"Sangoma" is named after South African Shaman healers.
An exclusive mountain Eco-retreat Sangoma consists of a main pavilion and luxurious cabins.
The owners originally from South Africa, wanted to create a place where guests could come, relax, rejuvenate and enjoy a unique luxury bush experience in absolute privacy.
Each cottage was designed to fit with the immediate surroundings maximizing solar access, sun, views and natural features.
The main pavilion contains common spaces for guests to dine and socialize as well as the owners private accommodation.
Sangoma is located at the base of the Blue Mountains the secluded 10 acres bush site contains natural features including rock walls cliffs and absolute privacy with extensive views over the Sydney basin.
The site had an interesting history having been abandoned with remnants of a half constructed stone castle complete with gun turrets, sentry boxes,a moat and a secret escape tunnel. The castle was structurally unsound and was unable to be saved however the basement portion including the tunnel and other site features were retained.
The owners first desire was to "cleanse" the site with an Aboriginal smoking ceremony. Once the site was cleansed building sites were selected and designing began.
Simple low maintenance building materials were selected which blended in with the surrounding environment.
The retreat has been designed with environmentally sustainable design principles utilizing solar power, hydronic floor heating, recyclable materials and passive solar design. The layouts of each building are simple, providing a selection of indoor- outdoor spaces that easily combine in response to the seasons and use.