Honouring the past with a modern transformation: Saxon Hotel, Villas, and Spa

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

September 12, 2024
Saxon Hotel

Saxon Hotel, Villas, and Spa in Johannesburg announces a comprehensive refurbishment & transformation throughout their hotel.

Guided by South African designer Nelson Kubheka, the refurb emphasizes the inclusivity and locality of the Saxon Hotel, Villas, and Spa, as the property reflects the cultural and artistic heritage of Johannesburg. Kubheka not only speaks to a new generation of artists, but brings a unique blend of African creativity to the luxury setting the Saxon is renowned for.

His vision for the Saxon combines a fresh, modern African design ethos with a deep respect for the hotel’s rich history. Through the integration of authentic and sustainable elements alongside contemporary touches, these redesigned spaces exude both longevity and luxury. The harmonious flow of the new designs seamlessly blends modern pieces with repurposed existing ones, creating versatile and functional areas that cater to diverse seating arrangements.

“Inclusive design has been a cornerstone of this project,” explains Nelson Kubheka. “It underscores the significance of local craftsmanship and collaboration. By partnering closely with local contractors, furniture makers, tilers, and painters, we have woven together a cohesive narrative that exemplifies how diverse skills and disciplines can converge to breathe life into an idea. The result is a vibrant, elegant space that pays homage to the past while embracing the future.”

The Saxon is delighted to announce the curated selection of artwork that now graces the newly reimagined spaces, marking a significant milestone in their commitment to art and culture. Hand-picked from the prestigious Spier art collection, these pieces by renowned artists such as Samson Mnisi, Lisette Forsyth, and Qhama Maswana showcase the rich creativity and diversity of South African artistry. Each artwork has been thoughtfully chosen to complement the ambiance of the hotel, offering guests a visual journey through the talents that define the nation’s cultural landscape. As a testament to our dedication to supporting local talent, these pieces will be updated quarterly, ensuring the spaces continually reflect the evolving narratives of South African art.

Guests entering the renewed Saxon are now greeted by an all-new lobby lounge that epitomizes comfort and personalized service. The lobby lounge reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary aesthetics and timeless elegance and showcases a curated selection of local artwork, celebrating the vibrant creativity of South African artists. These pieces enrich the visual tapestry of the Saxon, offering guests a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.