LAVINGTON INSIDE OUT FEB 2020

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Trends that will dominate the REAL ESTATE SECTOR in 2020 The latest real estate trends that affected the real estate sector. the live-work-play lifestyle. This trend are best described as a has and will con�nue driving demand mixture of both posi�ve and In this ar�cle, I highlight what will be for master-planned communi�es due to nega�ve developments. carried forward and what trends are its holis�c approach to living. likely to change. For starters, the prices of real estate Many will opt to construct their own property con�nue to skyrocket, which is The housing deficit currently stands at homes having purchased pieces of land being driven by a variety of factors. Such 200,000 units annually arising from a in the neighboring towns. Mortgage factors include the looming economic growing popula�on, the demand access to buy houses will be nega�vely downturn and the emergence of a new mainly from an urban popula�on living affected by the interest rates banks put buyer demographic in the form of in slums and student accommoda�on. on the loan facili�es. The repeal of Millennials. This explains the need for low cost sec�on 3B of the Banking Sector that housing and a demand for bed-si ers saw the scrapping of the cap on interest However, some sectors are not that and one-bedroom units. rates for banks in 2019, will definitely comfortable with the increase in home reduce access to these loan facili�es. prices, expressing worries that a To fulfill the demand for low-cost housing crash may be on the horizon. housing, developers will deploy Banks will now have the authority to alterna�ve building technologies that increase their interest rates as was the Over the last couple of years, the will ul�mately reduce construc�ons case in 2011 where mortgage rates Kenyan economy has witnessed costs. averaged around 24 percent for exponen�al growth of the middle-class medium-sized banks. and this trend is likely to carry on to For a real estate developer, innova�ve 2020 as the disposable incomes of more designs that use up space more If the situa�on repeats itself then loan Kenyans is projected to increase. efficiently will be a huge plus. Careful facili�es will greatly affect an selec�on of areas to build depending on individual's ability to purchase 2019 also saw the introduc�on of new financial implica�on is also a strategic residen�al proper�es while at the same developments into the industry such as move for this demographic. �me reducing the market liquidity of the commencement of the Affordable real estate by making alterna�ve housing programme by the At the same �me, developers in satellite investments more a rac�ve to government, infrastructure towns, e.g Machakos, Kiambu will have investors. development in many parts of the to cater for change of preferences of the country and also the enactment of laws middle-class who are taking a liking for

Office spaces have also changed many paying close a en�on to making fluctua�ng energy costs which affects over�me, with the need for modern transac�ons faster. the costs of producing building facili�es being a huge factor for materials, transporta�on and businesses and organiza�ons alike. Ar�ficial intelligence is likewise construc�on. Growing SMEs and the se ling of expected to play a role in real estate with On January 10, through the Kenya mul�na�onal companies in Kenya, organiza�on, design and management Gaze e, the Energy and Petroleum which is considered a leading economic of the buildings eyed as poten�al areas Regulatory Authority announced that hub in the Sub-Saharan Africa, has of applica�on. Machine learning is also Kenyans would have to pay more for driven demand for the office spaces. increasingly being used in public spaces power as it increased the fuel energy Serviced offices have become popular to ease property design and urban cost charge and the water resource with renters op�ng for offices fi ed with planning. Office space construc�on has management authority levy. This cost modern facili�es to have that home-like also embraced the use of AI. will be passed down to the final buyer, feel. thereby making housing units costly. Property owners, landlords, and even In summary, affordable housing, Smart offices where new building builders are seeking to capitalize on demand for modern office facili�es and technologies such as green solu�ons ameni�es to a ract new tenants. Gym the steady growth of the retail sector that has been proven to increase and parking access, it seems, are no will impact the real estate industry in the employee produc�vity will be longer of cri�cal importance as they coming months but the sector will s�ll incorporated in most offices. Other have become expected of most be a preferred investment op�on. ameni�es accommodated in a smart proper�es. Most property developers office such as an equipped gym and are now looking into offering unique By Gitonga Muriithi, access ways for people with disabili�es ameni�es like communal gardens, Head of Sales & Marke ng also factor in greatly in the development movie theaters among many others. Centum Real Estate of modern offices structures. Smart homes are also making an For more insights on Kenya’s real estate The retail space has seen the mall space entrance, courtesy of savvy real estate sector, reach out to us on: increase exponen�ally with the investors. Investors' push to provide development of Two Rivers Mall, The ameni�es may very well signal the need +254 709 902 900 Hub, TRM and Garden City a rac�ng to iden�fy ameni�es that add value to both local and interna�onal brands. Email: [email protected] their proper�es. They should likewise Website: centumre.co.ke The real estate sector is no stranger to revisit their marke�ng strategies as technology. The industry is expected to ameni�es alone cannot a ract con�nue adop�ng new tech in the tenants. All property offerings coming years. Technologies that are must be adver�sed while expected to find applica�ons in the old tenants should know sector include smart home tech, online of any new ameni�es in home selling pla�orms, and apps. the building. An up�ck in the number of startups and It is also essen�al high-technology companies servicing to look at the the sector is also on the horizon, with

