A light-on-earth design concept

In 2020, Puku Ridge’s owner Chichele Safaris and operator Chiawa Safaris revealed a new look for the rebuilt South Luangwa National Park lodge, which was overhauled by Luxury Frontiers, the lead consultant, project manager, architect and interior designer for the scheme. The specialist in light-on-earth building concepts set about reinvigorating this already highly regarded lodge, which had fallen into disrepair after 15 years of exposure to the elements, creating a development that employs innovative solutions while also maintaining an intimate bush experience.

Following a 14-month renovation process, the main lodge and eight tented suites leading off it now pair luxury amenities with sustainable features designed to appeal to both new and returning guests.

Aiming to rebuild this lodge with a lighter footprint, Luxury Frontiers first removed the original site’s cement slabs and set about repurposing its other materials. The structure utilises lightweight timber and features carbon-neutral composite bamboo flooring, as well as a custom-built system for interior cooling.

A reflection of its setting

The lodge draws inspiration from the geographical contours of the land, with observation towers in each suite providing uninterrupted views over the surrounding wilderness and ‘star beds’ for guests who want to sleep under the stars. These towers are wrapped in woven canvas, mimicking the clay grain stores found throughout the African bush.

Each suite comes with a multilevel outdoor deck following the land’s undulations, with partial covering, an outdoor shower and a plunge pool creating the illusion of swimming in the floodplains. Blond timbers and a neutral colour palette reflect the surrounding landscape.

Eye-catching details within the interiors include a laser-cut map of Puku Ridge on the beds’ feature walls, sand-blasted oak furniture, solid wood pendant lights, knitted blankets and handmade brass door handles, as well as copper fixtures.

From the basket lights to artifacts and black-and-white imagery, local artisanship and design is celebrated in the main thatch and canvas building, which is distinguished by leafy patterns and shades of blue, and features a coffee bar as well as dining area. The space beneath this deck has been repurposed as the Puku Hide, providing the ideal spot for photographers.

Courtesy of Top Hotel News – full article here