Tucked away in Upper Constantia, Cape Town’s exclusive wine-producing suburb, a striking Cape Dutch estate has recently changed hands for R60 million (US$3.4 million). Known as Steenhuis—or “Stone House”—the property spans nearly five acres and blends old-world charm with cutting-edge sustainability.
Image: Pam Golding
The sprawling 15,000-square-foot residence offers a host of luxurious amenities: a guest house, tennis court, swimming pool, and wine cellar. But it’s the estate’s off-grid credentials that truly set it apart, as previously reported by Mansion Global.
Powered by 56 solar panels and relying on boreholes for both irrigation and household water, Steenhuis is a model of self-sufficient living.
“Living off-grid here is about connecting to the land and reducing reliance on outside systems,” explains property manager Richard Anderton.
“Every step toward self-sufficiency also reduces environmental impact.” While solar power can be challenging in winter months, Anderton notes the long-term benefits: consistent electricity, clean water, and a productive garden throughout the year.
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The estate’s sustainability goes even further under its new owners, who have installed LED lighting and pellet fireplaces and enriched the soil with natural compost.
Built in 1991 as a heritage-style replica, the property could embrace these green innovations without heritage restrictions, giving owners freedom to merge history with modern eco-luxury.
Steenhuis’ three levels exude Cape Dutch charm, from sash windows and deep fireplaces to a chicken coop affectionately named “Cluckingham Palace.” Trails, ancient forests, and mountain views surround the estate, creating a sense of living in harmony with nature.
According to Garrick Sutton of Pam Golding Properties, sustainable features are now common in Upper Constantia, where boreholes and water filtration systems help residents reduce electricity costs and live more sustainably. With the area attracting some of South Africa’s wealthiest, homes with built-in green features often command higher prices and sell faster.
And while Steenhuis once served as a private family home, the new owners are transforming it into a heritage-focused guest experience. “We’re always exploring ways to expand the property’s off-grid capabilities,” Anderton adds, noting that an additional 27 solar panels are already being added.
For those seeking a taste of historic Cape Dutch luxury paired with environmental mindfulness, Steenhuis now stands as a rare example of both.
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