The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp: A New Standard in Safari Luxury by LW
In the heart of Kenya’s iconic Masai Mara, a sanctuary has opened where nature and luxury converge, where design whispers rather than shouts, and where every element serves to deepen the connection between guest and environment. The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp, designed by LW Design, stands as an exceptional testament to the art of immersive architecture: an oasis that blurs the line between simplicity and the beauty of the African wilderness.
A Vision Rooted in Nature
At the core of the design philosophy lies a deep reverence for the land, guiding every element of the camp’s conception. Elevated three meters above the ground, each of the 20 tented suites offers an intimate treetop retreat while providing uninterrupted views of the riverine forest and sweeping savannah.
“Luxury here is not about spectacle,” explains Pooja Shah-Mulani, Managing Partner – Creative at LW Design. “It’s about the quiet details in nature that go unnoticed – the way the light shifts as you cross a bridge into the camp, the scent of the trees at dusk, the sound of animals and the feeling of being truly connected to the pulse of the land and its people.”
Biophilic Design: A Seamless Blend of Interior and Exterior
Drawing from the principles of biophilic design, the camp is conceived as an authentic expression of nature, one that integrates seamlessly with its surroundings. The open-plan layout of each suite allows the sights, sounds, and scents of the Mara to move freely through the space, inviting guests into a sensory dialogue with the wild.
Public areas are similarly porous: open spaces where interior and exterior are divided only by canvas, not walls. Nature is ever-present – the rustling of leaves, birdsong, distant roars, and dense animal tracks shape a new rhythm of time. Elevated pathways wind through the natural contours of the land, and landscape is not landscaped – it grows in and around nature.
A defining element of the camp’s architectural identity is its distinctive hooded, curved tent structure. Inspired by the bend of the Sand River, LW Design reimagined traditional A-frame tent architecture. This soft, organic form is not only visually striking but also functional, allowing for improved airflow and ventilation throughout the day. With the support of Highmark, a Kenya-based firm established in 2009 to meet the demand for high-end projects in ecologically sensitive regions, and East African Canvas, LW’s vision was brought to life in a fully canvas structure that breathes with its environment, harmonising both aesthetics and comfort in a truly unique way.
The entire master plan was carefully orchestrated around the site’s existing mature trees, treating them not as obstacles but as anchors of identity and character. Every effort was made to preserve these natural giants—either by integrating them directly into the architectural footprint or designing sensitively around them—to reinforce the project’s biophilic philosophy. These trees are not merely landscape elements; they frame views, cast dappled light, and enhance the ecological richness and sensory calm experienced throughout the property.
Nowhere is this philosophy more deeply felt than in the Whispering Tree Spa, a sanctuary nestled within the surrounding treescape. Here, the architecture dissolves into nature—quiet pathways meander between trunks, treatment rooms open to filtered forest light, and the natural scent of bark and leaves becomes part of the wellness journey. It is a space that doesn’t just exist beside the forest, but within it—amplifying the narrative of rootedness, restoration, and quiet reverence that defines the entire project.
Local Craftsmanship at the Forefront
The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp is a celebration of Kenyan craftsmanship and creative collaboration. From inception, the vision was grounded in partnerships with local crafters and artisans whose deep knowledge and artistry brought authenticity and soul to the project.
LW Design collaborated with local designer Sarah Rowe of Northern Nomad Interiors, who played an instrumental role in connecting the team with key local artisans and crafters, further enhancing the design with a truly local thread.
Materials were intentionally selected for their tactile beauty and cultural relevance. The majority of the FF&E was manufactured locally in Kenya, showcasing the country’s exceptional craftsmanship and the growing capacity for high-quality production. Select pieces were crafted in partnership with Nairobi Timber, a local joinery firm known for its generational expertise. The emphasis throughout remained on local fabrication and skilled handling by Kenyan artisans.
Semi-volcanic stone, quarried near Narok Town, was sourced through the project’s contractor, Highmark. This material grounds the architecture in the raw textures of the surrounding land. Natural handwoven rugs and upholstery fabrics from Siafu Home – a Nairobi-based social enterprise – add warmth, authenticity, and story. Each textile is hand-loomed by local women, providing not just income but a means of supporting their families and communities.
The canvas structures were engineered with precision to allow each suite to open entirely to the wilderness, creating an immersive connection to the surrounding landscape. Maasai beadwork, carefully integrated into joinery detailing, adds a layer of symbolic artistry, rooting the camp in culture. This beadwork also appears throughout the camp’s operational elements—adorned on glassware and minibar items—handmade by the local community, further embedding craft and tradition into the everyday guest experience.
Art and Craft: A Celebration of Place
The artwork throughout the camp is not merely decorative; it’s a narrative thread that grounds the guest in the cultural and natural heritage of the Masai Mara.
The most iconic and striking piece is the large-scale metal sculpture in the Map Room, illustrating the historic migration in a way that is both authentic and deeply poetic. Created by renowned artist Simon Bannister, the sculpture layers oxidised steel to represent the rugged landforms and uses mirror-polished stainless steel to trace the life-giving rivers.
Though originally from New Zealand, Bannister’s artistic philosophy has been shaped by years of travel through the African bush—especially Kenya. His deep reverence for nature, wildlife, and geological form is reflected in his own words: “To see with a bird’s eye is to see the art of the earth and see our wildness.” His pieces are more than geographic interpretations; they are mythological guardians of nature. Bannister also created the dynamic cheetah sculptures, captured mid-sprint above the fireplaces—symbols of power, elegance, and native resilience.
In the restaurant, dramatic portraits of local women by Gian Paolo Tomasi, a Malindi-based artist, guide guests toward two signature dining experiences: the wine cellar and Upeo, the sky deck. His photographs elevate the everyday into timeless art, honoring the grace and strength of the women of Kenya. Complementing these works are a series of striking portraits by Ugandan-born artist Ibrahim Muwanga, whose expressive style brings contemporary warmth and intimacy to the interiors. His work, created especially for the camp, offers a personal, soulful counterpoint to the more documentary-style pieces—adding richness and emotional depth to the guest experience.
Across the public areas, vintage photographs by Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher document age-old Maasai rituals and ceremonies. With over 45 years of work across 40 African countries and more than 150 ethnic groups, their photography captures symbolic cultural moments. Their images are not only visually rich but historically vital, anchoring the camp in the ancestral wisdom of this land.
Every detail has been considered, including the accessories and decorative objects that have been sourced from local Maasai markets and artisanal boutiques across Kenya. These handcrafted pieces bring a tactile, grounded layer to the interiors, reflecting the textures, materials, and symbolism of the region. They aren’t just beautiful—they are meaningful.
Sustainable Foundations: Locally Built, Thoughtfully Designed
The camp’s design incorporates elevated structures with timber decking to allow wildlife to move freely beneath, while supporting natural vegetation regeneration, and preserving soil health. Mature trees were retained where possible to protect biodiversity and maintain existing shade and microclimates.
Construction was led by Highmark, a company that proudly employs a 100% Kenyan workforce, with around 70% of team members drawn from the immediate surrounding communities. Every worker undergoes hands-on training focused on fine craftsmanship and technical skill—building not only world-class structures but also long-term livelihoods.
They prioritised low-impact, labour-intensive construction techniques over the use of heavy machinery, significantly reducing disruption to the land. Activities such as excavation, concrete mixing, material transportation, and finishing were carried out manually whenever possible, preserving the integrity of the site.
Foundations were hand-dug using a pier method to lower impact and avoid disturbing tree root systems. The swimming pools were constructed by hand by local teams, allowing for easy transport and installation without the need for heavy equipment. Waste materials were backhauled to Nairobi using returning supply trucks to avoid additional environmental burden.
A Safari Experience where time stands still
What sets The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp apart is its ability to offer world-class luxury without compromising the soul of the Mara. The camp is designed not only as a sanctuary for its guests, but as a tribute to the land, and culture, that make this region one of the most revered on the planet.
From the serene, elevated suites to the layered textures of locally made interiors, every design choice invites guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect. This is not simply a place to stay, it is a space to feel, to witness, and to remember.
The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp is a destination where every detail, every crafted element, invites guests into the very heart of nature – quietly, respectfully, and profoundly.
QUOTES FROM LW
Jesper Godsk |Founder & CEO
“Diversity in our work has long been a goal, but this project unfolded in ways none of us could have fully anticipated. Entering the luxury lodge market in East Africa, arguably the beating heart of the continent, presented both incredible opportunities and new challenges. For a studio like LW that has spent decades shaping large-scale hotels of several hundred keys, distilling that expertise into a truly bespoke experience of just 20 keys, and in such an extraordinary landscape, was both humbling and inspiring.
From day one, our focus was clear: to challenge the status quo, both in terms of local expectations and within the framework of an international brand. Architecturally and through the interiors, our aim was to create something that felt authentic, unexpected, and entirely of this place.
The result has exceeded all of our expectations. It has been an absolute joy to collaborate with the Kenyan artisans, craftspeople, and partners, their pride in their country and its cultural richness shines through every detail. This project has reminded us that true luxury lies in authenticity, and that some of the most powerful design journeys come from stepping into new terrain with open minds and open hearts.”
Pooja Shah-Mulani | Managing Partner – Creative
“When we began designing The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp, our mission was clear: to create a space that didn’t simply sit within the landscape, but became part of it. We listened to the rhythm of the land, the sound of the Sand River, the rustling of the trees; and translated that into meaningful design. Every material, texture, and detail was chosen not only for its beauty, but for its ability to foster a deeper connection to the wilderness, allowing guests to feel cocooned in comfort while immersed in the raw beauty of the Mara. For us, this project was never about showcasing luxury for its own sake, but about creating an environment where luxury serves to heighten one’s experience of nature, not overshadow it. It is a quiet, respectful kind of luxury — one that deepens connection to place.”
“This project has been deeply personal for me. To have the opportunity to design a safari camp in the land that raised me is more than a career milestone, it’s a heartfelt privilege. Knowing the people, understanding the culture, and being able to weave those stories and textures with the international hospitality experience I’ve gained over the years makes this place feel incredibly close to my heart. We wanted the lodge to honour the heritage of the its warm hearted and wonderful people while offering a modern sense of luxury that belongs here, not imposed upon it. The goal was always to create something that breathes with the landscape, that feels as though it has grown from this soil – not simply built upon it.”
Amr Abdelaziz | Senior Interior Designer
“From the very first look at the site, it was clear this landscape wasn’t asking to be conquered, yet the land had its own story to tell, and we chose to listen.”
“Our approach wasn’t to impose geometry, but to respond to it. We let the terrain shape the architecture; the curves of the river, the trees, the natural topography, and even the rocky ground all guided how the spaces came together.”
“The public buildings and guest tents follow the same principle of soft, flowing forms inspired by nature’s rhythm. With gentle curves and layered silhouettes, they sit quietly within the landscape, never overpowering. Also, we elevated the structures so they would sit lightly on land, almost floating within.”
“The result is a lodge that feels discovered, not placed. A seamless extension of the Mara itself.”
Casey Carillo | Senior FF&E Designer
“The FF&E journey for The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara was deeply rooted in place—both in philosophy and production. From the beginning, it was clear that the site’s organic architecture and raw natural beauty called for more than standard pieces. It required a completely custom approach, grounded in craft, nuance, and a deep sensitivity to context.
We partnered closely with Nairobi Timber—a local joinery firm that not only supplied all the timber but fabricated everything entirely in Nairobi. From doors and windows to cladding, flooring, fixed furniture, and every bespoke FF&E piece (with the exception of lighting), their team hand-crafted every element with an extraordinary level of precision. The fact that all of this was achieved locally, to the quality standards expected of a Ritz-Carlton property, is truly remarkable.
