KIMANA HOUSE

THE JOURNEY FROM DARK AND DINGY TO BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

PART 2

After the rains had abated and a bridge had been constructed to bring building supplies in over the river, the work got underway in earnest.  

The floor tiles were torn up and replaced with mazeera stone, the tinted glass pulled out and replaced with clear, windows knocked through and bathrooms converted and constructed. Slowly, from amongst the rubble, a beautiful space was emerging.

Light sage doors and windows, silver bird walls and mandarin dusk grey bathrooms totally changed the whole feel of the house from dark, red and imposing to light, soft and welcoming.

And so the house came together as the furnishings were put in place, pictures went up on the walls and the final touches were made.

The house is designed to be a peaceful home away from home. Soft cotton linens, indoor and outdoor dining locations, and the most beautiful wildlife area extending from the garden and beyond.

The house is now open for bookings. It is self-catering and self-drive with a fully equipped kitchen, BBQ, water filter and fridge, and there is a house manager on site to help with the washing up and housekeeping.

We think it’s a little slice of paradise and hope that you will too! For more information and bookings please contact info@kimanasanctuary.com

KIMANA HOUSE

THE JOURNEY FROM DARK AND DINGY TO BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

PART 1

When Big Life Foundation took on the management of Kimana Sanctuary at the beginning of 2018, various recommendations on “what to do” with Kimana House (at that time known as Sidai House) were voiced. The most frequently heard was “Knock it down! It’s disgusting!” With its dark and overcrowded rooms, tinted windows and shiny tiled floors, it really was an unappealing prospect.

Richard Bonham, Big Life Foundation Director of Operations and founder of the renowned ol Donyo Lodge as well as other tourism entities, was not to be deterred. He immediately set about clearing the overgrown vegetation at the front of the house to allow light in and reveal the beautiful view. The house is in an incredible location, nestled under huge ancient yellow fever trees and on a bend of the Kimana River, but at the time it was a jungle adventure to even get a glimpse of the water. 

With a plan in place for major renovation works, and an aim for the house to re-open at the start of Kenya’s high season in July, work preparations got under way. 

“Aha”, said Mother Nature, “Not so fast… Here, have 2 years worth of rainfall in 3 months!”

TO BE CONTINUED….