Arijiju House is a private residence located in the Borana Conservancy, on the Laikipia plateau in Kenya. The territory, characterized by grasslands, is a protected area rich in wildlife including black rhino, still today endangered because of poachers. Designed by Michaelis Boyd Associates, the house combines African and European architecture, moving away from the typical structural typologies of the area and taking inspiration from contemplative places such as Le Thoronet Abbey, a 12th century Cistercian monastery in Provence. The building is positioned on a slight south-facing slope offering a view of Mount Kenya and a deep connection with the surrounding nature. A link with the landscape that can also be found in the choice of local materials: meru stone extracted from a local quarry is used for the walls, local grevilia timber for beams and pergolas. The house is developed around a central courtyard framed by a colonnaded passageway leading to bedrooms and living areas. Terraces and green roofs overlook the savannah, and guest houses, staff quarters, a spa and a tennis court complete the property.
A house in Kenya inspired by a 12th century French monastery
Michaelis Boyd Associates designed Arijiju House combining African and European architecture: rooms, terraces and green roofs develop around a central courtyard and overlook the savannah.
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- Francesca Grillo
- 30 September 2020
- Borana Ranch, Laikipia , Kenya
- Michaelis Boyd Associates
- 3,859 sqm
- Private property
- 2015
- Arijiju House
- Borana Ranch, Laikipia, Kenya
- Private property (with guest houses, spa buildings, manager’s house, staff quarters)
- Michaelis Boyd Associates
- Michael Dyer
- 2,180 sqm
- 3,859 sqm
- 2015
Site plan.
Plan.
Main House Ground Floor Plan.
Living/dining internal elevations.
Living/dining internal elevations.
Main entrance internal elevations.
Breakfast/evening bar internal elevations.