BOOKBUNK KALOLENI
Completed in 2019
Kaloleni, Nairobi
Renovatated
Medium
Inhouse
Simon Kahura
Bookbunk is working to restore some of Nairobi’s iconic public libraries; The McMillan Memorial Library on Banda Street and two of its branches in Eastlands (Kaloleni Library and the Makadara Library). The Kaloleni Library is the smallest branch of the three and caters to a much younger audience, mostly children. Restoration plans for this library were focused on children, and was completed in June 2020.
In their capacity as the dedicated design and build team, the Brookhill team embarked on an immersive journey with the client, meticulously guiding them through an array of innovative design concepts. This collaborative exploration ultimately led to the groundbreaking moment, a significant milestone that transpired in the year 2020. The design process, marked by creativity and foresight, was particularly noteworthy for its commitment to embracing and preserving the Garden City concept, inspired by the visionary Sir Ebenezer Howard’s renowned Garden City Movement.
The ethos of Garden City, a concept deeply rooted in urban planning principles, served as a guiding beacon for the design team, influencing every facet of the project. The commitment to sustainability and community-centric design principles was evident in the seamless integration of Howard’s vision into the contemporary context. This harmonious blending of past and present not only paid homage to the historical significance of the Garden City Movement but also demonstrated a forward-thinking approach in the creation of a space that resonates with both tradition and modernity.
As the project transitioned from the drawing board to the physical realm, the build team showcased their expertise in resourcefulness and environmental consciousness. They ingeniously repurposed and reutilized a plethora of pre-existing elements, showcasing a dedication to sustainability and a commendable effort to minimize environmental impact. This conscientious approach not only underscored the team’s commitment to responsible construction practices but also contributed to the overall narrative of a project that values heritage, innovation, and ecological sensitivity.
In essence, the collaboration between the design and build teams at Brookhill not only resulted in the construction of a physical structure but also manifested as a testament to the seamless fusion of visionary design, historical preservation, and sustainable construction practices. The project stands as a living embodiment of the team’s dedication to creating spaces that transcend the boundaries of time, encapsulating the essence of both the past and the future
Contact us at 0798 696 633 | info@brookhill.co.ke