Hidden Key
Client
C. Mburu
Location
Embu, Kenya
Project Type
Standalone Design
Size
2500 Square Feet
Hidden Key is a one-of-a-kind writers’ retreat perched directly above a waterfall, where Swiss alpine charm meets Moroccan soul. Set deep in the forested slopes of Mount Kenya, this sanctuary was designed for writers who are two to three weeks away from their next creative milestone—offering the perfect blend of stillness, inspiration, and structure.
The chalet-style architecture features timber cladding, pitched roofs, and large windows that flood the space with natural light. Inside, handwoven Moroccan rugs, warm terracotta tones, and carved brass fixtures contrast beautifully with the crisp mountain air and solid wood finishes. From every room, the sound of rushing water and views of lush green forest provide a natural rhythm to write, rest, and think deeply.
Beyond the cabin, curated experiences encourage rejuvenation and reconnection: guided walks to the waterfall below, quiet journaling spots along forest trails, and slow tours of a working coffee farm nearby. These moments—alongside nourishing meals, solitude, and fresh mountain air—are designed to unlock creativity and restore emotional balance.
The interiors are intimate but elevated: a central fireplace, window reading nooks, rain showers with forest views, and a cozy writing desk facing the falls. Sustainability is woven into every detail, from solar power and spring water systems to locally sourced furnishings and low-impact design.
More than just a home, Hidden Key is a sanctuary for the focused and the fatigued. It’s a place where water heals, trees listen, and words finally find their way to the page.