Each curve, joint, and surface was developed through an iterative process—guided by tactility, material integrity, and the intent to create something that felt inherently part of the landscape. What emerged is a collection of pieces that not only reflect exceptional Kenyan craftsmanship, but genuinely enhance the character and authenticity of the lodge. It’s a story of design, but just as much, a story of collaboration and cultural pride.”
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Answers by Pooja Shah-Mulani, LW’s Managing Partner – Creative
Overarching Philosophy: What is the core vision behind The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp, and how does it differ from other safari properties in the region?
The core vision behind The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara Safari Camp was to create an experience unlike any other; a destination where world-class luxury seamlessly merges with the soul of the Mara.
As a global design firm, LW has had the privilege of designing and leading some of the most iconic hospitality projects around the world. We wanted to bring this extensive international expertise to the safari lodge market, a segment we are truly excited to enter. It has been a privilege and honour to be able to bring our global expertise to such a local context allowing this property to stand shoulder to shoulder with some of leading hospitality projects around the world. Our goal was to elevate the guest experience through the highest levels of design excellence, hospitality, and attention to detail, while ensuring that the unique charm, culture, and natural beauty of the Masai Mara remained at the heart of the project.
Personally, this project holds special significance, as Kenya is not just a destination, it’s home. Being able to combine my global experience with the opportunity to contribute to a place so close to my heart has been an incredibly rewarding journey.
The result is a refined, immersive, and authentic safari experience, offering guests not only the unparalleled service of The Ritz-Carlton, but also a genuine connection to the land, the culture, and the stories of the Masai Mara.
Biophilic Approach: Could you expand on the biophilic design elements and how they help the lodge blend seamlessly into the natural environment?
Drawing from the principles of biophilic design, The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp is conceived as an authentic expression of its environment—one that doesn’t just sit within the landscape but breathes with it. Every element, from its structure to its spatial flow, is designed to heighten the guest’s sensory connection to the wild.
Each suite unfolds in an open-plan layout, allowing the sights, sounds, and scents of the Mara to move freely through the space. Canvas walls roll up completely, dissolving the boundary between interior and exterior and creating a permeable architecture that invites nature in. Whether it’s the rustling of leaves, the distant roar of a lion, or the cool breeze off the Sand River, guests are drawn into a quiet, continuous dialogue with the wilderness.
Public areas are similarly porous: open spaces where the division between inside and out is canvas—not concrete. Nature is ever-present, and its rhythms—birdsong, wind patterns, shifting shadows—replace the constructs of modern time. Elevated pathways meander through the untouched contours of the land, blurring the line between built form and natural habitat. Here, landscape is not landscaped; it grows wild, around and through.
A defining gesture of the camp’s architecture is its curved, hooded tent design—a sculptural form inspired by the island bend of the Sand River. Reimagining the traditional A-frame tent, LW Design created an organic silhouette that is both visually fluid and highly functional, enhancing ventilation and airflow. Elevated three metres above ground level, each tented suite is positioned to offer a treetop perspective. This height not only frames panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, but also ensures minimal disruption to the delicate ecosystem beneath.
Guests begin their journey by crossing a 30-metre suspension bridge, a moment of transition that subtly severs ties with the outside world. The bridge becomes more than a point of entry—it is a symbolic crossing into stillness, slowness, and sensory presence.
The tent structures, realised through close collaboration with Highmark and East African Canvas, are entirely constructed from canvas and timber. This material palette not only supports local craftsmanship and economies, but is designed to weather beautifully over time, settling into the land and softening with the seasons.
Outdoor showers are carved discreetly into each suite, offering complete privacy while opening upward to the canopy and sky. To bathe beneath the trees and stars is to engage with nature in its purest form—an unfiltered moment of immersion in the Mara’s elemental beauty.
