Professionals in the construction industry play an important role in the shaping of a country’s built-environment.
The buildings we see were planned by architects who then passed their ideas to building contractors who executed the envisioned buildings.
In this article, WoK looks at young Kenyan designers who are redefining the construction industry.
Victor Mungai
Victor Ndung’u Mungai is the founder of Ridadi Designers and Constructors.
The architect established the company in 2007 having combined education he gained from school with his creative streak to design exquisite homes for clients.
“We give the best offers for our clients. We are also very trusted and loyal to our clients. We do good recording and integrity is also a huge part of our transactions
“This has help us to build a strong foundation for us and our clients,” he said.
Other than being an architect, Mungai also has interests in interior design.
People seeking architectural services can reach him by calling 0712-796754 or shooting an email to ridadidesigners@gmail.com.
Damaris Wachera
Damaris Wachera Sande is the proprietor of and managing director of Extreme Interior Design.
The architectural and construction company offers residential and commercial interior and exterior designs among other services.
Wachera established her company in 2013 with an initial capital of Ksh 150,000, and it took her four years for the business to break.
“My inspiration to get into this line of business came from a friend, who wasn’t afraid to teach and mentor me,” she said in an interview with Nation.
Adding;
“Although I had someone to hold my hand when I started, I was very new in the market… marketing, getting clients and referrals were my biggest challenges, it took two years to really establish a client base.”
David Chola
David Chola is the lead architect at Adroit Architecture, a Nairobi-based firm practicing in the construction industry within the East African region.
The company has handled various architectural designs and received broad experience dealing with building projects from inception of a design to supervision of construction.
“We truly care about our users and the end product which is why we desire to render good design and conscientious contract management
“Our work includes production of many different building types. Each design should stand the test of time,” Chola states on the company’s website.
Chola partnered with Irene Wairimu to start the company.
Aleem Manji
Aleem Manji is the founder of Aleem Manji Architects; he started the company in his bedroom with only a computer, a desk and a chair.
11 years later, he is a force to reckon with on Kenya’s architecture landscape with a project portfolio valued at billions of shillings.
The company has also grown in personnel, they now have three architects, one project manager, three technicians, one Architectural Visualizer and administrative staff.
“It’s a little bit of both luck and hard work. I’ve been lucky to work with a very talented and supportive team as well,” Aleem said.
Martin Tairo
Martin Tairo is the founder of Architecture Kenya Media Ltd.
Established in 2012, the company designs projects of several genres, including residential, commercial, interiors, industrial and hospitality typologies.
Tairo works alongside Brian Munene and Peter Shambi to run the company.
“We are passionate about our work and offering exemplary project solutions that are aesthetically striking and environmentally responsible
“We pride ourselves on our balance of individual creativity, collaborative design process, and responsive, professional practice,” Tairo said.
