In Kenya’s construction industry—where every square meter counts and building codes vary from one county to another—clarity in your architectural plans is everything. Whether you're developing a modest bungalow in Machakos or a two-storey townhouse in Kiambu, the success of your build hinges on what's included before the cement is poured.
Here's a practical guide on the key components that make up a complete architectural plan in Kenya:
1. Floor Plans
At the heart of any drawing set, floor plans show room dimensions, wall thicknesses, and door and window placements. They must reflect practical design for daylight, ventilation, and circulation—all essential considerations in Kenya’s diverse climate zones.
2. Elevations
These are straight-on views of each building façade, showing exterior finishes, window heights, roofing lines, and architectural features. In places like Nairobi, where neighborhood covenants may apply, elevations can make or break planning approvals.
3. Sections (at least two)
Sections reveal vertical relationships—floor-to-ceiling heights, staircase layouts, foundation depths, and roof slopes. Given that many Kenyan builds include water storage tanks or solar installations, these details are critical for structural coordination.
4. Roofing Plan
Rainfall patterns in Kenya vary dramatically. A proper roofing plan shows slope directions, drainage paths, and structural supports. Complex roofs benefit from sectional cuts that show hidden structural layers.
5. Window & Door Schedules
These tables specify the types, quantities, and sizes of all windows and doors. With local timber regulations and aluminum pricing in flux, accuracy here directly affects cost and procurement timelines.
6. Master (Site) Plan
This plan places your house in its actual plot. It must show boundaries, access roads, parking bays, patios, walkways, drainage paths, and even soak pits. In rural areas, you may need to show future provisions like water towers or outdoor kitchens.
7. Architectural Details
Any deviation from standard construction—custom staircases, built-in cabinetry, decorative moldings—should be illustrated here. Details communicate the architect’s intent and reduce costly contractor assumptions.
Optional but Strongly Recommended in Kenya
- 3D Renderings: These help clients and funders visualize the end result, and are increasingly expected even by county planning offices.
- Material Specifications: Especially for finishes—roofing sheets, floor tiles, cladding—where cost and availability fluctuate based on local supply chains.
- Environmental Notes: As counties ramp up enforcement on sustainability and compliance (especially in Nairobi, Kajiado, and coastal towns), these can assist with regulatory clearance.
Final Word
Whether you’re a homeowner or property developer, insisting on a complete architectural plan package protects your budget, clarifies contractor expectations, and ensures that your building fits both the land and your vision.
At Stratos Studios, we specialize in Kenya-ready plans that include all these essentials—plus thoughtful extras like natural light orientation, expansion potential, and cost-sensitive material selections.
Explore our plan library or commission a custom design that matches your land, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
What Should Be Included in a Complete Architectural Plan in Kenya?