Page 14 - Designing Ways 281

TRADE WINDS

Simbambili Game

Lodge in Sabi

Sands Nature

Reserve undergoes

refurbishment

hornybush is proud to announce
the comprehensive refurbishment
Tof Simbambili Game Lodge, an
iconic destination within the renowned
Sabi Sands Nature Reserve. This
refurbishment aims to preserve the
lodge's storied history while enhancing
its status as a premier destination for
luxury safari experiences. As pioneers in
the safari industry, Thornybush remains
committed to preserving the legacy of
Simbambili and Sabi Sands.
Simbambili Game Lodge, celebrated for
its intimate atmosphere, has undergone a
transformation to improve its structure are designed to offer guests a sanctuary the sense of place and connection to the
and layout. These upgrades now provide of relaxation and rejuvenation. With the natural environment.
guests with a modernised, more advanced global focus on conscious and healthy Cate Simpson collaborated with local
and luxurious experience. living, Simbambili Game Lodge can now artist Nikhil Tricam, who created seven
The main lodge area features a new provide guests with a holistic experience large-scale murals that grace various
thatch roof, doors for a warmer dining that balances wildlife encounters with areas of the lodge, adding a contemporary
space in winter, a new two-level deck, wellness and relaxation. The Africology edge to the natural vistas. These murals,
and a firepit, the perfect setting for safari Spa is dedicated to natural, holistic painted directly onto the walls, reflect
evenings. All soft furnishings have healing and wellness, using products that the unique shapes and patterns of the
been refreshed, and a newly designed celebrate South Africa's rich botanical surrounding landscape. “Nikhil, who is
bar area has been introduced, offering a heritage and indigenous plants such as passionate about the bush, painted directly
sophisticated yet cosy environment for Rooibos, Aloe, and African Potato Bush. onto the walls an almost whimsical and
guests to relax and socialise. Enhancements “The refurbishments have taken the lodge contemporary take on the exquisite trees
to the boma create a more inviting space to the next level without losing the special as a vista. He so cleverly highlights the
for guests to gather and enjoy traditional inviting, and homely feel of the lodge. Our unique shapes and patterns that we see
African cuisine under the stars, enhancing newly constructed health and wellness as we cast our own eye across the front of
the overall safari experience. facility is unique. It offers our guests the the lodge – forcing guests to see in nature
All rooms have received a refreshment, tranquil environment to sit back and enjoy what perhaps they would have missed,
ensuring a blend of elegance and comfort reading some of the books on offer in our “says Cate Simpson.
that aligns with the surrounding bush. library, bask in the sun at the communal Threads that Bind Us, inspired by a
Each suite features a private deck, plunge swimming pool, work out at the gym, or photo of the surrounding grasses, crafted
pool, and shaded Sala bed, providing guests enjoy a relaxing massage at the spa facility. these into and embroidered cushion range.
with an intimate and luxurious retreat. With the introduction of the pizza, our Lodge manager Mike Cowden’s black-
The former conference room and gym guests are provided with the most delicious and-white wildlife photography adorns the
have been transformed into the new homemade pizzas served to them hot as room walls, adding a personal touch to this
Africology Spa & Wellness Centre and they sit beneath the pergola alongside the couple-run lodge. Wildlife artist Warren
library to offer guests an expanded range pool” adds Manager Tania Cowden. Cary contributed three magnificent leopard
of options during their stay. The state-of- The refurbishment's interior design, led paintings, celebrating the area's prolific
the-art spa offers two treatment rooms, a by Cate Simpson of Reflecting Africa, aims leopard sightings. “One of the standout
gym, with an outside deck and swimming to immerse guests in nature, ensuring décor pieces is an intricately carved wooden
pool. This space also includes an additional the lodge harmonises with its setting. crocodile skull by Hoedspruit artist Friday
dining area with a weatherproof pergola- The colour palette and design concepts Jibu - it is masterfully precise in its detail”
covered deck. The new wellness facilities reflect the surrounding bush, enhancing added Simpson. dw

14 Issue 281 • dw