Architect: Nico and Werner van der Meulen

The façade of Dia Residence, situated in Ivory Coast, Abidjan, was designed by Nico and Werner van der Meulen.  While maintaining the contemporary style that Nico van der Meulen Architects are well known for, the design intent was focused on being appropriate to the surrounding area.

This was achieved by creating a barcode like façade for the building, using concrete, steel and glass as the main materials to bring the design together.

A bridge made of glass and steel allows for movement between the wings as the children’s rooms are separated from the main suite by the atrium, while allowing views into the double volume spaces and atrium. Glass and steel walls provide natural light to the various spaces.

The ground floor consists of a double volume family room opening onto a large verandah, kitchen, bar, lounge, guest bathroom, cigar room, dining room, en-suite guest bedroom, arranged around a large atrium with several water features.

The first floor contains the en-suite main bedroom, four additional en-suite bedrooms, library and pajama lounge overlooking the double volume family room and children’s study.

The interiors were designed by M Square Lifestyle Design with a focus on overlapping planes, vast spaces and warm lighting.

In terms of the palette, the emphasis was placed on warm and contrasting furnishings and finishes, while natural and light fabric was chosen for the furniture.

Cemcrete, timber and porcelain tiled floors were chosen throughout the house to compliment the natural and light aesthetic of the furnishings.   Wood, cast in situ concrete and warm paint colours were used for the various walls.

Built in cupboards from Porro, were designed by M Square Lifestyle Necessities.