Lagoon Villa Abidjan by SAOTA: Where Modernism Meets Nature

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Modern house with large glazed windows and minimalist architectural design, surrounded by green grass and trees

Lagoon Villa Abidjan by SAOTA is the art of architectural synthesis, where bold lines of modern style meet the tranquil rhythm of Ébrié Lagoon in Côte d'Ivoire. Developed by internationally acclaimed architecture firm SAOTA, with interiors by Claude Missir, this exceptional home redefines waterfront living in the heart of West Africa.

Harmonious Dialogue with the Environment

Situated at the intersection of bustling urban life and calm waters, the Lagoon Villa is not just a luxurious family home but a carefully planned sanctuary that blurs the boundaries between architecture and nature. Inspired by Abidjan's rich modern architectural tradition, SAOTA created a house as a visual statement and structure deeply attuned to its tropical surroundings.

A standout feature of the villa is the permeable roof, an elegant concrete beam construction with windows. This architectural element mimics light filtering through foliage, creating a mosaic of light patches inside the space and connecting the house to its lush greenery. Staircase courtyards and verdant landscape architecture further soften the transition between interior and exterior spaces.

Design for Climate and Comfort

Responding to the tropical climate of West Africa, the project includes extensive overhangs and spacious sliding glass doors that ensure fresh air circulation and shade throughout the day. This passive cooling strategy reduces reliance on artificial systems, demonstrating SAOTA's commitment to sustainable development and bioclimatic design.

Each transitional space in the house is thoughtfully designed to blur the boundaries between inside and outside — from covered areas and cool walkways to shaded zones that smoothly transition into open recreational spaces.

Interiors by Claude Missir: Sophisticated, Indigenous and Expressive

Interior architect Claude Missir brings warmth and soul to the villa through a grounded yet elegant palette. His design is directly inspired by natural surroundings: soft tones, organic textures and materials such as fire granite, exposed concrete and glass reflect the modern exterior while maintaining a strong local context.

"The colors inside were taken from the surrounding landscape, so it seems as though the interior and exterior naturally merge," says Missir. "When you open yourself to new challenges, bold colors, forms and materials, the result is often surprising!"

Every element — from spatial structure to material selection — was carefully chosen to enhance the villa's livability, ensuring elegance without compromising comfort.

A New Chapter in Abidjan's Architectural Identity

Long known for its progressive architectural spirit, Abidjan continues to be the center of contemporary design in Africa. The Lagoon Villa by SAOTA not only honors the city's heritage but also propels it forward — blending clean geometric forms with an intuitive understanding of climate, landscape and lifestyle.

Through the lens of sustainable luxury living and cultural sensitivity, SAOTA and Claude Missir created a villa that is both rooted in place and universally ambitious.