The Sanctuary - Landmark Listing

Ensconced on the banks of the Knysna Lagoon, flanked by a natural spring providing a haven for local birds called The Sanctuary, lies an expansive home of the same name. Occupying a double landscaped stand with breathtaking views over the Lagoon - and almost 1500m2 under-roof - this spacious home caters to every need a family could require. 

The home was designed just over 2 decades ago by well-known local architect Merinda Brymer of Brymer & Associates, with substantial input from the owners and interior designer Jo Pieters https://www.jopietersdesign.com/, to accommodate a family who loves to both entertain and enjoy the natural delights of the Belvidere area. Officially considered a suburb of Knysna, Belvidere is a quaint enclave found on the western bank of the Knysna Lagoon. It is located just 8kms from the centre of town and its amenities and enjoys plentiful daytime sunshine and protection from the prevailing winds. Reminiscent of an English country village, it even features a Norman-inspired church dating back to the 1850's and a village green where cricket is traditionally played every Boxing Day. 

This idyllic location inspired the owners to settle and build a home where one could work, play and live, with exquisite attention to detail being paid to all those requirements. Upon entering the triple-volumed entrance hall, it is possible to immediately enter the home office which features desk and boardroom areas, complete with task lighting, making today's work-from-home challenges a cinch. Another feature of this office is the bespoke cabinetry which is a significant feature throughout the home and was impeccably installed by Woodmillers www.woodmillers.co.za  a local furniture and cabinetry supplier par excellence.  Solid maple and cherrywood abound in this home, enhancing the warmth and paying tribute to Knysna's timber heritage. 

The home's owners wished to use the services of local craftsmen and builders as far as possible and bespoke balustrades and chandeliers were commissioned via Andre Petit of Elegant for installation in the construction which was done by local builders MC Construction. The construction of the home took 12 months and was completed in November of 2002.  

The clever inclusion of a number of cavity doors allows areas to be expanded or contained as required and a bon vivant will be sure to enjoy both the wine cellar, with air reticulation, and its capacity to store over 1200 bottles of wine under ideal conditions. The area's climate was also considered during the build and the braai room allows for both clement and inclement weather conditions. The bedrooms are all en-suite and spacious, each with their own charm: one features a large bay window overlooking The Sanctuary, another a mezzanine level and the main-en-suite includes a private balcony, living area, vast dressing room with bespoke cabinetry and a luxurious bathroom, including steam shower. The kitchen, installed by Terblanche www.tbic.co.za, with its bay-windowed breakfast nook is a delight in itself. 

Other thoughtful features of this custom-built abode include:  a gym area which could also be used as a pajama lounge; a pottery studio - complete with kiln; two apartments; 4 garages plus boat storage; 3-phase power inverter and Clipsal light management system;  spacious pantry, scullery and laundry; water tanks and DigiDoors enhancing the security of the sleeping quarters. 

Hamilton's Property Portfolio Garden Route is delighted to be representing this superlative home.  For more information and additional images please visit the listing page https://www.hamiltons.co.za/results/residential/for-sale/knysna/belvidere-estate/house/2506/312-st-andrew-street/  or contact Yvette Botha (078) 418-3497.