Situated at the picturesque foot of Table Mountain, a modern Cape Town home has been revitalised by the skilled hands of ARRCC.
The team incorporated their additions into the original architectural design by Antonio Zaninovic. This fuses the home with the surroundings, offering breathtaking cityscape and nature views.
Mark Rielly and Nina Sierra Rubia, interior designers from ARRCC, worked with the client to create the design concept of the main house. “The interiors are a collaborative vision working with local artisans focusing on the use of materials to reveal their natural beauty and purest form, shaping bespoke pieces that are raw and transforming them into objects of luxury,” says Rielly.
ARRCC Director, Jon Case, describes the inspiration behind this project, stating, "Being situated in an urban environment while surrounded by the majestic Table Mountain's natural beauty motivated us to create an extraordinary 'urban resort'."
The main changes to the architecture are a new garden pavilion and a larger penthouse suite. ARRCC updated the main house's interiors, including adding an enclosed wine room and a vast terraced lawn.
The main suite bedroom features an elevated marble bed base, to enhance the city views. The main suite bedside table, with custom made Martin Doller and David Reade lights.
The main bathroom blends with an expansive lounge area that offers breathtaking views of the city. Marble takes centre stage on the vanities, while the soft matte travertine vein and pearl hues infuse a subtle yet glamorous charm. Strategically placed mirrors further enhance the spaciousness, creating an illusion of more room.
ARRCC’s design of the pavilion continued the main house's architectural style and materials with special features, like slanted roofs and glass doors. The landscape cradles the new structure. It floats out from the rocky slope, suspended in the tree canopy. The space has indoor and outdoor areas. You can find a bar, dining area, lounge, pizza oven and barbecue.
Martin Doller was responsible for the stunning design of both the dining table and the pendant light that hangs gracefully above it. The table boasts a delightful arrangement of twinkling lights and hanging planters. However, the pièce de résistance is undeniably the brass fireplace by Barry Ashmole of Garage. Inspired by a 1920s copper diving helmet, this remarkable fireplace showcases authentic vintage ship portholes, creating a truly captivating focal point.
ARRCC employs an Afro-minimalist style that complements the concrete ceilings and stone walls. The incorporation of marble, bleached timbers, and metals brings a refined touch to the rustic colour scheme. The interiors alluringly blend glamour and mystery, resulting in a "barefoot luxury" effect.
A subtle nod to mid-century design runs throughout the furnishings. Several were made in collaboration with well-known local craftsmen like OKHA, Martin Doller, and David Reade. The overall style is quiet, elegant and timeless with a sculptural and functional design.
Textured timber, leather, fur and textiles pays homage to nature, connecting the interior to the surrounding landscape. The understated colour palette finds contrast through dark woods and tactile accents, such as draped fur on kitchen chairs.
In contrast, polished and glossy elements, such as metallics and mirrors, offer a gentle reminder of the nearby urban setting. An example is the bespoke dining room light adorned with glass balls, which mirrors the twinkling city lights at night.
Stepping into the wine room, one is enveloped by an atmosphere of moody glamour. This space looks like a fancy jewellery box. The ceiling is gold and there are bronze lights and mirrored walls. Oak furniture and plush velvet seats in a rich whisky hue complete the lavish ambiance.
ARRCC balances relaxation and sophistication in the meticulous attention to detail in the main suite on the upper level. The pyjama lounge, adorned with cedar strip and bronze cladding, offers a seamless flow and a sense of continuity throughout the space.
ARRCC uses architecture, interior design, and furnishings to create a calm environment that fits with nature. This home combines urban style with the beauty of nature in a modern African design.