Club Med South Africa, currently under development along the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal, is shaping up to be a landmark resort that prioritises sustainable architecture, cultural integration, and community upliftment. The project, set to open in July 2026, brings together South African and international design expertise to create a resort grounded in its natural and cultural surroundings.
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Cultural integration through architecture
Designed by South African architecture firms Craft of Architecture and Mobius, in collaboration with French-based Studio Marc Hertrich & Nicolas Adnet, the resort draws heavily on Zulu traditions and the relaxed coastal lifestyle of the region. The design incorporates bold geometric patterns inspired by beadwork and basket weaving, with locally crafted art and textiles featured throughout public spaces.
"The vision is to create a blend with nature, offering guests a comfortable retreat amidst the stunning Dolphin Coast," said Victoria Wood of Mobius. "Each space is designed to evoke a sense of relaxation, with wide openings that provide panoramic views of the ocean."
Coastal-inspired living spaces
Open-air lounges, terraces, and ocean-themed décor reflect KwaZulu-Natal’s beach lifestyle. Buildings are arranged to maximise views and natural ventilation, with acoustic and thermal insulation enhancing guest comfort. The layout mirrors the landscape's contours, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint.
Key highlights of the resort will include:
• A beach club focused on water sports and leisure
• A central hub with restaurants, bars, and entertainment spaces
• Childcare facilities for ages 4 months to 17 years
• Over 400 accommodation options, including villa suites and deluxe rooms
• A 500-capacity convention centre with nine meeting rooms
Eco-friendly construction and design
Set on a 32-hectare former sugarcane plantation, the site borders dune forests, wetlands, and estuarine habitats. Indigenous vegetation has been prioritised in landscaping to preserve biodiversity. Features include floating roofs for ventilation, natural stone cladding, and solar-powered car parks.
Club Med South Africa is working towards achieving a Green Star 4 rating from the Green Building Council of South Africa. Sustainability initiatives are guided by the company’s Happy to Care strategy.
A key focus of the project is social impact. So far, 1,200 construction workers have been employed, most from within 10 km of the site. Additionally, 110 local recruits are being trained in hospitality through the Nukakamma School, with 30 already starting their practical training this winter. A further 110 staff members are expected to be sourced locally ahead of the resort's opening.
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Local partnerships and biodiversity efforts
Ongoing partnerships are being explored with organisations such as AgriSud for food sourcing and local excursions. Cultural performances and artisan collaborations are also under consideration to enrich the guest experience while supporting local livelihoods.
Outdoor spaces feature indigenous plant life, and master trees have been preserved. Solar energy and water-saving systems will help limit the resort’s environmental impact.
