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the look for his own build, Garonga Safari Lodge, which is today the smaller of only two lodges in the reserve.
He appointed local builder, Geert Verf, who had been instrumental in the building of Makalali, to design and build Garonga in the mid 90s. Like Makalali, the organic shapes and natural materials reflected the site’s natural surroundings. “We deliberately used tones and colours that give a feeling of complete relaxation,” says Smith. The plaster-coated poles seen in the windows are a nod to the distinctive, tall termite mounds found in the area. There is a North African element to some parts of the construction. The gates are guarded by pillars reminiscent of the huge monolithic sculptures seen in Mali’s mud architecture. Garonga shares some of the same qualities of sustainability and sculptural beauty, which have come to be valued in Western architecture in the last 20 years. Lateral Designs were responsible for the interiors. Inspired by the organic simplicity of North Africa, an overlay of textures both in the fabrics and décor, were used to create a similar look.
The fluidity of the material allowed the builders to create dynamic, sensual forms such as the candle sconces in the open plan lounge, and the textured detail in the walls. Just six tented rooms are spread along the bank of the dry river in the shade of Jackalberry trees. Each features the de rigueur mozzie net draped over beds, which have built-in headboards and side tables. The bathrooms have been similarly designed with built- in counter tops, seating and shower walls. A hammock swings outside each room. If Bernie Smith’s goal was to create an unassuming sanctuary with ample natural appeal where guests can relax utterly, he has achieved it. Which is quite apt, because Makalali means ‘place of rest.’