When StudioLandt and (Weylandts) set out to redefine hospitality through an architectural open call, the challenge was clear: design a retreat that belongs not just to the land, but to its soul.
Out of a strong mix of ideas, StudioMas was selected as the winning practice, and with them, the journey of bringing this project to life has begun.
Earlier this year, architects across South Africa were invited to submit their vision for a retreat in the Touwsberg Nature Reserve. Submissions were reviewed in a blind judging session at our Castle Street office, led by Chris Weylandt and theStudioLandt Design team.
The process ensured that every idea was considered on its own merit, a balanced mix of approaches and concepts, without knowing who was behind them. From this, StudioMas emerged as the winner, chosen for their ability to combine bold vision with sensitivity to place and timeless design.
We went to site to experience the first light touching the landscape. By evening, the same hills burned gold as the sun dipped, giving us an entirely new reading of the place. It became clear that light itself must become part of the architecture – guiding orientation.
Soon after, we traveled into the Touwsberg Nature Reserve with StudioMas to walk the ground where the project will rise.
We went to site to experience the first light touching the landscape. By evening, the same hills burned gold as the sun dipped, giving us an entirely new reading of the place.
It became clear that light itself must become part of the architecture - guiding orientation
That evening, we gathered for a braai under a Karoo sky and it was a reminder that the project is not only about design, but about connection.
From multiple Open Call entries to site visits, each step is a dialogue with place. StudioMas and StudioLandt will continue refining the design in response to the land’s natural rhythms, crafting a retreat that enriches rather than interrupts the Karoo.
This is only the beginning. Follow along as we document the evolution of the project.
