By Diana Jura
MARIAM’S APARTMENT; THE QUEEN’S LAIR
Mariam’s apartment is tastefully furnished with unique, expensive pieces that speak true to her character. Everything in this house screams class, but there’s a slightly cold, almost detached vibe to the house, like, come in but don’t get too comfortable. Red is for her bold personality, the grey on her walls and the leather show her cold, detached side.
A kitchen bar? Clearly there’s more drinking than cooking going on here. The house is spotless and impeccable but definitely not homely. Don’t expect to be offered a warm home cooked meal, maybe a glass of champagne.
EVA’S APARTMENT: IT’S A MAN’S WORLD
Eva’s apartment is very western, warm and homely just like her personality. It was furnished by Martin and the blue and silver hues represent his dominance in her life. The open plan kitchen is painted a calm beige, here you will often find Eva, complete in an apron, preparing elaborate home cooked meals and being the perfect “housewife” to Martin.
For a girly girl like Eva, this bedroom is quite understated. No fluffy pillows and bright warm colors, just blue and gold. It’s clearly a Man’s world.
Purple and gold, the colours of luxury! Ama’s lounge oozes class and sophistication. The textured walls and floor give the room character. The portraits of the big five represent the kind of patrons Ama entertains. Initially the pictures were too bright for the room, so shoe polish was used to dull them, (creative, huh!).
What’s on the menu? Champagne, single malt whiskeys, expensive cocktails and a superior wine list. The lounge has flattering lighting and plush velvet seats. The vibe is classy and intimate with discreet private booths. Ama is a fantastic hostess and the service is excellent. By day it functions as a lounge and a light lunch venue where the high powered do deals and transforms to a bar and a super club with live music and soft jazz, by night.
KANGA KULTURE: Fun.Fabulous.Frican
This set is inspired by an actual existing shop, Kanga Kulture in Adams Arcade. The walls are beautifully done in plump purple and the shelves are lined with unique African inspired pieces.
Kanga Kulture is the last room Wanjiku worked on and the one she enjoyed decorating the most. Every piece on this set was provided by the Kanga Kulture shop. The bold colorful African prints bring the room to life and give it an almost playful feel, showing us a glimpse of Eva’s personality.
Tash’s studio is young, fun and hip. It is simple and humble just like Tash who works hard but is yet to make it. The colors and design on the walls are loud, creative and fun. Maybe that’s why Mariam (his ex) can’t stay away.
THE RESTAURANT
Again lighting, color and texture do the magic, creating a warm but classy feel to this room. Wanjiku used earth colors, browns and orange to give the room warmth and elegance in. Warm, flattering lighting creates a sense of intimacy.
Designing this room did not come without challenges, the beautiful wine display you see before you had to be re done after it cracked right down the middle. You would never guess.
Let us all give a standing ovation to Wanjiku Mbugua for an exquisite job.
There you go, this is where all the Sumu La Penzi magic happens…We hope you enjoyed the tour.
Catch Sumu La Penzi on Africa Magic Swahili, 8pm every Mondays & Tuesdays.