- Project: Waterside
- Architect: SAOTA, ARRCC
- Location: South Africa, Clifton, Cape Town
- Year: 2009
- Photography: Greg Cox and Emma Jackson
Situated within an exclusive nine-story building along Cape Town’s iconic Clifton shoreline, Waterside by SAOTA & ARRCC, with interior contributions by Karen Stanek of KS Designs, is a stunning reinvention of three merged apartments into a fluid, sculptural living experience. Completed in 2009, this project is a masterclass in contemporary coastal luxury, blending architecture, art, and nature into a cohesive whole.
Redefining the Floorplan: A Vertical Architectural Experience
The transformation began with a complete reconfiguration of the layout, combining three apartments across two levels. ARRCC’s design team prioritized spatial clarity and natural flow, beginning with the removal of a front slab to create a fully glazed, double-volume living area that opens directly to expansive sea views and a wraparound balcony.
The entry experience is now reimagined from the upper level, with a grand staircase overlooking the living area and ocean horizon—establishing a dramatic focal point upon arrival. Inspired by the natural boulders and coastal topography of Clifton, the interiors showcase undulating wall surfaces and curved staircases, echoing the surrounding landscape.
Sculptural Staircase as Centerpiece
“The staircase design draws inspiration from the natural curves of the surrounding mountain contours,” says ARRCC. “It was designed to frame the ocean view and seamlessly guide one through the home.”
Concealed lighting subtly traces the curves of the double-volume staircase, flowing into the cinema room ceiling, bar detailing, and throughout the living and bedroom areas—blurring the line between architectural function and artistic expression.
Interior Palette: Coastal Materials & Natural Tones
Natural finishes evoke the home’s seaside context:
-
Marble and timber flooring
-
Oxidized copper surfaces
-
Green marble elements
-
Wave-like wall textures
-
Smoky mirrors, which reflect the ocean and discreetly mask structural columns
Bespoke detailing includes:
-
A hand-chiseled bar that doubles as a server
-
Custom-designed bookshelf inspired by shoreline elements
-
Bronze-paneled library nook with ambient concealed lighting and low ceilings for an intimate feel
Each space was meticulously crafted to harmonize with the landscape while introducing a tactile, luxurious atmosphere.
Curated Art and Custom Furnishings
KS Designs led the curation of the client’s extensive art collection, integrating works with custom-designed furnishings to create an environment that celebrates both form and function. Collaborators include:
-
OKHA (furniture and lighting)
-
Louw Roets
-
Artists featured through local Cape Town galleries
This collection transforms the penthouse into a private gallery, balancing minimalist spatial design with layered material richness.
Living and Entertaining Spaces
-
Main living area: Framed by curves in the ceiling structure, opens onto the oceanfront balcony with concealed lighting and architectural continuity
-
Cinema room: Enclosed, with roof curves echoing the design language
-
Dining and entertainment areas: Flow seamlessly into one another, grounded by natural materials and views
On the lower level, the guest bedroom wing and bathrooms maintain material continuity with natural stones and beach-inspired finishes.
Private Retreat: Master Wing and Bathrooms
The master suite is positioned to take full advantage of 360-degree views of a private stretch of Clifton beach. Key features include:
-
A double-sided biofuel fireplace between the bedroom and bathroom
-
Freestanding tub with direct ocean views
-
Caesarstone vanity and brushed stone accents
The suite is connected to the main living area via louvered dividers, providing both visual flow and privacy.
Conclusion: A Refined Expression of Coastal Luxury
Waterside by SAOTA & ARRCC exemplifies how architectural ingenuity, artistic curation, and natural inspiration can transform space. Through bold spatial gestures, carefully curated interiors, and a harmonious palette, this Clifton residence captures the essence of elevated beachfront living in one of South Africa’s most prized coastal locations.
