Luxury ecotourism brand Singita has offered guests unparalleled, eco-conscious safari experiences for the last 30 years. To honor this milestone, Singita has recently relaunched its founding lodge, Singita Ebony, in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, unveiling a transformed version of where its story began.
Redesigned by renowned interior designers Cécile & Boyd, the refreshed space prioritizes the needs and wants of the modern traveler, breathing new life into the traditional safari experience.
“The new design is an intentional mix of past and present. This classic safari lodge takes it to the next level by successfully contrasting bold and lightweight, dense and open,” says Geordi De Sousa Costa, Cécile & Boyd’s design director.
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Inside, the decor contrasts contemporary African art with vintage traveler’s chests and glittering chandeliers, to create a sense of timelessness and fluidity. Colors and textures take cues from the surrounding Sand River, blending natural fabrics, timber elements and canvas details. While the interiors bring multiple antiques and heirlooms together to tell the story of Ebony’s history, locally crafted artworks pay tribute to the rich culture of the region.
The renewed accommodation benefits from the addition of a conservation room, with several spacious lounge and deck areas. The space aims to educate and inspire visitors, with interactive displays and educational materials showcasing the history of Singita, the biodiversity of the region, and the work of the Singits Lowveld Trust, the brand’s conservation partner in South Africa.
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Guests can also enjoy a new informal lounge where they can make themselves at home in front of the TV, sit back with a book from the well-stocked library or enjoy a board game with friends and family. Signita Ebony also features a new wine cellar and signature bar/deli fridge.
“Ebony is the keeper of many beautiful stories and memories, and we have updated the lodge to evolve our product, brand, and guest experience, but the essence of Ebony remains the same,” says Georgie Pennington, Singita’s group head of creative direction.