Reimagining a Century-Old House
In Johannesburg North’s picturesque Parks neighborhood, a 1907 home has been carefully transformed for contemporary family life. While not an official heritage site, the house retained a historic charm worth preserving. Under the guidance of Adrian Morris of Morris & Co, the vision was clear: create open-plan spaces, flood the interiors with natural light, and ensure seamless indoor-outdoor flow all while honoring the home’s original character.
Preserving Timeless Elegance
Morris & Co led the restoration of key architectural details, bringing them back to their former glory. The north-facing facade and original windows were retained, while unsympathetic additions like an old porch were removed. The roofline returned to its 1907 design, and signature elements such as arches and columns in the entrance hall were preserved, keeping the home’s timeless elegance intact. Historic features were thoughtfully integrated into modern updates, ensuring the soul of the home remained visible throughout.
Modern Comforts Meet Heritage
On the west side of the house, Morris designed a spacious, light-filled living area that now accommodates the kitchen, dining room, and bar. Clerestory windows brighten even the deepest corners, while sliding doors open directly onto a garden patio and pool, strengthening the connection between indoors and outdoors. Original oak porch columns were cleverly repurposed as benches, and the lounge was reimagined with a fireplace and shelving that nod to the home’s past while providing modern comfort.
By balancing restored historic features with restrained, functional additions, Adrian Morris and his team at Morris & Co crafted a residence that tells two stories at once heritage and contemporary living. The result is a home that feels rooted in history while seamlessly meeting the needs of a modern family: elegant, livable, and a true example of old charm meeting new life.
