Sindia Camp | ARRCC

On the edge of the Réserve de Bandia, 50km South East of Senegal’s capital Dakar, is Sindia Camp. Set in an ancient baobab forest, this contemporary private desert wilderness eco-lodge and equestrian center has been created by leading interior design specialists ARRCC as an idyllic family retreat for a prominent West African businessman.

Sindia Camp takes luxury private lodge design and style to a new level with a bold and contemporary interpretation of the classic African tented camp, drawing inspiration from the surrounding arid landscape to blend both West African and European aesthetics. This striking open-plan design comprises five private double bedroom suites, two lounge pavilions and a modern equestrian stable, all screened at its entrance by a dramatic nine meter high sandstone wall. Entering into the main courtyard through a grand antique doorway, a linear water feature gently courses its way down past the open-air dining area and fire pit before diverging into the pool. Here a lantern lit tree top bar and viewing deck overlooks the watering hole, attracting numerous species of endemic game from the dusty plains to within a stone’s throw of the edge of the property whilst offering unprecedented panoramic views.

Floating stairs lead into the main double volume pavilion with an inside lounge-dining area offering respite from the heat through the use of traditional mud packed walls. Adjacent to this is a children’s pavilion, a comfortable smaller lounge and entertainment area. The external walls of these two structures were almost completely removed and replaced by glass to create a new safari tent-style, maximizing views and space, and allowing its residents to be immersed in nature. Each of the private double bedroom suites has a luxurious outdoor bathroom, positioned strategically between the giant baobabs for maximum privacy whilst offering incredible desert views.

Sindia Camp’s refined interiors are in keeping with the natural setting, bringing the outside in through the imaginative use of sustainable reclaimed materials and a neutral sun-bleached palette. Desert sandstone and weathered solid timbers contrast against exposed concrete and raw steel. High design objects d'art from OKHA combine with the owners own eclectic pieces to create a minimalistic but comfortable living environment epitomizing African luxury.  

“Due to its remote location, better known as the venue for the famous Dakar Rally, the entire property was built completely off the grid. With no running water or electricity and almost all the building materials have been locally sourced and the local skill used to accomplish this project in a very short space of time. Although this was a huge challenge, we have created some of our best work in this context. ” said Jon Case, Project Director at ARRCC. 

Although the design of Sindia Camp was focused primarily on combining the best elements of a private eco-lodge with the rustic charms of a family abode, it was also vital to create a low impact, high value model to sustain the wilderness area and preserve the primeval forest estimated to be over 2000 years old for future generations. Adding to this, the lodge needed to be resilient to the harsh desert elements and completely self-sufficient in harvesting its own energy through the use of solar technology. Energy-efficient solar battery powered LED lighting was used on the interior and creatively incorporated where ever possible, even to light the tops of the trees.

Whether through walls of glass, open air areas or even from horse-back, the wilderness can be seen and enjoyed from every angle at this unique luxury eco-lodge which sets a new benchmark for Senegal.

ARRCC believes in the spirited crafting of unique interiors that captivate and move. This project is very much in line with this driving philosophy and the company has created a life enhancing space that reflects both client and location. Through a refined approach to design, ARRCC has developed a style focused on detail and substance.

For more projects visit www.arrcc.com.