The Ocean Retreat by RDV Designs
PROJECTS 09.01.24
What began as a chance discovery during the Covid pandemic blossomed into a deeply personal and transformative project: The Ocean Retreat. Set against the stunning backdrop of South Africa’s coastline, this contemporary home is a reflection of resilience, intentionality, and the power of design.
“The journey began with an exploratory visit to a nearby estate where we often vacationed,” shares Rozanne, founder of RDV Designs. “Unable to return to Europe due to border closures, we stumbled upon a plot of land that felt like destiny. The idea of building a home from abroad initially seemed daunting, but once we found this dream location, the vision became unstoppable. This project was not just about creating a residence—it marked the beginning of my journey as an interior designer, combining personal growth with the challenges of building a home during a pandemic, while parenting a new born.”
The Ocean Retreat was crafted to celebrate its breath-taking natural surroundings while meeting the needs of a young family. The layout balances social spaces for entertaining with private, restful zones, creating a harmonious flow throughout. Every room is oriented to capture sweeping ocean views, allowing the calming rhythm of the waves to infuse the home with tranquillity.
The interiors reflect a monochromatic palette softened by natural wood finishes and enriched with moody, textured details. Concrete elements add a modern edge, while warm accents ensure the space remains inviting and timeless.
POLIFORM
GIORGIO
CASSINA
LAURA HAMMETT LIVING
Minimal wall décor keeps the focus on the ocean vistas, while the home’s orientation maximises sunlight and showcases stunning sunsets. Outdoor spaces are equally considered, featuring a heated pool and a fire pit that creates a sanctuary for stargazing in an estate free from streetlights.
“Building this home came with its share of challenges,” reflects Rozanne. “Rising construction costs meant adapting initial plans without sacrificing quality. Delays with joinery suppliers tested our patience, but through meticulous management and collaboration, these hurdles were overcome. Each challenge became an opportunity to learn and refine, shaping my approach to design and problem-solving.”
