78 THE WORLD OF HOSPITALITY
MUZA LAB
Its sides can be completely rolled up, allowing
breezes to flow through the space. Its palette is
sage green with hand-glazed green tiles and a
simple white painted floor; a beaded chandelier
takes inspiration from pods and plants and
wicker furniture adds to the natural feel. There
is a large terrace with low slung chairs, perfect
to relax in.
THE GUEST TENTS
The main feature in the 12 guestrooms is
the bed with a bright blue leather-clad sofa
at the end, both facing out to the view. Once
again carved nomadic poles are a source
of inspiration , this time translated into
limewashed timber bed posts over which a
mosquito net is softly draped. Handmade blue
and ivory-toned string chandeliers hang over
the coffee table and in the bathroom, creating
beautiful shadows at night. Rattan seating,
made by southern Africa’s Blind Society are
upholstered in a blue-toned fabric inspired by
local wax cloth. Existing timber floor was re-
used and stained light.
The residential style cooking counter is of
timber, above this, there is a sculptural light
crafted by South African designer David
Krynauw out of Panga Panga wood with brass
shades. Guests are invited to reduce their
plastic use by re-filling water bottles supplied
by the lodge from the carbonated and still
water dispensers located in this space.
THE POOL AREA
The new pool is smaller than its predecessor,
reducing water consumption and allowing for
more space around it to relax. It is constructed
of fibreglass with a low-energy heat pump
keeping the temperature above 260C and has
a stone coloured interior so that it blends into
the surroundings and becomes one with the
landscape. Loungers and seating are set up
with views over the plains. Next to the pool
is a multi-function space that can be used for
private dinners or yoga and a fire pit is just a
few steps down. The terrace is very large – a living space outside
for guests – and decking is in a composite
bamboo. The statement piece is a huge daybed
with its own canopy and African-inspired
carved side panels - in effect an outdoor four
poster ideal for an afternoon nap. There are
also low-slung armchairs, side tables and an
exquisite locally carved cocktail cabinet.
THE SPA TENT
The Spa tent is positioned at the edge of the
camp surrounded by thick bushes for privacy. The bathrooms have a large timber and marble-
topped vanity with handmade pottery basins
painted with an abstract of natural grasses.