Wilderness Bisate Reserve: A sanctuary of refined luxury and cultural splendour

Building on the thriving legacy of Wilderness Bisate, Wilderness Bisate Reserve introduces a new level of luxury, effortlessly blending generous space with an elevated appreciation of Rwandan culture. The lodge’s design draws inspiration from the Royal Palace of Rwanda’s traditional monarchs, harmoniously combining contemporary elegance with timeless traditions. Designed by the esteemed Nicholas Plewman Architects + Associates, and interior designer Caline Williams-Wynn of Artichoke, the reserve’s architecture and interior spaces reflect this deep respect for Rwandan heritage.

"Crafting the interiors of Bisate Reserve was a journey of immersion into Rwanda's breathtaking landscape”, noted Caline. "Inspired by the unobstructed sweeping views of all six of the Virunga’s dormant volcanoes, we envisioned spacious villas that harmonise effortlessly with the natural beauty surrounding them, offering guests an unrivalled sanctuary. Each detail, from the locally sourced basketry to the life-sized artworks depicting neighbouring gorilla families, showcases the exceptional talent and devotion of local artisans, weaving luxury with authentic cultural integrity”.

The design of Bisate Reserve harmoniously integrates sustainable practices with aesthetic sophistication. The villas feature mimosa bamboo decking, timber flooring, exposed volcanic rock and woven reed mats, as sustainable materials that complement the building’s integration with its surroundings, while large feature windows and aluminium frames elegantly outline views of Mount Bisoke. Local vegetation, nurtured through extensive reforestation efforts and the thriving on-site tree nursery, will soon lushly adorn the space. The spinal pathways leading to the gardens and connecting the two family villas are crafted from hand-chipped volcanic rock – a true labour of love that pays homage to the area’s geological history and reflects Wilderness’ light-footprint ethos.

Stepping inside the spacious villas, guests will find themselves immersed in a world of unparalleled comfort and elegance, where each of the four units is thoughtfully equipped with two cosy fireplaces, an internal heating system and a luxurious outdoor, wood-fired hot tub, ensuring a haven of relaxation. Private decks invite guests to unwind, while options for intimate private dining, soothing soaks and bespoke in-room massage treatments enhance the sense of indulgence.

The interiors feature captivating gorilla artworks by local artist Rigobert Uwiduhaye, and the colour palette – green, white, and black – honours the bright and geometric shapes of traditional “imigongo” tiles, symbols of Rwanda reinterpreted in a contemporary context. The villas’ botanical theme extends to intricate hand-stitched floral designs on chairs and scatter cushions, crafted by a local embroidery NGO, IBABA.

"I drew inspiration from a variety of aspects of Rwandan lifestyle, with a particular focus on its colourful textiles and distinctive textures. The emerald green hues and the recycled glass chandeliers in the main areas reflect the lush greenery of the rainforests and the vibrant markets that enliven the villages across Rwanda”, concluded Caline.

Wilderness Bisate Reserve emerges as a celebration of Rwandan artistry and craftsmanship, with its design deeply inspired by the region’s rich heritage. Local reed matting, basketry, and pottery are elegantly showcased throughout the main areas and villas, highlighting the exceptional skills of Rwandan artisans, and embodying the lodge’s dedication to community involvement. Moreover, guests can explore the bespoke Bisate Kwanda boutique and gallery, which offers a curated collection of these handcrafted items for purchase, allowing them to take home a unique piece of their experience and integrate a lasting memory into their everyday lives.

Every facet of the design is infused with a profound sense of purpose, seamlessly merging natural elements with architectural sophistication. Luxurious textural elements and thoughtful design fosters an intimate atmosphere, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the refined elegance indoors while maintaining a deep connection to their surroundings, with poignant reminders of this woven into each meticulously curated detail.