Page 5 - Landscape-Issue159

PROJECT

HIDDN IN ADDO RESORT

Mantis Hiddn in Addo is a boutique eco-lodge in the Eastern Cape, set within a
300,000-hectare South African national park and surrounded by pristine wilderness
with access to the BIG 7. It blends with the landscape and its elevated position
affords sweeping views of the natural surroundings.

Aerial view of the hotel, perched above the Witrivier gorge. The design concept comprises pods arranged to form a protected refuge on the mountain plateau.

erched high above the Witrivier gorge, the concept for Hiddn in Architectural design
Addo is a series of discreet architectural pods arranged to form The architectural design responds to an exposed landscape of
Pa protected refuge on the mountain plateau overlooking the expansive views and limited vegetation by constructing its own sense
surrounding wilderness. of shelter rather than relying on the site to provide it. Central to this idea
is the sculptural freeform timber waffle canopy, an abstracted modern
Brief interpretation of the Yellowwood tree canopies found deep within the
There was no prescriptive landscape brief at the outset as early site gorge below.
engagement revealed that a conventional, ornamental landscaping The waffle canopy functions as a shading device while allowing wind
approach would be inappropriate for such a sensitive and ecologically to pass through, with creepers blending the freeform timber structure
integrated setting. The project evolved organically towards a into the environment, and creating a micro-ecosystem at each unit.
rehabilitation-led strategy in order to restore ecological functionality Sustainability is embedded in both concept and construction. The
and respond to the rugged Suurberg context. Construction activities lodge and guest units are constructed as lightweight timber frame
often leave degraded areas that require ecological repair. structures, minimising ground disturbance while significantly reducing
embodied carbon. Locally sourced materials such as the timber-clad
façade, reeded ceilings, handmade tiles, sculpted brass fireplaces and
natural stone elements, anchor the architecture to its context, while off-
Project Team grid systems for energy, water and waste removal enable the lodge to
Developer: Terra Nova Create: Project spearheaded by Bruce McNicol operate independently of municipal infrastructure.
Project: Mantis HIDDN Eco Lodge The main spaces for arrival and relaxation are divided into smaller
Founder: Andrea Dunkley buildings within the landscape, linked by walkways that expose guests
Client Representative: Mark Noble to nature as they move through. The grand timber waffle canopy acts
Main Contractor: Rennasance Construction as a shading device over the main outdoor area, providing a unique
Architects: Millennia Architects experience on the main decks with expansive views over the pool and
Landscape Architects: Hort Couture Landscape Architecture and beyond.
Planning By abstracting natural forms into a contemporary spatial language
Project Manager and Quantity Surveyors: Synergy Property Solutions and embedding nature into the design, the project offers a quietly
Civil and Structural Engineers: Bara Consulting immersive African experience where architecture frames the
Mechanical and Electrical Engineers: CA Du Toit landscape.
Installation and Rehabilitation: Wilson Nxamleko Located on a cliff edge, the site offered stunning views of the
Environmental Consultants: CEN Environmental Management Unit Witrivier valley but was constrained by limited development space.
Interiors: MI Designs The design aimed for the building to blend into the landscape, nearly
Art Curation: African Art Scene invisible from the main access route to the lodge. Inspired by unusual
rock formations on the property which provide shelter for wildlife, the

Check us out www.salandscape.co.za Landscape SA • Issue 159 2025 3