Blog - skaam.

15Apr 2025 by wynand

The Cabin That Shouldn’t Have Been

A true eco cabin in the Western Cape There are many eco cabins in the Western Cape that claim the title, often because they’re simply off-grid. But true eco-building is about more than solar panels and septic tanks—it’s about design, sustainability, and harmony with nature. Skaam Cabin was created as a completely unique structure using repurposed and recycled materials, blending seamlessly into the mountain landscape. For ten years, I studied eco-building techniques, collecting ideas while searching for the perfect site—wild enough to feel like a retreat into nature, yet still within reach of Cape Town. I envisioned an off-grid sanctuary: maybe an underground home, a passive house, or something with a green roof. The site would determine the build. I finally found the perfect stand while mountain biking my favorite…

19Jan 2025 by wynand

Looking for romantic getaways in the Western Cape?

Entertainment, Fantasy Room, Sex Room, Spa

Looking for romantic getaways in the Western Cape? Look no further. Skaam Cabin offers a luxurious yet cozy retreat designed to create unforgettable memories. Tailored for relaxation and connection, this off-grid gem goes beyond the typical Airbnb by providing thoughtful amenities that make your stay effortless and indulgent. With features like an honesty bar, unlimited firewood, a curated welcome basket, and a convenient shopping concierge, all you need to bring are your personal essentials. Once you arrive, you won’t want—or need—to leave. Rekindle, reconnect, and revel in the tranquil beauty of the property and each other. Arriving at Skaam Cabin From the moment you arrive, Skaam Cabin’s unique design—blending art, nature, sustainability, and architecture—will captivate you. Its playful and daring aesthetic draws you in, with every turn revealing a new…

08Dec 2024 by wynand

Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Skaam Cabin’s Flora & Fauna

Fauna and Flora

https://vimeo.com/1037358908?share=copySkaam Cabin lies in the heart of the Limietberg Mountain Range, part of the stunning Western Cape landscape in South Africa. This awe-inspiring region is a cornerstone of the Cape Floristic Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated as the most diverse floral kingdom on Earth. Boasting over 9,000 plant species—many of which occur nowhere else in the world—it’s a sanctuary for plant enthusiasts, ecologists, and anyone who appreciates nature’s wonders. The property itself is home to two endangered plant species, found in only a handful of locations in the area. Although close to the City of Cape Town and other major Cape Winelands towns, you can still experience an incredible diversity of bird, reptile, and animal life in and around the ridge on which Skaam Cabin is situated. Below,…

05Dec 2024 by wynand

That Is a Weird Name for a Cabin, Isn’t It?

Design, Fantasy Room, Skaam cabin, Sustainability

Why such an unusual name? Skaam is the Afrikaans word for “shy” (adjective: shy, embarrassed, bashful; noun: remorse, sense of shame). At first glance, this may seem like a negative or modest choice, but once you understand the cabin’s essence—its location, flora, design, and unique amenities—you’ll agree there’s no better name for this extraordinary getaway.A Natural Marvel in the Limietberg Mountain RangeSkaam Cabin is situated in the Limietberg Mountain Range, nestled in the heart of the Western Cape, South Africa. This breathtaking natural treasure forms part of the Cape Floristic Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its incredible biodiversity and status as the world's largest floral kingdom. With over 9,000 plant species, many of which are endemic, this region is a paradise for nature lovers and botanists alike.What…

04Dec 2024 by wynand

Skaam Cabin, A Masterpiece in Sustainable Design

Design, Sustainability

The Story Behind Skaam Cabin’s Unique DesignSkaam Cabin is not just another prefab or golf estate house casually placed in the middle of nature. The architectural style of Skaam Cabin is rooted in "biophilic design" or "sustainable architecture," emphasizing harmony with the environment and prioritizing sustainability. This approach involves the use of recycled, repurposed, and locally sourced materials to reduce the environmental footprint.Here’s how these principles are reflected in the cabin’s design:Earth Architecture:This approach includes the use of natural, recycled, or locally sourced materials such as mud, clay, stone, and reclaimed wood. Earth architecture seeks to integrate structures seamlessly into their natural surroundings, using materials that minimize environmental impact.Minimalist or Eco-modern Design:While the aesthetics are modern, eco-modern design focuses on using sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, glass, and metal. It…

04Dec 2024 by wynand

Let’s Talk About Sex

Fantasy Room

Rekindle the Romance at Skaam Cabin When it comes to relationships, intimacy is key. Yet, in the hustle of daily life, it’s easy for couples to lose that spark. At Skaam Cabin, we believe in providing a space where couples can reconnect, communicate, and reignite their bond. For those looking to take their connection to the next level, we offer a unique option—the Fantasy Room—an intimate, private retreat designed to enhance emotional and physical closeness in a safe, luxurious setting. A Safe Space to Explore We understand that conversations about intimacy are often considered taboo, particularly in South Africa’s traditionally conservative culture. This stigma can lead to challenges in relationships, with studies showing that unresolved intimacy issues are a leading cause of divorce. Our goal at Skaam Cabin is to…