Pienaar - Koster
February 2023
Residential Alteration + Addition
Bushmans' River, Eastern Cape
About the project
Perched on a hill above the Bushman’s River, House Pienaar-Koster is a story of transformation – reimagining a tired structure into a vibrant, multi-generational retreat.
“The original house didn’t do justice to the views or the people living in it. By adding that floating steel element and opening up the heart of the home, we gave it room to breathe – and a reason to gather.”
~ Chris Hattingh, Director Fluid Architects
Originally cramped and disconnected from its remarkable setting, the home’s potential lay dormant. By opening up the living, dining, and kitchen areas, the design invites light and landscape in, creating a generous shared space that fosters connection. A new lightweight steel structure floats off the front, framing sweeping river views and extending the upper level with quiet confidence.
Below, two contemporary bedroom suites were introduced – one for each family – offering privacy and comfort within a cohesive whole. The existing spiral staircase, once purely functional, now stands proudly refreshed in a bold blue, bridging past and present.
House Pienaar-Koster is more than an upgrade; it’s a celebration of shared living, natural beauty, and architectural renewal.