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CHAIRMAN Terry Downes [email protected] MANAGING EDITOR Harriet Thiong’o [email protected] SENIOR WRITERS Kevin Kamau [email protected] Brian Mwendwa [email protected] CONTRIBUTORS Lee Odden, Stephen Witt SALES AND MARKETING [email protected] DIGITAL PLATFORM [email protected] PHOTOGRAPHY 360 Marketing Agency [email protected] DESIGN AND LAYOUT 360 STRATEGIC MARKETING AGENCY Michael Lee- Team Leader [email protected] LAVINGTON INSIDE OUT Westcom Point, 4th Flr. Mahiga Mahiru Avenue, Westlands [email protected] +254 713 090 483/+254 739 855 815 A Product Of Harriet Group of Companies Ltd www.upmarketmagazines.com www.360marketingagency.co.ke www.businessnetworking.co.ke www.harrietgroup.co.ke Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 Community Guide Business A. Safety First K. Business Unusual B. Out and About L. Wealth Management C. Westlands Updates M. Investing D. New in Karen N. Networking E. Trending in Karen Entertainment Lifestyle O. Fashion Trends F. Wine and Dine P. Driven Culture G. Spectacular Homes & Gardens H. Health & Fitness I. The Escape J. Art & Beyond We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information published but we cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors of commission and omission. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily our own. 8 This Month

Editor’s Note The Heart Beat of Lavington Here’s to jolly welcome, bells and whistles in tow to the premier edition of Lavington Inside Out Magazine! We think that we’ve created yet another winner that combines the beauty, coherence and perspective of a community magazine with all the timeliness, accessibility and interactivity that the Lavington community needs. We hope you agree. The vision is to create one of the most interactive, stylish, innovative, authentic, conscious and inspiring platforms in the community. No small feat but one made easier by our team, bringing together a collective of like-minded, passionate game changers, thought leaders and style makers to deliver inspiration and leadership to prompt you to keep asking the questions, ‘why?’ and ‘why not?’ We have scoured for original thinking and genuine human connection; people with willingness to share and speak out, to strip back the spin and hype. Our goal is to uncover those truly being courageous enough to be all that they can be and are willing to bare their souls. People who are invested and divested. We love to tell their stories, your story and hopefully inspire thousands of readers, as we inform, entertain and engage you in meaningful and fruitful ways. I hope you have your ticket to The Business Network? It’s happening this March. Come grow your networks with us, let’s get to know each other better, and see where that goes! Do check out the wider upmarket magazines family; including Karen Inside Out, Gigiri Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 Inside Out, Westlands Inside Out, Karibu Kilimani and The Network mini-magazine. We’d love to hear from you. Tell us what you think and what you’d like to see more of this year! Here’s to a fruitful February! Harriet T. This Month 9

SCHOLARSHIPS TO STUDY AT ELITE COLLEGES IN THE USA & CANADA With highly compe��ve Princeton typically receives over 42,000 “ AFEX prepares “ admit rates as low as applica�ons from across the globe each Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 5.77% for Princeton, year and offers acceptance to less than students for success 6.2% for Yale and 10.6% 2000 applicants. in a changing world for Cornell, five bright and high achieving Kenyan students have already booked their With over 36,840 applicants last year, secured scholarships, relieving their places at three of the most compe��ve Awour Anguru from Interna�onal School of parents of huge financial commitments in ins�tu�ons of higher learning in the world. Kenya and Amy Miguna from St. Andrew's the United States. Many other Kenyan Turi have been counted among the 796 students through AFEX in the past year As college admissions become more students admi ed into Yale University. secured admission to some of the top compe��ve with each passing year, young Awour and Amy also made tremendous universi�es and colleges around the world men and women from public and private achievements in both their SATs, both and secured over $25 million worth of schools in Kenya are on their way to these ranking in the top 2% of students scholarships in total. world class ins�tu�ons. Sandra Wangari worldwide. (Alliance Girls' High School), Brandon With the help of AFEX Test Prep Kenya, an Ambetsa (Brookhouse Interna�onal Cornell University is well known as one of educa�onal enrichment agency that School), Awour Onguru (Interna�onal the most compe��ve Arts and Sciences specializes in preparing students for School of Kenya), Amy Miguna (St. colleges in the US and the world. Diane standardized tests like the SAT, SSAT, GRE, Andrews Turi), Diane Okongo (Africa Okongo, having a compelling record of TOEFL, and GMAT with branches in Leadership Academy, SA) and Twity accomplishment in her high school, Westlands, Karen and across Ghana, these Gitonga (Alliance Girls' High School) have na�onal and interna�onal pla�orms, young bright students were adequately booked their places at these Ivy League secured her posi�on in Cornell's class of prepared to excel in their college ins�tu�ons. 2024! prepara�ons and they indefa�gably made Kenya proud. Several other Kenyan Sandra Wangari and Brandon Ambetsa Finally, another Alliance Girls High School students have also received scholarships to have been admi ed together with 789 alumnus, Twity Gitonga, has also been pres�gious USA universi�es through the other students into Princeton's Class of admi ed to one of the best engineering assistance of AFEX Test Prep. 2024. Their outstanding performance on programs at Bucknell University. Her the SAT, both ranking among the top 1% of impressive academic and extracurricular “Congratula�ons! I am delighted to inform students worldwide, High School Leaving work is deserving of such world class you that you have been admi ed into…..\" Examina�ons and their numerous educa�on. were words that flooded decision le ers of excellence awards in high school secured these high school graduates who are ready them the coveted spots at Princeton For these students, the added joy comes to fly to the US for higher educa�on. University. Ranked as the Best Na�onal from receiving substan�al financial aid University by U.S. News and World Report, from the universi�es. These brilliant minds 10

