Tucked away at the base of the majestic Swartberg Mountains in the Eastern Cape’s Prince Albert Valley, Vrisch Gewagt Farm has existed in one form or another for over 170 years. Under its most recent owner, Mode Design Studio was called upon to address the issues surrounding the derelict accommodation on site, as well as the preservation of the highly prized endemic landscape. A part of this extensive brief was to design and oversee the refurbishment of the existing Victorian style farmhouse – Paradys. Driving the design was a desire to engage with the landscape and allow the interior footprint to extend to the outdoors. Carefully considered window placement provides the perfect opportunity to frame unique moments within the incredible surrounds. The design team further aimed to distil the original appeal of the space and amplify it by exposing roof trusses and re-inventing the use of original material finishes in order to showcase the sophistication of the original home.