Establishing the Karoo Base Camp – Renovation of the Outbuilding

Upon acquiring the Brandvlei property, the main residence was already occupied by a rental tenant. While eager to commence the renovation process, a practical solution was needed to facilitate work on the land while providing a comfortable base during visits. The self-contained outbuilding emerged as an ideal starting point for the transformation of the property.

Initiating renovations on this outbuilding was a strategic choice for several reasons. Primarily, it allowed for the preservation of the existing tenant's privacy and space within the main house. More importantly, the separate structure offered an immediate opportunity to establish a functional and comfortable "base camp"—a dedicated space for accommodation and operations during the renovation journey of the main homestead.

The outbuilding—including a garage and a bachelor flat with its own kitchen and bathroom—presented a manageable initial project. Its self-contained nature enabled focused efforts on its transformation without disrupting the main residence. This phased approach minimized complexity, fostering momentum and providing valuable insights into the property and the local environment.

For those following this journey, the outbuilding is more than just a temporary residence. It represents the first tangible step toward realizing the vision for the Brandvlei property. It will serve as the base during long weekends and holidays, supporting the ongoing efforts to restore the main house. This initial phase marks our foothold within the distinctive Karoo landscape.

Renovating the outbuilding first also offers an excellent opportunity to test ideas, experiment with climate-appropriate materials, and immerse ourselves in the unique Karoo way of life. It is a hands-on learning experience that will shape our approach to the larger renovation project.

Updates on the outbuilding’s transformation will follow, documenting the development of our comfortable Karoo base camp—the launching pad for this exciting journey ahead.