Imagenius: Step Inside The New Chitwa Lodge

Chitwa Chitwa is a family-owned and run luxury lodge in the Sabi Sands. The lodge has been owned by the Brink family for 40 years. When the lodge contacted the team from Imagenius with regards to a full refurbishment, it certainly meant a new luxury ambience to suit this beautiful location!

The style of the architecture is thatched and fairly traditional- with very high volumes and generous spaces. The brief was to make the lodge lighter and brighter with a more contemporary take. Jacqui Hunter from The Imagenius found inspiration from the environment, as always.

Jacqui Hunter

The lodge had always – through its various phases- had an eclectic twist. Interesting artworks, fun lighting, combinations of different styles of European and African furnishings. It was important to retain some of these vital elements, in keeping with the DNA of the lodge…while bringing in a new lease of life and transforming the interiors into fun and interesting spaces, both restful and stylish at the same time.

Each room’s personality is brought to life and in each space certain elements have been retained which hint at its past existence. However, new carpets and lighting have been sourced and classical furniture has been recovered. The team also introduced more contemporary lines and finishes with screeded floors and modern shutters that brought in pops of colour.

The main living area, with its glorious high ceilings was accentuated by the bespoke Highthorn leather Chandeliers. The floors bedecked with Julia Swanepoel limited edition rugs. Olaf Hajek art inspired the bright reception deck style. The rich emeralds, golds and fresh teal bring life and a bit of glamour to the living areas.

The team was allowed total freedom by the owners. They were trusted to do what was best for the lodge and bring in a new fresh look. A challenging but exciting project came to life. Sometimes battling a full camp of guests while refurbishing the lodge, but with careful planning and logistics, and a bit of bushveld heat… the team had the privilege of working in this spectacular environment.

Organic finishes and a mix of textures add to the rustic yet luxurious feel of each room. Wooden ceilings with pops of colour brought through modern furnishings, completes each space. An elegant mix of fabrics, wood and more.