Steenberg Restores South Africa’s Oldest Manor House Blending Heritage Preservation With Modern Luxury

Steenberg Farm in the Constantia Valley, Western Cape, has completed the restoration of its historic Manor House.

Located at the foot of the Constantiaberg mountains, the Manor House dates back to 1682 and is South Africa’s oldest registered farm building, originally home to founder Catharina Ras. The renovation, led by MD Catherine Schulze, focused on preserving the property’s heritage while refining the guest experience.

“The Manor House is authentic, deserving of care and respect. Our goal was to restore it in a way that lets guests feel the comfort of history and heritage without ever compromising on thoughtful luxury,” says Schulze.

Restoration work included the careful preservation of original thatch and timber beams, sash windows, antique detailing and wide-plank wooden floors, complemented by bespoke furnishings, curated artwork and a layered colour palette of rust, chocolate, ochre, dusty pink and cream.

Local artisans and designers such as Douglas and Douglas, Arrange Studios, Wunders, Bofred, Modern Gesture, Mohair Mill Shop and James Mudge contributed to the restoration alongside artworks from Jolene Olivier, Vanessa Cowling, Paul Edmunds and Cecil Skotnes.

The project extended beyond the Manor House to include landscaping enhancements and upgrades to hospitality spaces across the estate. Sustainability was central to the process with locally sourced materials and the repurposing of original elements prioritised.

“People are going back to basics and appreciating what really matters,” Schulze says. “They value immersive and thoughtful luxury, and a deeper connection to nature and heritage.”

Take a look at images of the restored property below: