When Mia Widlake and Debbie Votin of Studio 19 first laid eyes on this sixth-floor Sea Point apartment, they described it as an immediate Big Little Lies moment. The apartment, boasting unending views of the ocean, seemed like a scene lifted straight from the show’s atmospheric opening credits. From the moment they stepped inside, the potential was palpable.
From the outset, the apartment was affectionately dubbed Big Little Lies, inspired by the HBO series that shared dramatic energy and breathtaking coastal views. As the design process unfolded, the project took on the same boldness and allure that made the show a global hit. For the Studio 19 team, the soundtrack to the series became part of their creative journey, with Michael Kiwanuka’s ‘Cold Little Heart’ setting the right note for the design’s evolution.
Like any good television series, this renovation proves that sometimes the best stories come with unexpected twists — and, in this case, spectacular Cape Town views.
Heritage constraints and deliberations with the building’s community over common areas required careful negotiation. In addition, structural complexities, such as old air ducts and inconveniently placed plumbing, presented ongoing hurdles. Yet, the team’s determination paid off, and after months of coordination and approvals, they were ready to proceed with the renovation.
MEET THE TEAM: Designers: Studio 19 | Architect: David Synders Architects | Project Manager: Upper Pepper Projects | Construction: Leo Green Construction | Joinery: CCMI
The transformation began with a bold concept: creating an expansive, open living space that would allow the panoramic ocean view to dominate every room. Originally, the client had purchased a single, front-facing apartment but soon decided to acquire the adjacent unit. The vision shifted from two separate apartments to one seamless penthouse occupying the entire top floor.
The client, who had worked with Studio 19 on previous projects, was eager to explore new finishes and textures, giving the team the freedom to experiment with bold choices. Textural contrasts became a key feature: the rich walnut-toned herringbone floors provided a solid foundation, while the deep green Addo-skin painted panels running down the passage unified the space. In the kitchen, Bianco Oro marble introduced an element of luxury, its distinctive golden veining adding movement and drama to the otherwise minimalist design. The project required careful coordination with other experts to bring the design to life. Studio 19 enlisted David Snyders whose expertise in ceiling design and hidden services was invaluable. His inventive use of lighting features and seamless integration of bulkheads became defining aspects of the project. Alongside him, Colin Howard from Upper Pepper Projects was brought on as project manager.
The previously divided living areas were opened up, allowing natural light to flood the space and making the ocean views visible from almost every angle. The private balcony, complete with a jacuzzi and bar, became an extension of the home, adding an outdoor sanctuary for relaxation and entertaining. Without the use of a service elevator, and with narrow stairways making it difficult to transport materials, the team sought alternative methods. The solution involved a tall, dramatic character: a crane, set on the roof to list building materials, finishes, and furniture directly to the top floor.
The design philosophy was clear: the space must feel sophisticated but not boring, casual but not too beachy. The finished apartment exudes understated elegance with natural materials, soft textures, and a careful balance between opulence and comfort. The result? A space that is refined but humble, easy-going and still elegant. Officially named Costa del Sol, but affectionately still known to the team as Big Little Lies, this penthouse delivers casual luxury that doesn’t fall into seaside clichés. Like any good television series, this renovation proves that sometimes the best stories come with unexpected twists — and, in this case, spectacular Cape Town views.
SUPPLIERS: Sanware: Meir | Flooring: Lalegno | Marble: Artmar Natural Stone | Lighting and furnishing: Studio 19 | Wallpaper: Robin Sprong, Casamance | Paint: Plascon | Tiles: Pudlo
