SINGITA UNVEILS THE DESIGN TRANSFORMATION OF SINGITA PAMUSHANA LODGE
Revealing a total transformation of the existing lodge and two new two-bedroom suites and new-look interiors draw on the palatial architecture of Great Zimbabwe and the lodge’s natural surrounds as key design informants.
July 13thZIMBABWE
Following a significant design transformation, Singita Pamushana Lodge has re-opened this month with striking new interiors and two new two-bedroom suites that amplify references to the local Shangaan culture and local surrounds. With nature as a key design informant, the new cliff-top fire pit and suspended bar with 270-degree views of the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve offer the experience of being totally immersed in nature. One of Africa’s best kept secrets, the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is an untouched wilderness comprising 38 different habitats and ecological zones in 130,000 acres of protected land in south eastern Zimbabwe – a critical conservation priority for Singita, in collaboration with the non profit Malilangwe Trust, who manages and protects the reserve.
DESIGN INSPIRATION
The palatial architecture of Great Zimbabwe – a 900-year old stone monument which stands some 200km to the north of Singita Pamushana Lodge, forms the main reference point for a design refresh that celebrates this region’s proud heritage. According to lead designer Geordie de Sousa Costa from Cecile & Boyd: “Singita Pamushana is built on a hill and its majestic location naturally inclines the design to hinge on the idea of a royal household holding fort over this beautiful land that stretches to the horizons beyond. We humbly respect this dedication to the Zimbabwean culture so have continued on this path with reference to yesteryear but within an updated context.” Drawing on the vibrant culture of the region, the design makes strong use of texture – geometric patterns, tile inlays and carved furniture are featured throughout, as well as woven leather, natural fabrics, raw silks, hammered brass and polished stone. Deep olive green, tobacco tan, black, white and brass comprise the primary colour palette, creating a striking backdrop for the mix of original African artifacts and contemporary forms which make up the interior.
THE NEW-LOOK SINGITA PAMUSHANA LODGE
The re-opening of Singita Pamushana Lodge has unveiled two new suites, expanding the accommodation offering to a total of eight suites and a five-bedroom villa. Set in a secluded location on an elevated hillside away from the main lodge, the new two-bedroom suites offer a wonderful sense of privacy with breathtaking views over the Malilangwe Dam. Both bedrooms are en suite, the master featuring both a bath and a shower, the second bedroom featuring a shower. Guests have plenty of space to relax with a spacious living area, private pool and tiered viewing decks. This configuration is ideal for families, and is complemented by a private indoor and outdoor dining space, so that guests of all ages can enjoy meals in privacy.
The main lodge has also been modified and extended – an impressive new entrance, landscaped gardens and walkways made from sustainable materials, lead guests into the central lobby which immediately draws the eye out towards the infinity pool and breathtaking views beyond. The living space has been vastly extended through a series of multi-level decked platforms, some covered and some open to the stars, offering shade and space to relax outdoors. A new cliff-top fire pit and bar offer a 270-degree view of the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve and provide the perfect location for alfresco dining, sundowners and fireside storytelling. According to Sally Tsiliyiannis, lead architect from GAPP Architects: ‘the new suspended bar deck hangs dramatically over the outermost promontory of the hilltop. Grounded by a backdrop of boulders the deck extends forward to ‘ float’ in the air above the dam. This required incredible structural gymnastics to ensure the lightest possible footprint on this protected site.” The new bar also features Singita’s signature deli concept; fridges which are stocked at different times throughout the day with individual portions of savoury and sweet snacks.
Commenting on the lodge’s design inspiration, Geordi de Sousa Costa mentions: “the main feature is the surrounding nature and wildlife – our key priority was not to overshadow or undermine this by overly strong design.” Each space has been carefully designed to give the lodge a sense of grandeur while bringing in the area’s astounding natural beauty. Sally Tsiliyiannis explains: “all new built elements were woven into the existing landscape. Even pathways were realigned to pass closer to the magnificent baobab trees allowing guests to brush up against their textured surfaces. Guests are also able to weave their way along the edge of the Malilangwe Dam via a series of staggered and interlinked platforms perched high above the ground, each offering its own unique view of the extraordinary surroundings.”
HOW: Rates for the brand-new two bedroom suites at Singita Pamushana Lodge start from $4950 per unit. One bedroom suites start from US$1,650 per person per night. Rates include full-board basis, twice-daily Land Rover safaris, walking safaris, boat cruises, excursions to ancient rock art sites, tennis and return road transfers between Buffalo Range International Airport and the lodge.