TOP CAPE DUTCH STYLE HOUSES - CAPE TOWN VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE

The Cape Dutch style, is a vernacular type of local country architecture that developed in Cape Town in the the 17th and 18th century, starting with simple barn shaped buildings with a central cloud shaped gable. These become more and more elaborate and sophisticated as time went on. View some of the best photosgraphs of the manor homes on the internet.

1. ZEVENWACHT

Selected as number one because of it's beauty, and exceptionally small scale, with only one two windows either side of the main door.

2. BOSCHENDAL

The setting is perfect amidst orchards and indigenous gardens with the Groot Drakenstein mountain in the background. See ARCHITECTCAPETOWN for more information on the Cape Dutch style, as well as the modernised version.

3. LA DAUPHINE

This perfectly proportioned house with a neoclassical style gable has been perfectly preserved, and it finds itself nestled in a garden with very big trees that don't cover the facade. Visit ARCHITECTCAPETOWN for luxury homes with daring contemporary stylistic elements, as well as classic examples from heritage buildings.

4. LE PROVIDENCE

The long driveway with cypress trees either side, draws the eye to the graceful gable, with the drakenstein mountains in the background.

5. STONEWALL CELLAR

Set on a hill that is visible from the R44 from Stellenbosch to Somerset West, this cellar has all the characteristic Cape Dutch elements including a low "werf" wall that surrounds it. Also see ArchitectCapeTownfor info about typical architect fees in Cape Town.

6. LANZERAC

The manor house has a crisp freshness as it contrasts with the purple silhouette of the two peaks mountains behind it. Visit ARCHITECTCAPEDUTCH for house plans in this unique style that the Cape is famous for.

7.RUST EN VREDE

A lesser known gem nestled on the slopes of Helderberg mountain, the modern seamless glass door contrasts with the rustic red brick arches and historical gable.

8. RUSTENBERG

A neoclassical gable and red plinth distinguish this fine manor home from the others that surround it and has been perfectly preserved in its original condition. Visit ArchitectCapeTownfor more information about another versatile Cape Town architect designing in this style.

9. GROOT CONSTANTIA

Not the most beautiful, but certainly the most famous, Groot constantia boasts a very large neoclassical period gable with a small statue in it.

10. VERGELEGEN

Surrounded by the most beautiful and big garden of all the Cape Dutch houses, Vergelegen is a well proportioned house that must be visited.