The Bacuzzi: The Bakkie Turned Jacuzzi
At Underhill, we’re always looking for ways to merge creativity with sustainability. So when a neglected bakkie trailer was spotted sitting in a neighbour’s yard for months, it sparked the beginning of one of our most unique features yet: the Bacuzzi.
The Beginning of the Bacuzzi Journey
The journey began with an impulse buy. The bakkie trailer, acquired for R4000, was too intriguing to pass up. At first, its future was uncertain. But after some brainstorming, a bright spark of an idea turned this ordinary bakkie into something extraordinary: a fully functional jacuzzi.
Upcycling Magic
As someone who’s passionate about upcycling and recycling, the Bacuzzi project quickly became a labour of love. The first step was to address the bakkie’s interior. After removing the internal rust and applying a base coat of paint, it was time to bring the vision to life—and that’s where creativity took center stage.
While I may not be skilled with metalwork, my affinity for live wood inspired the rest of the design. I sourced second-hand roof beams and floorboards to build up the Bacuzzi’s sides. These materials not only added structure but also gave the Bacuzzi its rustic charm. The finishing touch? A surround made from smoothed-down, recycled Rhodesian teak railway sleepers, a gift from a friend that elevated the design to something truly special.
The Heart of the Bacuzzi: The Donkey
Every jacuzzi needs a heat source, and the Bacuzzi is no exception. For this, I repurposed a donkey (a type of wood-fired water heater) that was originally too small for another cottage. Perfectly suited for this project, the donkey provides piping hot water that makes it a year-round indulgence.
Bringing It All Together
With the structure complete and the interior waterproofed, the Bacuzzi was born. What started as a rusty, overlooked trailer has become one of the most unique and talked-about features at Underhill. It’s a testament to the beauty of upcycling, where something old can be transformed into something magical with a little creativity and effort.
Experience the Bacuzzi
Today, the Bacuzzi sits proudly next to our newest accommodation, Bacuzzi Blyplek. It’s the perfect place to cool off in summer or soak under the stars on cooler evenings. And with its one-of-a-kind story, it’s more than just a hot tub—it’s a symbol of what can be achieved with imagination and a commitment to sustainable living.
We invite you to experience this for yourself. Book your stay at Bacuzzi Blyplek and enjoy this upcycled marvel that embodies the spirit of Underhill: creativity, sustainability, and a touch of magic.