Hop Down South To Southern Ocean Lodge At Kangaroo Island
19 October 2009
| Location: | Kangaroo Island |
| Country: | Australia |
| Project Size: | Twenty one guest suites |
| Architect: | Max Pritchard |
Southern Ocean Lodge, named as Tatler 2009 'Hotel of the Year', is as a sanctuary of comfort, style and personal intimacy. It is Kangaroo Island's first luxury lodge and provides a level of style, sophistication and exclusivity for visitors who flock to the island to appreciate the abundance of rare wildlife and stunning scenic beauty.
Set in natural bush land, Southern Ocean Lodge overlooks a dramatic section of coastline. Located at secluded Hanson Bay, on the Island's south-west coast, the building appears to float on the landscape and features an environmental design with very low visual impact. A signature palette of materials, primarily local limestone, recycled timbers and glass, blend seamlessly with the landscape.
The Main Lodge is tucked back into forty metre high cliffs, with large sweeping window walls capturing the expansive views of the wild Southern Ocean and pristine bush. A strong sculptural element is the two hundred metre long wall of Kangaroo Island limestone weaving from a covered entrance, through the largely untouched bush and into the Main Lodge. It provides a textured backdrop to the finely detailed guest areas with recesses accommodating desks, seating and reception.
Twenty one guest suites cascade down the slope from the Main Lodge, with access from a Breezeway ramp. Roofs follow the slope of the land, but with a gentle upward, wave-like curve every fourth suite. The curves define the rainwater collection system with gutters extending out to galvanised iron rain water tanks, iconic symbols of dry rural Australia.
The rugged cliffs, wild-ocean, white beaches and virtually untouched native vegetation are complimented by the ecological design and organic luxe interiors. The Lodge aesthetic is fresh and contemporary with a glamorous undertone, highlighted through designer furnishings and custom artworks. From the grandeur of the Great Room to the subtle indulgence of their suite, guests will feel immersed in the spectacular surroundings.
Architect Max Pritchard, who was born and raised on Kangaroo Island, has brought a thorough understanding of the location to this project and created an exclusive retreat that is sensitive to both location and climate.
The Main Lodge is independent of mains services: rainwater is collected, electricity is generated on site and waste water is treated by a unique organic waste treatment system. Preservation of the surrounding vegetation was a high priority. The guest suites are constructed of light weight materials that could be carried in, minimising site disturbance. Foundations are steel screw piles, framing is timber, cladding is iron and fibre cement, and flooring is recycled timber and stone.
COLORBOND® Ultra steel in the colour Windspray® and in the profile LYSAGHT CUSTOM ORB® was used for the wall cladding. COLORBOND® Ultra steel was used for the roofs of both the suites and the Main Lodge. BlueScope Steel water tanks were used throughout.
For further information or to book a stay at the award winning Southern Ocean Lodge visit http://www.southernoceanlodge.com.au/
