michaelis boyd redesigns benguerra lodge island retreat in the indian ocean

michaelis boyd associates, the london-based architecture practice, has completed the redesign of ‘benguerra lodge’, a nature-infused luxury beach retreat on an unspoilt island in the indian ocean. the project involved the complete renovation and modernisation of an existing lodge on benguerra island, the second largest island of the bazaruto archipelago in mozambique. the lodge is nestled in the bush alongside a white sand beach, with pathways leading from the main areas to each of the fifteen guest rooms.

all images courtesy of michaelis boyd / dook

elements of traditional local construction, including thatched roofs, reed walls and a timber structure have been combined with contemporary design to create elegant spaces that remain ventilated during mozambique’s hot weather. in renovating the existing lodge, which had become rundown over the years, michaelis boyd embraced the rich heritage of the island.

working alongside interior designer marguerite louw, traditional mozambican crafts and materials were selected to sit side by side with elements of portuguese colonial design, such as richly patterned fabrics or handmade terracotta tiles. the main approach to the project focused on maintaining and enhancing the local environment and wildlife. timber decks frequently open up to allow local lala palms to grow through, and the waste water from the lodge is recycled to irrigate the surrounding plants and trees.

there are fifteen guest rooms in total

the fifteen guest rooms include ten casitas, are all composed with traditional majeka thatched roofs, outdoor showers, and expansive timber decks leading out to infinity edge pools facing the beach. there are two cabanas, with local caniso reed walls and thatched roofs, and a family villa. each of the guest rooms is accessed through a winding path that leads through the bush before turning off to the rooms and giving breath-taking views of the beach and the indian ocean.

the lodge design pushed the limits of construction within the island environment

the decks and pools for each room were remodelled to face the sea and to ensure privacy

during the scheme’s construction the main contractor worked with local islanders and trained them up to give them
the skills required to be top grade tradesmen

all images © name

beach shop

beach shop

media room

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dhow bar

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