Ahead of its time, this unusual home with its unique and futuristic
architectural design is situated in Kloofendal, Roodepoort; and you could be
forgiven for thinking that you had just spotted an alien spaceship perched atop
the Witwatersrand mountain range.
So, if you have R14 million and fancy owning a home that is one of a kind, this
residence has much to offer, starting with the spectacular 320 degree views in
all four wind directions over the mountain range and Johannesburg.
Built fifteen years ago as a private residence by owner, Dr Harry Visser, the
emphasis was on preserving the natural fauna, flora and the greenbelt
environment. Visser, an engineer, says that he always had a feeling for creative
structures and wanted to challenge the impossible. His vision was transformed
into a unique piece of skilled engineering and architectural work, which can
only be appreciated with an open and admiring mind.
The 'UFO' house is characterised by long elliptic lines formed by an
uninterrupted window line that slants outwards at an angle of 60 degrees. The
distinct aerodynamic shape with its centre dome provides a stark contrast to the
immediate environment.
The main dish took six months to construct, after which 50 tons of reinforcing steel
was placed and covered with 400m³ of concrete. Of the 76 windows, 40 are fitted
with ventilators at the top to ensure that there is sufficient air flow. There
are no windows that open because of the 60 degree angle as well as for security
reasons. The whole project took one year to complete.
When approaching the house, the enormity of this 650m2 structure overshadows
you. The house is based on eight columns with a ring-beam on top to keep it in
place. The upper floor is supported from the ring-beam with sixteen beams across
the 550m2 floor. The diameter of the floor slab
is 28 metres.
As you approach the main four metre entrance that leads through a large mirror
door, a waterfall welcomes you, creating an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.
One of the most striking features is the 100m2 atrium with an indoor tropical
garden. Natural sunlight enters through a 100m2 skylight dome, which is the
largest dome erected over an indoor garden in a private residence.
There are three double bedrooms en suite. The study also has a bathroom and
could easily be converted into a guest room or fourth bedroom. The bedrooms have
large glass sliding doors and glass panels overlooking the atrium. The main
bedroom faces east, allowing you to wake up to beautiful sunrises.
The dining room faces west providing a magnificent vantage point from which to
watch the sun go down. The billiard room and the Jacuzzi area has a bar
overlooking the north facing greenbelt area. The kitchen is modern with a pantry
and a scullery. At night you can view the moon and the stars through the
skylight, while at the same time watching TV in the family room.
There are three garages, as well as staff quarters with a bathroom and kitchen.
The garages have a workshop area, toilet and hand basin, plus there is an
additional outside toilet. There is secure parking for eighteen cars, with eight
covered parking spaces.
In 2002, the 'UFO' house featured in an American TV program, The Most Extreme
Homes of the World, and was selected as the most extreme home of Africa.
This luxurious residence would be ideal for the executive family or
businessperson looking for something quite out of the ordinary.
