Shompole Lodge in Kenya adds another area of eco luxury to its already impressive portfolio by introducing the exquisite Shompole Collection. African artisans, women’s groups, independent traders and craftspeople all contribute their expertise to produce a collection of high quality unique house wares, jewellery and tribal arts.

In keeping with its eco ethos Shompole Collection defines luxury by experience, environmental responsibility and individuality. The one-of-a kind beadwork, fig wood furniture, African art and jewellery are all environmentally sound, handmade products created by freelance artists who price and determine the fair value of their own products. It works as an extension of Shompole Lodge offering guests exceptional pieces of high quality work, from unique areas, whilst working closely and in partnership with rural communities in conserving their environment.

Every element of the collection is made in Africa by Africans using African materials. The distinctive coffee tables, chairs, dining tables, daybeds and African stools are made by the same team of craftsman who built the lodge and remain working with Shompole as carpenters and artists today. The wood for building the limited edition furniture is sourced from naturally fallen fig trees from a locally dried up forest, after a river at Shompole changed direction. The bespoke 18k gold jewellery is made using African gold, bone, gem stones and other indigenous materials. Each piece is individually crafted by hand and can be made to order making each piece unique. The beautiful beading work is created in conjunction with local beading projects which focuses on empowering Maasai women by providing them with an income of their own. This in turn enables them to better care for their children and helps to elevate their standing in the community.

The Shompole Collection and Lodge is part of a portfolio of properties called The Art of Ventures. Liz Gilbert is the vision behind the Collection, the fiance of Anthony Russell, the vision and drive behind the design and creation of the Art of Ventures. After working for 20 years in the safari business, Anthony set it up with the mandate to create and design exceptional properties in unique areas whilst working closely and in partnership with rural communities in conserving their environment. The Art of Ventures currently has two properties in their portfolio, Shompole Lodge, situated on the shores of Lake Natron and Naibor Camp located in the heart of the Masai Mara Reserve.