How can a coastal villa be shaped around shade, air and outdoor living?

For this new build villa in Kilifi, Kenya, Crafted House designed a home shaped around climate, openness and outdoor living. The villa is organised around a green central atrium, creating a calm heart within the house and allowing light, air and vegetation to become part of daily life.

The design consists of two white volumes, connected by generous outdoor spaces, deep overhangs and large pergola structures. These architectural elements provide shade, frame views and create protected places to live outside throughout the day.

The house responds to the unique coastal climate of Kilifi. Rather than closing itself off from the surroundings, the villa is designed to breathe. Openings, covered terraces and the central atrium help guide the sea breeze through the home, supporting natural ventilation and a strong connection between inside and outside.

Currently under construction, Villa Kilifi brings together contemporary architecture, tropical living and a clear material expression. The result is a light and generous family home, designed for shade, air, greenery and the rhythm of life by the coast.