Story Behind Nairobi Mansion Built on Top of an Apartment

Social media has been awash with videos and photos of a mansion constructed on top of an apartment, raising questions regarding the security of the structure, the designer and the tenants. 

The penthouse behind Airport Tanners in Zimmerman, Nairobi, elicited mixed reactions, with a section of Kenyans opining that the landlord sought to utilise the space.

Others suggested that the landlord opted to construct his own house and, at the same time, earn an income from the four-storey house. 

In an interview with a local media house, the owner of the building confirmed that the idea for the project titled Bradijon Mansion was influenced by her architect, who assured her that the idea was viable.

“Actually, when you have one plot to build, I talked with my builder, Steven Maina, and told him my idea, and he liked it. He, however, advised that we could do the tenants first and then construct the house later. I had not seen it done before, but I trusted him since he’s been a professional for over 25 years. He told me it’s possible,” the owner, who asked to speak on condition of anonymity, stated. 

“He asked what type of a mansion I wanted and I told him. He told me the cost, how long it would take, and we agreed on it.”

According to the owner, the building took four years to construct because she was in the US then, so the architect had to consult her at every stage.

Maina, who also spoke to a local media house, revealed that the construction was completed in June 2023. 

To strengthen the building, he said that the foundation is of equal length and size to take the house’s weight. Additionally, the concrete blocks that make the foundation are square and laid out strategically. 

The landlady preferred the location as she grew up in Zimmerman, next to ACK church and purchased the land to commemorate her upbringing.

She said the penthouse cost millions to construct and declined to disclose the exact amount.

However, the building consists of 40 bedsitters, which have been fully occupied since the building was launched. 

“When the tenants were enquiring about the building, they were asking about a few issues, including security because of the location, but once they moved in, they don’t want to relocate,” she divulged. 

Conversely, her mansion is intended to act as a retirement home where she will reside with her husband. The couple are blessed with children who currently reside in the US. 

“I love it as it’s peaceful and I get to see the horizon,” she noted.