Bush lovers who frequent luxurious lodges are well acquainted with the challenges of adhering to the establishment's schedule, which typically revolves around three set meals complemented by morning and evening game drives.
For those prioritising privacy and freedom, the usual alternative is to sacrifice style in favour of a more rustic self-catering option.
For Pim and Rob Verdoorn, nature enthusiasts and owners of Cypiro Leopard Lodge in the Waterberg, finding an alternative approach was essential. Merging the allure of the bush with elegance, their latest creations, two eco pods named 'The Elements of Altitude,' provide complete seclusion along with the luxurious amenities of a high-end lodge stay.
Over time, Pim and Rob transformed the lodge from a single thatched home into a collection of exquisitely appointed self-catering accommodations. Dreaming of a residence for themselves nestled into the hillside at the highest point of the property, they envisioned it during their daily walks with the dogs.
'We used to come up here on our daily walks with the dogs and would often sit and enjoy the view,' recalls Pim, naturally drawn to elevated locales.
Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the view plunges southward over dense bush, terminating at the horizon, where a long range of mountains enfolds the lowlands. To the east, the 2-billion-year- old Kransberg series dominates. The site's spectacular nature led them to share it with guests at the lodge. They divided their originally planned house into two separate buildings, positioned 100 metres apart, which they named Ebony and Ivory.
No larger than 45-square-metres, each pod is strategically positioned over the valley, providing complete isolation from external activities, except for the occasional presence of wildlife.
Below, amidst Tambotie, Marula, and Stinkwood trees, herds of blesbok, sable, giraffes, zebras, and more can be observed from the deck, the swimming pool, or even the shower, thanks to its expansive curved glass window.
With a successful background in furniture design and manufacturing in Cape Town, Pim and Rob possess a profound understanding of form, function, and finish. Exhibiting a modern aesthetic and an earthy colour palette, these off-grid hilltop retreats have a minimal impact on the environment, both in terms of their architectural footprint and ecological sustainability.
The distinctive curvilinear design of these pods draws inspiration from Africa's mysterious pangolin, which curls into a protective ball when threatened.
Internally, a single wall separates the back entrance and compact wall-hugging kitchen from the lounge and bedroom. The front of the pod is enveloped in steel and glass, extending from floor to ceiling, with sliding doors that unveil a pristine bushveld paradise.
From the outside, each pod seamlessly blends with the landscape. Sandstone, gathered on-site and dating back billions of years, is skillfully packed to create the sensuously curved entrance wall and shape the contours of the indoor shower. In other areas, finishes feature earthy tones and textures, incorporating Cemcrete, reclaimed timber, and off- shutter concrete.
Woven and softly upholstered elements are introduced in the form of sleek and carefully considered furniture, all of which is crafted by Mija Furniture, the company owned by Pim and Rob’s daughter.
The highlight of a night in the pods may arguably be the automated skylight, positioned directly above the bed and operated by remote control. In the nighttime, enveloped by the expansive darkness of the property, an immense galaxy is yours to observe from the comfort of your bed.
'It's not your average safari lodge but a place where you can connect with the wild on your own terms, making you feel like you have your very own farm in Africa,' says Pim.
