[imagesource: Michel Bega]

The father of a democratic South Africa, Nelson Mandela, once called 13th Avenue in Houghton, Johannesburg, home, living there both before and during his presidency.

Now it is opening for guests to stay the night after it has been refurbished, transformed, and re-envisioned as an iconic boutique hotel called Sanctuary Mandela.

As per News24, the luxury hotel is expected to cater to world leaders and “people who aspire to the inspiration of this global icon”, the Nelson Mandela Foundation, which owns the property, said.

The foundation has partnered with Motsamayi Tourism Group to bring the development to life, reports Getaway.

The hotel features nine rooms and can accommodate up to 18 guests, along with retreat spaces for reflection, and a personal connection to the private life of Madiba.

It is also the only former residence of Madiba accessible to the public which is not a museum.

Inspiration is the name of the game at this hotel:

“The space will allow guests to immerse themselves in the legacy of Madiba and draw inspiration from Madiba’s soul, to commune together for the common good of resolving international matters and, lastly, to be inspired by this iconic global leader’s hospitable nature and spirit of service to the people,” said foundation CEO Sello Hatang.

The boardroom (along with the pool area) still has the original foundations:

As does the pool area:

Inside the hotel, you’ll find the Mandela Atlantic Restaurant:

The bathroom and relaxation area are also smartly finished:

Getaway has provided further details regarding how the original building remains a part of the hotel:

Bricks were salvaged from the original home during demolition and reused in the building of the reception desk.

The front façade and entrance including all window frames have been restored and used to keep the aesthetics of the main building original.

Plans to begin the construction of this project were first announced on the centenary of Mandela’s birth (July 18, 2018).

Guests will be able to book their stay at this hotel from today for stays from August 1, 2021.

[sources:news24&getaway]