MUZA LAB
Textural, light timbers clad the walls and
individually selected pieces of timber have
been used in the making of a large reception
table, produced in Southern Africa. A cluster of
carved poles are stationed just inside the front
door, inspired by the carved sticks used by the
San people as tent posts or for making a fire.
Groups of simple lanterns provide light when
it becomes dark, giving a reassuring but gentle
glow so as not to compete with the stars of the
night sky.
Outside the arrival tent there is a large firepit
tripod to welcome guests at dusk - one of many
firepits around the camp which act as beacons
for guests walking at night and are a traditional
place for people to come together and tell their
stories.
THE LOUNGE AND BAR
Designed to make each guest feel that the
space is “their lounge in the bush”, the tented
room has the ambience of a place that has been
here for a long time with layers of collectibles
and lived-in comforts. The tent itself has a
latte (local thin timber struts) edge with a
traditionally random crisscross pattern. This
design has also been used in decorative screens
to the back-of-house buildings and together
they cast dappled shadows around the space.
The tent sides can be rolled up or down as
required by the weather, and seating spills
into nature outside. Furniture is a collection
of rattan and timber; large custom-designed
rattan tub chairs contrasting with natural
timber and leather detailing. A traditional
library filing cabinet helps divide the space
and creates an intimate seating area; there are
THE WORLD OF HOSPITALITY 77
tables for games and painting, books about
nature to read and comfortable chairs to relax
in and enjoy the views. Fabrics combine bright
geometric prints with earthy tones and two
large chandeliers inspired by local clay pots
form focal points in the ceiling. Behind the
lounge, there’s a library with a concealed TV,
a small bar to gather around and a desk for
writing or working.
THE KITCHEN
The kitchen is at the heart of the lodge and
guests are encouraged use it like their kitchen
at home. There is an open cooking area in the
centre and dining tables and chairs located to
provide fabulous long-distance views. Again,
materials are light: limed timbers, white painted
floors, geometric fabrics, rattan sofas with high
backs and a beautiful handmade layered timber
screen.