For many Kenyans, the dream home is clear: a spacious bungalow or maisonette with a large homestead, flowering gardens, and all the trappings of success. This vision of a mansion has been the symbol of achievement, stability, and social status for generations. But how did this dream become so deeply ingrained? And does it still make sense in today’s rapidly changing world? The History of the Coveted Dream House The bungalow and maisonette styles rose to prominence during colonial and post-independence Kenya, inspired by Western architectural trends. These homes symbolized modernity, permanence, and upward mobility. Owning such a home became a milestone—a visible sign that you had “made it.” Through the decades, large plots in leafy neighborhoods with expansive interiors and manicured gardens became the gold standard of Kenyan homeownership. The Realities of Owning, Building, and Living in a Mansion However, beneath this dream lies a less discussed reality: the true cost of ownin...
KenyaOnAShoeString: "No fluff, no unrealistic promises—just real, unfiltered advice on navigating life, money, and personal growth in Kenya and other developing countries. If you’re tired of generic self-help that doesn’t apply to your reality, this is the space for practical, honest insights that actually make sense."