Conference Centre & Architecture at SanAquam Ayurvedic Spa Retreat,Central Drakensberg

Architecture

NEW SUITES, SPA AND CONFERENCE CENTRE COMING 2012

The unique opportunity of SanAquam project is connecting the spirit of Ayurveda and the spirit of this magnificent and sacred place.

Site ConceptThe architecture and interiors of the SanAquam Drakensberg Retreat were conceived in response to the SanAquam brand which aims to bring balance to people’s lives through Ayurveda, and to the immeasurable drama, beauty and spirituality of the Drakensberg World Heritage Site.

If, as a modern people, we were to inhabit this sacred
landscape of the san people, how would we do that?

We are also inspired by the ability of the san people to live in harmony with nature, inhabiting caves for protection and threading lightly on the land. Tucked into the contours of the land providing sanctuary from the elements like a cave, with the luxury and simple comfort of a nest, this inspirational architecture enables a future where we can live in luxury upon pristine and virgin land, virtually uninterrupted by any buildings.

Built into the contours of the site, the new suites and villas are backed by heavy stone walls fused into the earth. Every space opens into panaromic views of Cathkin Peak, the Little Berg and of the Bell Park Dam in the valley below.

“How do we experience the purity of this place without altering the environment?”

 

 

Only 1% of the 723 hectare property will be developed, leaving 99% of the site in its pristine state which will allowing guests the benefit of experiencing this natural space and the healing influence of nature at her purest.

The experience of the built and natural environments, including  Ayurvedic doshic spaces and gardens, will offer guests and residents an opportunity to get back to their most natural state while having minimal impact on the environment.

 

 

 
 
Inspired by nature, designed for peace

The SanAquam architectural language is informed by the following:

 
Cave

For a sense of deep protection and connection with the earth, these are built into the land, almost invisible from afar, tucked into the edge of a slope; more ‘nature’; not more building.

Nest

For lightness, flight, freedom, and feathered luxury, and the enjoyment of life’s comforts

Ashram

A contemplative and quiet space for rejuvenation, the Ashram is a place of peace and calm.

Turf roofs, passive climatic and solar energy systems, contemporary style  and the simple application of natural materials reject the relentless spread of  of suburban development in favour of physical and spiritual integration into the nature landscape to  have a high experiential but very low environmental impact.

 

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