# Earthly African Abodes The Elmo Swart Architects 'Wright Conversion' House Goes Back to Nature By Emily Evans | Published 2011-06-29 | World Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/elmo-swart-architects-wright-conversion References: [dornob](http://dornob.com/organic-villa-expansion-transforms-south-african-cottage/) & [designboom](http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/9/view/15208/elmo-swart-architects-wright-conversion.html) The thought of an expansion project does not do the Elmo Swart Architects 'Wright Conversion' house justice. This abode, situated in Durban, South Africa, is a refined eco-lover's dream. The Elmo Swart Architects 'Wright Conversion' abode was built off of a small cottage that had three bedrooms. The architects at Elmo Swart Architects added another bedroom, entertainment area, art gallery and a whole lot of other architectural touches to the space. This South African sanctuary has a great use of raw materials and refined lines -- a must-see for eco-lovers everywhere! Photo Credits: [dornob](http://dornob.com/organic-villa-expansion-transforms-south-african-cottage/), [designboom](http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/9/view/15208/elmo-swart-architects-wright-conversion.html) **Implications** - As the environmental movement expands globally, more and more [architectural designs are favoring](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/house-by-the-grove) [raw natural materials](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yngsj) and designs that allow users to be closer to nature. Designs that help consumers get in touch with their nature-loving sides will continue to be favored over those that don't. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.7/10 - Popularity: 30% | Activity: 42% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [World](https://www.trendhunter.com/world) > [Regional](https://www.trendhunter.com/regional) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Eco-lover Architecture:** Architectural designs favoring raw natural materials and designs that allow users to be closer to nature. - **Expansion Projects:** Increasing demand for expansion projects in the architectural industry. - **Refined Sustainability:** Designs that help consumers get in touch with their nature-loving sides will continue to be favored. ### Who This Affects Most - **Architecture:** Architects and construction firms specializing in eco-friendly designs. - **Real Estate:** Real estate developers incorporating sustainable and nature-focused designs. - **Art and Design:** Art galleries and design studios focusing on incorporating natural materials and elements into their creations. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Cave-Like Folded Residences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wild-house.md) - [Sleek Garden-Edge Renovations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/waverley-house.md) - [Sustainable Country Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/three-oaks-farm.md) - [Thick-Walled Coastal Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hytte-riverview.md) - [Forest Nestled Vaulted Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wendy-house.md) - [Nature-Rooted Family Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/haus-am-lagnesberg.md) - [Organic Lake Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/usonianinspired-lake-house.md) - [Natural Material House Extensions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clay-house.md) - [Eco-Focused Family Housing](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rewild-homes.md)