Karl Lagerfeld was an icon. He was undisputedly the most prolific designer of the 21st century. His mastery of storytelling brought visions to life, transforming fashion shows into immersive stage designs. As the architects and interior designers of this project, our challenge was to translate that legacy into a living experience, that embodies both the brand and the designer. These residences are our architectural tribute, ensuring his vision endures in a space as bold and refined as the man himself.
Designed holistically as the main architectural concept that permeates all the way through the masterplan and interiors, we were inspired by his famous catwalks, envisioning these villas as an architectural extension of his runway. Within each villa, we used the catwalk as a central pathway guiding residents through an immersive narrative. It begins with a floating walkway over reflective pools, leading to a dramatic double-height entrance.
Inside, the ascent becomes the jewel of this runway, a sculptural, spiralling staircase inspired by the flowing fabrics of his ateliers, echoing the stage pieces from his legendary shows. This experience is extended with surrounding lifestyle zones enhancing the sense of immersion. The journey culminates at the pool, where a sunken lounge and waterfall edge mirror the signature U-turn at the end of the catwalk, marking the grand finale. The design transforms the act of arrival into an experience that mirrors the theatrical elegance of his fashion shows.
Karl’s affinity for 18th-century architecture and Art Deco is reflected in the villa design, where historical proportions are reinterpreted through a modern lens. A structured hierarchy creates a sense of balance and weight that anchors the space. Axial alignment was a defining principle within 18th-century homes, where a strong central corridor guided movement from the entrance through the house, with rooms symmetrically arranged on either side, supporting our concept of the catwalk, and reinforcing a clear, structured flow through the villa.
Influenced by both the geometry and symmetry of this period and the refined aesthetics of Art Deco, we embraced clean lines, streamlined simplicity, and a sense of visual harmony. The balustraded balconies and cornice inspired by La Maison embody this approach, boasting a sleek design that adds sophistication to the façade.
Sustainability is integral to the design, aligning with the Karl Cares initiative. Passive cooling strategies brought through the reflective pools, energy-efficient systems, and eco-conscious strategies minimize environmental impact while enhancing the living experience. Natural ventilation and biophilic elements create a seamless connection with the surroundings, reinforcing the project’s commitment to responsible luxury.
To say representing Karl Lagerfeld was an honour would be an understatement. He was an icon, and a master of reinvention. His relentless vision shaped fashion in ways few ever could. However, it was also daunting, a test of creativity and a challenge of the highest order. Capturing his design philosophy required a delicate balance of bold innovation and timeless elegance. But in the end, we delivered a vision worthy of his name, a synthesis of architecture, fashion, and storytelling.