Steel Construction Vol 40 No 4 - Metal Cladding and Light Steel Frame | Page 20

SAISC PROJECTS

Zimbi Lodge
Project Team
Client / Owner / Developer:
Braam Beukes
Architect:
Tudor Engineering & Draughting cc
Steelwork Contractor:
Tudor Engineering & Draughting cc
Structural Steel Detailer / Detailing
Company:
Tudor Engineering & Draughting cc

Nestled in the majestic Waterberg region
of Limpopo you will find Zimbi Lodge
boasting with breathtaking panoramic
views of mountains and bushveld. Due to
the amount of steel used in the design, the
Lodge’s name is derived from Thabazimbi,
which in Zulu means mountain of iron , thus
the name Zimbi was chosen.
The idea for Zimbi Lodge was conceived in
2009.The project commenced in 2012 and

The structural framing of the Lodge
includes: access walkways; roof truss
support details; window- and door framing;
lodge decking-, marquees tent supports as
well as a steel staircase housed in a steel
and glass frame that provides access to the
underground wine cellar.
The design of the roof trusses included the
use of wood as a top cord, the introduction
of steel framed posts and a steel cable that
acts as a bottom cord.

was completed towards the end of 2015.
Being in the steel industry, the owner
specifically asked that the Lodge showcase
his skills in steel manufacturing without

The design of Zimbi Lodge consists of four
distinctive elements: superior lodges, a Main
Lodge, an outside leisure & entertainment
area and a wine cellar.

building an entire steel structure therefor
the design of Zimbi Lodge depicts the
balance between nature in its purest form
and architectural as well as engineering
innovation.

Access to the four superior en-suite lodges
is via steel bridge-links through private
doors onto a curved access walkway, which
is covered with Rhodesian teak decking.
Zimbi’s four modern lodges are designed
as a one-bedroom en-suite unit with a
west-facing deck overlooking the unspoilt
bushveld.These lodges cater for comfort
during all seasons and have an eye height
glazed fireplace, private garden, -outdoor
shower and -steel deck that is enclosed by
stainless steel handrails & brackets which is
combined with commercial steel handrail
panels.
The main lodge is placed midway between
the 4 lodges and hosts a reception area
which is a double volume framed and
glazed foyer with an exhibition of rooflighted hunting trophies encased on the
side wall; large dining area; baronial chefs
kitchen; lounge; bar and colonial room.

Access to the four superior en-suite lodges is via steel bridge-links.
18 Steel Construction Vol. 40 No. 4 2016