Swahili architecture

Swahili architecture is a style of building along the eastern and southeastern coasts of Africa. Though essentially of Arabic or Persian style and origin; archaeological, written, linguistic, and cultural evidence also suggests strong African influence and sustainment.^[1] There is evidence of enduring Arabic and Islamic influence in the form of trade, inter-marriage, and an exchange of ideas.^[2] Archaeologist Felix Chami notes the presence of Bantu settlements along the East African coast as early as the beginning of the 1st millennium. They evolved gradually from the 6th century onward to accommodate for an increase in trade, population growth, and further centralized urbanization.^[3] Architectural elements included arches, courtyards, isolated women's quarters, the mihrab, towers, and decorative elements on the buildings themselves. The ruins at Great Zimbabwe show some similarities to this coastal style, and also to ancient Madagascan elements such as the 'phallic' tower and the perimeter wall. Many ruins may also still be observed near the southern Kenyan port of Malindi in the ruins of Gedi (the lost city of Gede/Gedi).^[4]

To observe Swahili architecture at its best,The King Post, Nairobi (part of the Gables Group) illustrates the symbiosis between design techniques from the past mixed with a modern twist. The King Post is a Swahili Village that is unique in every sense. It brings about a unique architectural synthesis between the East African coast and the lands across the Indian Ocean, reflecting social and cultural interaction between the regions over more than 2000 years. Four major cultures have emerged to give birth to a fascinating amalgam: the Swahili building tradition developed along the coast for over than a millennium; the elegant simplicity of the massive Omani square houses introduced from the late eighteenth century; the extrovert Indian embellishment added during the nineteenth century; and the colonial intervention during the twentieth century which made itself more palatable by orientalizing itself.

Therefore, inspired by these Arabic & Portuguese cultures dating back to the 14th century, and later by the British Colonial & Indian Traditions, The King Post reflects the timeless beauty of Swahili Architecture. It has a mystic coastal warmth & intimacy. The charismatic entrance and gateway invites you to a Swahili Village that is centred around a Main Street. Narrow alleyways lead you to the tranquillity of your apartment. The intricate Swahili craftsmanship within the Suite brings alive the romance of a long forgotten era.

Location

Situated in the highly desirable and famous Westlands residential location in Nairobi (Rhapta Road), 10 minutes walk from the Nairobi’s biggest Shopping Centre with various popular restaurants, and close enough access for every possible amenity makes the King Post an ideal home in Nairobi.

References

See also

• Malindi
• Dar es Salaam
• Zanzibar
• Pillar tomb
• The King Post Nairobi

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