The landscape design takes a restorative approach. Indigenous plants have been preserved and reintroduced to create an ecological continuum between the camp and its surroundings. Rather than manicuring the terrain, the design allows native growth to dictate the experience—filtered light through tree canopies, the scent of wild grasses, and the river’s ambient presence all shift with the hours and the weather.
Furnishings and finishes further echo the biophilic intent. Organic forms, earthy textures, and a palette drawn from the land itself—ochres, sage greens, soft greys—create an atmosphere that feels rooted, grounded, and alive. Materials like raw timber, leather, and handwoven textiles reflect the artisanal touch of the region and the lived-in textures of nature.
Ultimately, this is not just architecture. It is choreography—of wind and shade, of light and silence, of guest and land. The lodge is not an object placed in nature, but a participant in it. One that listens, responds, and disappears gently into its setting.
Elevated Treetop Experience: How was the idea to elevate each structure three meters above ground conceived, and what unique perspectives does this offer guests?
Being elevated places each guest at eye level with the layered forest canopy, offering a rare and immersive perspective that would have been impossible from the ground. Birdlife, wildlife moving along the riverbanks, and the shifting play of light through the leaves all become part of the guest experience, creating an ever-changing natural theater.
Had the lodge been built at ground level, it would have been submerged beneath the dense undergrowth, limiting both views and the sense of openness that defines the guest experience today. Instead, guests can feel perched above it all, enjoying an elevated connection to nature that is both intimate and expansive, truly capturing the essence of the Masai Mara from a fresh, elevated perspective.
Locally Sourced Materials: Which local materials and craftsmanship methods have been used, and why were they chosen?
The true magic of bringing an international luxury brand into a new market lies in its ability to honour and elevate the local culture—and this philosophy is woven into every element of The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp. From the outset, the vision was to ensure that every material, detail, and crafted object reflected Kenya’s identity and was brought to life by the hands of Kenyan artisans.
All joinery and FF&E—excluding lighting—was proudly manufactured in Kenya, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of local production capacity. This achievement is not only a testament to the country’s exceptional craftsmanship, but also to the project’s commitment to local industry, sustainable sourcing, and creative collaboration.
Key to this process was the involvement of local designer Sarah Rowe of Northern Nomad Interiors, who played an instrumental role in curating and connecting the team with Kenya’s most skilled artisans, joiners, and makers. Much of the bespoke joinery was crafted in partnership with Nairobi Timber, a generational workshop known for its refined detailing and technical expertise. The emphasis throughout remained on Kenyan fabrication using locally available materials and techniques rooted in the region’s traditions.
Architectural stonework was formed from semi-volcanic rock quarried near Narok Town, grounding the lodge both physically and symbolically in the local terrain. Handwoven rugs and upholstery fabrics from Siafu Home, a Nairobi-based social enterprise, are found throughout the lodge. Each textile is loomed by local women and represents a meaningful investment in sustainable livelihoods, female empowerment, and community resilience.
The tented canvas structures, fabricated with engineering precision, allow every suite and public space to open completely to the wilderness. With roll-up sides throughout—including in spa treatment rooms—the architecture dissolves the threshold between indoors and out, fostering a continuous sensory connection to the surrounding landscape.
Traditional Maasai beadwork has been integrated into custom joinery and is also featured across operational elements—from minibar accessories to glassware—handmade by artisans from the local community. These details lend symbolic and tactile richness to the guest experience, seamlessly embedding heritage into the rhythm of daily rituals.
By sourcing and producing locally, The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara becomes more than a luxury lodge—it becomes a cultural platform. Every crafted element tells a Kenyan story. Every surface carries the touch of Kenyan hands.
Immersive Design Features: How do the tented suites’ features—private plunge pools, sunken lounges, and indoor/outdoor showers—enhance the overall safari experience?
Beyond the tent itself, each private plunge pool, outdoor sunken lounge, and outdoor shower offers its own immersive and unforgettable experience, designed to seamlessly connect guests to the raw beauty and tranquility of the Mara.
