Inside Sarah Kabus' beachfront mansion in Kilifi
Arts & Culture
By
Nailantei Kenga
| Nov 10, 2024
Sarah Kabu the Managing Director of Bonfire Adventures, is a dynamic leader known for her outspoken nature, tireless work ethic.
An award-winning businesswoman and a true icon in the tours and travel industry, she embraces this unique role with confidence and charm.
Together with her husband, Simon, Sarah is one of the fortunate few Kenyans to have secured a property in Kilifi.
Their beautiful, four-bedroom beach house at Sultan Palace beach resort came at a price—an investment of at least worth Ksh70 million now and they’ve spared no expense in decorating it to perfection.
The architecture of their holiday home Starehe Beach Front Villa is both stunning and stylish, with large, artful windows that allow natural light to flood every corner, giving it the appearance of a modern masterpiece set against a beach backdrop. The house is in a gated community Sultan Palace.
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As we descended the staircase to enter the villa, we had no idea what awaited us — a breathtakingly luxurious home belonging to the Kabus. Every detail of this house was crafted to embody the elegance and tranquillity of beachside living.
The moment I reached the landing, an expansive pool came into view, seamlessly leading out to the serene shoreline beyond. The freshness of the ocean air was exhilarating, and just as the warmth started to sink in, a refreshing glass of madafu and tamarind juice, chilled to perfection by the celebrated celebrity chef Simon, was offered to cool us off.
My luggage was whisked away to my room, but I was rooted in place, awestruck by the effortless beauty at every turn. This home redefines seaside chic in the most captivating way. The colour palette, with its sandy hues and soft blues, mirrors the beachscape outside, filling every room with a calm yet invigorating ambiance that is distinctly personal to the Kabus.
At the foyer, I was greeted by a jaw-dropping, open-plan living room, cum dining, cum open kitchen that exudes character and sophistication. Beach-themed pastels mix with unique textures and artful touches to create a true sensory retreat.
The dining area is pure grandeur, a massive white dining table with curving, elegant chairs sits beneath a glittering rock-crystal chandelier.
Every element exudes timeless elegance, with exquisite beach-themed accessories and candles that add a whimsical touch to the setting.
The open kitchen, fitted with state-of-the-art appliances, boasts a marble countertop, pristine white cabinets, and a double sink, radiating pure luxury.
Floor-to-ceiling windows provide sweeping, panoramic views that feel sophisticated. Every piece of contemporary furniture was selected with care, combining style with heartfelt intention to create an inviting, luxurious retreat.
Soft blue walls and crystal chandeliers amplify the serene vibe, while floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors invite the lush outdoor garden and shimmering pool views into every corner of the home.
The outdoor dining area is its own sanctuary, framed by the endless ocean, poolside elegance, and beautifully landscaped garden beyond. Plush, soft-grey sofas in the living area face a sleek television mounted on a gypsum wall adorned with sea-themed accents and personal mementos, giving the space warmth and depth.
A sea-inspired carpet ties together the interiors, and the intricate crystal chandelier above adds the perfect touch of sophistication. This beach house truly embodies luxury living by the sea, with every room an invitation to relax and indulge in pure bliss.
As we ascended the stairs, I was immediately captivated by the sea-themed art pieces that graced the walls. Each piece shares the home's elegant palette, adding layers of brightness and refinement that brought the art to life.
One particularly striking feature is a bold, colourful Moroccan chandelier a cascade of vibrant lights that commanded attention with its sensuous design.
The first room mirrors the house’s coastal theme, with complementary shades and thoughtfully placed art pieces adding both character and sophistication. The view from this room was stunning; an endless ocean vista that was both awe-inspiring and tranquil. The bed, adorned with a rich layering of violet, grey and purple cushions, felt as indulgent as a luxury suite.
"The most extravagant item in this house is the bed. I invested in the most luxurious, comfortable one I could find," said Sarah Kabu.
This room, dedicated to her daughter, was tailored with her favourite colours and personalized touches, including a feather-themed artwork gifted by her interior decorator.
A luxurious lounge area awaited as we moved toward the master suite, featuring plush, deep-sink sofas and a dazzling chandelier that epitomized elegance. The master bedroom is a showstopper, centred around an upholstered bed with a gold-accented headboard that blended seamlessly with the room's aesthetic.
A magnificent crystal chandelier hangs above, casting a soft, romantic glow throughout the space. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors opened onto a private balcony, offering a breath-taking ocean view and enhancing the room’s ambiance of informal romance.
The lounge-worthy couch and the lavishly appointed bathroom only adds to the luxurious feel.
Descending to the other bedrooms, each one was a delight, especially the room overlooking the ocean and pool. This space is adorned with sea-themed bedding, Moroccan-inspired lighting, and wall art that reflected the natural colours of sand and sea.
"A different interior designer worked on these rooms. We used the sandy hues of the beach and ocean tones," she explained.
"I'm passionate about interiors and love borrowing ideas from all over the world. Someday, I hope to start my own interior design business," Sarah said.
As we finished the tour, we were greeted by an enticing dining setup prepared by celebrity chef Simon.
Each dish looked exquisitely presented and absolutely delicious. As we enjoyed our meal, I asked if she still held the title of 'Chairlady for Goat Wives'.
"I’ve delegated that role," she laughed.
-Watch this sensational episode on KTN Home YouTube channel and watch Art Of Living every Thursday at 8pm and get inspired!