ABOUT US MAIN OFFICE: AFEX Test Prep Ltd is an educa�onal enhancement organisa�on. 0704904500/ 0728230303 A leader in test prepara�on for SAT, SSAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, TOEFL & IELTS. KAREN OFFICE AFEX assists hundreds of students to gain admission into ter�ary 0742866590 and secondary ins�tu�ons in US�Canada on Scholarship. EMAIL ADDRESS [email protected] Main Office: 8th floor of Westcom Point Building along Mahiga Mairu Avenue, opposite Safaricom Headquarters in Westlands WEBSITE We are proud to announce that AFEX Kenya has opened a new www.afextestprep.com branch in Karen, at Raena Learning Center, inside Karen Professional Center. SAT lessons at the new center will start on Tuesday, 4th February, 2020

Melchizedek Hospitals opened its doors quality services thus gaining the trust of pa ents. This to the public in April 2000. Star ng has enabled them to partner with most insurance with their out and inpa ent facility on companies to give medical services to those they Naivasha road and later opened an cover. They have also become a referral facility for outpa ent branch at Ngong town health providers around us. Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 Melchizedek Hospital recounts the amazing journey it Realizing the importance of the community around has been; growing from seeing a handful of pa ents them, they have strived to make a difference in with an inpa ent capacity of 3 beds to seeing health delivery to them by ensuring quality services hundreds of pa ents with an inpa ent bed capacity that are affordable and conduc ng Free Paediatric of 50. camps, Free Cervical screening campaign among others. 2020 is a great year for Melchizedek Hospital Over the years they have gained valuable experience as they shall be celebra ng 20 years' anniversary. and knowledge in health services focusing on giving 12 Your Well-Being



Reviews SCAVENGE THE STARS When Amaya rescues a mysterious stranger from drowning, she fears her rash ac ons have earned her a longer sentence on the debtor ship where she's been held cap ve for years. Instead, the man she saved offers her unimaginable riches and a new iden ty, se�ng Amaya on a perilous course through the coastal city-state of Moray, where old-world opulence and desperate gamblers collide. Amaya wants one thing: revenge against the man who ruined her family and stole the life she once had. Scavenge the Stars is a garrote of a book, and by the me you realize it, it'll already have you by the throat. Amaya and Cayo's quests for vengeance and redemp on will tear them-and you-apart, even as they uncover the terrible truths that bind them together. Packed with high-stakes adventure, romance, and dueling iden es, this gender-swapped retelling of The Count of Monte Cristo is the first novel in an epic YA fantasy duology. Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 LIKE A BOSS MORE. AGAIN. FOREVER 'You want to be a business woman? You're going to have to act like a You might think you know what to expect boss.\" from The Courteeners, but the tle track of their sixth album might just throw you a This goofy entrepreneur comedy is curveball. Without abandoning the well- about two best friends with very executed anthemics that form the basis of different ideals who decide to start their success, the Manchester band’s sixth a beauty company together. album weighs in on the subjects of ageing, alcohol and mental health But when they run into financial trouble and sell to a big name On it, front man Liam Fray takes on spoken corpora on, it puts their friendship word while his band mates loop an elas c at risk as they ba�le about how to bass groove and foot-shuffling beat proceed under new ownership. beneath. \"The world of beauty is about to get ugly.\" Of course it is. This looks excrucia ngly bad, and not even laughably bad. The comedy, directed by Miguel Arteta and wri�en by Sam Pitman and Adam Cole-Kelly, has a cast so overflowing with talent you wouldn’t want to miss. 14 This Month

Oldarpoi Mara Camp, and its sister camp Oldarpoi Wageni, is well posi oned for your enjoyment of the Masaai Mara. The rolling plains around the Camp are teeming with wildebeest, gazelles and zebras during the migra on months, and the Camp is situated right in the center of their migra on path. ACCOMODATION AUTHENTIC SAFARIS CULTURE Carefully designed & Sample the fabled Discover your life me decorated rooms for hospitality of the dream of encountering the Maasai community comfort & luxury big game and cultural experiences TOURISM FOR SOCIAL CHANGE 14 Riverside, Hannover Block-Ground Floor River Front, Ground Floor, Two Rivers Mall, Limuru Road Mobile: 0708-800847 / 0708-800848 CONTACT US: +254 721 731927 / 725 278 942 / [email protected] Mobile: +254 (0) 715 764 260?1 www.oldarpoimaracamp.co.ke Email: [email protected] www.secretgardencafe.co.ke Email: [email protected] @olpulsteakhouseand grill @olpulsteakhouse 5 steps to find the perfect pendant with leader in lighting solutions cosmetics Match your new pendant to your current décor style skin care Consider the size of the space the pendant will feature in. Make sure the pendant complements the space, not overshadow it. & Perfumes They should be hung approximately 1.7 M from the floor, to allow people si ng at the table to easily talk to each other without it becoming intrusive. The 25th Hive is a black and white cosme c and skin care store located Add the flexibility of dimmers where you can. on the First Floor of the Water Front Mall Karen . With an assortment of website: www.ligh ngsolu ons.co.ke products ranging from your trusted Visit our store at: Oil Libya Plaza, Muthaiga Road And let us classics to emerging favorites, Call us on :+254 729 110 190 The 25th Hive has fast risen to be a ILLUMINATE YOUR LIFESTYLE leader in the cosme cs and skin care Email us: info@ligh ngsolu ons.co.ke world. @the25thhive your one stop hive for original & affordable products. +254 792 876304

