Project Rise by Nico van der Meulen Architects, A Contemporary Transformation in Morningside, Johannesburg
Architecture Design of Project Rise
Description About The Project
Project Rise by Nico van der Meulen Architects reimagines a Morningside residence through refined materiality, double-volume spaces, and seamless indoor-outdoor living, creating a modern luxury home rooted in architectural clarity.
The Project “Project Rise” Information:
- Project Name: Project Rise
- Location: Morningside, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Interior Design: Nico van der Meulen Architects
Reimagining an Existing Residence Through Contemporary Architecture
Project Rise by Nico van der Meulen Architects is an addition and alteration project located in the leafy suburb of Morningside, Johannesburg. Conceived as a thoughtful architectural intervention rather than a complete rebuild, the project elevates an existing residence into a refined example of contemporary luxury living. The design reflects the studio’s signature approach—clean geometry, expressive material contrasts, and a seamless dialogue between indoor and outdoor environments.
“Our intention with Project Rise was to respect the existing structure while introducing a new architectural language that feels modern, confident, and timeless,” explains Nico van der Meulen. “The project is about transformation through clarity rather than excess.”
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A Subtle Arrival and Refined Street Presence
Approaching the property, visitors are greeted by a modern concrete block driveway that leads to a steel-framed entrance structure. This understated arrival sequence establishes the architectural tone from the outset—controlled, minimalist, and deliberate. A discreet front door, sheltered beneath the entrance porch, reinforces the home’s sense of privacy while maintaining visual intrigue.
Steel and wood are introduced early in the design, both externally and internally, setting up a consistent material narrative throughout the residence. According to the architects, these elements were selected not only for their durability, but also for their tactile and visual warmth.
“Steel provides precision and strength, while timber softens the architecture and brings a human scale to the spaces,” notes van der Meulen. “Together, they create a balance that feels both contemporary and welcoming.”
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Architectural Additions That Blend Form and Function
One of the defining aspects of Project Rise lies in how new architectural elements are integrated into the existing structure. Large openings were strategically introduced to enhance natural light and spatial flow, while new wall cladding updates the home’s aesthetic without overpowering its original framework.
The alterations are not merely cosmetic; they fundamentally improve how the house functions on a daily basis. Carefully considered sightlines and spatial transitions ensure that the home feels open and expansive, yet still offers moments of intimacy and retreat.
“Every intervention had to serve both a functional and experiential purpose,” the architect explains. “We focused on how people move through the home, how light changes throughout the day, and how spaces connect emotionally as well as physically.”
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Double-Volume Living and a Striking Feature Wall
At the heart of the home is a dramatic double-volume lounge that immediately captures attention. Anchored by a bold feature wall, this space establishes a strong visual connection to the northern façade, drawing in natural light and reinforcing the home’s orientation toward optimal solar exposure.
The feature wall acts as both an architectural focal point and a subtle spatial divider, delineating the open living areas from the more private zones of the residence. This layered approach to zoning allows the house to feel cohesive while still offering clearly defined functions.
“The double-volume space was designed to give the home a sense of openness and verticality,” says van der Meulen. “It creates a moment of pause—a space where architecture, light, and proportion come together.”
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Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living for Modern Lifestyles
True to Nico van der Meulen Architects’ design philosophy, Project Rise places strong emphasis on indoor-outdoor integration. The open-plan living and dining areas flow effortlessly onto a generous patio, which then extends toward the entertainment spaces and pool level.
This fluid transition between interior and exterior areas enhances the home’s livability, making it ideal for both everyday family life and social gatherings. Large openings blur the boundaries between inside and outside, allowing the surrounding landscape to become an integral part of the architectural experience.
“In Johannesburg’s climate, outdoor living is essential,” van der Meulen remarks. “We designed the house so that the exterior spaces feel like natural extensions of the interior, rather than separate zones.”
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Material Harmony and Contemporary Elegance
Throughout Project Rise, material choices are restrained yet expressive. Concrete, steel, wood, and refined wall finishes work together to create a cohesive architectural language. Rather than relying on decorative excess, the design allows materials to speak through texture, proportion, and craftsmanship.
This disciplined approach results in spaces that feel calm, sophisticated, and enduring—qualities that define contemporary luxury at its best. The home’s transformation demonstrates how thoughtful architectural additions can significantly elevate both aesthetic and functional value.
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A Modern Architectural Upgrade Rooted in Context
Project Rise stands as a compelling example of how existing homes can be reimagined through intelligent architectural design. By blending new interventions with the original structure, Nico van der Meulen Architects have created a residence that feels both refreshed and grounded in its context.
“Architecture should enhance the way people live, not complicate it,” concludes van der Meulen. “With Project Rise, we aimed to create a home that feels effortless, elegant, and deeply connected to its environment.”
As an addition and alteration project, Project Rise highlights the power of architectural clarity, material honesty, and spatial refinement—hallmarks of Nico van der Meulen Architects’ approach to contemporary residential design.
Photo credit: | Source: Nico van der Meulen Architects
For more information about this project; please contact the Architecture firm :
– Add: 43 Grove St, Ferndale, Randburg, 2194, South Africa
– Tel: +27 11 789 5242
– Email: marketing@nicovdmeulen.com
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