We had a chat with Dina Wilson, General Manager of Shanga, who was able to share news about eco-friendly products created by Shanga for the new Serengeti Explorer property.
Can you provide an overview of the products Shanga has developed specifically for the new Serengeti Explorer property?
Shanga has produced a number of products for the guest rooms, bathrooms, bar and pool area for the new Serengeti Explorer.
We have created pendant lights and beaded rods from recycled glass for wall décor in the guest rooms plus thoughtfully made woven blankets and bed throws for guest’s comfort. We also made glass jars from recycled glass for holding cotton pads, washing powder, etc for the bathrooms. The drinking glasses and oil and vinegar bottles for the bar and pool area were also made from recycled glass.
What unique challenges or opportunities did you encounter while designing and producing products for the property?
The team developed and learned a new technique of drilling holes into glass beads when trying to figure out how to make thousands of glass beads within a limited period of time.
The project was an eye opener for us in our weaving department, as we uncovered the many available opportunities and endless possibilities of different designs and colour patterns.
We also opened up a new market for selling stemless wine glasses at Shanga, as a result of the ones made for Serengeti Explorer.
How did you ensure that the products align with the overall brand identity and values of both Shanga and the Elewana Collection?
Responsible conservation practices and community initiatives by Elewana align perfectly with Shanga values of recycling/upcycling to conserve environments, while uplifting and giving back to the community by providing opportunities for people with disabilities to showcase their creativity/abilities and earn an income altogether. Hence, recycled glass and locally sourced cotton was a perfect fit for explorer products
Can you walk us through the creative process behind the development of these products, from concept to final production?
The Serengeti Explorer team and their designer met with the Shanga team several times to discuss the concept. Shanga did prototypes back and forth to develop the desired size, design and colour of the products. This involved some of the products like pendants and beaded rods being sent back and forth to Serengeti for the final fittings and assessment. It was a wonderful, collaborative process.
What materials and techniques were utilised in crafting the products and how do they contribute to the overall guest experience?
Shanga has used recycled bottles and broken window glass to make beads, pendant lights and drinking glasses. All products were handblown utilising ancient techniques of glass blowing, casting and bead making from our furnaces which are powered by recycled engine oils. We have also used locally sourced cotton yarn for the woven blankets and bed throws. All were handmade with our throw shuttle handloom machines.
How do you anticipate these products contributing to the overall ambiance of Serengeti Explorer?
There is no doubt that the products made by Shanga will accentuate the look of the rooms especially the beaded rods wall décor as well as the pendant lights that will illuminate the spaces.
