Tumbeta Lodge

Tumbeta House—meaning “secluded hideaway”—was reimagined as a private lodge with an eye-level underground bunker and a deeply personal creative signature.

Tumbeta House began life as a private residence in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Its transformation into an exclusive-use safari lodge required more than just structural modifications—it demanded creative vision, speed, and a deep understanding of the bush.

With only three months to complete the renovation, our team worked against the clock while navigating the ever-present challenges of working in a wildlife-rich environment. Elephants wandered nearby, baboons kept a watchful eye, and the occasional leopard track was spotted on-site. Yet, through it all, the build kept moving—fuelled by passion and the clarity of the client’s vision.

The standout feature of the lodge is its underground viewing bunker—an immersive, eye-level hideaway that allows guests to observe game silently and unobtrusively. Above ground, the design integrates earthy textures, custom mosaics, and hand-crafted elements that reflect the owners’ personal style and artistic flair. Decks overlook untouched bushveld, while interiors echo the quiet luxury of a well-worn safari camp.

Each space invites reflection, relaxation, and a sense of sanctuary.

Tumbeta was a creative collaboration at its finest. The challenge was not only to deliver a high-end lodge within tight timelines, but to infuse the structure with soul. The result is a space that feels organic, peaceful, and entirely unique—a true bushveld hideaway in every sense of the word.