Built for bigger things

Ocean View Drive in Bantry Bay is a small cul-de-sac that leads up to The Rock, a vantage point offering unobstructed views to the south, along the coast at the foot of the famous Table Mountain. Can it possibly get any better? Yes! Cast your eye a few metres higher and you will see one of the most exciting villas in the city, carved out of solid rock over a period of eleven years and cleverly integrated into the topography, which is dominated by large boulders. Named Lion's Ark, it is actually available to rent – but is primarily used for film and photo shoots, and will set you back the equivalent of around €14,500. And that's per day! Unquestionably a luxury property.

The architecture of the villa is just as sensational as its price and the view that it offers. The various nested levels have been partially hewn from the steep mountainside, while other parts of the building flow around the landscape, incorporating the massive boulders in its interior. The street-side entrance is formed by two huge concrete slabs, positioned vertically and at a slight angle, forming a sculptural boundary with the neighbouring property. Between these slabs is an external staircase made from exposed concrete. From here you can reach the various levels of the house, all of which open out onto the ocean and are of course also accessible by lift. An elegant outdoor staircase leads out to the "main deck", which seamlessly connects an open-plan kitchen and living area to a spacious, cantilevered terrace with pool.  

Living here means never having to compromise. The famous natural light, the blue of the Pacific and the twinkling lights along the coast at night offer a unique quality of life and a view that money cannot buy. State-of-the-art building technology provides the living comfort you would expect: a Gira KNX smart home system networks all building functions in the background – from light and ventilation to comfort features and even security. The Gira HomeServer ensures the intelligent monitoring and control of the system. The various functions are operated via the Gira pushbutton sensor 4 and the intuitive Gira G1 multi-touch display. Outside, the Gira light and energy profile is combined with the robust Gira TX_44 design line to provide atmospheric lighting and user comfort in all weathers. All switches and socket outlets are colour-coordinated in elegant aluminium – both inside and outside. Cover frames from the Gira Esprit aluminium (anodised) design line are used in the interior, combining aesthetic design with intelligent functionality – in what some would call the most beautiful villa in the world.