Passing of Plett Architectural Designer Martin Rattray
ShowMe Plett is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of well-renowned Architectural Designer, Martin Rattray.
He returned to South Africa a few years later to help his parents with an exquisite design of the Cape-Dutch home that was eventually built on the piece of land they bought at The Crags outside Plettenberg Bay. Martin built himself a Cape-style cottage on the same property and lived there until his death.
Everything he touched turned to gold. He could design the interior of a home like a dream, do the same with gardens. He knew exactly what would look good where.
Later in life, when he tired of designing homes, he picked up a paint brush and created a marvelous work of art. Mind-boggling. So that became his great love in his last years, and he has certainly left behind a collection of the most extraordinary artwork.
Portrait commission for Martin Rattray – oil on canvas. Artist – David Thorpe
Martin was a genius (fact) and with that came a wonderfully flamboyant, creative personality. He was eccentric, extrovert, and wildly witty and amusing.
He loved playing the piano, and certainly the organ, and did so with magnificence (It is believed that some plaster fell off the walls of St Peter’s Church in Plett during one of his resounding performances) – he played the organ on Sundays.
He knew and was loved by everyone in Plett. Everyone. He was just so charming and kind and wonderful, brilliant and fun to be around. We will miss you!