Tembo Tembo lodge hides among landscape of South African game reserve

The Tembo Tembo lodge, designed by Paris-based Studio Asaï, is situated on the western edge of Kruger National Park in South Africa, near the Sabie River. Its design ethos prioritizes seamless integration with the natural surroundings, drawing inspiration from the area's rich biodiversity and geological characteristics. The lodge employs rammed earth as its primary construction material, a choice influenced by the towering termite nests prevalent in the game reserve, aiming to mirror the landscape's organic materiality. This approach contrasts with the local practice of using rammed earth primarily for decorative elements, showcasing Studio Asaï's commitment to a more holistic and structural application of the material. To ensure structural integrity, Studio Asaï collaborated with local architect Nicholas Plewman, who helped develop a robust skeletal framework capable of supporting the roof and walls. The rammed earth, locally sourced, was then applied to this structure and treated with a sealant to enhance its durability, making it less porous and less prone to crumbling. An elevated 80-centimeter-high concrete platform forms the base of the property, serving a dual purpose: it acts as a barrier against local wildlife, such as lizards and other critters, and mitigates the risk of flooding, which is a common occurrence during the region's heavy rainy season from September onwards. The lodge's flat steel roof is deliberately designed to maintain a low profile, ensuring the structure remains discreet within the expansive landscape. The interior journey begins with a moody entryway, clad in dark wood panels, leading guests further into the lodge. A distinctive three-tier pendant light, crafted from papery material, illuminates a white marble table in the center of this entry space. In the adjoining living area, the raw beauty of the rammed earth walls is left exposed, contributing to the natural aesthetic. A modular green sofa anchors this space, its color thoughtfully chosen to echo the vibrant foliage of the South African bushveld, creating a visual connection between the indoors and the natural world outside. Adjacent to the living area is a contemporary kitchen, featuring dark wood cabinetry and a robust breakfast island made from black Zimbabwean granite. A travertine marble dining table, surrounded by chairs with woven seats, occupies a corner of the room. This dining area is strategically placed next to an expansive glazed panel, which can be slid open to provide direct access to a shaded outdoor terrace, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The lodge's library introduces a different texture with creamy plaster walls, harmonizing with the rustic beige fabric embedded in the coffered ceiling. A glossy work desk, echoing the 'bush' green of the living room sofa, adds a touch of modern design. The principal bedroom is conceived as a "modern safari camp," featuring a large bed enveloped by gauzy curtains, allowing for a sense of privacy and intimacy. The guest bedroom maintains a cozy atmosphere, with exposed rammed earth walls and a black metal fireplace for cooler months. The bathroom is a striking feature, almost entirely lined with flecked Namibian stone, creating a luxurious and tactile experience. The Tembo Tembo lodge's design has been recognized for its excellence, being shortlisted in the home interior category of the Dezeen Awards, where it competes against other notable projects such as Prior Barraclough's Union Street House and Keiji Ashizawa Design's Hiroo Residence, both celebrated for their unique material palettes and design principles. #RammedEarth #SouthAfricanArchitecture #StudioAsaï #SustainableDesign #SafariLodge #NaturalMaterials #InteriorDesign #KrugerNationalPark #DezeenAwards #RammedEarth #SouthAfricanArchitecture #StudioAsaï #SustainableDesign #SafariLodge #NaturalMaterials #InteriorDesign #KrugerNationalPark #DezeenAwards

26 months ago

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