fills the air, the light feels almost otherworldly, and the location is unbeatable—yet the space required extensive renovation.
Essentially, the team had to correct a poorly executed prior remodel to realize the owner's goal: open up the layout, flood it with natural light, and fully leverage the view. Homes and apartment blocks in this hillside district present unique difficulties due to the uneven, steep terrain.
Driving along Clifton's winding roads reveals these structures as engineering marvels, demanding precise building angles. The apartment didn't meet that standard, so Michele's crew reworked its long, narrow floor plan. A major structural change involved removing the wall between the kitchen and dining area to create an open-concept space.
The real enjoyment came from selecting furnishings and finishes—all variations of white, off-white, cream, and beige. But white environments need definition; without compromising the client's request to maximize light and keep focus on the views, the team began layering rich textures.
Rattan furniture, whitewashed wooden floors, plush white rugs, crochet throws, and other elements drew inspiration from sea 'treasures' washing ashore below. With a bit of imagination and abundant light, magic can happen.
— By Melina Divani
Melina Divani is the founder and creator of Decoholic.org, driven by an unending passion for interior design. Follow Melina on Instagram.
