Rift Valley Leather From a factory based on the outskirts of Karen, in Kenya, high-quality leather, suede and canvas are expertly crafted into a range of stylish personal and travel accessories. The factory is the home of Rift Valley Leather, a local company that through its products, actively works to promote local handcrafting skills; and takes care to utilise materials, like camel and calf hides, that have been sourced exclusively in the East African region. The Rift Valley Leather range includes functional and fashionable handbags, totes, purses, briefcases and travel luggage branded with the company's logo as a mark of authenticity and craftsmanship. The company also incorporates recycled materials including; cement bags, inner tubes and tins cans into its designs. Currently seeking ethical trading status, Rift Valley Leather is invested in its local community, offering amongst other initiatives, a continuous training programme to ensure the development of skills amongst its staff; and supports the Red Rhino Orphanage Project.
Odds & Ends KenyaWhat can be more decadent than spending the day lounging on a daybed or chaise lounge, especially in warm sunny weather? Daybeds/Chaise Longues are my favourite piece of furniture, and when I had my flat I opted for a daybed/chaise longue footstool combo, rather than the traditional three-piece sofa and arm chair set-up; and it proved to be the perfect piece of furniture to unwind after a hard days work. Unfortunately for me, my guests thought so too, and to this day regularly 'hijack' my daybed/chaise, not that I am complaining; if I had my way I would fill my home with daybeds! A recent random search for daybeds led me to Odds & Ends in Kenya, who have a range of majestic looking designs, just waiting to be piled high with comfy cushions, or if you are feeling especially indulgent, draped with fabric and placed in the garden to create a private oasis. Daybeads are so appealing because they invite you chilli-out, and do absolutely nothing, a luxury in our busy lives. The Odds & Ends range of daybeds are solid pieces of furniture, and feature skilfully carved detailing, and intricate patterns, that remind me of ancient Indian Maharajah times, not surprising given the contribution Indian culture has had on aspects of Swahili culture.
[Image credits: top, Sabaki; centre, Safari; bottom, Pate Canopy, Daybeds - Odds & Ends] Odds & Ends is based in Nairobi, and has been serving the market for twenty-five years, offering its customers, in their own words, 'the most amazing and unique range of furniture in Kenya'. With pieces that range from contemporary designs to antiques, the business comes across as one of those places you could spend all day in finding things that you never knew you were looking for!
Additional details
For further information about Odds & Ends Kenya visit: www.oddskenya.com
Savannah Chic We may be entering Autumn here in the Northern Hemisphere, but you can still hold onto the summer feeling with Savannah Chic's range of contemporary jewellery, including some vibrant bracelets from the company's 'Summer Love' collection, which sees colourful Kikoy's woven into necklaces and bracelets that conjure up the carefree spirit of Summer. Predominately handmade in partnership with carefully selected artisans and workshops in Kenya, Savannah Chic's jewellery collections are contemporary and colourful; ranging from bold brights and fresh delicate pastels to the warm earth tones of nature incorporated in elegantly shaped horn pieces that are inlaid with thin brass strips, updating a classic style; coloured recycled glass that is interspersed with handmade brass charms for feminine charm; whilst playful ceramic beads add a pop of colour to brass bangles and rings. Bringing together the past and the present, rare beads such as Don Don Sole are used, as well as the ancient art of lost wax casting to make brass pendants; and wooden medallions featuring intricate patterns pay homage to cultures gone by.
