It was only 10 short years ago that Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve’s Earth Lodge made its debut. But just this month the Lodge’s 12 suites reopened as the end result of a collaboration between interior decorator Stephen Rich and Sabi Sabi owner Jacqui Loon.
The Lodge’s interior design now incorporates Africa’s mineral wealth (think accents of gold, copper, silver, platinum and bronze). Metallic-colored veins of the elements are woven into the furnishings and objets d’art, balancing the rough, natural textured walls.
The walls aren’t the only “natural” aspect of the design: Tables are made from a mass of painted branches; metal birds peep out from lampshades; and ottomans resemble a group of pebbles in a pond. The enormous chandeliers evoke twigs from the bush, with branches replicated in gold, bronze and silver and assembled on site.
Top Digs: We are most excited over the Amber Presidential Suite, which has a lounge, study, steam room and kitchenette. Earning its name, the suite is decorated in shades of amber, and a grand amber bead chandelier complements the “Burning Bush” headboard.
A unique day bar, an extension of a new lounge where high teas are served, has been created as a venue to view the animals drinking at the waterhole by the lodge. Guests can doze on white muslin-enclosed salas, or relax at stone topped tables inside the pool, cooling their feet in ankle-deep water while sipping cocktails and enjoying a bite to eat.
The evening bar, meanwhile, has been expanded to include a lounge and a library for those who prefer quiet and a good book by a roaring fire.
Luxury travel advisors should reach out to Managing Director Rod Wyndham.