upcycled timber poles , embracing the natural beauty of their previous termite-related damage . Sustainable bamboo decking further connects the interior and exterior areas , marrying the materiality of timber , leather , and wicker furniture , with traditional African craftsmanship .
CENTRAL GATHERING AREA The central gathering area of the lodge spans 1,492m 2 , housing the reception , restaurant , interior and exterior lounge , library , pool , ecofriendly gym , and wine cellar . While the form of these buildings echo that of the tent ’ s curved membrane , the concrete canvas roof materiality , pigmented to blend into the context , creates a striking point of differentiation . Prioritising a connection with nature , stone and timber are complemented by canvas cladding , roll-ups and leather accents . The balustrades were designed to emulate the basket weaving patterns prominently featured in Zulu culture . The design embraces prefabrication and an environmentally conscious on-site assembly methodology . While the color palette is extracted from the context to seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings . The areas within the central gathering area are :
Madwaleni River Lodge 23