We have battened down our hatches here during the worst storm Cape Town has seen in 30 years.
Photo via News 24
Schools and universities have closed for the day and given that my boys are all writing exams, I'm pleased to report that they are using the unexpected free day in the most productive way!
Since I'm going nowhere today, it seems like a good opportunity to escape from the real world for a little while and become immersed in some beautiful interiors instead. Two homes really caught my eye and I thought I should show them to you too as you might also be looking for an escape on a rainy day.
The first is in the Karoo, near Barrydale and is owned by a former director of Woolworths who wanted to escape the rat race and is leading what seems like an idyllic existence on his farm.
It is a large house, simply designed with 4 bedrooms and bathrooms and an enormous sitting room and kitchen.
Everything used in the construction was made locally and the effect is that the house completely blends into its surrounding landscape.
The plaster is a mixture of mud and lime giving it the distinctive ochre shade.
Old Oregon pine doors and windows were all salvaged from demolished buildings in the Karoo area. The floors are made of polished cement which keep the house cool in the hot Karoo summer.
While I am definitely not wishing the rain away as we need it so badly, I am imagining lounging in that sunny spot right there!
The second home belongs to architect, Simon McCullagh. Tucked away in a quite cul de sac in Constantia, surrounded by oak trees and next to a greenbelt, you could imagine you are living in the countryside.
The house is designed as a modern version of an old cape barn.
I love the double volume living area with exposed trusses and thatch roof.
The dining area is so appealing with the large table and flow out into the garden - perfect for a good lunch or dinner party.
The home is furnished and fitted with a good mix of old and new.
I also love the simple design of the pool surrounded by lush lawn.
So there you go - hope you enjoyed.
If you're in Cape Town and surrounds, please stay warm and safe.
Till next time
Sharon x