Suzanne Gachukia's elegant home
Arts Lounge
By
Nailantei Kenga
| Jun 29, 2024
Suzanne Gachukia-Opembe looks as stunning today as she did when she first hit the music airwaves.
A true icon of the '80s music scene, she was known for her incredible talent and unforgettable hits. Then known as Suzanne Kibukoskya, she wasn't just a star but a trailblazer whose voice and style defined a generation.
Her home is a secluded oasis in a charmingly forgotten corner of Nairobi's suburbs.
Her four-bedroom ensuite residence is truly unique. The architectural style is exquisite and distinct. I was particularly impressed by the abundance of plants surrounding the home and the terrace, adorned with lush creepers.
In her reception area, there are two quirky seats and an exquisite memento from her sister -a majestic piece symbolizing a horn, or 'pembe' in Kiswahili as a symbol of her husband's last name.
Two quirky seats at the entrance give the impression of an interrogation area, where guests might need approval before entering the main house. I jokingly ask her if that was their purpose, and she laughs, admitting she had never thought about it that way.
The corridor leading to her living room is adorned with art pieces of the Big Five, each beautifully framed. I couldn't help but ask if she owns the home or is renting.
"This home was a gift from my parents when I got married, and I love it. The minute I walked in, I knew it was my style," she says with a smile.
The living room, with its vast windows, seamlessly connects to her beautiful outdoor lounge, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living.
The mahogany floor exudes warmth and an inviting ambience, while vintage chandeliers add a retro touch to the space.
In the living room, I am struck by a stone wall adorned with musical-themed vintage art pieces in bespoke frames. One particularly quirky 3D piece speaks volumes about her passion for art and music.
Her home feels timeless and remarkable, a harmonious blend of vintage, eclectic, and custom-made furniture pieces, dominated by heirlooms. At once both rustic and glamorous.
Among the cherished furniture pieces she acquired in Ireland is a luxurious vintage cream couch that she adores. The other seats and furniture are treasured heirlooms from her parents, adding a rich sense of history and personal touch to her home.
Her dining area is equally captivating. Custom-made furniture adorns the space, including an incomparable dining set. Antique cabinets add an inviting touch against the raw stone walls.
Adjacent to the dining area is a bespoke wall unit, a testament to her commitment to quality and beauty.
When has she been the last couple of years?
"I moved to Ireland with my husband who had just been appointed as a diplomat to Ireland, and I'm so happy to be back home now," she says.
What has she learned about love?
"One has to find joy in themselves and love themselves fully; that's when one is complete, with or without a partner," she says thoughtfully.
Living abroad had its challenges. She shares how she learned to socialize with strangers and grappled with the constraints of not being able to work as an envoy's spouse.
But there was an unexpected upside. She discovered a sense of inner stillness and the potential for profound personal fulfilment.
She also discovered a passion for inspiring and mentoring young people. Upon returning to the country, she founded Sub-Sahara Entertainment dedicated to nurturing artistes and their craft.
From composing and producing to packaging, distribution and marketing, she provides support in areas where many artistes lack experience and knowledge.