Gheralta Lodge | Mountain Wonders
A complete lighting commission for Kuriftu's signature pavilion — the heart of the resort experience. Custom Sheba Grand Chandeliers anchor the dining hall while Mender pendants frame the guest journey from arrival to table.
The Challenge
The pavilion needed to serve as both a functional dining space and a landmark arrival experience, with lighting that read beautifully at dawn, dusk, and full night — all while referencing Ethiopian heritage without feeling folkloric.
Our Response
We designed a layered lighting scheme: three Sheba Grand Chandeliers in a staggered constellation overhead, Mender pendants at intimate heights over dining clusters, and Habesha lanterns at table level for warmth. Cultural motifs are present in the metalwork, not the mood.
Results
- TripAdvisor reviews now consistently cite "incredible atmosphere"
- International press featured the pavilion in East African design coverage
- Occupancy of the main dining hall increased 34% in the following quarter
- Two additional Kuriftu properties have since commissioned Mella Studio
