- Interior
South African architecture firm SAOTA and interior design studio ARRCC have joined forces once more to create this visually captivating family home on the banks of Lake Geneva. The client, a Senegalese businessman based in Switzerland, wished to bridge the aesthetics of his own heritage with contemporary European design and architecture. The blending of bold geometry, nuanced materials and refined furnishings provides a dramatic contrast to the quiet lake views.
Leading the way for South Africa’s emerging voice in design and architecture is, without a doubt, internationally renowned SAOTA and ARRCC. Whether it’s a safari lodge or beachfront homes in Beacon Isle, Melkbos or Bantry Bay, we’ve been following their work for some time now. It’s no surprise they were chosen for this eye-catching home in one of the world’s most sought-after locations.
SAOTA and ARRCC have joined forces once more
That said, the building site did pose its challenges — overcome by SAOTA’s architectural ingenuity. With strict lakeside planning regulations and a triangular building site, the home, itself, is triangular. Using what they call a ‘reductive’ sculptural design, various geometric forms are seemingly carved out, creating a salient collage of façades. The originality of the exterior was channeled into the interior. ‘The contemporary architectural space defined the design direction, resulting in a modern approach with brands of diverse origin chosen for the decor,’ explains ARRCC director, Mark Rielly. 
The living room is framed on one side by a feature wall of light granite cladding with stainless steel insets and on the other by a sweeping glass façade which flows into the sleek lines of the kitchen and dining room. We love the pop of yellow from Carolina Sardi’s art installation in the dining room. The open plan living areas of the ground floor have a spiral staircase and glass-encased elevator that lead to the upstairs bedrooms. The various materials — glass, metal, wood, marble, travertine… — allow for a striking interior complexity.
ARRCC selected furnishings that synthesise African and European design sensibilities
Actualising the owner’s vision, ARRCC selected furnishings that synthesise African and European design sensibilities. For example, organic patchwork Nguni rugs are paired with B&B Italia’s modular Arne sofas, not to mention there are quite a few distinctive pieces from South African design studio OKHA like the glass dining table, bar stools and custom GT armchairs in the living room.
A careful layering of tones, textures and materials come together for an international family. Iconic European design and the ever-emerging African aesthetic become one in this Swiss lakeside dwelling. 
Project Name: Lake House
Project Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Interior Design & Decor: ARRCC, Project Team - Mark Rielly
Architecture: SAOTA, Project Team - Stefan Antoni, Greg Truen
Photographer: Adam Letch, Stefan Antoni