The vision behind a unique modular home design.
In this interview, we speak with Riaan Smit, the visionary behind a new estate development that features a unique modular home design. These homes offer the flexibility to expand from a basic 2-bedroom with a pergola to a 3-bedroom with a garage, all while maintaining the same architectural style throughout the estate.
Kleinbaai Lifestyle Estate: Riaan, can you tell us about the vision behind the design of the estate?
Riaan Smit: The main goal was to create an estate where all buildings look the same in terms of style, form, and mass, regardless of the unit type or plot they’re built on. Whether homeowners want to expand their houses at a later stage, the style remains consistent. To achieve this, we designed modular unit types with pre-determined layouts for future expansions or additions. Buyers can choose between a 2-bedroom home with just a pergola for parking, or a 3-bedroom home with a double garage, covered porch, or enclosed patio. In the end, no matter the choice, every home looks uniform in design.
Kleinbaai Lifestyle Estate: How does the modular design enhance accuracy and convenience for homeowners?
Riaan Smit: With modular designs, homeowners don’t need to demolish any part of their home for future expansions. Each unit type is accurately planned and fits only certain plot types, making the expansion process smooth and hassle-free. It’s all pre-thought and pre-engineered to save time and costs for the homeowner.
Kleinbaai Lifestyle Estate: Can you tell us more about the specifications of these homes?
Riaan Smit: Every home in the estate comes equipped with top-notch finishes. For example, we use Bosch kitchen appliances, Hansgrohe sanitary ware, freestanding bathtubs, frameless shower panels, modern and durable lighting fixtures, and high-quality cabinetry in kitchens and bedrooms. We’ve also incorporated sustainable elements like solar geysers, inverters with battery backups, and PV solar panels, ensuring the homes are not only luxurious but also energy-efficient.
Kleinbaai Lifestyle Estate: What kind of impact do the estate rules have on the homeowners and future expansions?
Riaan Smit: The estate has strict guidelines that include building regulations. These are in place to protect every buyer’s investment, ensuring that future expansions align with the original vision of the estate. The goal is to safeguard the interests of each homeowner and maintain the estate’s overall aesthetic, even as the development grows and evolves.
Kleinbaai Lifestyle Estate: How did you consider the needs of different types of buyers in this design?
Riaan Smit: We’ve thought about all types of buyers—young, old, permanent homeowners, and those looking for a holiday home. The design caters to everyone. For instance, the homes are perfect for a “lock-up-and-go” lifestyle, with minimal garden space and low maintenance costs. They are easy to manage and maintain, which is ideal for both full-time residents and those who only visit occasionally.
The modular view of the completed Kleinbaai Lifestyle Estate development.
Kleinbaai Lifestyle Estate: Were market studies used to influence the design?
Riaan Smit: Yes, we conducted extensive market studies to understand what buyers are looking for, particularly in the Gansbaai, Kleinbaai, and Overstrand areas. There’s a high demand for smaller, more affordable homes that are still luxurious and spacious, catering to both older individuals and younger buyers. Our design responds to that need by offering homes that are practical, affordable, and beautifully designed.
Kleinbaai Lifestyle Estate: It sounds like a well-rounded design that caters to various needs. Thank you for sharing your insights, Riaan!
Riaan Smit: Thank you—it’s exciting to see the vision come to life!
For more information, please email us at or call (+27) 082 950 3222 (Linda).
Property Developer: Devco Group
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