In this edition of Designer Travels, Nashville-based designer Matt Donahoe, founder and principal of Bureau Interior Design, acts as our field guide as he recaps his recent safari journey in South Africa.
Destination: South Africa
Month traveled: October-November
Duration of trip: 3 weeks
Temperature range: 65-98 degrees Fahrenheit
Solo trip or vacation with family/friends? Trip with family
First visit here or repeat destination? First visit
The lodgings…
While in South Africa, we stayed at Londolozi, a private reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park. They have various camps on the reserve, and we selected the Tree Camp, which provided remarkable views of the migrating elephants and hunting leopards. Each room included floor-to-ceiling windows to the landscape, coupled with plush textiles fit for a Ralph Lauren-esque safari. Thatched ceilings married well with plaster walls, rattans mixed with supple linens — the details down to the regional accessories created an immersive, luxurious escape.
As we migrated north to Zimbabwe, we checked into the Matetsi Private Game Reserve — another transportive experience. Unlike the prior accommodations, the villas at Matetsi envelop guests. More modern in aesthetics, like Nana-style vista windows opening to private plunge pools and suspended canopy beds swathed in gossamer linen, the river is almost within reach from the lodging. Elephants, monkeys and other curious creatures are unrestricted and visit the villas intimately. Simply an incredible trip from start to finish!
Must-sees for design and architecture lovers…
These environments are a haven for design lovers to feast their eyes on the marriage of the primitive and refined. On architectural and interior design levels, each resort embodied the spirit of Africa without yielding to clichéd expectations or hackneyed tropes. The crisp, yet warm gestures are balanced by the rustic qualities indigenous to the country.
Postcard moment…
While we were able to view awe-inspiring moments on each safari, I was personally humbled by witnessing a hunt in the wild. We watched as a cheetah sprinted on its hunt at dusk for kudu. It was a moment when you realize the true circle of life — somehow, there is a beauty in the brutality. It was almost indescribable.
Souvenirs…
While in South Africa, we were fortunate to learn about local pottery, which the resort infused into the spaces throughout the property. The local villagers invited us to come into town and experience their fabrication in person. Their care for their craft was admirable and reinforced the innate beauty of the pieces. I fondly reflect on my time there each time I pass the piece in my home.
Lasting influence…
As cliché as it may be, this experience was undoubtedly life-changing. A front row seat to the world in its most raw, rudimentary state alters how you see your place in the world, as well as reminds you of how fragile our lives are in the broader scheme. Every day matters and every experience counts — make the most of every minute.
Greatest takeaway …
There are more than I could ever recount. However, I must admit one of my greatest takeaways lies in the feeling of belonging. Even in these remote villages and fringes of the immense reserves, the locals who operate much of the resort experience create such a feeling of hospitality. It reminded me of how connected we are to one another, no matter the nationality, locality or other characteristics. We are truly part of a much larger narrative, and I am so fortunate to have witnessed it in such a breathtaking locale.
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