andbeyond: ngorongoro crater lodge, tanzania

perched at the crater of the world heritage protected ngorongoro crater in the unspoiled greenery of tanzania, the cluster of lodges puts vernacular tectonics in dialogue with the exuberant and opulent. the result is a luxurious palette of typically african mud plaster walls, elegantly layered banana leaf ceilings and cooling makhuti palm roofs. roof forms are informed by conical masaai volumes; stilted construction and soaring rustic turrets are typical of west african mali design.

the lodge in the cavernous context
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interior furnishings are a richly hued collection of trinkets that express the whimsy of a bygone era. the synthesis of the two design languages is the work of architect sylvio rech and designer chris browne, although the built form primarily serves the greater aim of framing lines of sight and panoramic perspectives of the vast ngorongoro crater, the world’s largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera. rooms are positioned to show the full splendor of the landscape-wide cavity and ample floor-to-ceiling glazing allows uninterrupted views of the impressive architecture of the earth.

exteriors employ masaai building techniques and a distinctly west african material palette
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palm frond roofs and mud walls are artfully enclose spaces
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stilted construction and soaring turrets characterize the built form
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generous glazing punctures the rustic walls
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the wisdom of regional construction techniques meets the whimsy of a bygone european era
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interiors hybridize the luxurious language of persian rugs and european trimmings with an acclaim for local materials
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dining room view with its network of arches
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the crater is an impressive piece of architecture formed by the forces of the earth
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rich, dark woods, textured walls and a a plethora of opulent fixtures complete the multiple dialogues of the interior space 
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banana leaf ceilings create a textured surface that interplays with light
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bedroom view
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expanses of glazing invite the crater into the active spaces of the lodge
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the architecture capitalizes on the climate and picturesque landscape of the site
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the cluster of buildings emits a warm glow at night
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