AGENCY WEB DESIGN WHY CHOOSE US . Let us help you navigate this vast digital landscape WHO WE ARE by not only developing a world-class website for you, but also looking into opportuni es presented Welcome to 360 Marke ng Agency. It’s rare to find a through exis ng & emerging channels and trends marke ng firm that doesn’t describe itself as ‘passionate’ and this makes iden fying the right marke ng agency for Web Development (Corporate, your business a challenging task. E commerce, Responsive, SEO, Mobile, CMS & CRM) Strategic Marke ng indeed involves fine art in mul ple facets, and we’re well prac ced. Strategic Marke ng warms Website Management & Promo on. up our core, being crea ve at it is what we are known for. We know true quality, the businesses that appreciate the WHAT ELSE CAN difference and what they are looking for. We use our WE DO FOR YOU? experience and understanding of the Kenyan market to differen ate your brand, define the most effec ve routes to EXPERIENTIAL DIGITAL market and ways of communica ng with poten al clients. MARKETING MARKETING PHOTOGRAPHY BRAND & VIDEOGRAPHY DESIGN CALL/WHATSAPP US [email protected] ���� ��� ��� WWW.360MARKETINGAGENCY.CO.KE



Organized Planet ...for Organized Living! Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 We've all been there. What to put where or Organized Planet, which ran out of Rose's house. how to manage the clu er that seems to take over our lives. We struggle to find At the me online shopping was s ll gaining popularity, it was organizing solu ons that work. nowhere near the level that it is at now. Opera ng solely online was a huge a gamble but it is certainly something that Organized Planet restores your home's inner peace. has paid off. Organized has now grown to the go to storage and décor solu on shop; with physical shops in both Nairobi Organized Planet is a home and living brand that provides and Mombasa, while s ll catering to their online clientele innova ve storage and decor solu ons to keep your everyday through delivery. life and home organized. Organized Planet can be described as where func onality A�er gradua ng university Rose Memeu, Co-founder, moved meet style. It has grown its catalogue to offer both organizing to Switzerland, taking up a job as a part- me nanny and an and décor solu ons. Organizing is the heart of the business, assistant project manager for a so�ware company. however, Organized Planet acknowledges that an organized While there, Rose was fascinated by the Swiss me culously and beau ful home is the goal for every homeowner. organized way of living. They not only had clu er free lives; they had specific products to organize and solve their It is difficult to appreciate beau ful décor when a space is everyday problems. clu ered. For that, Organized Planet has incorporated décor pieces that s ll speak to the soul of the business, organizing, While a ending her sister's baby shower, Rose brought back while providing the much-needed aesthe cs. some products for the baby. These became the talk of the shower. With their friends reques ng the same a�erwards. Organized planet has come up with solu ons that define your Intrigued by the recep on, Rose posted some of the items on space and solidify your décor theme. They make it easier for Facebook, and the reac on was no less intriguing. Lots of you to find solu ons that are both stylish and func onal. pre-orders came in. The products range from bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, By carefully analyzing what people were asking for and where furniture, car, carpets and rugs as well as storage op ons. the demand was, Rose recognized a market opportunity to Whether you're looking for a fool proof way to pack for sell organizing solu ons online. In 2015, on a shoestring travel, or simply need to refresh your home, Organized Planet budget, Rose and her sister Fridah Memeu, founded has the perfect selec on. www.organized-planet.com 18 Lifestyle



e Nairobi The Nairobi Waldorf School Trust welcomes more than 300 children on two campuses in Nairobi, Kenya. The Karen WALDORF campus includes toddler, playgroup, and kindergarten classes as well as primary grades 1 to 8 and high school School Trust grades 9 to 12. The Lavington campus consists of toddler, playgroup, and kindergarten classes in addi on to primary grades 1 and 2. Waldorf educa on was developed at the beginning of the 20th century by Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner. Steiner's educa on approach is inspired by his philosophy and teachings, called anthroposophy. The first Waldorf school was established in 1919 in Germany and schools around the world just celebrated 100 years of Waldorf educa on. Waldorf educa on and teaching methods are designed to s mulate and nurture both the academic and crea ve capaci es and abili es of a child.

