Located a stones throw from the centre of Franschhoek, La Cotte Farm dates back to 1698, the land being first granted to the French Huguenots who had been forced to flee their native country. With splashes of bold colour and a courtyard of red bougainvillea, the original manor house has undergone a number of renovations over the last three and a half centuries.
Designer Dominic Touwen was responsible for the rebirth of this prestigious property, assisted by Camilla Fraser and architect Rohan Young.
The brief was to create 25 hotel rooms that did not resemble a hotel, instead to make the guest feel they were staying in someone’s rather grand but very comfortable home.
Inspired by Cape Vernacular architecture and interiors as well as successful country house hotels abroad, and being given creative freedom from the client, their imaginations were able to run wild and the result is a fresh interpretation of traditional country style that just oozes comfort and luxury.
Bold colours paired with antiques and artwork, creating a juxtaposition between old and new. Beautiful heirloom-like fabrics with floral prints covering cushioned armchairs or draped over the edge of an extra-length king size bed. Textures, layered to add depth, result in warm and inviting spaces, and details that bring the rooms together.
Looking for classic simplicity and traditional styling in the bathrooms, where quality is paramount, the Victorian Bathrooms range of products was selected for each of the suites at La Cotte. Whilst guests may have their favourite room in which to stay, Dominic told us that “the bathrooms have been a huge hit with all the guests.
The punchy wall colours combined with black and white marble floors – bespoke shower doors, freestanding baths, farmhouse vanities and traditional sanitary-ware all contribute to a laid back sense of luxury and comfort”. In fact, they were listed by Conde Nast Traveller in their top 10 hotel bathrooms in the world! It is an honour for Victorian Bathrooms to be included in this prestigious destination.
La Cotte is the perfect place to stay… if you haven’t already.
The punchy wall colours combined with black and white marble floors – bespoke shower doors, freestanding baths, farmhouse vanities and traditional sanitary-ware all contribute to a laid back sense of luxury and comfort”.
In fact, they were listed by Conde Nast Traveler in their top 10 hotel bathrooms in the world! It is an honour for Victorian Bathrooms to be included in this prestigious destination.
La Cotte is the perfect place to stay … if you haven’t already.
Design by Dominic Touwen dominictouwen.co.za