Built in perfect harmony with the existing flow of the intensely canopied rare Sand Forest, &Beyond Phinda Forest Lodge‘s exquisite suites, seemingly floating between the forest floor and the towering torchwood trees, are set to undergo an extensive refurbishment, bringing new life to the much-loved lodge. Embodying a commitment to minimise the impact on the environment in an effort to continually protect the sensitive habitat, the refurbishment will utilise the existing lodge’s suite structures, while also updating the architectural design and taking care not to detract from the essence of the lodge design and its original ‘Zulu-zen’ concept.

New and exciting design additions include elements of the natural forest and Zulu culture through the use of tactile textures and natural materials such as woven matting, textured grass cloth wallpaper, and hardwood floors, with natural stone tiling in the bathrooms. The suites have been reconfigured within their existing structure, creating a more comfortable space that better utilises the current space, while maximising the connection to the forest through wide open views. Each suite features an ensuite bathroom with a freestanding bath, an indoor shower, and double vanity. The suites have also been upgraded with a new super-king bed, his-and-hers wardrobes, a sitting area, a freestanding personal bar, a coffee and tea station, as well as a refurbished deck ideal for savouring the each suite’s beautiful and natural surrounds.

The family suite comprises of two rooms which can be accessed privately or through a linked passageway. The main suite features an ensuite bathroom with a freestanding bath, an indoor shower, and double vanity. Additionally, it has a super-king bed, his-and-hers wardrobes, a sitting area, a freestanding personal bar, a coffee and tea station, as well as a refurbished outdoor deck. The second bedroom, linked via a small passageway, each with a closable door for privacy, also includes a super-king bed (which can be converted to a twin), and a seperate bathroom with an indoor shower, toilet, and single vanity.

Seamlessly blending aspects of Japanese minimalism with an ode to local culture, and aligned to the lodge’s other suites, the Family Suite celebrates a contemporary design incorporating elements of the natural forest and Zulu culture through the use of tactile textures and natural materials such as woven matting, textured grass cloth wallpaper, and hardwood floors, with natural stone tiling in the bathrooms.