Moroccan Magic in Harare

Pevensey Studio forms part of the Amanzi collection—an inspired hospitality portfolio comprising four private houses, a 16-bedroom lodge, and a restaurant, run by husband-and-wife team Andrew and Julia Mama.

Each of them brings a distinct creative strength. Andrewhas a passion for good food and landscape design, and Julia has a refined eye for interiors and a deep appreciation of African art.

At the heart of the offering is Amanzi Lodge, a tranquil retreat of 16 thatched en-suite units. With a 4.7 star rating on TripAdvisor and consistently ranked the No. 1 lodge in its category, Amanzi has spent over two decades perfecting the art of hospitality.

Within its lush, landscaped grounds sits the acclaimed Amanzi@Amanzi restaurant, open to both residents and the public. The restaurant is an invitation to experience fusion food, in a serene
ambiance, with warm décor, and beautifully curated gardens.

At its heart lies an intimate courtyard with a mosaic-tiled plunge pool designed by Ingrid Tucker, flowing seamlessly into a Moroccan-inspired outdoor fireplace and barbecue area. It is perfect for private entertaining with an atmosphere of quiet escape: African soul meets North African romance. Yet the true showpiece is the second courtyard – a secluded Moroccan sanctuary that captures both the first light of dawn and the last golden glow of evening.

Finished in softly textured Cemwash tones of ochre, pale yellow, and terracotta, the walls carry a gentle patina, evoking the timeless beauty of Zanzibar and Marrakech. Underfoot, brick cobbles lend a rustic charm while enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection.

More than a courtyard, this space reveals itself as a fully realised outdoor bathroom suite. A built-in daybed, seating areas, and a discreet open-air loo, complete with high cistern and a brass pull chain, recall the romance of 1930s travel, reminiscent of Death on the Nile.

Originally a simple gap between the house and the studio, the space was transformed
through a collaboration between Julia Mama and designer Brigette Lotter into an enchanting
Moroccan courtyard bathroom. It was inspired by an antique door and an ornate mirror
sourced from Pieta Du Toit at Living Space.

The courtyard plan took on a whole new life of its own when Brigette boldly suggested designs for
the outdoor bathroom and it developed significantly. As a result, an exotic courtyard with a fountain
and seating areas surrounded by palms and tropical beds was created.

The softly burbling fountain sets the tone, its base crafted by Brigette in brick and cement and finished with mosaic tiles from Burnt Earth. Julia completed the vision with lighting and brass fittings
sourced from Morocco. In one corner, a freestanding oval tub with a copper exterior invites indulgent
evenings under the stars.

An oversized outdoor shower that is framed by an arched wall with mosaic detailing, offers a rainforest shower experience enhanced by brass fittings and soft lighting.

Comfort is never overlooked

Quiet seating corners invite reflection, while a raised central plinth doubles as a yoga platform or casual
gathering space. The domed daybed, with its arched ceiling, soft fabrics, and ambient lighting, offers a
dreamy retreat for afternoon naps or even a night under the stars.

The final flourish is the landscaping: terracotta pots brimming with tropical greenery frame the space.
Large palms give it grandeur. All in all, the lush greenery completes the garden designed by Andrew Mama at Amanzi Landscapes.

Stained glass panels, recycled from the original Amanzi restaurant and supplied by artist Annalie
Maartens, glow warmly at night, adding a magical dimension. A bespoke wooden vanity with a verdigris copper basin is framed by blue shuttered panels, evoking the illusion of a window into another world.

Beyond, softly curved walls, inset with coloured glass and Mediterranean-style shutters draw the space together giving it a sense of quiet escape.

Text by Michael Nott
Pics courtesy of Michele Fortmann