Meet Eliane E. the warm-spirited creator behind House E, an ArchDaily-nominated architectural hideaway in Lamu where light, nature, and slow island living come together. Designed as both a personal sanctuary and a space to share with others, House E blends bold architecture with awe, wonder, and the slow rhythm of the ocean beyond the Lamu sand dunes.
The Friendly Introduction: My friends would probably say I’m full of warmth and wonder - loving in everything I do, with a slightly quirky spirit. I notice the little things others might miss, and with quick wit and playful humor, I try to bring joy and lightness wherever I go, making ordinary moments feel just a little magical.
The Inspiration: During my youth, I spent all my holidays in Lamu. After 18 years of exploring the rest of the world, I finally returned - and immediately felt at home again. I loved the smell of the air, the light, the atmosphere. It touched me so deeply that I decided to create a home here.
Later, I felt the wish to share this feeling with my loved ones - and eventually to open the house to selected guests, so they too could experience the calm and beauty that Lamu offers.
The Meaning: House E was originally just a nickname during construction - E for Eliane, E for my last name, and E for eternity. In the end, we kept it, because it simply felt right and everyone loved it.
The Dream: My dream for House E is to be a true home for every guest - a place where laughter, shared moments, and joy fill the air. I love my garden and hope it continues to flourish, producing fruits and vegetables for all to enjoy, nourishing both the house and the hearts of those who stay.
The Motto: I’m driven by joy and find delight in the little things. When my loved ones are happy, I am too. Music carries me through life - I listen to it everywhere, letting it inspire and lift my spirit.
Nature Therapy: Being in the garden, planting with my own hands and watching everything bloom is one of the ways I connect most deeply to nature. I also love early morning runs on the beach when no one else is there - feeling the atmosphere, the breeze, and the quiet rhythm of the island. These are the moments when I truly feel part of nature.
The Promise of Slowness: Slowness means savoring each moment. At House E, it might look like watching the sunrise with a cup of coffee, listening to the birds, wandering barefoot along the beach, feeling the sea breeze, and letting the day unfold with laughter, curiosity, and calm.
