One&Only Gorilla's Nest
TYPE
Luxury resort
PRODUCTS
Prefab, Joinery, Glulam
LOCATION
Rwanda
DATE
2020
Nestled in the foothills of the magnificent Virunga volcano range in Rwanda lies the captivating "One&Only Gorilla's Nest." A juxtaposition of modern engineering and nature-inspired aesthetics, this resort is a manifestation of the mastery of prefab architecture seamlessly integrated into its lush surroundings.
Having its origin in Bosnia, the components of this exceptional establishment were diligently crafted and then shipped to Rwanda, where they were assembled. Guiding our vision into reality was the late architectural maestro Sead Golos. His iconic designs, infused with a sense of timelessness, breathe life into the Gorilla's Nest. Amplifying his architectural tapestry, Hubertus Feit's interior designs exude a luxury that's both intimate and expansive, embracing visitors with both grandeur and warmth.
A striking feature of the Gorilla's Nest is the bespoke larch facade, handpicked for its unparalleled quality and longevity. This facade becomes a canvas, reflecting the changing moods of the Rwandan sky. Drawing inspiration from the playful allure of treehouses, the floating design built on a sturdy metal substructure effortlessly levitates above the ground, invoking a sense of wonder. This design element, coupled with a Corten roof edge, showcases a harmonious blend of materials and textures that exist in symbiotic beauty.
The intricate details further enhance the resort's grandeur. Handmade metal and larch railings, for instance, are not just functional elements but are works of art that contribute to the story this resort narrates.
But the One&Only Gorilla's Nest is more than just its buildings. It's an experience. The resort, nestled amidst the raw beauty of Rwanda, offers a unique vantage point to the majestic gorillas in their natural habitat, making it an oasis for nature lovers and luxury seekers alike.
It's no wonder that amidst numerous accolades, "One&Only Gorilla's Nest" proudly stands as the #1 resort in the Top 12 Resorts in Africa and ranks #25 in the Best Resorts in the World, as honored by the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller's Readers’ Choice Award. This establishment is not merely a resort; it's a testament to how prefab manufacturing when blended with visionary design and impeccable craftsmanship, can create wonders that stand tall and proud in the annals of architectural history.
Awards
• Condé Nast Traveller, Readers’ Choice Awards - One&Only Gorilla’s Nest included in the Best Resorts in Africa
• Town & Country, Hotel Awards – One&Only Gorilla’s Nest included in the Best New Hotels in the World
• Travel + Leisure, The It List – One&Only Gorilla’s Nest included in the Best New Hotels in the World
• Condé Nast Traveller, The Hot List – One&Only Gorilla’s Nest included in the Best New Hotels in the World
• Virtuoso Luminaries, Legends, and Leaders Awards – One&Only Gorilla’s Nest awarded ‘Best Innovative Guest Experience by a Hotel’
• Condé Nast Traveller, Readers’ Choice Awards - ranked #11 Top Resorts in West and Central Africa
• Condé Nast Traveller, Readers’ Choice Awards - One&Only Gorilla’s Nest ranked #1 in the Top 12 Resorts in Africa and #25 in the Best Resorts in the World
Let’s embark on the journey to
create a space that reflects your
unique style and needs.