Building the new Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp

A (M+D): The safari camp’s original purpose focused on researching and tracking the desert-adapted black rhino, possibly the last population of its kind. This expeditionary aspect influenced the camp's ethos; however, the harsh desert environment heavily influenced the architecture. Given the extreme heat during the day and plummeting temperatures at night, providing shade and comfortable accommodations were top priorities.

The Namibian landscape itself, characterised by copper-coloured earth and red rocks, also served as a significant inspiration. These natural elements not only informed the design but we incorporated local stone into the construction. This decision not only rooted the buildings firmly in the landscape but also reduced the need for transporting materials over long distances, aligning with the concept of sustainability and minimising environmental impact.

A (M+D): Careful attention was given to the colours and materials used. The canvas is a beige colour, mimicking the desert landscape, while the overall colour palette reflects the combination of red sand, rock, and beige tones typical of Namibia. Additionally, the buildings were strategically nestled within the existing trees on site to benefit from natural shade and privacy, enhancing their connection to the environment. 

A (M+D): Drawing from the experiences at the previous camp, which had been in place for more than 20 years, we focused on insulating guests from the harsh elements while maximising views of the dramatic landscape. Unlike the previous camp's canvas walls, which could feel cold, the new buildings feature a combination of insulated timber frame and timber-clad walls, along with aluminium and glass sliders. Additionally, the solid timber floors and two-layer canvas roof, separated by an air gap for insulation, create a simple yet well-insulated environment. This design approach provide guests with a comfortable experience regardless of the extreme temperatures, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in these breathtaking Damaraland surroundings.