[Image credit: top, Long Oblong Bracelet; bottom, Small Bouquet Rings - Savannah Chic] Based in Kenya and Switzerland, Savannah Chic was founded in 2009 by Charu and Shruti Patel, a mother and daughter team, who joined forces to create a company that would help bring about positive and sustainable change in their native Kenya. Shruti had spent eight years working in international development, and although she found working to make a difference fulfilling, she acknowledges that she rarely saw the difference that was being made on the ground. Savannah Chic was founded on the principles of fair trade, adhering to the ten standards for fair trade organistions that were set out by the World Fair Trade Organistion (WFTO), these include transparency and accountability; payment of a a fair price; safe and healthy working conditions; creating opportunities; and better environmental practices. As part of their efforts, Savannah Chic also provides mentoring schemes for the artists and groups they work with. Additional details:
For further information about Savannah Chic, to purchase and to find a stockist visit: www.savannah-chic.com
The Red Pepper House The historical island of Lamu off the Kenyan coast is home to The Red Pepper House, a stylish boutique hotel that nestles between Neem and Acacia trees, and interestingly not a Red Pepper tree in sight, the owner just liked the name. Situated close to the Old Town, The Red Pepper House brings together influences in the form of African, Arabic, Indian and European; that have all had an impact on Swahili Culture dating back hundreds of years. A large Makuti thatched roof covers The Red Pepper House helping it blend in with the unspoilt surroundings. From far the roof is just visible amongst the trees in the form of organic dips and falls. Construction of the building brought together local artisans skilled in the ancient style of Swahili architecture, that has been preserved across the island. The hotel makes use of large open spaces with few walls in place designed to maximise on the climate, views of the forest and the beach; and enabling guests to make the most of the tranquil surroundings. A Condé Nast Traveller’s Hot List selection in 2011, The Red Pepper House was originally built as a five-bedroom family home; and now comprises five Nyumbas (houses), each with their own views of the Indian Ocean and access to the idyllic beach. The décor is inspired by the Swahili way of life combined with art and antiques drawn from across the globe. Crystal chandeliers hang from the thatched roof; traditional Swahili furniture such as pili pili beds add to the ambience of leisurely luxury; African art is dotted around the existing walls; and antiques and ornate lamps add a touch of romance when lit in the evenings. Guests are invited to do nothing at all but take advantage of the time to relax and unwind; however if feeling a bit energetic various activities are on offer including: snorkeling, fishing and trips on the hotel’s Dhow from where you can travel around the archipelago, or enjoy spectacular sundowners and dinners onboard. The hotel’s services also include the Kuzi Pamper House Spa, which provides a range of treatments; a library; and pool. Lamu’s Old Town is a short walk away, and the hotel is neighbour to the Anidan Shelter House, an orphanage that was built with donations from The Red Pepper House and other well wishers; and guests are invited to visit. The Orphanage comprises a children’s hospital, dormitories and a nursery. Whether in your Nyumba, around the pool or aboard the Dhow, dining at The Red Pepper House is an informal and flexible experience. Guest are free choose when and where they want to take their meals. The food primarily draws on traditional Swahili cooking and Mediterranean flavours, and is made using fresh and organic ingredients.
Claudio Modola for Suno Kay Osterweis Whilst browsing the blog Afritecture I came across this stunning home located off the Kenyan coast, on the beautiful island of Lamu. The home of Suno Kay Osterweis and her son Max, the founder of SUNO NY, is the definition of an idyllic retreat; and is the place Suno goes to a few months out of the year for reading, healing and restoration, and connecting with nature. Suno first visited Lamu in 1996 and was instantly captivated by the Island's laidback living, stylishness and diverse mix of people. Returning often, Suno soon met and became friends with Italian architectural designer, Claudio Modola who resides on Manda a neighbouring island; and when she bought a piece of land on Lamu was the person she turned to for help with building her dream home. The plot was an awkward shape, narrow and on a steep incline, so Claudio sought to design and build a rising palatial, tower-like structure with 23ft high ceilings; and to take advantage of gorgeous ocean views, at the same time maximising on the flow of cool breezes, situated the living spaces and master suite on the top levels of the building. The style of the house was inspired by the Lamu's local Islamic architecture, combined with elements drawn from Suno's Asian background; she was born in China to Korean parents and raised in Tokyo and later settled in San Francisco, her permanent home. Latin American design elements were also included in the design a nod to Suno's journeys and 'cultural curiosity'. A fountain at the home's entrance marks the transition from outside to in; and at 20 ft above ground level is the swimming pool.
The build faced several challenges; the main being that no cars are allowed on Lamu; the Old Town is a protected UNESCO World Heritage site. This means the island is only accessible by air or boat; and materials for the build, such as building blocks were produced on Manda and had to be ferried using small boats. However, perseverance paid of and the house was completed a year and half after construction started.
For the interiors and finishings, Suno sought to replicate the traditional plaster work, seen in much of the Lamu's architecture and buildings, and was helped by Paul Weaver, an American who himself had spent eleven years renovating a local house which is now a hotel. Based on materials and techniques that are said to be disappearing from Swahili culture, it took two and a half years to complete the surfaces of the house which exude subtle colour and sensuality. Suno sourced most of the interior furnishings, incorporating locally made lamps and chairs with tables and benches made with driftwood. Other features include light fixtures sourced from an artisan who is a supplier to the King of Morocco; sourced from Afghanistan and Pakistan the elaborately carved wooden columns seen surrounding the beds and in the living area; and a dining room table designed and made in collaboration with local craftsmen. The overall feel is an airy tranquil home that is reflective of the owners whilst paying homage to its surroundings.
Basa Body/ Coast Coconut FarmsI think its fair to say that most of the beauty and skincare products I have featured on African Daydreams lean in favour of using Shea butter as a main ingredient, with others like coconut oil coming in as secondary, well not so in the case of Basa Body whose natural skincare product range is made from Virgin coconut oil that is produced by hand in Mombasa, Kenya. Easily absorbed into the skin Coconut Oil is known for its healing properties and contains natural antioxidants that are anti-fungal and antibacterial, and is said to be good for smoothing the skin and for slowing the ageing process product. Vitamin E, Rosemary and Olive oil are some of the other ingredients that go into in the products; the full list can be seen on the website under each product. The product range encompasses: Scented and unscented Body Lotions, a Coconut Oil Body Stick, Lip Butters and a Facial Serum. [Image credits: top, Gift Box; bottom, Lotion, Lip Butter and Body Stick - Basa Body] Basa Body was founded in 2007 by American, Troy Holmberg following a trip to Kenya where he came across the Coast Coconut Farms; a small scale enterprise located in the city of Mombasa, that produces the coconut oil used in Basa Body's products. The name 'Basa' is Derived from the name of the city, a nod to the women producers of the Coast Coconut Farms, whom Troy partnered with to produce the skincare line. The partnership has resulted in help with obtaining modern machinery and with operations, in addition to for the women. 10% of all Basa Body profits go towards humanitarian projects across Africa and in the United States. Additional details:
Basa Body products range from: USD$5.95-USD$35.95
For further information about Basa Body, Coast Coconut Farms and to purchase visit: www.basabody.com
The Afropolitan Shop Inject a dose of pattern and colour into your summer holiday wardrobe with beaded sandals from The Afropolitan Shop's Summer 2012 collection. A traditional style sandal hailing from the coastal region of Kenya forms the basis of the design which feature leather soles, in a choice of black or brown, accessorised by brightly coloured intricate traditional hand beading on the uppers. [Image credits: clockwise from top left, African Shield, Infinity, Mara, Jamaica and Sunset Sandals - The Afropolitan Shop] Created by Kenyan-American, Beverly Lwenya; The Afropolitan Shop began life in 2007 as a blog called 'the Afropolitan Network' sharing the stories of Africans across the globe; and what started out as a hobby has now become a full time career with the launch of The Afropolitan Shop; an e-commerce platform celebrating and promoting the work of African designers and artisans. April 2012 saw the debut of The Afropolitan Shop's own collection of sandals and jewellery design by Beverly working with Kenyan artisans and producers.
...a perfect accessory for bikinis to maxi's and everything in-between
Additional details:
Sandals priced at: USD$50
For further information about The Afropolitan Shop and to purchase visit: www.theafropolitanshop.com
Daniel Omondi A few weeks ago I featured a beautifully carved wooden table adorned with East African inspired motifs, courtesy of Vermont Wood Studios a community of local carvers, the Africa Sofa Table as I have now found out was carved by Daniel Omondi, a master carver from Kenya who was raised in a family of woodcarvers, learning his trade at age thirteen in his father's award-winning workshop in Mombasa, Kenya. Following in the steps of his father and grandfather Daniel inherited the workshop, moving to the USA in 2001 where he established his workshop in the artisanal community of Brattleboro, Vermont; a place resided in for eight years before relocating to New Orleans. Using woods native to Kenya such as Bambakofe and Mvole to complement the local Cherry, Walnut and Maple Daniel's work is traditional; solid wood furniture, the type that lasts a lifetime, handed down through generations and is a showcase of Daniel's successful transition to woodworking in the USA, attributed to the blend of East African style with that of the rural Vermont woodcarving heritage, and has seen his work displayed in galleries across the North East of the country. Characterised by his beautifully detailed carving, Daniel brings the intricate patterns and motifs of Kenya to the austere forms of the New England Shaker style, resulting in some unique pieces of furniture. Daniel is influenced by the complex geometrics and floral motifs that have adorned homes doors and furniture along the East African coast since the sixteenth century, designs that are steeped in a rich cultural and religious heritage that can be traced back to Oman and India.
A move to New Orleans came about as a way of helping the City recover after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. From his workshop Daniel works with salvaged materials and also restores antique and heirloom furniture. Daniel offers clients a bespoke design service for those looking to create individual pieces enhanced with his intricate carving skills.
...carving out a tradition
Additional information:
For further information about Daniel Omondi and for order enquiries visit: http://omondiodhunooriginals.com
Vermont Wood Studios Hand carved from Mahogany, this elegant sofa table was inspired by East African wood carving traditions and features intricate detailing based on floral and geometric designs from the region. The attention to detail and finish gives it the look of a precious antique. Each table is custom built in Vermont, USA by a highly skilled furniture maker from Vermont Wood Studios; a local company that works with artisans drawn from the small workshops scattered across Vermont, giving them a platform to bring their products to a wider market. The style of Vermont wood carving is said to be characterised by simple, strong designs that serve to showcase the beauty of the wood used, and Vermont's long history of wood carving and furniture making is a heritage Vermont Wood Studios prides itself on upholding, making and retailing furniture that can be passed down through the generations as treasured heirlooms. [Image credit: African Sofa Table - Vermont Wood Studios] Vermont Wood Studios began when a group of independent furniture makers came together to share and promote their commitment to excellence in craftsmanship and sustainable forestry. Now an ever-growing community, the company is a showcase of the best in craftsmanship and heritage from the local wood carvers, and in the process is helping towards supporting the local economy. An environmentally and socially responsible business the furniture products retailed through Vermont Wood Studios are natural and eco-friendly, made with sustainably harvested solid hard woods such as cherry, maple, oak and walnut. For every piece of furniture made a tree is planted as part of the Nature Conservancy's Plant a Billion Trees Initiative. Most of the pieces retailed can be customised in size and wood finishes.
Additional details:
Table price starts from: USD$5 900
For further information about Vermont Wood Studios visit: www.vermontwoodsstudios.com
Mijikenda WorkshopThe irregular form of a solid wood dining room table with a spilt seam running deep into the wood and held together with steel pins is just one of the characteristics pieces from Mijikenda Workshop, whose furniture and decor accessories give a new lease of life to the natural beauty of centuries old wood salvaged from the beaches, oceans and old railways around East Africa. Based in Diani Beach, Kenya the Mijikenda Workshop was opened in 2008 by Nicole Engelfield a local resident who spent many years working in the tourism industry before turning her creativity and focus towards woodwork. Nicole works with the highly skilled wood carvers and artisans of Mijikenda, Kenya's coastal region that stretches from the Somalian border in the north to the Southern Tanzanian border. The name Mijikenda means 'The Nine Cities' and represents the nine indigenous groups found along this coastal region, whose artisans are renown for their skill and craftsmanship in wood carving. Driftwood, naturally felled trees, rare and antique timbers like East African Rosewood, Burmese Teak and African Mahogany are just some of the wood types whose organic shapes give a highly distinctive appearance to finished products such as stools; coffee, bar, conference and dining tables that are certain to become conversation pieces wherever they are placed. Weathered from the elements and general use over the years the wood is naturally scarred with cracks and holes; and evidence that some of the wood used has spent time floating in the ocean can be seen in the distinctive marks visible on the surfaces of finished piece that were left by wood boring Teredo Worms, also known as Ship worms. The wood used is laden with history, from the source, the original usage through to the local carving heritage. Some of the woods were imported into East Africa in the 1800s used in the building of the East Africa Railway. The Shijiji Bench was made from a 500 year old Mango Tree that had been struck by lightening and features intricate hand carved detailing that was inspired by the Doors of Zanzibar, elaborate examples of which can be seen in Stone Town. The tradition of carving doors dates back to 1500AD in Kilwa and Mombasa, flourishing in 1870-1880.
[Image credit: top, Lunatic Express Table; bottom, Maneaters Table Details - Mijikenda Workshop] Illustrating the solidness and size of the woods found, the 'Mijikenda Stools' were crafted from a single 25ft Mahogany tree that was floating in the ocean; and a piece entitled the 'Mahogany Console' was made from a piece of driftwood weighing over 2000kgs, which took 35 men two days to recover it from the beach, and a further six months for the artisans to turn it into a finished piece; also highlighting just how involved the process of preparing and hand sawing the wood is. The size of some of the beams means a requirement for stability and support in everyday use, to aid this the beams are reinforced with wooden braces and other forms of support, and some of the tables are supported with stainless steel legs which gives them a contemporary look.
Mijikenda Workshop product ranges also includes antique mirrors, decorated boxes, wine bottle stands and picture frames, offering a framing and picture mounting service to local customers; and those in need of wood for bespoke commercial or residential interior projects are invited to the Workshop choose from a range of rare reclaimed timbers and see for themselves the beauty in what has been discarded.
...interior style statements by nature
Additional Information:
To find out more on the Carved doors read:
Mwalim A. Mwalim. Doors of Zanzibar.
Additional details:
For further information about Mijikenda Workshop and to order visit: www.mijikenda.com
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