In Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant heart, the verdant landscapes that grace homes, hotels, and schools owe their beauty to the expertise of Anthony Musau, a dedicated forester turned visionary landscaper.
Musau’s journey from working in the sprawling Karura Forest to establishing his own successful landscaping business, Golden Field Landscapers, showcased his passion for trees, nature, and the art of transforming outdoor spaces.
With over 200 stunning gardens under his belt, Musau has become a beacon of inspiration for both novice and seasoned landscapers.
Here is his story as told by WOK
Nurtured by Nature
Anthony Musau’s affinity for the great outdoors took root during his childhood in Machakos, where he watched his father cultivate trees with care and dedication.
This upbringing nurtured a love for trees, gardening, and the beauty that nature could bring to any environment.
However, it wasn’t until he spent three years working in the lush expanse of Karura Forest that his passion for landscaping truly blossomed.
“Karura Forest was where my love for landscaping was sparked,” Musau fondly recalls. “We would be sent to different areas to do forestry and landscaping, and I got to learn so much.”
From Passion to Profession
After leaving his forestry job in 2013, Musau seized the opportunity to turn his passion into a profession.
He founded Golden Field Landscapers, a name inspired by the golden flower.
Every contract he receives is treated as a golden opportunity to create gardens that not only beautify spaces but also bring joy and happiness to his clients.
Musau’s skill set spans both forestry and landscaping, with forestry involving tree planting and landscaping focusing on the aesthetic transformation of homes, hotels, and schools.
Crafting Dreams
With a team of six dedicated employees, Musau’s portfolio boasts more than 200 exquisitely designed gardens.
His work isn’t just about designing gardens; it’s about accompanying clients on a journey from conception to completion.
Musau likens this journey to that of a parent watching their child grow. “Landscaping is a process,” he explains. “You plant the grass and watch it develop. It must be done with order.”
His approach involves collaborating closely with clients, understanding their preferences, and conducting soil sampling to ensure that the chosen plants will thrive in the designated area.
His signature plant, the sago palm, finds its way into his designs not only for its unique charm but also for its low-maintenance nature.
Cultivating Success
Musau’s dedication to his craft extends beyond design.
He constantly seeks to enhance his knowledge through ongoing courses in landscaping and forestry.
His commitment to quality is evident in his pricing structure, which factors in the size of the space, desired outcomes, and maintenance needs.
“What I consider when charging my clients is ‘How big is your compound? What do you want to be done in your garden? What is your desired result? Do you want more flowers? How much time do you have?
From quarter-acre residential gardens to expansive acre properties, Musau’s expertise transforms landscapes into captivating works of art.
The cost of a landscaped paradise ranges from Ksh150,000 to Ksh500,000 for a quarter-acre, while larger one-acre plots are priced between Ksh600,000 and Ksh2 million.
However, Musau doesn’t just leave his clients after the design phase.
He includes free maintenance until the garden reaches its full potential, providing additional value and peace of mind.
A Testament to Passion
One of Musau’s most memorable creations was the Katani Resort, a project that earned him Ksh 700,000, eight years ago.
