Mixing dramatic landscapes, warm climes and powerful, futuristic lines, the Zil Pasyon residences by Studio RHE are as eye-catching a piece of architecture as you’re likely to get. Designed by the London-based studio as part of the Seychelles’ Six Senses resort, this series of 28 private residences are elegantly perched on the hillsides of Félicité’s coastline, gazing towards the blue Indian Ocean waters.
The homes, which are currently up for sale, feature a contemporary design, which takes its cues from the island’s rocky surrounds. Director Richard Hywel Evans and his team drew on the landscape’s tones and materials, composing structures in black granite. Their ‘geometric forms contrast with the soft weathered forms of the island’, explain the architects.
The views are planned to make the most of the sea and dramatic island setting. Photography: Dirk Lindner
‘Zil Pasyon introduces contemporary architecture to Félicité that, through its materiality, texture and form accentuates the island’s natural geography’, says Hywel Evans. ‘The private residences stand out by fitting into the natural landscape. When we first found the site, it was unimaginable that this magical location could be built on as it was virtually inaccessible due to the extreme topography and the overgrown invasive vegetation’.
Minimalist interiors open up to large outdoor areas on different levels, swimming pools and floor-to-ceiling openings that celebrate the natural setting. At the same time, the beautiful Seychelles light is softly filtered through the pool’s waters and into the living spaces below.
Making the most out of the project’s location and the island breeze, the houses were designed in a way that cleverly uses natural ventilation throughout. Meanwhile, the owners of the private residences will have full access to all the facilities of the wider Six Senses resort, such as concierge, housekeeping, spa and wellness facilities and a waterside cinema. §
