Self Building

10 House Designs That Never Go Out of Style in Kenya

A quick overview of the most popular home designs in Kenya.

Updated on

January 11, 2024

Home designs in Kenya | CK — A showcase of modern architecture. PHOTO | FILE

If you are on the search for the latest house designs in Kenya, simply take a drive through the premier neighborhoods in your locality to discover the diverse architectural styles showcased by the homes.

A common observation is that many residences seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary elements, integrating timeless design concepts from the past with cutting-edge modern aesthetics.

These homes don’t adhere strictly to either an antiquated traditional or a futuristic design approach. Instead, they cleverly fuse the best of both worlds, ensuring a timeless and fashionable appeal that transcends trends year after year.

Here are some of the most popular home designs in Kenya.

American style

This is the famous Kenyan-American house style. It is one of the many architectural styles that have been used for homes across America.

American house style | CK — American style. PHOTO | FILE

Despite many years of evolution, the American house style remains one of the most popular home designs in Kenya, especially among first-time homebuilders.

Bungalow style

Bungalows are the most popular house designs in Kenya thanks to their simple, practical architecture that stresses comfort and affordability.

The style, which originated in India, is a popular choice for homeowners seeking cozy but affordable homes with a connection to nature and enduring beauty.

Cape Cod style

This design originated in New England in the 17th century.

Named after the Cape Cod region of Massachusetts, it was devised by immigrants who sought to create homes that could withstand the harsh climate of New England.

Cape Cod style | CK — Cape Cod style. PHOTO | FILE

The house style is still popular today due to its timeless beauty.

Colonial style

Colonial-style houses were very popular in the American colonies between the 1600s and 1700s when colonialists settled on the east coast of America.

These houses are characterized by their symmetrical exteriors.

Colonial style | CK — Colonial style. PHOTO | FILE

Despite many years of evolution, the colonial house style remains one of the most popular home designs in Kenya especially among ranch owners.

Craftsman style

This house style is named as such due to its focus on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the use of natural building materials such as stone, wood, and clay.

Craftsman homes are usually small to medium in size and feature low-pitched roofs, large windows, and wide front porches.

This house style remains popular among Kenyans thanks to its timeless beauty, as well as its focus on quality workmanship, comfort, and functionality.

Farmhouse style

This is a residential architectural style that is typically characterized by simple, practical design, as well as a close connection with nature.

Farmhouses feature large windows that are meant to provide sufficient natural light while allowing for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mediterranean style

Mediterranean-style homes are ideal for warmer climates, which is why this style of house is very popular in Mombasa and its neighbouring towns.

The style is influenced by the architectural details of the Mediterranean region, which often include low-pitched red tile roofs, vaulted ceilings, arched doors and windows, as well as a stucco or adobe exterior.

Modern style

As the name suggests, this style emerged in the 20th century as a reaction against the elaborate architectural styles of the ancient times.

Modern style homes are characterized by open floor plans and large windows that allow plenty of natural light while connecting the interiors to the outdoors.

This style is popular among those seeking homes that are stylish and functional.

Townhouse style

Townhouses are found in densely populated urban areas.

These houses are usually two stories tall and are attached to other homes on both ends to make the most out of the small plots in a city.

Townhouse style | CK — Townhouse style. PHOTO | FILE

Townhouses are popular among individuals seeking a low-maintenance yet comfortable urban lifestyle with a deep sense of community.

Tuscan style

This design is inspired by the old-style homes of Tuscany region in central Italy.

Tuscan-style houses are characterized by low-pitched roofs, arched doorways, and large windows that provide ample natural light and great views of the environs.