Thebe Magugu Launches New Hospitality Venture with Belmond

## Thebe Magugu’s Entrance into Luxury Hospitality Design

South African designer Thebe Magugu is set to make his debut in luxury hospitality design this December through an exciting partnership with A Belmond Hotel in Cape Town. His unique Afro-modernist vision will take center stage at the property.

## Redesigning the Mount Nelson Suite

According to a statement from the Belmond group, part of the luxury conglomerate LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, Magugu will transform a suite within the Mount Nelson hotel. This space aims to be an “elegant trove of South African culture, design, and art.” The redesigned suite will fully immerse guests in the rich storytelling and creativity that define Thebe Magugu’s work.

The suite, spanning two floors and part of Belmond’s Signature Suites and Villas, will be available for booking starting in December. Collaborating with interior design firm StudioLandt, Magugu plans to blend British and South African design elements, creating an “Afro-English” aesthetic. The suite’s layout includes a lobby, lounge, dining area, bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, and a walk-in wardrobe. Expect vibrant greens and warm harvest shades, hand-sketched wallpaper, as well as textures of stone, timber, and hand-carved furniture.

### A Commitment to Cultural Preservation

In his remarks about the project, Magugu stated, “Together, the Mount Nelson and I have crafted a space rooted deeply in place and purpose, with a strong commitment to preserving the culture from which we draw inspiration.”

He emphasized that his work is about preservation. The suite is designed to provide guests with an immersive experience that reflects South African culture through art, while also offering comfort and ease, in line with the gracious hospitality Mount Nelson has offered for over 126 years.

## ‘Magugu House’: A New Cultural Hub

In addition to the suite, Magugu is also designing a concept store called ‘Magugu House,’ which will open its doors on November 10. Described as “where fashion meets art,” this space will function as both a showroom for his collections with limited-edition pieces and a gallery for notable artworks from leading African creators. It aims to celebrate the richness and intricacy of African creativity.

This collaboration not only marks Belmond’s first Designer Residence concept but also signifies Magugu’s initial venture into the world of hospitality and interior design.

### A Visionary Partnership

Neal Ludick, the director of interior design at Belmond, expressed excitement about working with creative talents like Magugu. He noted, “Thebe Magugu’s approach to design is rich in narrative, deeply authentic, and unmistakably alive.” He added, “It’s a striking interpretation of cultural dialogue expressed through clothing and space.”

Are you excited to see how Thebe Magugu’s design will transform the Mount Nelson into a cultural haven?