An Apartment Designed for a Warm Embrace at First Sight
In the heart of Johannesburg, this Dunkeld apartment has been transformed into a serene urban escape, where light, texture, and thoughtful design bring calm to city living. Step inside, and the apartment immediately feels inviting. “We wanted the kitchen to set the tone – a space that feels soft, warm, and functional,” says designer Ivan MacCarthy Peens. Soft oak finishes paired with marble countertops form a neutral, welcoming base. A custom furniture divider separates the kitchen from the dining area, balancing intimacy with flow. At the heart, a walk-around island connects the guest bedroom, guest bathroom, and dining space seamlessly.
Flow That Feels Effortless
Smart layout changes were key. Swapping the dining room and guest bedroom enhanced natural movement, guiding guests along a curved wall into the main lounge. “Design should feel intuitive – spaces should guide you, not constrain you,” Ivan explains. The lounge emphasises conversation over screens and includes a breakfast nook plus a versatile work-from-home corner, creating a multi-functional yet relaxed living space.
Timeless Elegance
Original architectural details, oversized cornices, Parisian-style doors, and parquet floors merge effortlessly with textured materials like linen and velvet. The master suite is a standout: a bronze-glass dressing room flows into a sunlit bedroom and a serene marble-lined bathroom, all linked by a sculptural arch. Ivan notes, “The goal was to create spaces that feel luxurious yet deeply calming – a balance of elegance and comfort.”
Seamless Indoor–Outdoor Living
A spacious balcony spans the lounge, dining room, and master suite, blurring the line between indoors and outdoors. A restrained palette and natural materials ensure light and texture take centre stage. “Every element, from finishes to flow, was considered to maximise calm and connection,” says Ivan. The result is a home that feels simultaneously airy, grounded, and timeless.
Smart Design, Serene Living
This Johannesburg apartment proves that with thoughtful design and attention to detail, even the busiest city can offer a peaceful, beautiful sanctuary. “True design isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about crafting spaces that enhance life, bringing serenity to everyday living.”
