Zahir House is a stunning private villa located in the historic, car-free village of Shela on Lamu Island. Rising five stories high, the house is a masterclass in "Contemporary Swahili" design—blending traditional coral-stone architecture and intricate plasterwork with modern luxury and open-air living.
The house is designed to capture the Indian Ocean breezes, moving from a cool, grounded base to a sun-drenched rooftop.Five-Story Ascent: Each floor offers a different perspective of Shela. Note that because of its traditional tall-house design, there are many stairs.The Ground Floor: Features a tranquil plunge pool set in a shaded courtyard, perfect for cooling off after a walk on the dunes.The Rooftop: A "hideaway in the sky," the top floor offers panoramic views of the sand dunes and the ocean channel. It is often used as a breezy lounge or a private suite.Dining & Lounging: The third floor serves as the heart of the home, featuring an open-air dining terrace, a small bar, and a fountain.## Guest Experience & AmenitiesZahir House is a fully staffed, self-catering sanctuary. It is designed for "slow travel" where the staff handles the logistics so you can focus on the island’s rhythm.Capacity: Typically accommodates up to 8 guests across 4 ensuite bedrooms (3 doubles and 1 twin).The Staff: Includes a private chef (renowned for seafood curries and Swahili breakfasts) and a room steward.Modern Comforts.
