Lake Geneva Villa — Fifty Shades of Blue
French-speaking interior architect Elsa Sibuet, based in Lisbon, regularly works on high-end residential projects across France and Switzerland for a discerning European clientele. This villa on the shores of Lake Geneva is one of the finest expressions of her work.
Location: Lake Geneva, Switzerland
Type: Residential — Villa
Area: 600 m²
Scope: Complete renovation, interior decoration, artwork curation, and vintage furniture sourcing in collaboration with the family’s interior decorator
This magnificent 600 m² villa overlooking Lake Geneva underwent a complete interior renovation led by Astesi Blue in close collaboration with the family’s long-standing interior decorator.
The exceptional scale of the property, the extensive art collection, and the level of detail required throughout every room made this one of the most demanding projects undertaken by the interior architecture studio.
The panoramic lake view served as the starting point for the entire decorative concept. Every aspect of the project was designed to engage in dialogue with this horizon of water and light, right down to the colour palette, which acts as a subtle interior interpretation of the landscape beyond.
The renovation touched every living space within the villa without exception. Nothing was left to chance. Every surface, every millwork detail, every finish, and every material selection was carefully considered for its contribution to the harmony of the whole.
The walls were enhanced with bespoke panelling and mouldings. This classical architectural treatment was reimagined through the use of an unexpected colour palette. The personality of the project emerges from this contrast between the discipline of traditional interior architecture and the boldness of contemporary colour.
One of the project’s greatest challenges was the integration of the family’s extensive art collection. Each piece needed to find its place, engage in dialogue with the others, and occupy a setting that would allow it to be fully appreciated. The result showcases the artworks without ever turning the home into a gallery.
Colour serves as the project’s defining thread. A palette of blues unfolds from room to room, ranging from soft blue-grey tones to deeper and more intense shades. Each space receives its own variation, like different scenes within the same theatrical production.
The wood panelling and mouldings play a crucial role. They structure the surfaces, add depth to the interiors, and provide a classical framework that enhances rather than restrains the originality of the colour palette. This conversation between timeless elegance and unexpected creativity gives the villa its distinctive character.
Part of the furniture collection was sourced from antique markets and auction houses. This approach reflects a design philosophy attentive to the history of objects and their longevity. Each unique piece was selected by Elsa Sibuet for its character and carefully integrated into the overall composition.
In a large villa, colour is a powerful tool for creating a coherent spatial narrative.
Rather than applying the same tone throughout, developing a palette around a dominant shade—in this case, the blues of Lake Geneva—allows each room to establish its own identity while maintaining a sense of continuity across the property.
This Lake Geneva villa demonstrates Astesi Blue’s ability to deliver exceptional large-scale projects with an extraordinary level of attention to detail.
Whether developing a bespoke colour palette, integrating a significant art collection, or sourcing one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, the studio approaches every residential and commercial project with the same rigor, creativity, and curiosity.
A French-speaking interior architect, Elsa Sibuet supports demanding clients in France, Switzerland, Portugal, and internationally, working in French, Portuguese, or English according to their needs.
For her, every project is a conversation between a place and the people who inhabit it—one she orchestrates with care and precision.
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