The Residence Zanzibar, the new all-villa resort located in a remote area on the southwest corner of the island of Zanzibar, boasts a colonial theme and draws inspiration from the local Swahili, Omani, British and Indian cultures.
Designed by HBA/Hirsch Bedner, the Leading Hotels of the World resort includes 66 villas and stretches over 80 acres. In addition to a wellness center and spa, The Residence Zanzibar features F&B outlets such as The Pavilion restaurant serving exotic Mediterranean cuisine, the Beach Club restaurant inspired by a Bedouin tent and the Dining Room Bar.
Each villa has a private terrace and swimming pool. Photos used courtesy of HBA/Hirsch Bedner
The four-poster bed in the villas reflects British style and is flanked by two nightstands inspired by Indian forms and materials such as beaten metal.
In the bathroom, the vanity counter was custom-designed to integrate simplified Swahili patterns while the wall sconces were drawn from traditional Omani motifs.
Local woods and a hammered copper bar are part of The Dining Room.
The spa is set in five acres (two hectares) of tropical gardens and features six spacious treatment pavilions, each with its own private garden, outdoor shower, bathtub and relaxation area.
