ARRCC recently renovated the Lion's View, a two-storey Cape Town property, originally designed by SAOTA a decade ago.
"The rewriting of the existing architectural language while maintaining the architectural signature was a key challenge that we had to address," commented Mark Rielly, design architect and Jon Case, lead interior designer on this project. "To meet the client brief of more accommodation, we needed to design a third floor for the residence, adding to its stature and changing the façade substantially."
When approaching the entrance located at the rear of the property, the solid structure gives nothing away of the magnificence that unfolds when you enter. The rounded walls of the entrance foyer sets the tone for the organically shaped interiors. Rather than being defined by blocks, the spaces inside were designed to flow and embrace the curvilinear design of the structure. In the coffee lounge Knoll Platner side chairs and striking mercury light fittings by Artemide Skydro Soffitto emphasize the fluid forms visible throughout.
Moving past the coffee lounge, the understated opulence that is ingrained in the interiors becomes clear with a triple volume glass lift and surrounding circular glass and steel staircase that dominates the family lounge area. The LED metal pendant light fitting by Quasar Citadel compliments the staircase perfectly with its circular cascade design.
A formal dining area with walk-in wine cellar, an informal lounge and outside pool deck and BBQ area complete the ground floor. The outdoor shower ledge that transforms into a water feature that cascades into the pool and a large lawned terrace that makes way for unequalled views of the ocean, ensures that the outside is as spectacular as the inside of the residence.
On the second floor, a curved passage with sand blasted windows that feature the signature design pattern detail leads to the main bedroom. Timber panelling behind the bed picks up on the detail so intrinsic to the ARRCC design. The en-suite bathroom is cleverly designed with a strategically placed bath tub that projects forward and allows 180 degree views over the ocean. Two children's bedrooms, a kids' playroom and a guest bedroom, all en-suite, as well as a more informal pajama lounge make up the remainder of the second floor.
The third floor that was added to the existing structure accommodates a study, private gym, spa bathroom with sauna and chiller bath. Uninterrupted views add to the tranquillity of this level.
Photography: Adam Letch