Overlooking the point where the urban dynamism of Abidjan meets the calm waters of the Ébrié lagoon, Lagoon Villa represents a virtuous example of contemporary architecture capable of dialoguing deeply with its natural context. Designed by the SAOTA studio, with interior design by Claude Missir, the residence is part of the modernist tradition of the economic capital of the Ivory Coast, reinterpreting it in a modern key that is sensitive to the needs of contemporary living.
More than just a private home, Lagoon Villa is conceived as a house on the waterfront, where the dialogue between inside and outside is continuous and fluid. The privileged position on the edge of the lagoon allows the villa to open up completely to the landscape, canceling the visual and physical boundaries between architecture and nature. Terraces, courtyards and outdoor spaces become real living environments, also enhanced by a careful outdoor furniture project, designed as a natural extension of indoor spaces.
One of the most distinctive aspects of the villa is the permeable roof, composed of exposed concrete beams and skylights that filter natural light, creating an effect similar to the sun’s rays passing through the foliage of the trees. This solution, combined with the terraced courtyards, helps to dissolve the separation between indoor and outdoor spaces, underlining SAOTA’s approach, which has always been oriented towards the harmonious integration between architecture and landscape. The inclusion of the villa in a garden with an almost park-like setting further strengthens this relationship.
In response to the tropical climate of West Africa, the architectural design adopts large overhangs that provide natural shade and large sliding doors that promote continuity between inside and outside. The rooms are thus open and bright, but at the same time protected and cool, offering a comfortable refuge from the heat without sacrificing contact with the outside.
Carefully designed transition spaces play a key role in balancing protection and openness. In addition to the aesthetic value, these solutions promote natural ventilation and reduce dependence on artificial cooling systems, improving the energy efficiency of the building. The strategic use of natural light also contributes to creating warm and welcoming environments.
The interiors, designed by Claude Missir, stand out for their refined practicality and a strong expressive charge. The colors and materials recall the surrounding landscape, reinforcing the feeling of continuity between inside and outside. As Missir points out, openness to new challenges, bold materials and colors allows you to achieve surprising and authentic results.
With Lagoon Villa, SAOTA and Claude Missir sign a modernist retreat that combines design rigor, environmental sensitivity and living quality, offering a new interpretation of contemporary living in the heart of Abidjan.
INFO: Kelly Atherton – Senior PR Manager, SAOTA & ARRCC
PHOTO COURTESY: Adam Letch
