Gheralta Lodge I

December 13, 2020

Nicole Cieri Architects projected a lodge with the view of the spectacular mountains punctuated with rocky churches of the Gheralta massif, in the northern Ethiopian city of Hawzen.


The project is born through the client’s desire to build a lodge completely disconnected from the frantic city life, where the guests could be surrounded by nature and enjoy the lanscape.


The lodge is designed bearing in mind the all-Italian concept of the “albergo diffuso”, which means literally “widespread hotel”. Rather than being a single large structure, this receptive form consists of multiple smaller buildings, which are dislocated along the paths and lanes that become open-air horizontal connections. Thus, allowing the total enjoyment of the surroundings, nature and architecture merge, offering breath-taking views.



The constructions take on the concept of the central courtyard, used in traditional local architecture. In a hostile environment burned by the sun and beaten by the wind, man seeks shelter. Home is an enclosed space and the void on the inside is its fulcrum; the traditional patio is looking up to the sky.



To achieve a synthesis between modernity and tradition, as well as pursue a strategy of durability and cost reduction, the architects decided to rely on local materials, the same ones used for centuries by the Tigrinya farmers: dry-stone walls, wooden ceilings and green roofs. Thanks to the exclusive use of this native technology, tailored for the semi-arid climate, comfort is guaranteed inside the buildings.



Photography  Nicole Cieri, Paola Viesi
Architecture  Arch. Giuseppe Tommasi (Lead Architect)

                                        Nicole Cieri www.nicolecieriarchitects.it

Address  Gheralta Lodge Rd - Hawzen, Ethiopia  www.gheraltalodge.com

SHARE THIS

 Contribute

G&G _ Magazine is always looking for the creative talents of stylists, designers, photographers and writers from around the globe.

WRITE US

 Find us on

Latest News

By G&G _ Magazine September 19, 2026
Studio WYZE, the interior design firm with studios in London and Zurich, projected TATTU Dubai of Permanently Unique Group, located within the world’s tallest hotel Ciel Dubai Marina .
By G&G _ Magazine September 11, 2026
SISHICRAFT Studio transforms vegetable-tanned leather into delicate handcrafted objects inspired by the botanical world. G&G _ Magazine explores the creative vision behind the brand with Natalie, from transforming botanical inspiration into handcrafted objects to experimenting with material, form and the subtle imperfections that make every piece unique.
By G&G _ Magazine September 6, 2026
From 12 to 20 September 2026, the eighth edition of Lake Como Design Festival unfolds across Como, Lake Como and, for the first time, Lecco, bringing exhibitions, installations and new collaborations under the theme “ Border ”.
By G&G _ Magazine September 3, 2026
Running from 15 to 20 September 2026 Shoreditch Design Week brings together more than 100 showrooms, exhibitions, installations and events across LDF’s largest design district. This year's programme expands with the addition of Material Matters at Unlocked, ND Selects at Kachette and Neuroplaces alongside returning favourites including Design at Work, Isola Design, 2LG Studio and Raw Collaborative at House of Icon further cementing Shoreditch's reputation as a leading destination for contemporary design.
By G&G _ Magazine August 24, 2026
In the vibrant Sukhumvit district, tender pink, graceful arches and refined minimalist design come together at Away Sukhumvit Bangkok , creating a playful yet sophisticated retreat for the modern traveler.
By G&G _ Magazine August 13, 2026
The international home and kitchenware industry will once again gather in Istanbul as ZUCHEX returns for its 36th edition on 9-12 September 2026 . Bringing together manufacturers, brands, buyers, retailers, distributors and sourcing professionals from around the world, the exhibition continues to be one of the sector's most influential international meeting points.
MORE

 Subscribe

Keep up to date with the latest trends!

Receive a dose of inspiration directly into your mailbox!

 Popular Posts

By G&G _ Magazine September 19, 2026
Studio WYZE, the interior design firm with studios in London and Zurich, projected TATTU Dubai of Permanently Unique Group, located within the world’s tallest hotel Ciel Dubai Marina .
By G&G _ Magazine September 15, 2026
In Kyiv, Ater Architects projected Integral Fitness Studio , seamlessly integrated with G.Bar , as a contemporary environment where movement, beauty and holistic wellbeing come together.
By G&G _ Magazine September 11, 2026
SISHICRAFT Studio transforms vegetable-tanned leather into delicate handcrafted objects inspired by the botanical world. G&G _ Magazine explores the creative vision behind the brand with Natalie, from transforming botanical inspiration into handcrafted objects to experimenting with material, form and the subtle imperfections that make every piece unique.