The curriculum nourishes the intellectual growth, physical the children. Subject teachers are u lized a�er grade one as the movement, and ar s c interests of a child. Through this, Waldorf depth and breadth of learning increases. cul vates each child's unique contribu on to the future through the unfolding of courage, compassion, and knowledge. Waldorf schools use a main lesson approach to teach academic The Waldorf approach fosters and empowers a child's sense of subjects. The Waldorf students have a one and a half to two hour self-discovery. This maximizes the poten al for learning, loving, morning main lesson daily. The selected subject is taught in a and crea ng through educa ng the head, heart, and hands. comprehensive three to four week 'block', allowing for freshness, Waldorf graduates maintain a strong sense of self-confidence enthusiasm, and a concentrated, in-depth experience that gives combined with academic knowledge and prac cal skills to meet the children me to digest what has been learned. life and all its possibili es. Waldorf class teachers remain with their class from grade one U lizing the 'block' system of learning allows for balanced through the primary years. This allows for a unique social group explora on through a variety of methods. Immersion in a single of teacher, students, and parents that helps to support learning. subject promotes horizontal integra on of cogni ve and ar s c The teacher establishes a rou ne that becomes second nature to disciplines as well as The Waldorf curriculum is designed to meet each stage of a child's development from early childhood, through adolescence, into young adulthood.

SAarfariique Sarai Afrique Fashion House believe that A well-dressed woman is a powerful, confident and empowered Fashion House woman. They have been serving women for the last Seven years and the experience they have gained over with �me has allowed them to be a brand that is well posi�oned in the e-commerce sector with a modern website and a physical store located along the busy James Gichuru road at Lavington mall on 2nd floor. Their collec�ons are composed of �meless work and casual dresses, versa�le pants and tops, classy blazers, sophis�cated suits, elegant evening wear and exquisite accessories. They stock up designs that fit the sophis�cated woman as well as the modern styles of clothing that best suit the trends of today's world.

They offer personalized styling classes with the aim to women in business share their experiences in the journey of educate, inspire and excite women to know and develop entrepreneurship as well as the corporate world.These their personal style based on their preferences, size, lifestyle, stories cut across all ages and cultures, they inspire women culture and age. They teach women to express themselves in to excel in their fields as well as yield posi�ve role models for their clothing, to be authen�c in their style and in other women. themselves, by educa�ng them on how to love their bodies and to dress themselves well. Whether you're looking to find good quality clothing at a convenience or looking to improve your self-image or simply At Sarai one of their key pillars is women empowerment. looking for a place to connect with fellow women. Sarai They offer a pla�orm known as the Founder's feature where Afrique Fashion house is where you want to be.

Fancy Bush Dining An enchanted garden offering: Live Cooking Homemade Swahili Food Mee ngs and Events Venue B Coffee & Cake House Open irds trill, sweetly high, the chorus as playful as in, you're quite impressed with the warm recep on, you the birds themselves. With closed eyes, you pick a quiet spot in the upper garden. imagine their music to be colours, pain ng stairs The sun washes the garden with a golden glow. There is in the same way grapevines grow- this way and that, in beau ful chaos that isn't quite random. a baked-apple smell in the air. It is the smell of plants Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 growing. Cheeping sparrows invade the garden looking In the calm of the day, your heartbeat is the steady drum to for juicy grubs and shiny seeds. their melody, and you seep into the moment, allowing myself to climb those rainbow stairs. You're at Kitchen Mechuka. You no ce buds that just begun flowering, and the splash of colour around you. There are birds everywhere: hun ng, wading, nes ng. The sounds, sights and smells unite your It's come to your a en on that this one of a kind garden- senses with the natural surroundings in the most restaurant in Lavington is open, so you came, it was easy to immediate and s rring way. You are delighted. find, right on the road at Gitanga Road Junc on. You walk 24 Cover Story



Joy joins you and offers the menu. You order a cappuccino and Right you say! You no ce how the furniture blends with the some pastries. She offers to show you around as they prepare it. environment; safari chairs, elegant wooden tables and decor that speaks of simplicity, roughness, and heaviness in all It's been a while since you've seen nature in her humble geometric shapes. brilliance, untouched. The grass; the shade of every dreamer's meadow, roots quenched, soil renewed in the rains. Trunks Coastal bins float around the garden (you didn't actually know gnarled, twisted, massive girth, branched, kno�ed, green with that they were bins), minimized décor makes you appreciate moss, shaggy, interlacing roots protruding from the soil in great this serene and in mate environment even more. Everything loops and ridges. Sprawling branches, s ff branches, looks effortlessly in place, but the aroma is even more overhanging branches. invi ng. Amid each green leaf and delicate petal, there are the dancing She shows you to the lower gardens with more si�ng places, colors and new branches that dart. You listen with more than both private and open and she finally invites you to see the your ears. indoor si�ng. She explains that Kitchen Mechuka is only 3 months open, but “You no ce that all our tables are fi�ed with cookers. Well, food quickly becoming a favorite for many; from breakfast to lunches is best enjoyed sizzling hot and some mes its nice to par cipate to early dinners, mee ngs, events like birthdays and in making it, a li�le. So guests have the op on to have their food celebra ons, it's all happening here. “These gardens are the outside, direct from the grill or sit inside and s ll have the live very soul of Kitchen Mechuka and the heart of it is our home- cooking experience.” made Swahili Food and of course, the grill. Nothing beats live cooking in the garden, right?”



She explains as she signals you that your mshikakis are presented, sizzling, you all want more; so you get some extra slices cappuccino is ready. almost turn into drooling fools. The packed for you. meat literally peels off the s ck, its Kitchen Mechuka has turned out to be tenderness surprises you, its deep taste As you prepare to leave, the team more than you expected, so as you sit is nearly impossible to describe. The surprises you with some packed goodies alone enjoying the cup, you decide to slight chew, the character, the from Black Forest House; some cookies take out your iPad; you might as well juiciness… It all combines into a and cupcakes, it's a pleasant surprise, work from here today. The pastries are mouthful unlike any other. neatly and beau fully packed with a to die for; super moist, so delicate, they thank you card! melt in your mouth. You keep the Mshikakis coming with your Ugali as you chat away in hearty You aim your camera to capture the Two hours pass easily, you alert Joy that laughter. Eventually, your lunch is gone, dazzling colors reflec ng on your smiles, you are having some friends over for and you turn to dessert. Joy men ons in sheer harmony with the vibrant green lunch, and you would like to have the that the desserts are from Black Forest around it, you share the selfie with your live cooking experience. It only takes Cake House, the coffee and cake cafe in friends, post and check in at your new them 10 minutes to get there from the the compound. favorite place; @KitchenMechuka. office; you show them around and you se le down to have the experience. It's elegantly presented. Smooth, melt in You know that you'll be back. You know the mouth, luxuriant, silky. You love the that no such experience could be forced Service is impeccable and no ceably way it glistened when it melted and the or faked, it's a work of passion. You're fast. You're presented with fresh salad. way it crumbled when it was hard. glad that you know exactly where you're There's le uce, cucumber, tomato, You've discovered new pleasure. You taking her for Valen nes, aren't you? apple, walnut, toasted seeds, fresh herb leaves, celery and radish. The salad is tossed in a rich creamy dressing, ever so slightly. It is everything salad should be. Your cold drinks follow, freshly squeezed. One sip and you think to yourself that Kitchen Mechuka's fruits sit longer in the sun; rich flavor, bright color and sweet smell. But a hunk of beef, cut into a perfect por on, seasoned, and seared on a ripping hot is one of the most delicious things you'll ever eat, anywhere. So when the Kitchen Mechuka signature

An Enchanted garden offering Live Cooking Homemade Meetings & Coffee & Cake coastal dishes Events Venue House Open KITCHEN MECHUKA is located along James Gichuru Road, Gitanga Road Junction, House no. 2. CONTACT Come f an experience 0794 263 423 YOU WILL NEVER FORGET

BLACK FOREST CAKE HOUSE Cakes that make a statement Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 It could be said that Alice unbelievably charming and Simba has built her en re inspiring character- she truly is an career and business on iconic woman, always 10 steps selling good taste. She's a ahead in her game. renowned 'cake queen' and the incredible brain behind the “I love combining colors, shapes successful Black forest House. and aesthe cs — to create cake Now you're catching on… magic. It's all about layering, combining, and thinking out of When it comes to picking quality the box, to make ideas happen.” ingredients, marrying dis nct She says. flavors, mel ng and bea ng bu er, whisking a smooth ba er There are two types of cake in the and of course, watching it rise and world; the rich, sophis cated one, turn golden, she naturally excels; best eaten in delicate slivers a�er her incredible passion for baking dinner; and the homely, is way too obvious when she's comfor ng kind that, if push came taking cake- be it on TV, her to shove, most of us really prefer YouTube Channel or to Gigiri on a normal day. Yes, a piece of Inside Out! cake holds the power to make everything right. Transforming this passion into a successful business is something Wouldn't you agree? I mean it can we all admire her for and some of instantly cheer us up. It's the way us just want to listen to her story we say 'I Love You'. It's at the core over and over again- her humble of our tradi ons, and part of our beginnings, her figh ng spirit, special memories. It's how we daring to dream and her celebrate the very essence of life! 30 Cover Story

There's nothing quite like bi ng into a light, moist black forest Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 cake. Slowly, the cream fros ng trickles down the divine chocolate with your first bite. A�er you devour the cherry topping, it feels like stars are dancing gracefully on your tongue. Suddenly, the smooth cake bursts into moments of goodness in your mouth, as you stomach growls impa ently for another bite! Can you resist this heavenly Black Forest House classic? Cover Story 31