The private plunge pool, a one-of-its-kind feature for a tented safari camp in the region, introduces a new level of unparalleled luxury in the heart of the wilderness. It allows guests to cool off after a game drive or simply soak in the surrounding sights and sounds, from the gentle rustling of trees to the distant calls of wildlife – while enjoying complete privacy.
The outdoor sunken lounge, perched above the treetops, offers a floating sanctuary where guests can savor morning coffee, private in-room dining, or quiet moments of reflection, all while fully immersed in the natural rhythms of the Mara. Suspended in the canopy, this elevated vantage point allows guests to be part of the landscape, rather than merely observing it.
The outdoor shower is designed to be an experience in itself, offering total privacy while embracing the sky and the forest canopy above. Whether showering beneath the dappled light of the day or under a blanket of stars, it delivers a visceral, grounding connection to nature, reminding guests at every turn of the wild beauty that defines the Masai Mara.
These thoughtfully curated elements ensure that luxury and nature exist in perfect harmony, where every space—indoors and out—celebrates the spirit of safari living with comfort, authenticity, and awe-inspiring beauty.
Dining Concepts: What can guests expect from the on-site dining venues, including the multi-cuisine restaurant and stargazing sky deck?
From curated tasting menus to authentic Kenyan flavors, every dining experience at The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp is thoughtfully designed to honor the landscape, the culture, and the joy of gathering around food in one of the most spectacular settings on earth.
Safari: How does the property’s design underscore the authentic safari experience, from wildlife sightings to open-air living?
At The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp, the design doesn’t just complement the safari experience, it becomes an essential part of it. Elevated 3 meters above the ground, the tented suites float above the forest canopy, giving guests a privileged vantage point over the meandering Sand River and the surrounding migration paths. This elevated position allows guests to witness small wildlife moving freely beneath their private terraces, from elephants drinking at the river’s edge to zebras crossing the plains, offering a front-row seat to the daily theater of the Mara.
The design features open-air lounges, roll-up tent walls, sunken outdoor seating, and outdoor showers, all designed to blur the line between indoor comfort and outdoor immersion. This seamless connection to nature allows guests to become part of the landscape, fostering an unfiltered connection to the rhythms of the wild.
Soulful: In what ways do the interiors, ambiance, and guest interactions foster a sense of calm, reflection, and connection with nature?
The soulful ambiance of the camp is achieved through understated luxury, where earthy tones, natural materials, and organic forms create a calm, grounding atmosphere. Inspired by the curves of the Sand River, the textures of the Mara, and the woven traditions of Kenyan culture, the interiors reflect a deep reverence for place.
Guests are invited to slow down and savour moments of quiet reflection, whether in the sunken fire pit lounges overlooking the river, indoor-outdoor spa pods nestled in the forest, or while enjoying a glass of wine in the underground cellar. While some spa areas may appear enclosed, all spaces—including the treatment rooms—feature roll-up canvas sides similar to those in the public areas, allowing the experience to remain fully open to the sights, sounds, and rhythms of the outdoors. The guest journey is intentionally unhurried, with personalised service that emphasises connection, both to nature and to self.
Eco-Friendly Infrastructure: Can you detail the sustainable building methods and materials being employed to minimize environmental impact?
Sustainability is at the core of the design philosophy, ensuring the lodge exists in harmony with its surroundings. Key initiatives include:
- Solar energy and rainwater harvesting integrated into the infrastructure.
- The camp layout was planned to preserve existing vegetation wherever feasible. We prioritised building around mature trees and natural features to maintain shade, biodiversity, and a functional microclimate—especially important during the hot summer months.
- Waste management systems focus on minimising single-use plastics and recycling on site.
Community Engagement: What initiatives are planned to involve and benefit the local communities, whether through education, employment, or cultural exchanges?
Community integration is foundational to the project’s success. Initiatives include:
- Local employment and training programs, ensuring that the lodge staff is largely drawn from nearby communities.
- Partnerships with Kenyan artisans to craft furniture, textiles, and decorative elements showcased throughout the lodge.
