La Zagaleta, Villa Geneve
Elegant eco-informed showpiece in the hills of the Costa del Sol.
Designed by Manuel Ruiz Moriche, co-founder and creative director of ARK Architects, Villa Geneve is situated in the heart of La Zagaleta, a prestigious residential complex set into the Costa del Sol nature reserve. The landscape’s natural beauty – offering unexpected vistas of the Mediterranean and the nearby Benahavís mountains – is complemented by an array of luxury amenities, including tennis and golf facilities, an equestrian center and a clubhouse. Together they create a sophisticated setting in seamless dialogue with the surroundings.
Based on the principles of ecologically informed architecture, Villa Geneve is positioned as a point of contact and mediation between human habitation and nature. In keeping with the sustainable philosophy embraced by the ARK Architects, its construction employs exclusively natural materials: stone – Romano Silver Travertine for the exterior cladding and Botticino for the interiors – chemically untreated wood and lime-based paint finishes.
Another core feature in the architectural concept of the villa – built on three levels – is the pivotal role played by natural light, which becomes a generative force in shaping the spaces. Maximizing its entry through expansive glazing that runs along the entire perimeter of the house, light acts like an orchestra conductor, an essential material through which space is sculpted and defined.
The resulting architecture is one of clean, contemporary lines – respectful of the surrounding landscape and fully integrated within it.
In perfect harmony with the exterior architecture, Flexform furnishings play a primary role in the villa’s interior design – also by ARK Architects – reflecting an understated, refined aesthetic centered around timeless design, authentic comfort, and materials of exceptional quality.
The ground floor is anchored by a spacious living area, the heart of the home, where the generously proportioned Groundpiece seating system occupies a prominent position. The tobacco-color cowhide cladding on the armrests echoes the refined woven cowhide featured on the Bangkok ottoman and the backrest of the Sveva armchair. The decor is completed by an elegant Ozzy ottoman, Oliver side table, a custom-made marble coffee table, and FLOS overhead lighting.
On the right, a capacious dining table surrounded by Alma dining chairs delineates the transition from the living area to the Gaggenau-equipped kitchen, where Isabel stools are illuminated by Masiero pendant lights.
Large glass doors connect the interior to the outdoor terrace with its infinity pool. Here, a face-to-face arrangement of two Oasis sofas and two Tessa Outdoor armchairs creates a comfortable space for relaxation and conversation. A second area, earmarked for dining, features an impressive custom table surrounded by Crono Outdoor dining chairs. Rounding out the space are two Supermax Outdoor sofas, with their distinctive curved silhouettes, and a pair of Oasis side tables.
The private quarters are located on the upper level and include a master suite and two additional bedrooms, each with private bath. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light, emphasizing the sleek, uncluttered elegance of the Adda bed and Vesta armchair.
The guest bedrooms, private gym, laundry and utilities are located on the basement level. This floor also includes a wine cellar furnished with Isabel stools, and a wellness area with an indoor pool, sauna, and relaxation alcove outfitted with Eddy daybeds and Oasis side tables.
Courtesy: ARK Architects | Ph. Manuel Ruiz
