Teremok, situated in Umhlanga Rocks on the KwaZulu-Natal coast in South Africa, has been meticulously transformed into a luxurious haven for business executives and the well-heeled. Teremok is Russian for hideaway and, despite its proximity to the beach and accessibility to amenities, it's an oasis of serenity. Each room boasts its own balcony offering breathtaking views of the sea and landscaped gardens. Hands-on owners (associated with The Barnyard Theatre) ensure that personalised service and attention to detail are mandatory in this multi-million rand contemporary development.

LIVING AREAS . THE DININGROOM
A place to do business, a place to relax. Sit next to the large stacking and folding window contemplating the nearby Indian Ocean through the weathered branches of an old Milkwood tree. This room is beautiful in its simplicity; simple in its beauty. Taking out as much as possible and leaving only what is required provides the ideal backdrop for a perfect breakfast experience.
Delicious homemade breakfasts are prepared by two specially trained cooks in the open plan kitchen. The menu works on a six day cycle and each offers a selection of cereals and yoghurt while the remaining three courses consist of a fruit dish, pastries, muffins or breakfast breads and two hot breakfast options.
Complimentary freshly baked muffins, homemade biscotti and a bowl of fresh fruit are left in the kitchen during the day for guests who are feeling peckish.

LIVING AREAS . COMMUNAL AREAS
The concept behind Teremok's public areas is an uncluttered one that holds unusual, unexpected surprises - a combination of things that would make you feel inherently at home, yet you know that you are ensconced in an exclusive luxurious cocoon. Punctuation in colour and a combination of textures drawn from all parts of the world are the language of this interior. Influences of Africa, Zen, tribal culture, and modern chic blend seamlessly into one. The unusual ceiling detail from the original home is retained in the lounge and a large volume, split level staircase twists around Teremok's six levels. Separate areas to dine, to sip coffee, to read, to be quiet and to contemplate are found throughout the lodge.

A large communal area in the lounge for intimate conversation with friends, family and fellow travellers, is demarcated by deep comfortable couches and a fireplace. Reclusive guests can curl up on a leather armchair with a glass of red wine while others choose to be at one with nature by taking in awesome sea views and the large garden which is home to an abundance of bird life and flora that is unique to this part of KwaZulu-Natal.
This is attention to detail in its extreme. The selection of every last detail, its careful contemplation and its integration into the whole leaves a symphony of beauty that will last in memory of the beholder and that will bring guests back again and again, each time experiencing a new overture.

LIVING AREAS . EXTERIOR
The close relationship between the beautiful interior of the building and the high visibility of the exterior from within meant that these two separate living areas had to be married together in a relaxing and fresh design. The large park-like setting allows an inviting view outwards and encourages guests to explore the finer details such as the reading corner with its views back towards the lodge, the comfort of loungers around the pool or the serenity of one of the many water features. Much thought was given to softening what would normally be vast areas of paving and concrete. The surface of the parking lot is planted up rather than paved, plant belts are positioned between parking bays and along walls to soften views and alternative materials such as sleepers and stone chips were given preference. The choice and layout of plant material echoes a design of simplicity rather than clutter and this will ensure that the garden remains neat and will only improve with maturity. After all, less is more.