The Reserve
The Reserve is a unique short-break experience set within one of the UK’s leading conservation zoos. The project comprises 51 safari-style lodges, a lakeside terrace, and a communal Welcome Lodge, home to the Tsavo Lounge and Amboseli Restaurant. Inspired by the open African savannah, each space features organic textures, earthy tones, and sustainably sourced materials, creating a calming, sensory environment that fosters a deep connection with the natural world.
The design is immersive and sensory-led. Expansive windows and open-air terraces frame views of giraffes and other wildlife, while soft, ambient lighting accentuates the warmth of timber underfoot and the natural veining of marble surfaces. Biophilic details, textured fabrics, and earthy palettes bring the savannah indoors, encouraging guests to slow down and fully engage with their surroundings. Elevated furnishings, ethically sourced timbers, and tactile finishes create a quiet harmony that evokes wonder, comfort, and connection, turning every stay into a restorative and intimate encounter with nature.
- Client: Chester Zoo
- Location: Chester, UK
- Sector: Hospitality