Local architect scores an ace
2009-11-05
Maggie Follett
A HOTEL complex designed by local architect Lydia Uys has garnered the award for “Best Development in Africa” at the high-profile Europe & Africa Property Awards 2009, held in London on 16 October. The annual competition, regarded as the world’s most prestigious in its field, is part of the International Property Awards, which celebrates the best real estate developments in various categories, across the globe. The attractive upmarket development, which is located on the slopes of Franschhoek Pass, bordering a nature reserve, comprises a 5-star “Manor House” Hotel with 63 serviced suites and 36 private villas. Flanked by mountains, the unusual complex overlooks a large dam, and boasts a delicatessen, conference hall, chapel, cloister, spa and swimming pool, interspersed with small squares and gardens containing sculptures, fountains and water-features. The delighted, but publicity-shy architect, who declined to attend the awards ceremony, described the development and the inspiration behind it, from thehistoric farmhouse in Daljosaphat which is currently her home. “I wanted L’Ermitage to focus around a gracefully-curved, cobbled street, with a variety of simple, unique structures, arranged to ensure privacy, sun and views for everyone. “The square with the deli and swimming pool is intended to be an informal place to meet, talk, eat and drink. The little chapel and cloister were designed to be beautiful places for quiet, spiritual contemplation. All the spaces are intended to integrate harmoniously with each other. Uys (a mother of three sons) is a graduate of the University of Port Elizabeth who moved to Wellington in 1999, having practised architecture part-time for several years in the Eastern Cape. The award-winning Ville Du Pré in Church Street, Wellington ), is another excellent example of her design skills.
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