In the southwest of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest stands as a beacon of biodiversity. Home to over half the world’s remaining gorilla population, alongside a myriad of other mammals, primates and birds. From this forest, came the design inspiration for Erebero Hills.
Opening in 2026, the architectural vision for Erebero Hills revolves around integration. Pablo Luna Studios, an award-winning architectural design company specialising in the use of natural materials like bamboo, embraced the dynamic movement of the landscape and the rich biodiversity of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, allowing nature to inspire every aspect of the design.
“We specialise in using natural materials like bamboo, integrating culture and craftsmanship to minimise environmental impact.”
The structural form and design are influenced by the forest itself – the shape of tea leaves, mountain contours, the gorillas, and the towering canopy trees all inspire the lodge’s organic shapes. Built on a sloping terrain, the design adapts with terraces, overhangs, and suspended structures, allowing it to harmonise with the landscape and blend with the natural beauty of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The use of natural and local materials like bamboo, woven textures, stone and rammed earth enhance this connection to the surrounding landscape.
With a focus on sustainability, community involvement, and site integration, the aim is to create a lodge that feels as though it belongs – both to the landscape and the local culture. The design of Erebero Hills is not merely about constructing a lodge but about fostering a dialogue between people and the environment. Drawing inspiration from the Batwa’s traditional ways of living in harmony with the forest, we have created spaces that feel connected to the forest and offer guests a sense of immersion in the Bwindi landscape.
“Our designs are inspired by nature, blending ancient wisdom with technological innovation.”
Pablo Luna follows a clear four-stage approach to their design and build process, which can be mapped out as follows:
Study:
Carefully studying the site and considering its cultural context ensures that the design is harmonious with its surroundings and meets the client’s vision. This builds a base for us to develop design strategies for the later stages that reduce environmental impact and support the local economy.
Design:
We aim to integrate nature-inspired solutions, energy-efficient systems, and enduring structures. This approach ensures sustainability in all aspects—economic, social, environmental, and spiritual—by considering the broader impact of design choices.
Build:
We focus on sustainable construction to minimise our environmental impact. This includes prioritising local craftsmanship, reducing waste, using renewable energy, and utilising low-impact materials. We are responsible for the entire process, ensuring minimal disruption to the existing ecosystem.
Nurture:
Sustainability is not a moment but a way of living. As architects, we are responsible for every stage of the project, from initial design through construction to long-term maintenance. This includes ensuring that the space supports sustainable practices and can be maintained effectively over time.
“At Pablo Luna Studio, we believe architecture should be a harmonious extension of nature.”
As the first structures of Erebero Hills begin to come to life, the inspiration behind the design comes to the forefront and the visual elements previously only existing within illustrations become reality. The “Welcoming Area”, a space which will primarily be used as a briefing and welcoming reception for new guests arriving at the lodge, was the first structure to be built at Erebero Hills. Taking its form from the flowing shapes of tea leaves, a key feature of the local landscape, the space was constructed using wood, bamboo, and woven textures; celebrating the local craftmanship and traditions of the community.
As the building continues into the forest-view suites, the pool, bar, and the main areas of the lodge, inspiration will continue to draw from the surrounding mountains and towering trees of Bwindi. Each structure will be designed and built to blend with the environment, showcasing the commitment of both Asilia and Pablo Luna to sustainable building practices that honour the natural surroundings and the cultural heritage of the region.
Watch this space and follow the journey as Erebero Hills transforms from illustrations to reality.
