Dwarsberg Pods

Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway is a well-established holiday destination outside Rawsonville. The premises boast with a wedding venue, self-catering cottages and camp sites along the Breederiver. Due to the growing popularity of the function venue and the limited accommodation available on site the need for more guest accommodation was formed. The brief consists of self-catering guest units accommodating 4 to 6 guests at a time. Each unit should have separate bedrooms and bathrooms and accommodate couples as well as corporate guests. The appointment started as a container development. Reusing and refurbishing shipping containers into guest accommodation. However, during the design development process, the challenges faced by the remote site and costs it became clear that a different approach needs to be taken.

 

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Nestled amidst the picturesque scenery outside Rawsonville, Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway stands as a cherished holiday haven. Boasting a versatile array of offerings including a charming wedding venue, cozy self-catering cottages, and inviting camp sites lining the banks of the Breederiver, it has long been a sought-after destination. However, with the escalating popularity of its function venue and the limited onsite accommodation, the need for additional guest lodgings became apparent.

The project brief called for the creation of self-catering guest units capable of comfortably hosting 4 to 6 guests at a time. Each unit was to feature separate bedrooms and bathrooms, catering to couples as well as corporate travellers. Originally conceived as a container development, the appointment soon evolved as challenges arose during the design phase, particularly regarding the remote location.

Light steel construction and prefabricated timber panels emerged as the innovative solution. This approach enabled the majority of construction work to be completed off site, streamlining the assembly process on location. Internally, the units are adorned with birch timber cladding, lending a sense of simplicity and elegance. Externally, the pods are enveloped in matt charcoal corrugated sheeting, mimicking the aesthetic of shipping containers while seamlessly blending into the natural landscape.

Expansive glazed openings invite the outdoors in, fostering a harmonious inside-outside living experience. To minimize environmental impact, the units are meticulously insulated with light steel construction and cavity-batt insulation. Elevated on pole foundations, each unit delicately treads upon the terrain. Careful consideration with positioning was given to maximizing views and ensuring privacy between units.

Completed in 2019, this project stands as a testament to thoughtful design and sustainable construction practices, offering guests a tranquil retreat amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature.