Cold Springs has a warm atmosphere

By Peter Muiruri

Karen conjures up the image of a green and serene residential neighbourhood. Known as the home to the high and mighty in Kenyan society, Karen is attracting players in the hospitality industry, keen to cash in on the residents’ need for a convenient retreat.

One of the establishments to watch is Cold Springs Hotel, situated off Marura Lane. Opened in Januar, Cold Springs is the brainchild of Jerry Ndong and his wife, Hellen, who made the bold move of turning their house into a beautiful boutique hotel after their three children left home.

Makeover

The makeover came at a cost — Sh15 million to be precise. Nevertheless, the results are there for all to see in an establishment that has since been given a five-star rating.

Employing his powers of imagination, the former chairperson of the Architectural Association of Kenya rearranged the house that sits on an acre of prime land, creating a nine-bedroom hotel consisting of a superior deluxe room, a triple deluxe room and seven deluxe rooms.

Each room has its own theme. For example, the former master bedroom boasting a Jacuzzi and a mini gym is reminiscent of the presidential suites in the city’s leading hotels. The adjacent en suite rooms that formerly housed the couple’s children are smaller, but no less luxurious.

The former sitting room, now a coffee lounge, has been tastefully decorated with earth tones.  An artificial waterfall together with well nurtured plants combine to give the cosy room a tranquil feel. Completing the picture is a mini bar at the corner of the room.

Tropical plants

Also likely to catch a visitor’s eye is the Pool Bistro Restaurant. Surrounded by the pool, it offers the perfect setting for breakfast, lunch and dinner while gazing at the knuckle-shaped Ngong Hills.

Giving ‘life’ to this part of the property is the verdant garden full of lush tropical plants.  Cold Springs is popular with newlyweds looking for some time together in a quiet place near the city. It is also a perfect getaway for families escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.