Eden Nairobi: An artistic masterpiece in Kenya’s capital

Bordered by a Giraffe Sanctuary forest, this tranquil four-acre property is the ideal destination to discover the contemporary and colourful side of Nairobi.

Nestled in the leafy suburb of Langata, Eden Nairobi is equal parts urban sanctuary, living gallery and luxury lodge. A former family’s stunning Kenyan home, filled with art and antiquities, now offers the most unique getaway in Africa. It’s no surprise that when guests arrive they instantly feel a sense of belonging.

Designed and built by Tonio and Anna Trzebinski, the estate features an extensive private collection of original contemporary artworks. Each of the nine bedrooms are accented with pieces created by the Trzebinski family or collected over their lifetime of travels.

An artistic masterpiece

German-born, Kenyan-raised fashion designer Anna oversees the business with equal parts creative flair and social conscience. Eden has created an impressive ecosystem that supports local businesses and artists.

The lodge boasts three rooms in the main house and five in the studio annex, plus the one-bedroom Artist in Residence Cottage. Inside the main house, is a communal living room with a fireplace, open-plan dining area, media room, bar and a show-stopping veranda.

The master bedroom houses a super king-size bed, a large daybed and walk-in wardrobe. A wood-panelled ensuite boasts a luxurious bathtub while From the private outdoor veranda soak in forest views. Other guest rooms feature a king-sized bed and beautifully-finished ensuites with views across the forest canopy. 

All Eden Nairobi’s unique guestrooms are spacious and peppered with the family’s prized artwork. From late husband Tonio’s canvases, son Stas’ sought-after bronzes and daughter Lana’s vibrant ceramics are displayed alongside tribal artworks and a library of contemporary African literature.

In Tonio’s studio, guests can spend their nights in the Garden View or Forest View rooms, complete with a rain shower, separate bathtub and king-sized bed. The three studio lofts are perfect for those desiring open-plan living. Each split-level space features large glass windows, a private living area and king-bedroom with a luxurious ensuite.

Nairobi’s artistic activities

A range of immersive, art-focused experiences are designed to introduce guests to Nairobi’s enviable creative community. 

Venture beyond the lodge to explore private studios on a tour of Kitengela, with its internationally-recognised arts scene. Discover Nairobi on a full- or half-day tour visiting key creative galleries and artist residences while taking in colourful street art.

Spend the day winding through tea farms and bustling towns to tour the Limuru Galleries. These off-the-beaten-track spaces are a treasure trove of eclectic pieces. 

Embark on a private Nairobi Art Safari with applauded art connoisseur, ​​Peter Achayo, an expert guide to delve into the city’s contemporary creative culture.

With wine tastings, coffee roasting and tea experiences also available for the gourmet. Nairobi National Park, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Karen Blixen Museum and the Giraffe Sanctuary are all within easy driving distance as is Nairobi’s eclectic shopping experiences.

Read more: How buying art can help you make a mark on conservation

All on Deck at Eden 

Eden Nairobi’s main restaurant and bar, affectionately named The Deck, is a celebration of authentic Kenyan cuisine. Overlooking the nearby giraffe sanctuary and a serene lake, it creates tantalising dishes using organic produce from local businesses and from its own garden. Staff pick salad ingredients and handcraft bread and pasta thirty minutes before diners are seated. By night, it’s magical for cocktail hour as The Deck glows with candlelight.