C-Shaped Wright House Extension Gives Thatched Roofing a Modern Twist

South Africans are renowned for their thatched roof homes, but the Wright House in Durban is the first we've seen that combines this prolific roofing material with such an interesting metal addition. <a href="http://www.designmind.co.za/profile/elmoswart">Elmo Swart</a> turned a simple cottage into a funky contemporary space complete with an additional bedroom, two studies, an entertainment area, and an art gallery. Despite being situated in the thick of dense vegetation, the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/guardian-develops-hyper-insulating-vacuum-glass/">extensive glazing</a> and open spaces ensure that plenty of warm daylight brightens up the energy-efficient addition. The Wright House also has an outdoor shower that is <a href="http://inhabitat.com/beautiful-bahia-house-showcases-natural-materials-and-smart-design/">covered with a natural straw material</a> and a cantilevered garage space that puts the finishing touches on an already compact footprint.

South Africans love their thatched houses

But we've never seen a metal addition to one

This is an interesting combination conceived by Elmo Swart Architects for a Durban house extension

Featuring plenty of glazing

And expansive views

With natural interior finishings that are contextually relevant

The home is well lit

And energy efficient

And is well integrated into its natural landscape

The new extension has an additional bedroom, two studies, an entertainment area and an art gallery

And a cantilevered extension that provides a parking area

This is an exquisite home with a compact footprint.