More than a decade later, the bakery has mastered the art carefully demarcated with icing. Now that's how you sa sfy of crea ng sinful treats and making us droll over them and sensory cravings of taste and sight. it's no surprise that they made the cover, or that they're an Alice goes on to talk about the occasional cake. all- me-favorite for most of us! “There are many tasks in wedding planning that provide a chance to exercise crea vity. Decora ons, music, favors and Black Forest House is a bakery specializing in fresh, quality more let the wedding planner show her stuff. But the cakes and pastries at reasonable prices. The bakery has wedding cake, literally and metaphorically, tops them all. gained a strong reputa on for their 'home-made' taste, and The same could be said about most special occasions- an incredibly large variety of unique cakes- from forest cakes birthdays, anniversaries, home and office par es- and we with fresh whipping cream and fruit to chocolate fudge love to help our clients make a statement!” Alice says. cakes and banana cakes – and the crea vity and And talking of making statements and blissfully sa sfying customiza on that goes into them. But it is their consistent delicacies, we got her to take us through a few of her quality throughout their branches that has kept us going favorites… back for more, not to men on the overwhelming sensa ons “Many cake designs, especially for weddings start from the of the aroma of hot chocolate and sour fruity juice even tradi onal recessed stacked circular layers. Even within that before we take in the excitement of what we see! constraint, there are lots of op ons. A cherry fros ng shaped like ribbons and decorated with mul -colored edible It has always been possible, in certain frames of mind, to confe can display just the right touch of fes veness. Or, a look at a cake, especially an occasional one, and think of it as delicate white, with faux-roses sprou ng from the rim at a work of art. For most bakers, the best part will always be each level, can project the perfect air of love. At Black Forest dressing it up and bringing it all together- ah, the beau ful House, all our wedding cakes are elegantly handmade and icing. But this is where Black Forest House takes that sort of crea vely designed for the center piece show. Let's talk ar s c apprecia on to a whole new level. From the outside, mood…” she con nues. your cake could look like your beloved pet, complete with their naughty face. Cut it, and you have sliced yourself an edible canvas, its finely balanced squares of colored sponge

“A design can be fun or serious, romantic or playful. After all, the marriage will hopefully incorporate all these aspects and more. Why shouldn't the cake? One thing that any good wedding cake will have for sure, though, is this: it will be unique. Just like the couple getting married.” For more informa on, visit www.blackforesthouse.co.ke Located along James Gichuru Road Gitanga Road Junc on, House No.2

TRENDING IN LAVINGTON MONIKOS KITCHEN Food is their passion at Monikos, and everything starts with the freshest, finest ingredients they can get their hands on. Apart from their salmon, which comes from Norway, everything is sourced from Kenya and organic where possible. They boast one of the best breakfasts in town, with an unbeatable Eggs Benedict and the wholly original Breakfast Burger. Along with their famous wraps, salads and pastas, their specials menu, updated every other day based on new dish concepts and seasonal ingredients, is a favourite during lunch. Of course, the specials are just as suitable at dinner, when they offer a range of burgers, fillets and cuts off the grill and delicacies hand-picked from interna onal cuisines. THE ARBOR PLACE Recently opened at 904 James Gichuru Rd. They pride themselves as the new go-to café in town. They are also the new eco-friendly garden café in the heart of the Lavington leafy suburbs' with a diverse menu selec on from the far east of Africa. The Arbor Place offers a wide selec on of dishes like mouth-watering crispy chicken and prawn wantons, sinful Tiramisu, home-made pasta tossed in a dreamy cream sauce with chicken and bacon and freshly baked bread and yummy meat specially grilled to your liking.

LAVINGTON HILL HOUSE Lavington hill house is set on top of a hill overlooking the Mzima springs in the leafy green Lavington suburbs. It features a stately charm and privacy of the home to weary travelers with free Wifi. Each room in the facility has an en- suite bathroom, a mini bar, a study area, tea/coffee making facili es and an air condi on. All rooms also feature full length windows and a private terrace. Lavington Hill House offers a choice of two restaurants, de Mabior: the main restaurant is furnished with beau ful mahogany that creates a lovely atmosphere for meals. The second restaurant gazebo overlooks the gardens providing an aura of tranquility; Guests can also lounge at the outdoor restaurant and have their meals al fresco. MUMMYDADA'S NIGERIAN RESTAURANT If you are looking for where to enjoy quality Nigerian food in Nairobi, here is the place. It is located in uptown Nairobi and quite accessible by taxi. There are accommoda on facili es in the complex and a restaurant and bar. Outside and inside feeding is available. Looking for cold drinks? They are available. It's a must go, especially if you savor Nigerian dishes and accompanying pool bar. TORANJ Toranj offers a delicious combina on of Turkish and Persian cuisine. It is to date the only restaurant in Nairobi to offer either. Grilled meat, mostly kebabs and ko�as, are the order of the day, so hardly an ideal place for vegetarians. The menu is as tasty as it is simple. Pizzas are also on the menu, with the make-your-own-pizza being the kids' eternal favorite. With this one, they are straight off to the kitchen, to return 15 min with a lot of flour on their clothes. That's ok, though, because they are straight off to the playground next. That gives the parents the chance to relax and enjoy, which is part of the reason why you'd love Toranj!

Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020NAIROBI ART CENTRE Uncork your inner Ar st “Art enables us to find and lose ourselves at the same time.” Thomas Merton. The Nairobi Arts Center is the perfect place to achieve this balance. 36 Art & Beyond

Located in the serene suburbs of Lavington Nairobi, experience. All the art classes offer a wealth of informa on The Nairobi Arts Centre provides a s mula ng and on tools, materials and techniques in combina on with art suppor ve environment for adults and children. history. The art programs include drawing, pain ng, po ery, graphic design and more. Design based workshops in mosaic, Every care giver hopes to nurture and bring out the best out graffi , Sculpture. of their children, art makes a vital contribu on to the development of emo onal and intellectual intelligence. While learning all the cra�s create beau ful memories as the Pain ng and drawing develop a child's ability to understand beau ful art studio forms the perfect backdrop for yours or quali es of colour, tone, rhythm in daily life, nature and of your child's next birthday party! From set-up to clean-up and course, in art. everything in between, The Nairobi Arts Centre hosts totally awesome, organised and crea ve shindigs that are fun for all. Cra�s enhance sensi vity to structure, texture, pa ern and colour. Other than bringing out the child's crea ve side art, reduces stress level in children and boosts their self-esteem. The Nairobi Arts Center has an inclusive approach that provides an opportunity for the star ng, intermediate or advanced ar st to par cipate in the crea on and promo on of func onal art course, classes, workshops for all levels of

Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020EXPRESS IMPRESS Making it easy for you to move around Is it convenient? How safe is it? These are the kind of ques�ons you have while looking for a transport op�on. Express Impress Car Hire Ltd provides solu�ons that cater for these specific needs. A privately owned Car Hire as well as Taxi/Cab company, they provide services to companies as well as private individuals. Founded in 2009, Express Impress has tremendously grown and offers services in Nairobi, Mombasa, Thika and Eldoret. For your convenience they have a state of the art automated dispatch system that allows clients to book for taxis through the web, mobile app (iOS and Android pla�orms) and on phone. This pla�orm is available for individuals as well as corporate clients. Corporate clients are allowed credit and can pay for trips done by their staff on a monthly basis. 38

The corporate portal has extensive features including hijack solu�ons. These enables the monitor and approval systems and report facili�es to enable each manage the fleet from the control room at their office corporate manage its journeys. Individual clients are to ensure the safety and security of the clients. able to pay for their journeys through cash, Mpesa or e-wallet. Express Impress also provides rental services on a monthly basis or longer to corporate travelers. Safety has always been a priority and Express Impress Moreover, they offer a wide range of vehicle range chauffeurs are well trained in safe defensive driving. from economic, execu�ve and luxurious sedans to The fleet is fi ed with up to date technology such as spacious MPVs to suit your needs. vehicle tracking and monitoring devices with an�-

Wan Fam Clothing Store Wan Fam is an urban fashion store currently based in Nairobi. The brand was a concept developed by two brothers. Jeff Wanjala the C.E.O and co-founder describes it as a casual beginning when his brother painted over the design of a second hand t- shirt with white paint and then made a cool design over it. He later posted a photo on Facebook and got 13 orders from a friend.

Wan fam has since slowly ventured into other products and Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 e�panded their por�olio. They not only operate as a clothing line dealing with mostly urban fashion but also producing and brand items/uniforms for companies, NGOs and other clothing lines. Their products include t-shirts, shorts, trousers, bag packs, jackets, travel bags, hooded sweatshirts & much more. 41

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Over the years Wan Fam's cool a�re has a�racted trend-se�ers in the Kenyan entertainment and social scene. They have successfully established themselves as a local brand with all their products being designed, cut and made here in Kenya. Wan Fam clothing uses high-end materials such as khaki, denim, co�on, twill and also incorporates African associated fabrics to their designs. The unique simplicity, style and classic design is the ideal signature of Wan Fam products.

CLASSIC VEGAN FALAFEL

Ingredients Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 • 1 cup dried chickpeas • 1 large onion (chopped) • 2 cloves of garlic (chopped) • 3 tablespoons of fresh parsley (chopped) • 1 teaspoon coriander • 1 teaspoon cumin • 2 tablespoons flour • Peper to taste Directions 1. Place dried chickpeas in a bowl, covering with cold water. Allow to soak overnight. Drain chickpeas, and place in pan with fresh water, and bring to a boil. 2. Allow boiling for 5 minutes, then let simmer on low for about an hour. 3. Drain and allow cooling for 15 minutes. 4. Combine chickpeas, garlic, onion, coriander, cumin, salt and pepper (to taste) in medium bowl. Add flour. Mash chickpeas, ensuring to mix ingredients together. You want the result to be a thick paste. 45

Easy Skillet INGREDIENTS Lasagna • 1 pound ground Italian sausage • 2 14 ounce cans tomato sauce • 1-14 ounce can diced tomato • 1/2 yellow onion diced • 3 garlic cloves minced • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper • 3/4 pound lasagna noodles (broken) • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Toppings • Mozzarella cheese • Ricotta cheese • fresh parsley DIRECTIONS 1. Add the ground sausage to a large skillet and cook over medium heat while stirring. Once the sausage is mostly cooked add the diced onion to cook. 2. When the onion is translucent and soft and sausage is cooked through add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional 30 seconds. 3. Add the tomato sauce and diced tomato to the skillet. Stir to GO combine. 4. Add seasonings and stir. Break the lasagna noodles over the skillet and add to the sauce. Press the noodles down as much as possible into the sauce. Cover the pan and allow to simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes stirring occasionally. 5. Once the noodles are softened add in a cup of mozzarella cheese. Stir to combine. 6. Serve and top with additional mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, and fresh parsley. Lavington Inside Out | Feb 2020 46

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