The Residence Zanzibar, the all-villa resort designed by leading global design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates, is located on a remote corner of the island of Zanzibar and is the first project on the African continent for HBA's Singapore office.
Stretching over 80 acres, the 66 villas designed by HBA boast a colonial theme and draw inspiration from the Swahili, Omani, British and Indian cultures present in Zanzibar. Each villa has its own oasis with a private terrace and swimming pool, but the structures remain modern and natural, fitting in with the surroundings.
All pieces of furniture at The Residence Zanzibar are a mix of cultures reflecting the various influences in Zanzibar's history. For example, the four poster bed in the villas are reminiscent of British style and is flanked by two nightstands inspired by Indian forms and materials such as beaten metal. In the bathroom, the vanity counter was custom designed to integrate simplified Swahili patterns while the wall sconces were drawn from traditional Omani motifs.
"We found Zanzibar to be a great resource for inspiration and sourced many of the artifacts and furnishings in the villas from local markets and shops," noted David T'Kint and Hazlin Ahmad, HBA Associates.
Locally sourced artifacts found throughout The Residence include hand-painted artwork with various scenes of Zanzibar as well as commissioned photographs of Dhows - the Arab sailing vessel. All of the buildings house a collection of interesting items including carved trunks in the Lobby, oversized Omani tea and coffee kettles in the Pavilion Restaurant, traditional Stonetown doors in the Dining Room and local handmade vases in The Spa.
In the villas, HBA used a color scheme of white and delicate shades of beige with honey colored woods and sandy tiles. The result is a romantic and distinct setting where guests can indulge in a sophisticated environment.
The Residence features a state-of-the-art wellness center and spa. The spa is set in five acres of tropical gardens and features six spacious treatment pavilions, each with its own private garden, outdoor shower, bathtub and relaxation area.
The Pavilion restaurant bathed in the rich, warm colors of Zanzibar serves exotic Mediterranean cuisine of Turkey and the Middle East.
The Residence also has a Beach Club restaurant that draws inspiration from a Bedouin tent. The Dining Room Bar consists of local woods and a hammered copper bar.