Tonino Lamborghini is partnering with the Zimbali Lakes Resort to develop a R1 billion luxury hotel and branded residences on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, about 40km from the port city of Durban.
The Italian designer’s first project in Africa will include a 200-room hotel and 73 branded residences at the 400ha lifestyle estate that’s backed by Kuwait-listed IFA Hotels & Resorts.
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Residences are likely to sell for as much as R100 000 per square metre, giving the development a potential total sellout value of about R1 billion, says Werner Burger, the chief executive of IFA’s South Africa unit.
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An artist’s impression of the entrance of Tonino Lamborghini Hotel Suites & Residences Zimbali Lakes. Image: Supplied
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Executives from Tonino Lamborghini and IFA Hotels & Resorts touring the Zimbali Lakes development site earlier this month. Image: Supplied
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Aerial render of the Zimbali Lakes development, currently underway on the KZN North Coast, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Image: Supplied
It also underlines a wave of developments, including Club Med’s first resort in South Africa and premium lifestyle estates, that are reshaping KZN’s North Coast.
The region is emerging as a popular base for wealthy South Africans seeking a slower-paced alternative to Cape Town that offers warm weather and an outdoor lifestyle.
Lamborghini’s portfolio of branded residences include developments in Dubai and Brazil with upcoming projects in India and Thailand, according to his website. He’s the son of famed auto designer Ferruccio Lamborghini.
“The introduction of the brand to Africa through Zimbali Lakes establishes a new benchmark for branded hospitality and residential experiences on the continent, bringing together Italian design philosophy, refined living and destination-led experiences within one of South Africa’s most ambitious mixed-use developments,” says IFA Hotels & Resorts.
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Zimbali Lakes, which includes sprawling mansions, a beach club and Ernie Els-designed golf course, also plans to develop a marina, destination shopping centre, supercar dealership and other offerings.
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“Africa represents one of the most dynamic emerging luxury markets globally, and South Africa offers a rare combination of international appeal, natural beauty and long-term growth potential,” says Tonino Lamborghini, founder and President of Tonino Lamborghini S.p.A.
“Being a first mover in untapped markets has always been part of my DNA and in my brand history. Zimbali Lakes is no exception, and I’m honoured to launch this new project,” adds Lamborghini in a statement.
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“[This is] the ideal context to introduce a destination that fully reflects my vision, where design, lifestyle and real estate converge into a distinctive experience. This partnership marks not only our entry into the African market, but the beginning of a journey built on innovation, flexibility of use and a shared commitment to enduring value.”
Burger says the decision by the globally respected luxury brand to make its first entry into Africa through Zimbali Lakes is a significant endorsement of both IFA’s vision and the long-term potential of KZN North Coast.
“Welcoming Tonino Lamborghini to South Africa and to Zimbali Lakes is an important milestone for our development and for the broader hospitality sector.”
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