Masterplans

Shambala Gardens

Gris Gris, Mauritius

Overview

Shambala Gardens is envisioned as a health and wellness destination, combining retreat, residential living and community spaces within a large-scale natural landscape.

Located in the wild south of Mauritius, the project draws inspiration from its powerful natural setting, where forests, rivers and coastal forces shape a dynamic and expressive environment.

Concept

The landscape is designed to reconnect with Mauritius’ original ecosystems.

With less than 2% of endemic forest remaining, the project reintroduces native landscape typologies through a carefully selected planting palette inspired by historical environments.

The design integrates wellness, ecology and daily life, creating a place where nature becomes part of the living experience.

Landscape Strategy

Health Track

A former goods train corridor is reinterpreted as a continuous health track surrounding the development.

This linear landscape acts as both a buffer and a connector, linking the project to its wider natural surroundings while supporting the regeneration of endemic species.

An elevated walkway extends through the tree canopy, offering immersive views and experiences.

The Lake

Water is introduced as a central element within the development.

Surrounded by vegetation and open space, the lake creates a calm and reflective environment, offering a contrast to the intensity of the surrounding natural forces.

It also supports biodiversity, acting as a habitat for local wildlife.

Orchard & Food Forest

The project integrates productive landscapes to support a more sustainable way of living.

The orchard and food forest provide fresh, chemical-free produce for residents and visitors, while also creating spaces for learning and community engagement around permaculture.

Approach

The project transforms a large and complex site into a coherent landscape system.

By working with existing conditions (climate, topography and ecological context) the design creates a resilient environment that balances natural processes with human use.