Set along the tranquil canals of Nassau, Villa Lyla is a residence that embodies the essence of contemporary tropical living. Designed by SAOTA, with interiors curated by ARRCC in collaboration with Interni, the home is framed by lush gardens and direct water access.
The arrival sequence establishes the home's serene character. Monumental coral-stone fins create a sculptural rhythm across the façade, filtering light and framing views while grounding the architecture within its coastal setting. Beyond these striking elements, the interiors reveal a refined material palette of timber, natural stone, and handcrafted details that bring warmth and tactility to the
expansive spaces.
At the heart of the residence, the double-height great room serves as a social and visual anchor. Here, ARRCC's approach allows the surrounding landscape to remain the protagonist, while a carefully curated selection of furnishings introduces layers of comfort and sophistication. Swivelling Ginger chairs by Poltrona Frau create intimate conversation settings alongside the sculptural Hug armchairs by Giorgetti, while a Kelly Wearstler Bell side table introduces a subtle artistic gesture within the composition. Floor-to-ceiling glazing dissolves the boundary between inside and out, allowing the tropical gardens and canal views to become an integral part of the interior experience.
The adjoining kitchen continues this balance of elegance and functionality. Crono dining chairs by Flexform bring a sense of understated refinement to the space, complementing the custom millwork and natural materials. Above, Vibia's Cosmos pendants appear almost weightless, introducing a sculptural layer of illumination that echoes the home's emphasis on lightness and openness.
Throughout the private quarters, the design shifts towards a more intimate and contemplative atmosphere. In the secondary bedrooms, Poltrona Frau beds are paired with bespoke timber detailing, creating restful environments defined by texture, craftsmanship, and natural light. The master suite elevates this language further, becoming a private retreat immersed in views of the surrounding landscape. The Alys bed by B&B Italia anchors the room with soft architectural presence, accompanied by Gentlemen nightstands by Flou. Suspended above, Brokis Knot pendants introduce a tactile interplay of glass and rope, while a Fredericia Spine daybed offers a quiet place for reflection by the window, reinforcing the suite's serene character.
Outdoor living is central to Villa Lyla's identity. Large sliding openings extend the interior spaces onto expansive terraces, where the furnishings have been selected to withstand the tropical climate while maintaining a strong design language. On the open terrace, Tribù's Vis à Vis outdoor sofa establishes a relaxed lounge setting, complemented by Paola Lenti's Sciara coffee table and Sabi armchairs. Gervasoni's InOut collection adds further texture and informality, while custom Exteta sun loungers are positioned to maximise views across the canal and gardens.
The outdoor entertaining areas continue this sophisticated approach. On the BBQ terrace, Tribù's Nox dining table and Nodi dining chairs create a convivial setting for long alfresco gatherings, framed by the lush planting designed by Raymond Jungles. Nearby, the outdoor living room is furnished with Ginestra chairs by B&B Italia, offering a relaxed extension of the interior social spaces.
Closer to the water, the recreational dock becomes a destination in itself. B&B Italia's Crinoline armchairs and custom Exteta loungers provide comfortable vantage points from which to enjoy the changing reflections of the canal, reinforcing the home's strong connection to its nautical surroundings.
The guest accommodation echoes the architectural language of the main residence while maintaining a distinct sense of privacy. On the guest room terrace, a Cassina Trampoline daybed offers a refined outdoor retreat, inviting moments of quiet contemplation beneath the Bahamian sky.
What distinguishes Villa Lyla are the quality of its architecture and the way every element contributes to a broader narrative of place. The residence embraces the rhythms of the Bahamian climate through generous overhangs, cross-ventilation, planted courtyards, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. Furnishings, artworks, materials, and landscape interventions are carefully orchestrated to support this vision, resulting in a home that feels both deeply rooted in its context and effortlessly timeless.
Design Architects: SAOTA
Project Team: Mark Bullivant, Dominik George, Brigitte Stevens, Alexandra van Vuuren, Edan Belisha
Interior Décor: ARRCC
Architect Of Record: Robert Whittingham
Contractor: SMG Construction
Structural Engineer: CCS Caribbean Coastal Services (now Bron)
Lighting Design: LUX Populi Hollander Design
Landscaping: Mills Design Group / Raymond Jungles
Photographer: Adam Letch
