Lamu Style - Kenya

Only recently did I discover the beautiful Lamu style interiors and I got so excited when I saw the stunning environment, gorgeous homes with white plastered walls and colorful interiors that I wanted to share it with you!

Lamu is an island situated off the East African Coast close to the northern coast of Kenya to which it belongs. Lamu island can only be reached by boat but there is an airstrip on Manda island close by. Lamu is a Muslim community and welcomes all visitors. The community speaks Swahili which is a Bantu language spoken by the various ethnic groups that inhabit several large stretches of the Indian Ocean coastline.

Swahili architecture is a style of building along the eastern and southeastern coasts of Africa. The style originated from Arabia and Persia with a strong African influence. Architectural elements include arches, courtyards, a niche in the wall (mihrab), isolated women's quarters, towers and decorative elements on the buildings themselves. Swahili craftsmanship is of the highest quality and the dark wood furniture contrasts beautifully with the white plastered walls. The interior instills a sense of simplicity, yet graceful and stylish with neutral as well as rich, bright colors.

All the above images were taken at the beautiful luxurious rental homes Bembea and Jaha, located at the picturesque fishing village of Shela. The homes were built in traditional Swahili architectural style and are furnished with stylish but comfortable eclectic furnishings. The bedrooms are decorated with Lamu four poster beds, mosquito nets, and dressing tables. For more information contact Herbert Menzer at http://www.lamuholiday.com/

Images by Roland Klemp

I hope you enjoyed it! Next time more about the colorful interior style of Lamu.