The three bedroom apartment is situated on the fourth floor of an old building on the North bank of the River Seine, overlooking the Eiffel Tower. Its remodelling combined a bespoke contemporary style with French neo classic elements, characteristic of the quiet 16th Arrondissement of Paris. Existing narrow passageways and high ceilings steered the overall design direction and the conceptualisation of creative alternatives. The vision was to accentuate the high ceilings to capture views and draw light into the space. The result is a clean, calm space, in which the spectacular Parisian setting take centre stage, and clever refinements to existing architecture add charm and character. Stepping out of the lobby, an open plan space incorporating the kitchen, breakfast and sitting area spans the full depth of the apartment. The monochromatic kitchen space carefully balances old with new: the diamond pattern on the stained glass windows, repeated in the ceiling design, seems to reflect the structure of the Eiffel Tower, whilst custom radiator covers – set within the architectural lines of the existing frame – are patterned to reflect the new herringbone floor. In the salon, the view is perfectly reflected in floor to ceiling smoky mirrors on the side wall behind the sofa and the restored original fireplace, creating a grand illusion of space. The wall panelling that starts in the kitchen and wraps along the inside wall of the salon conceals a door to the master bedroom, behind the breakfast table, and integrates a custom made bookshelf with a book-ladder behind the sofa, creating a library feel. An internal clerestory window at its top allows natural light into the adjacent master en-suite. The walls are made up of white panelling crisply aligned to respect the existing door frames. Abstract, geometric paintings by contemporary South African artist Andrzej Urbanski add a playful inset to the panelled walls on either side of the fireplace. Finally, the bespoke, custom designed bathrooms use a black and white palette, with touches of bronze and copper bringing a playful dash of colour and surprise.

ARRCC – Michele Rhoda, Mark Rielly, Vanessa Canon, Danie du Toit

Anne Molfessis

The post Vue d’Eiffel was originally published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications | ek magazine – Architectural Publications.

Flowing curved lines, a light, neutral colour palette on surfaces and abundant opulence characterise the interior theme of this renovated house in Cape Town, South Africa.
The design continues the external perforated vertical screens theme indoors, with screens and ceiling details on all levels of the house as a golden thread that runs throughout.
The entrance foyer opens up to the main living area within the imposing a triple-height space dominated by the glass lift and surrounding circular glass and steel staircase. In contrast to the boldness of these central features, the kitchen behind is minimalistic, with clean contemporary lines.
A formal dining area with walk-in wine cellar and an informal lounge complete the ground floor.
On the second floor, curved passages leads to the private areas: two children’s bedrooms, a kids’ playroom and a guest bedroom, all en-suite, as well as a more informal lounge and the master bedroom suite.
Timber panelling behind the master bed features the designers’ signature pattern detail. The en-suite bathroom is designed with a strategically placed bath tub that projects forward and allows 180 degree views over the ocean.
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.
The selected furniture follows the contemporary design style of the interiors. White marble, granite, brushed stainless steel and bronze elements contrast with the colour white that is ever present throughout the house. The residence is almost fully automated with electronic equipment that is centrally controlled.

ARRCC, Mark Rielly

The post Lion’s View was originally published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications | ek magazine – Architectural Publications.

The post City View was originally published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications | ek magazine – Architectural Publications.

The post CLIFFSIDE 102 was originally published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications | ek magazine – Architectural Publications.

The unique concept of a high end fashion hair salon and nail bar combined with a treatment spa challenged the designers to combine elements that can create both excitement and a sense of serenity. The energetic rhythm of the graphic on the outside shop front reveals a glamorous reception foyer where monochromatic tones were used to bring calmness to the interior, complimented by luxurious textures and a richness created by the layering of finishes. French oak, rose gold, brass and white veined marble with accents of black throughout creates a sense of luxury that enfolds you as you enter the spa. Incorporating a hair salon, nail bar, three treatment rooms, a medispa and colour lab, clever and innovative design was needed to optimise the small space of 217m2. Working within these confines, the designers opted for an energised feel that creates an illusion of openness without compromising on luxury. Mirrored walls and reflective surfaces were used to achieve this and make the interior sparkle. French oak panelling and screens cleverly placed throughout creates the perfect balance between just enough privacy and being seen. In the hair salon, the ultimate luxurious experience starts with premium Italian leather embossed lounge chairs at the wash basins. The intimate, yet high energy design of the nail bar sets the tone for a social gathering space. The lighting solutions give definition to the area and display products in a suitable way. Curved glass panels and a cutting edge colour scheme lends a futuristic look to the colour lab. A focal water feature facilitates the seamless transition from the vibrancy of the hair salon and nail bar to the serenity of the treatment rooms. Each treatment room has an on-suite private cabin, including bathroom and steam shower. Without the luxury of space, storage and product display throughout the salon presented a big challenge which was addressed with innovative custom made shelving and display cabinets. Each shelf and cabinet was tailored to the specific products it houses, displaying it in a way suitable to its exclusivity. The specific layout that was needed to accommodate the separate areas further demanded bespoke and custom made pieces to achieve the desired look of serenity meeting city glamour.

The post Lume Beauty atelier was originally published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications | ek magazine – Architectural Publications.

The post De Waterkant was originally published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications | ek magazine – Architectural Publications.

The post WINELANDS was originally published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications | ek magazine – Architectural Publications.