Green architecture still not sustainable in Kenya

Mike Lord, Managing Director, Symbion Group

By PETER MUIRURI

1. You have been in practice in Kenya for 30 years, what changes have you witnessed during this period?

Nairobi, like other urban areas, has expanded to accommodate more people. Look at Karen for example. This used to be a low-density area. Today, it is turning out to be a high-density area.

The bypasses are opening up more areas for human habitation that were otherwise inaccessible. Still, human settlements are moving at a faster rate than infrastructure expansion. This is a priority area for our urban planners if we are to stem uncontrolled developments.

2. How has this change affected the fortunes of your profession?

Well, the job market has changed with more players joining the field. We used to have a big portfolio in the developments within the hospitality industry. We have since expanded to take on more jobs in the entire spectrum of the built environment, including designing residential buildings.

3. Symbion has handled some high profile jobs in the region. What is the experience like?

We are old hands in the sector and gaining confidence by the day. In Africa, you must be a Jack of all trades. The high profile jobs such as the refurbishment of State House in Uganda come with unique challenges, but also present learning opportunities. Locally, we have recently designed some five-star hospitality establishments like Villa Rosa Kempinski and the Greenhills Hotel Limited at the Village Market.

4. Some say the professionals in the sector are too few for our economy. Do you agree?

The profession has grown over the years. In my opinion, the industry has what it needs for the moment. Our institutions of higher learning continue training such professionals annually. And since the number is not too high, these are easily absorbed in the local market. But there is a need for more professionals in view of the new-found investment opportunities within the counties.

5. What do you think is the main challenge in the sector?

Political campaigns are a major challenge. We have peaks during the period in between the five years but this tapers off as the country gears for another round of elections. This is something we have to live with. We have learnt to adjust accordingly.

However, we are encouraged by the positive effects of the economic expansion brought about by the expanded market within the East African region. Working with organisations whose businesses cut across the six countries (including South Sudan) cushions against any setback within a given country.

6. How does Kenya compare with other countries within the region?

Kenya has a robust and resilient economy. Things are looking up with the newfound mineral wealth that is expected to generate substantial wealth.

As the country utilises any revenue generated by such resources, the private sector will no doubt follow the fortunes of the public economic sectors.

7. You are one of the few local institutions to venture into the southern part of Africa with success. How was this possible?

Yes, we do have an office in Gaborone, Botswana. Compared to Kenya, Botswana has a small population but a very high GDP, presenting a unique investment opportunity.

8. There has been a clamour for green, sustainable developments yet very few of our structures can pass the test. What needs to be done?

We all agree that our buildings should be designed to utilise natural, sustainable materials. They should also be energy efficient and have rainwater harvesting mechanisms. In fact, many clients are currently demanding that.

However, there should be a better regulatory regime to standardise such requirements. Green architecture is capital-intensive, though it pays off after a number of years. The prohibitive costs need to be addressed if the benefits of green architecture are to filter down to the majority.

9. Kenya continues to have a large housing deficit despite the much talked about construction boom. Where is the disconnect?

True, Kenya has seen a number of residential projects catering for middle- and low-density segment. However, we do not have what are termed as low-cost houses as yet. I think the government ought to come up with concrete plans that would make low-cost housing a reality. A lot of research has been conducted on the matter, but there is yet to be tangible results.

10.Land is rapidly shrinking in Nairobi. Does this make a good case for urban renewal?

It does but only after decongesting the city. You see, the city centre has all the prerequisite infrastructure needed by a developer but people will still shy away from it as long as traffic congestion is not addressed.

Urban renewal has always been practised in some of the older cities in the world. As an example, Manchester, Birmingham and Sheffield were once major industrial cities, but have been redeveloped to accommodate rising populations. The same can work here.