A Kisumu couple has opened what is believed to be the county’s first A-frame accommodation unit, a two-bedroom garden suite built at a cost of KSh 7 million and now welcoming guests at KSh 15,000 per night.
When did Lydia and her husband build the A-frame cabin?
Lydia and her husband developed the property on land they purchased and have lived on since 2010.
Construction of the A-frame unit began in September 2024 and was completed roughly six months later, after which the couple furnished it and prepared it for bookings.
The unit was built by a Chinese construction firm based in Nairobi, whose team travelled to Kisumu to assemble the prefabricated components on site.
What’s the climate in Kisumu?
The exterior features insulated metal panels designed to resemble wood, topped with a Decra roof.
Skylights installed along the A-frame bring natural light deep into the interior, while the high ceilings help warm air circulate upward, keeping the living spaces cooler in Kisumu’s famously hot climate.
The front deck is fitted with AGS floor blocks that mimic the look of timber and is supported by a steel frame.
Guests welcomed by hammock seats
At the entrance, guests are welcomed by two hammock seats positioned to face the sunset.
A wide, foldable glass door has been designed in the shape of an A, with a retractable insect net that allows fresh air to flow through without opening the house to bugs.
Inside, the unit offers a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, oven, built-in microwave, water dispenser and washing machine.
What are guests provided with at Kisumu A-frame cabin?
Guests are provided with cooking oil, tea, coffee and sugar, and can arrange a chef on call if they prefer meals prepared on arrival.
The living area includes a workstation, Wi-Fi access and a basket of blankets for cooler evenings.
Both bedrooms come with wireless bedside charging ports, retractable window nets, wardrobes and private bathrooms stocked with toiletries, towels and slippers.
Lydia designs, plants entire compound herself
Beyond the structure itself, the property’s surroundings reflect Lydia’s personal passion for landscaping.
She designed and planted the entire compound herself, maintaining a nursery on site from which she sourced the plants.
A living arch at the entrance is currently being trained with climbing plants that will eventually meet overhead to form a natural canopy.
Does Kisumu A-frame cabin have bonfire area?
The couple chose not to remove the mature trees already growing on the land, instead positioning the unit among them so guests can enjoy the shade and ambience they create.
An outdoor bonfire area sits among old tree stumps, which Lydia restored and sealed with clear varnish for guests to use as seats or tables during evening fires.
A large open lawn is available for families with children, and the compound includes a parking area that can hold up to 10 vehicles.
