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1. GROOT CONSTANTIA



The most well known Cape Dutch building and most accessible to tourists because of its proximity to the city, this magnificent manor home does not disappoint. It was home to one of the earliest governers in the Cape colony, and underwent extensive refurbishment after a fire. The gravel in the front of the house instead of a garden, provides visual rest and emphasises the stately grandeur of the architecture.

Click on more Cape Town architecture history for other historical buildings The farm was first established in 1685 by Simon van der Stel and the plan is in the late Dutch Renaissance style in an irregular u-shape. The house was almost completely ruined by fire in 1925. It was restored by architect Franklin Kendall. The home was made a national monument in 1984.

Visit ARCHITECTCAPETOWN for more on residential architects in the area. in this style.



2. ZEVENWACHT



Located in the Northeastern suburbs of Kuilsriver this is a magnificent example of the style displaying many of the classic characterstics. The thatch roof has been preserved and the farm house altered into a restaurant... a function which makes it accessible to the public and keeps the building in beautiful condition. There is only one flanking window on either side instead of the main gable instead of the usual two or three, which gives the house its charming proportions.

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3. RUSTENBERG



The farm house is one of the best examples of the Peninsula style despite not being located on the Peninsula! The distinguishing characteristic of this style is the central protruding section over the front door, which etends upwards into the gable. Two windows either side of the main entrance are perfectly balanced and the red plinth of klompie bricks provides contrast.

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4. LANZERAC



Converted into a hotel, this set of historical buildings enjoys a stunning location with the Peaks behind and the immaculate lawns in the front. Dress well, this is a classy destination.



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5. BOSCHENDAL MANOR HOUSE



On the road between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, you will pass this historic homestead that lies amid a fertile valley set against the Northern side of the Drakenstein Mountains. The home is a museum and open to the public. A few restaurants make it a comfortable house to visit.

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6. VERGELEGEN



VERGELGEN MANOR HOUSE: One of the top tourism destinations in the area, this home has a long history with four owners from successive generations contributing to its beauty and success. The main homestead is now a museum, one of the rare places where one can view the historical Cape Dutch style of interior design. There are two restuarants located on the farm as well as a wine tasting venue designed by GLH architects.

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VERGELGEN MANOR HOUSE: A more distant view of the manor home shows how the landscaping and well established trees have been carefully placed to provide a harmonious whole. Herbaceous plants flank the central pathway providing a colourful border year round to the sprawling lawns.

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GARDEN AT VERGELEGEN



THE OCOTOGONAL GARDEN: Originally planted 300 years ago, the garden is surrounded by a wall in an octogonal shape. Protected and preservered by four generations, the depth of the history to this Cape Dutch garden is undeniable.

See CAPETOWNSPLENDOUR similar stunning historical gardens in the region.





7.LA DAUPHINE



The beautiful French name is appropriate for this masterpiece in the Franschhoek valley. The gable is dated 1804 and is one of the earliest in the neoclassical style, which was marked by pilasters, pediments and urns. The garden and setting are unsurpassed making this one of the most picture perfect manor homes in the winelands. Nestled away in the suburbs and privately own, this is a gem you will battle to find!



8. VAN DER STEL MANOR HOUSE



The gable was restored in 1910, although the original building is much older. The vertical sliding sash window is unusual although in the later neoclassical period it was more popular. The well kept flower pots, hedges and setting in the heart of Stellenbosch make this a guest house with a difference!

Visit ARCHITECTCAPETOWN for other h-shaped and u-shaped house plans.


9.WEBERSBURG



The bold baroque gable with it's large swirling cloud shape is clearly marked 1786. The dark green painted door and window frames are a popluar choice, after the natural dark wood colour. The well kept thatch roof, parklike surroundings and well developed cellars and outbuildings, make this a treasure of architectural history in South Africa. The home is a working guest house and the cellar home to some of the world's finest wines. See GLITZYMAGAZINE to view more information on this charming style.



10. NEETHLINGSHOF MANOR HOME



The home is built in the classic h-shaped layout, and is surrounded by soft garden blossoms. Umbrellas line the stoep with its cottage pane windows and sliding sashes. A fine restaurant and wedding venue make use of this historical landmark.

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NEETHLINGSHOF CELLAR



The gables of all the buildings are decidedly neoclassical and this gable at the cellar is a fine example of the style, with its four pilasters supporting a central pediment on the inner two. The outer pilasters support scrolls. A large shuttered barn type door emphasies the rural nature of the building's function.







11.PETER FALKE WINES



Located on the slopes of Helderberg mountain, the crisp white gable with horned flanks constrasts with the black metal roof which has replaced the thatch. Large green shutters to an arched barn door create a more modern look for what is now a thriving restaurant and tasting center.


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12. ZORGVLIET



The h-shaped layout is very clearly visible in this picture which shows how symmetry is produced on all sides of the building. The matching side gables are as much part of the composition as the central gable is on the perpendicular side. The home is set amid sprawling gardens restaurants and stunning views of the Drakenstein Mountains.

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13. RUST EN VREDE



The home has been restored with a mdoern sensibility placing frameless glass alongside arches of red klompie bricks. The restaurant and wine tasting facilities are there to make your visit more enjoyable.

See GLITZYMAGAZINE for buildings in central cape town of interest to tourists.


Cape Dutch in Somerset West >
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