Developers eye lower costs through biophilic buildings

Nairobi, Kenya – Property developers are exploring biophilic building designs to reduce long-term operating expenses and create healthier urban environments. The Kenya Property Developers Association (KPDA) suggests incorporating natural elements like light, vegetation, ventilation, and resource efficiency into urban areas' densification.

KPDA General Manager Rose Kananu acknowledged the high initial costs but noted that these investments can yield significant savings and increased demand from tenants over time. She added that developers could also reap higher rental and leasing income as the demand for nature-oriented buildings rises. The conference, which gathered developers, government officials, and built-environment professionals, focused on nature-based construction.

Kenya is also investigating the use of locally sourced materials like bamboo, agricultural waste, and recycled glass to achieve more affordable and climate-responsive construction. Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome proposed integrating traditional knowledge with modern technology to promote local material usage, provided they meet safety and quality standards.

However, Kenya lacks a dedicated regulatory framework for biophilic construction, and more work is required to establish policy interventions. Green Biophilic Living Society founder Wangui Mwangi called for biophilic design to transition from an architectural trend to mainstream construction policy and practice. Kenya is working towards accommodating rapid urban growth while enhancing climate resilience and urban living quality.

Developers' wider adoption of biophilic buildings hinges on consumer willingness to pay for healthier, resource-efficient spaces and policy support to offset initial construction costs.