Innovative and harmonious space

Located in Clifton, Cape Town, South Africa, a nine-storey building designed by the SAOTA architectural practice is now home to a magnificent two-storey residence, the result of an extraordinary concept of curves and colors, where three units have been merged. An unusual configuration in the region, imagined by interior design studio ARRCC, in collaboration with Karen Stanek of KS Designs.

Nestled in a nine-storey building originally designed by SAOTA in Clifton, South Africa, the project combines innovative design with natural beauty. Interior design studio ARRCC, in collaboration with Karen Stanek of KS Designs, successfully merged three apartments on two levels, creating a stunning space that redefines luxury beachfront living. ARRCC’s primary objective was to redesign and standardize the floor plan, focusing on the entrance. To achieve this, the architects eliminated the slab at the front of the dwellings to make way for a central, double-volume, fully glazed living area, which opens onto a balcony facing the sea, inviting natural light to penetrate the interior. The main entrance, moved to the top floor, overlooks the ocean. Its spiral staircase and undulating walls are inspired by the rocks of the beach and the contours of the cliff, facilitating the flow, orientation and integration of spaces throughout the apartment. Located on the top level, the master suite acts as an independent wing, integrated into the rest of the home by shutters, and revealing additional views. On the lower level, four bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms provide access to natural light. The upper floor also includes a central living room, dining room, front and rear kitchens, bar and separate TV room. The previously obstructive support columns are incorporated into the architecture, becoming barely perceptible. They also modulate the relationship between the double-volume space and more intimate areas such as the library and dining room. In keeping with the environment, the designers chose natural materials such as marble and wood. Other elements, such as the wave-shaped wall at the entrance, are enhanced by simple plaster and paint. Bedrooms and bathrooms feature calm, neutral tones, with limed oak and a classic combination of black and white marble. Living areas, on the other hand, are marked by splashes of color and pattern. This project illustrates the transformation and elevation of living spaces through thoughtful design, making them not only functional, but also closely connected to their surroundings.