Lepogo Lodges, an esteemed not-for-profit and award-winning safari lodge, has unveiled its second property, Melote House—a masterpiece of design that redefines the boundaries of sustainable luxury. A fully off-grid, exclusive-use safari retreat, Melote House places ecological responsibility at its core, harmonising cutting-edge innovation with a deep respect for the natural world.
A Design Rooted in Nature
Crafted by a visionary team including Yuji Yamazaki (YYA Architects), Jacobus Uys and Jessica Rogers (Black Sable Architects), and Kelly Adami (Copperleaf Studio), Melote House was conceived as a sanctuary of serenity, deeply attuned to its environment. From inception, sustainability has been the guiding principle, influencing every decision from material selection to construction methods, ensuring minimal ecological impact.
By embracing eco-conscious practices, the lodge has achieved an unparalleled level of environmental synergy. Earth removed from the hillside during construction has been thoughtfully reintegrated into the structure through rammed earth walls, maintaining a seamless connection between the built environment and the wilderness. Living roofs not only return the footprint of the building back to nature but also provide a habitat for small grazing animals, reinforcing the lodge’s commitment to ecological preservation. Locally sourced rocks have been repurposed into natural berms, landscaped with indigenous South African flora, ensuring that the structure appears as an organic extension of its setting.
Every suite fosters an intimate dialogue between the wilderness and refined luxury, transitioning guests effortlessly from the untamed beauty of the outdoors to an indulgent retreat. Dramatic monolithic structures, carved into the landscape, create a striking juxtaposition between raw, elemental nature and contemporary architectural elegance.
Dark Sky Reserve: A Celestial Experience
Preserving the pristine darkness of the African night sky was a paramount consideration in the design process. Through carefully curated lighting solutions, including automated dimming systems and thoughtfully positioned fixtures, Melote House minimises light pollution. A skybed in the master suite and night skylights in the guest suites allow guests to immerse themselves in the celestial spectacle from the comfort of their own beds—an experience that deepens the connection between luxury and the untamed wilderness.
Innovative Sustainability & Smart Regulation
Positioned to maximise natural shelter and energy efficiency, Melote House exemplifies sustainable design. Rammed earth walls, constructed using soil excavated from the site, provide exceptional thermal stability, reducing energy consumption while ensuring a consistent internal climate. This ancient yet highly effective construction techniqueminimises reliance on artificial heating and cooling, harnessing the insulating properties of the earth itself. Cross-ventilation systems further enhance airflow, negating the need for excessive energy use.
Given its remote location, the lodge operates entirely off-grid, powered by an advanced solar energy system. Photovoltaic panels generate 100% of the site’s energy, ensuring self-sufficiency while minimising environmental impact. Cutting-edge automation technology, a rarity in safari accommodations, enhances efficiency by placing unoccupied rooms in standby mode, reducing unnecessary power consumption through automatic climate control, lighting regulation, and water conservation mechanisms.
An intelligent heating and cooling system, incorporating heat pumps and fan coil units, drastically reduces energy demands while maintaining optimal comfort. Underfloor heating is seamlessly integrated with water heating technology to enhance efficiency. The roof design, a triumph of both form and function, transforms standard skylights into water-filled pans for wildlife, reinforcing the lodge’s intrinsic connection to its ecosystem.
Championing Local Artisanship
A deep commitment to local craftsmanship is woven into every aspect of Melote House’s design, celebrating the rich artistic heritage of South Africa while minimising the carbon footprint of imported materials.
A standout feature is the bespoke artwork of Clive Walker, a revered conservationist and artist whose hand-painted depiction of the surrounding landscape has been transformed into exclusive fabrics by Evolution Product, adorning the wardrobes of every suite. Evolution Product has also interpreted ancient rock art into custom bed throws, while exquisitely hand-embroidered hemp table linens, crafted by the Mogalakwena community project, lend a personal touch to the dining experience. Wolkberg Casting Studio, a prestigious local tiling company, has meticulously designed bathroom tiles that mirror the textures and tones of the natural terrain.
Every element is meticulously crafted to reflect the spirit of the wilderness, ensuring that Melote House stands as a singular expression of sustainable luxury in the heart of Africa.
With thanks to: Grifco PR