Villa Amani Without Limits

The Beauty of Creating in Kenya

One of the most special things about building a house in Kenya is that there are no standard measurements. You can design everything exactly the way you want — there’s so much freedom in the process.

We started out with an architect from Greece who created the initial structure, but along the way, we’ve changed a lot. Some changes came because things were built differently than expected, and some simply because we shifted direction as the vision evolved.

Another interesting aspect is that in Kenya, wood is the most expensive material — not what you might expect! So instead of building everything from new timber, I’ve collected beautiful antique doors from Mombasa and even from around the world. These unique, time-worn pieces are now being placed throughout the house, bringing character, history, and soul into every room.

What also makes building in Kenya so special is the people.

The builders and workers we meet each day greet us with smiles, open hearts, and no judgment. There is a lightness in the air — sometimes they sing as they build, and often there’s laughter between tasks. This joyful spirit isn’t just around the house — it’s becoming part of the house itself.

It adds soul, warmth, and a sense of belonging to every wall.

Annette