Southern Sun's new Garden Court Umhlanga hotel charms the

KwaZulu Natal travel experience. Whether in the region for

business or leisure, guests are assured of the definitive Garden

Court experience where a great stay starts and ends with a great

day.

 

With a fresh, contemporary design concept incorporating the

Area's inherent influence, the new hotel (located in close

proximity to the Umhlanga Gateway complex and nearby beaches) will

encapsulate Garden Court's brand essence of a rejuvenated hotel

experience.

 

The source of inspiration for the architectural blueprint and

internal visual lies in the literal translation of Umhlanga -

meaning place of reeds in isiZulu. The hotel therefore incorporate

the literal aesthetic of a reed which is characterised by an

aubergine sheath and green stem. This has influenced the

sophisticated style, colour palette and chosen photographic reed

inspired artworks.

 

When entering the hotel, guests will feel welcomed and

enchanted. The public spaces, from the double volume entrance and

reception through to the dining area mirror the intrinsic theme

while imbuing warmth and comfort.

 

A lobby bar and internet stations is situated adjacent to the

enclosed leafy courtyard where a pool with a play ledge will allow

children to splash in delight. The open lounge provides a

comfortable area for guests, either to relax, conduct business or

enjoy a light meal. In addition to meeting guests culinary needs,

the restaurant also facilitates private functions while meeting

rooms cater for business guests' requirements for privacy and

professionalism. For exercise enthusiasts, a fully equipped gym is

situated on the fifth floor.

 

The hotel's architectural exterior merges with the interior look

and feel. Geometric lines are incorporated throughout, from the

façade to internal design features including porcelain floor

finishes, and reconstituted timber furnishings. However, there is a

deviation from strict geometry in the realms of broad loom

carpeting, feature walls and softs. This will create a sense of

movement and naturalness, just like the reed, which although

straight in nature, also has fluidity.

 

Decor elements include plush seating in earthy tones and rich

textures, splattered with elements of aubergine and green hues.

Light wood furnishings with grey reed-like undertones, minimalist

lines, floor to ceiling glass doors and windows and ambient

lighting creates a sensation of spaciousness.

The result is an interior that fits seamlessly into the

architectural space, as well as being cozy and inviting.

 

The hotel offers a choice of queen or double rooms, as well as

inter-leading options. The bedrooms - with walnut timbers and crisp

white furniture - and en-suite four piece bathrooms including bath

and shower facilities also reflects the contemporary nature of the

hotel. The neutral base colour palette utilised in both the bedroom

and bathroom incorporates the use of sea green glass mosaics and

reed textured porcelain floor tiles - all reinforcing the coastal

location, as well as instilling a sense of calm and relaxation and

redefining a great stay.