African Design Magazine February 2017 | Page 88

FEATURE Architect profile
At ARRCC , they create considered and engaging interiors at the leading edge of design . Working closely with their clients , they distil and transform their briefs to exceed original expectations . The practice believes in life-enhancing spaces that reflect both client and location , and through their refined approach to design , have developed a style focused on detail and substance .
Can you give us a history of the practice ? When ARRCC was founded as Antoni Associates in 1996 , it was an answer to the need for a focussed interior studio for the architecture firm SAOTA . Our portfolio of successful projects over the past decades has created a solid foundation for expanding the range of projects globally . The new name , ARRCC ( 2015 ) reflects this consolidation into a strong and independent brand . As a leading interior design firm in South Africa , ARRCC has expanded internationally and is working in many locations including London , Paris , Milan , Moscow , New York , Sydney , Dakar , Barcelona , Ibiza and Geneva . Mark Rielly , Jon Case and Michele Rhoda are the directors of ARRCC and head up the team of 50 designers . The practice specialises in luxury residential interiors and the portfolio also includes hospitality and retail designs .
What about African design inspires you ? The African landscape is very diverse and difficult to categorise but it is in its creative and visual field that it is very inspiring . African design is full of symbolism , tradition and colour that is vibrant and energetic . Its fashion is influential , its music is moving and rhythmic and its food is evoking
Where do you see African architecture going in the next decade ? Africa is still very much a developing continent and is a land under construction with rapid urbanisation . Globally there has been a renewed interest in African art and fashion and this influence can be seen in all fields of design , including architecture . Already Africa has seen the birth of a number of star architects working globally and I think that in this next decade , rather than look outward there will be a more conscious shift that challenges international styles . African design will look at real world problems which are shared by all cultures across the continent and architects and designers will be transforming lives through innovative design and technology .
What do you have in store for the next twelve months ? ARRCC is currently working on several luxury residential projects in Ghana , Cote d ’ Ivoire , Zimbabwe , Angola , Australia , UAE , the Bahamas , Spain , Moscow , USA and South Africa that will be completed in 2017 . The first of a hotel chain , Noom Hotel , has opened its doors in Conakry and 2 more hotels will be opening this year in other parts of Africa , with more to follow .
Click here to read about ARCCC ’ s favourite projects