The Red Pepper House, designed by Urko Sanchez, is located on Lamu Island, Kenya. It exemplifies a seamless blend of traditional Swahili architectural elements with modern eco-friendly design principles. The house was commissioned to provide a private retreat that harmonizes with the surrounding natural environment while meeting specific client requirements for privacy, sustainability, and connection to the local culture.
General Layout
The house's layout is designed around the existing trees on the site, with minimal disruption to the natural environment. A large, continuous makuti thatched roof covers multiple open spaces, creating shaded areas that blend indoor and outdoor living. The only fully enclosed parts of the house are the bedroom units, providing privacy while the rest of the house remains open to the environment. This open-plan design creates a fluid interaction between sunny and shaded spaces, fostering a close connection to nature.
Facade & Materials
The Red Pepper House's facade proudly showcases local craftsmanship and materials, primarily using coral stone and timber. The bedroom units, scattered across the site, are inspired by traditional Swahili masonry techniques and mimic the scattered urban pattern of nearby homes along the coast. The extensive use of coral stone ensures natural cooling for the interiors, while the exposed timber supports for the thatched roof enhance the rustic aesthetic of the structure. This conscious use of local materials not only supports the regional economy but also ensures the structure adapts to the climatic conditions of Lamu, making you feel supportive of the local community.
Sustainability & Innovation
Sustainability was a key focus throughout the design and construction process. The house utilizes passive cooling through cross-ventilation, reducing the need for mechanical systems. Solar panels are employed for electricity generation and heating water, ensuring a minimal carbon footprint. The design also integrates a gravity-fed water tower, eliminating the need for energy-consuming water pumps. By using locally sourced materials and labor, the construction maintained an eco-friendly approach, minimizing environmental impactand making you feel environmentally conscious.
Conclusion
The Red Pepper House effectively integrates sustainable design strategies and local construction techniques. The layout prioritizes passive cooling and natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The use of solar energy for electricity generation and water heating further minimizes the building's environmental footprint. Additionally, the choice of local materials, such as timber and coral stone, not only supports the regional economy but also ensures the structure adapts to the climatic conditions of Lamu. This project serves as a case study in low-impact construction that adheres to both ecological and cultural contexts.
Photos from urkosanchez.com
