Ultimate Guide To Africa June 2015 | Page 61

REGULARS SERVICES GUIDE ACCOMMODATION GUIDE READ FEATURES ULTIMATE GUIDE TO AFRICA - FOR LUXURY TRAVEL S 61 IN THE KNOW ACCOMMODATION DIRECTORY eventeen years after opening, Singita Boulders Lodge in the Sabi Sand Reserve has been thoughtfully reconfigured and redecorated to reveal its essential character and define its unique sense of place on the boulder-strewn banks of the Sand River. The original inspiration for the lodge came from the geometry of these ancient, weathered boulders and the natural curve of the river bed. This time around, architect Sally Tsiliyiannis of GAPP Architects & Urban Designers and designers Cécile & Boyd have taken further cues from nature, incorporating the colours, textures and elements of the surrounding landscape. “The focus is on bringing together reflections of light, texture, colour, shadows, relationships between inside and outside and the spirit of the place to create form and space," explains Tsiliyiannis. Boyd Ferguson of Cécile & Boyd agrees that it was crucial to retain the essence of the place in the redesign. Guest areas have been opened up, lowered, and brought closer to the river, allowing for full engagement with the magnificent setting beneath the ebony and weeping boer bean trees. Characterised by handcrafted design with the integrity of authentic African provenance,