- Cultural evenings at The Boma, where Maasai elders share stories, music, and traditions with guests.
- Education and healthcare programs funded by the lodge, ensuring tourism revenue flows back into the community.
Logistical Hurdles: Were there any specific challenges related to building in a sensitive wildlife area, and how were they overcome?
Building a luxury lodge within a national reserve presented a unique set of challenges, requiring an exceptionally sensitive and thoughtful approach to both design and construction. Every decision was guided by the imperative to protect and preserve the natural ecosystem, while still delivering an ultra-luxury experience.
Key strategies included:
- Minimizing earthworks through the elevated design, allowing natural water flows.
- Conducting a comprehensive environmental impact assessments, ensuring every phase of development adhered to the highest environmental standards.
- Training construction teams in low-impact building techniques, with particular emphasis on minimizing noise, dust, and light pollution.
- Adjusting construction timelines to avoid disruption during sensitive migration and breeding seasons, ensuring the natural rhythms of the Mara were respected.
A key factor in successfully navigating these challenges has been the outstanding work of the onsite construction team, Highmark Construction. Led by Josh and Thor, their deep expertise in lodge construction has been instrumental in translating the design vision into reality, all while overcoming the complexities of building in such a sensitive location. From the initial site grading and defining the optimal layout to the seamless integration of infrastructure into the landscape, their dedication and problem-solving mindset have ensured that the lodge not only respects but enhances its environment.
Design Inspiration: How do elements of local Masai culture influence the design, décor, and overall storytelling of the lodge?
The design celebrates the spirit of the Maasai through:
- Architectural forms inspired by the natural curves of the Sand River and traditional thatched bomas.
- Textiles, patterns, and beadwork reflecting Maasai artistry, reinterpreted into contemporary design.
- Storytelling incorporated into The Map Room and Boma gatherings, fostering cultural exchange between guests and local storytellers.
- Use of indigenous materials, grounding the design firmly in Kenyan heritage.
- Local masai ladies offer beading workshops to guests to create their own jewellery or memorabilia to take back home.
Handcrafted Details: Could you share more about any collaborative efforts with Kenyan artisans and how their craft is showcased?
Absolutely. The lodge was designed as a celebration of Kenyan culture, craftsmanship, and creativity—woven into every detail through close collaboration with local artisans and regional talent.
Key highlights include:
- Furniture and joinery handcrafted by Nairobi Timber, a generational Kenyan workshop known for their dedication to quality and authentic craftsmanship.
- Textiles and rugs created by Siafu Home, a collective of local women artisans who blend traditional weaving techniques with modern patterns and palettes.
- Carved wooden panels and architectural elements throughout the lodge feature Maasai motifs, sculpted by local woodworkers to echo indigenous symbolism and storytelling.
- Ceramics and glassware, all locally fired and handmade, bring a tactile, artisanal charm to the dining experience.
- Accessories and decorative objects have been curated from Maasai markets and boutique artisan studios across Kenya, ensuring that even the smallest details reflect the spirit of place.
- In the restaurant, portraits by Malindi-based photographer Gian Paolo Tomasi spotlight Kenyan women, guiding guests through key spaces like the wine cellar and Upeo, the sky deck.
- Historic photographs by Carol Beckwith and Angela Fisher, renowned for their documentation of Maasai rituals over four decades, are thoughtfully placed throughout the lodge, anchoring it in cultural heritage and memory.
- At the heart of the public spaces is a powerful metal sculpture by Simon Bannister in the Map Room. Using layers of oxidised steel and mirror-polished stainless steel, the piece captures the story of the great migration in both artistic and geographic form. Bannister—whose work is deeply inspired by his time in the African bush, especially Kenya—also created the striking cheetah sculptures poised above the fireplaces, symbolic guardians of the land.
Together, these handcrafted contributions transform the lodge into a living gallery of Kenyan and regional artistry—where every object, texture, and image connects guests to the land, its stories, and the people who shape them.