Lions Rest
Ficksburg, South Africa
2004 (design, engineering and construction supervision)
estate residence
renovation and modernisation 385m2
Context
This traditional Free State architectural style, characterized by rough-hewn sandstone, has roots in the region's natural environment and colonial history. This distinctive building technique is a hallmark of the area’s heritage. The sandstone, quarried from the surrounding landscape, is often seen in the thick walls and broad solid facades of homes and buildings. They provide protection against winter spells and searing summers. This earthy, utilitarian aesthetic resonates visually with the rugged landscape of the Free State itself — vast, open, and sun-scorched.
The existing main house is sited on a small outcrop offering an elevated view of the surrounding landscape. Though the outcrop itself is exposed to the elements, the house benefits from an indentation in the terrain—a sheltered recess carved into the hillside. This indent acts as a protective embrace, shielding the structure. During winter sun heat is trapped and the house is shielded from cold Maluti mountain winds while contrastingly in summer the house is shaded from wider solar azimuth traverse. Together with the solar orientation and ample roof overhangs it shows that this structure was built and sited with perfect understanding of local climate. Despite the lack of modern insulation this is a passive solar design - and even in its base form offers significant comfort.
Design
Visually the exterior envelope and facade were kept intact, only technically upgraded by the addition of thermal insulation. Efforts concentrated on the semi derelict interior. Spatial reorganization of the interior was made both to remove historical separations based on class division and to provide each room with acces to panoramic views of the adjacent valley and landscape. Warm rustic African style interiors were introduced to replace the most damaged colonial sections. This fusion reflects the intertwining of old and new South Africa, blending heritage and a broader African identity in a culturally resonant narrative.