“Takaungu Robinson House is an example of sustainable architecture that helps to preserve a pristine coral environment and indigenous coastal rainforest of Kenya for future generations.
The idea came as a result of many trips throughout Africa and the Far East to design and build the ‘perfect’ eco-system while not compromising on quality of building materials, beauty of finishing and a feeling of privilege and luxury while staying at the property. Many design ideas and technical realisations were collected and analysed before the initial architectural and structural designs could be drafted. It was also our intention to demonstrate that eco-friendly and sustainable architecture could be beautiful and blend perfectly within the African environment while not compromising on comfort and tranquility.
Two eco-bandas (huts) and a recreational centre have been carefully placed on the two-acre plot. The buildings respond to Takaungu’s unique natural environment through sensitive use of local building materials and innovative environment-friendly technology, which ensures sustainability of the ecosystem. Each building functions as a self-sufficient unit, generating its own water and energy through rainwater harvesting and filtration, solar water-heating and photovoltaic electricity. Sewage is treated by using composting systems, and plant beds purify the grey water. There is no problem with waste water, as the treatment systems used produce fertilizer and irrigation for gardening. The design – a free-spanning lattice-shell structure using locally available resources (coconut wood, coral stones, casuarina poles, makuti roofing, etc.) – was developed and built by local builders to achieve the best possible climatic and structural performance.”
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Image source #3: Trip Advisor
A-frames are not my favorite, but this design is stunning. Do-it-yourself and this house could be built for practically free if you have the materials at hand.