Riverlands
LUXURY RESIDENTIAL
A Design-Driven Airbnb Interior Transformation
Luxury Apartment Interior Design & Interior Architecture
TEN was commissioned to transform a standard two-bedroom unit into a distinctive short-term rental within the sought-after Riverlands development. Purchased off-plan from a local property developer, the apartment presented a blank canvas an opportunity to elevate an off-the-shelf interior into a refined, design-led destination.
Through a considered interior makeover grounded in thoughtful interior architecture, our team repositioned the property within a competitive hospitality market. The vision was clear: create a luxury apartment interior design that feels authentically South African while delivering the comfort, functionality, and polish expected by international leisure and business travellers.
Client:
Private
Location:
Sunbird Apartments, Riverlands, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
Scope:
Interior Design Stages 1 to 4, FF&E Specification & Procurement
A Distinctive Design Narrative
Our design approach centred on crafting a narrative unique not only to the local precinct but to South Africa as a whole. The space was conceptualised to feel relaxed and rooted in place, layered with contemporary detailing and hotel-inspired comforts.
The result is a cohesive environment where laid-back living meets elevated design offering guests a memorable stay defined by warmth, texture, and quiet sophistication.
Bespoke Furniture & Curated FF&E
To fully realise our design intention, TEN specified and procured a complete, custom furniture collection for the apartment. This bespoke approach was key to differentiating the unit within the short-term rental market and achieving a seamless luxury apartment interior design outcome.
From custom-designed rugs to carefully sourced upholstery fabrics, every element was selected to contribute to a unified aesthetic. A standout detail is the interplay of travertine and timber within the dining table and side table set introducing a timeless yet contemporary nuance that anchors the living space.
This curated FF&E strategy ensures the apartment offers not just accommodation, but a distinctive design experience.
Interior Architecture Enhancements
Beyond surface-level styling, the project involved meaningful interior architecture interventions to enhance both atmosphere and usability.
To soften the industrial feel of the original structure, exposed concrete ceilings and track lighting were removed. In their place, dropped ceilings with subtle downlighting were introduced to create a warmer, more inviting ambience. Integrated LED strip lighting within the curtain recess allows for adjustable, low-level illumination enhancing the guest experience during evening hours.
Practical upgrades were equally important to the overall interior makeover. Light switches were repositioned for intuitive use, and additional plug points were installed to accommodate modern travel needs. A full internal repaint refreshed the apartment’s palette, while sheer and block-out curtains introduced softness, privacy, and layered texture.
Reconceptualising Off-the-Shelf Apartment Interiors
This project embodies TEN’s philosophy: elevating standard developer-grade units through strategic interior architecture and refined detailing.
By combining bespoke furnishings, spatial enhancements, and a cohesive material language, we delivered a luxury apartment interior design that transforms a conventional property into a design-forward hospitality offering proving that even the most standard apartment can become an exceptional space through a considered interior makeover.
“Reconceptualising off-the-shelf apartment interiors”
