Fish Hoek | Southern Peninsula 
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Fish Hoek – Residential architectural project

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This project involved the complete renovation of a small, character-filled apartment within one of the older residential blocks in the area. The apartment presented a number of spatial and technical challenges, typical of buildings from this era, where the original layout no longer suited contemporary living.

The most significant transformation involved rethinking the internal layout. Originally, the apartment’s lounge functioned purely as a living space, while one of the bedrooms had historically been converted into a kitchen. As part of the renovation, the kitchen and associated services were relocated into the main living area to create an open-plan living and kitchen space. This intervention required careful planning to reroute services and utilities, but ultimately allowed the apartment to function in a far more logical and modern way.

To further enhance the quality of the living space, an additional window was introduced to improve both natural lighting and ventilation. This small yet impactful change significantly brightened the apartment and strengthened the connection to the garden outside.

The second room was redesigned to serve as a compact study or child’s bedroom. Soft finishes and warm tones were introduced to create a calm and comfortable atmosphere within the smaller footprint.

The bathroom was completely reconfigured to maximize both functionality and visual clarity. A recessed niche was introduced within the wall to provide integrated storage, while a shower was incorporated into the bath area to modernize the bathing experience. The existing geyser was concealed within custom joinery, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the space and contribute to a cleaner, more contemporary aesthetic.

Throughout the apartment, the original timber floors were carefully sanded back and restored with a stained finish, preserving the character of the building while complementing the updated interior palette.

Lighting and electrical systems were fully replaced as part of the renovation. Designer light fittings were introduced, and the electrical layout was modernized with additional outlets and dimmable lighting within the living space to create flexibility and atmosphere.

Custom joinery plays a key role in maximizing storage within the compact apartment. The kitchen cabinetry was designed to extend to the ceiling, creating deep concealed cupboards while maintaining a minimal and refined appearance. Appliances such as the washing machine and dishwasher were integrated into the joinery to keep the space visually calm and uncluttered.

Externally, the neglected garden area was revitalized, transforming what was once a run-down outdoor space into a pleasant extension of the apartment.

Today, the apartment stands as a thoughtful transformation of one of the last original units in the block to undergo renovation. What was once a dilapidated and outdated space has been reimagined as a warm, functional home and long-term property investment.

Small apartments like this are becoming increasingly rare, and this renovation demonstrates how careful design can unlock the full potential of even the most compact spaces.

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Location: Fish Hoek | Southern Peninsula |Lubbe Architects