There is a trend of building homes in rural Kenya. The
reason is that land is cheaper and costs less to build than cities. Many
Kenyans consider this a good way to own property without high expenses.
This is especially common for those preparing for retirement or seeking
investment options.
Overview of A Typical 2 Bedroom House Design
A normal 2-bedroom house in rural Kenya usually has a simple
and practical design. The house usually contains:
- Two
Bedrooms: Often on opposite sides of the house for privacy.
- Living
Room: Located in the center, It’s the main gathering area for family
activities.
- Kitchen:
This can be a separate room or an open-plan space.
- Bathroom:
Generally one shared bathroom, located near the bedrooms for easy
access. - Optional
Veranda: Many rural homes have a small veranda for relaxing and
enjoying
outside. - Square
Footage: The average area of a 2-bedroom house in rural Kenya is
between
700 to 900 square feet. This size is usually enough for comfortable living without high
expenses.
Common Construction Styles in Rural Kenya
1. Traditional Materials
Houses often utilize local materials like mud, thatch, and
timber. These are cost-efficient and work well with the environment.
2. Brick and Mortar
Brick houses are common and strong. Bricks are made locally
and are not costly, offering good insulation from weather changes.
3. Stone Construction
In regions where stone is easy to find, homes are built with
stone blocks. This method is strong and insulates well.
4. Concrete Blocks
Concrete blocks are used for their strength and lifespan.
Land Costs and Acquisition in Rural Kenya
1. Cost of land in Rural Kenya
In rural Kenya, land costs less than in cities, making it a
good choice for building homes. Land prices vary depending on location,
accessibility etc. Price of Rural Land:- Ksh 100,000 — kshs 500,000 per acre
(may vary).
2. Plot size for a 2 Bedroom House
A 50 by 100 feet plot is sufficient for a two-bedroom house.
There is just enough space around the house to still have a garden or outdoor
area
3. Land Preparation Costs
Before building starts, land must be prepared. This means
clearing plants, leveling the ground, and making basic access like roads. Costs
for land preparation can range from Ksh 50,000 to Ksh 150,000.
Key Construction Costs for a 2 Bedroom House
Building a 2-bedroom house in rural Kenya includes several
main construction costs. Here are the key expenses:
1. Foundation Costs
The foundation is vital for the house’s stability. Costs can
differ based on soil type and method used (like slab or strip foundation).
Generally, foundation costs range from Ksh 80,000 to Ksh 150,000 ($750 to
$1,400). This includes Excavation, materials like concrete and steel, and labor
are all necessary.
2. Walling
Usually, walling costs about Ksh 100,000 to Ksh 200,000
($900 to $1,800). This includes materials, mortar, and labor.
3. Roofing
Roofing prices usually fall between Ksh 70,000 and Ksh
150,000 ($650 to $1,400). This covers materials and labor. A good roof
construction is key for lasting quality and energy saving
4. Doors and Windows
For doors and windows, expect to pay Ksh 50,000 to Ksh
100,000 ($450 to $900)on average. This includes materials, installation, and
labor. Good quality doors and windows improve security and comfort in the
house.
5. Plumbing and Electrical Work
Costs for plumbing and electrical work can range from Ksh
80,000 to Ksh 150,000 ($750 to $1,400). This includes materials and labor,
ensuring that everything follows safety rules.
Labor Costs in Rural Kenya
In rural Kenya, labor costs are a big part of construction
expenses. Labor prices can change based on skill level and the area where the
building is done.
A. Skilled vs Unskilled Labor
A skilled labor can cost between Ksh 500 to Ksh 1,000 per
day ($4.50-$9). This includes unskilled labor (helpers digging, mixing cement
and moving materials) Ksh 300– ksh700 ($2.70-$6.30/day).
B. Total Labor Costs
Labor costs for an average project might be between Ksh
200,000 — Ksh 500,000 ($1,800–$4.5k) as a combined rate of skilled and
unskilled labor
C. Regional Labor Variations
Labor costs can differ by region due to living costs and
worker availability. For instance, labor in remote places may be lower because
of fewer job options. In areas closer to urban areas, costs may be higher due
to more demand. It’s important to check and consider these regional differences
when planning construction.
Materials Cost Breakdown
|
Cost
Factor |
Estimated
Cost (KES) |
|
Land Acquisition |
100,000 – 500,000 |
|
Land
Preparation |
50,000
– 150,000 |
|
Foundation |
80,000 – 150,000 |
|
Walling |
100,000
– 200,000 |
|
Roofing |
70,000 – 150,000 |
|
Doors
and Windows |
50,000
– 100,000 |
|
Plumbing and Electrical |
80,000 – 150,000 |
|
Finishing |
100,000
– 300,000 |
|
Total Cost |
830,000 – 1,530,000 |
1. Cement, Sand and Gravel
In 2024, a 50kg bag of cement in Kenya costs between KSh 720
and KSh 1,250, depending on the brand and type.
Sand and gravel are needed for concrete and mortar. Sand
costs about KSh 2,000 per tonne in Kenya. Gravel also referred to as hardcore
or ballast, is around KSh 1,700 per tonne. Prices can differ based on location
and quality.
2. Bricks
Walls are generally built with bricks. A brick is a block or
bar made of clay, lime stone, concrete and sand that are dried by water.
Whether you choose bricks or concrete blocks, the costs can range from Ksh
50,000 to Ksh 150,000 ($330 to $1,000) for a 2-bedroom house. The final price
depends on the quantity of bricks your project
requires.
3. Steel and Reinforcement
The cost of steel bars and other reinforcements for the
foundation and walls will typicallrange from Ksh 100,000 to Ksh 200,000 ($665
to $1,330). Of course this mechanic is determined by the diameter and quality
of steel.
4. Roofing Materials
Tiles, thatches and shingles are popular roofing materials.
They cannot be priced accurately when it comes to their kind or quality because
they can range from $ 5-500+ each. For instance, the corrugated iron sheets are
ranging from KSh 50 to KSh100 per square meter. KSh 200- Ksh500 per square
metre Floor Tiles
5. Finishing Materials
In other words, most interior and exterior building that
require finishing materials. This consists of paint, tiles used in several
types of buildings such as houses and linings Prices fluctuate greatly
depending on the quality.
A gallon of paint could go for KSh 1,500 to KSh 3,000 and
floor tiles may cost anywhere between the range from around KSh 200 all up to a
maximum price summing it per square meter based.
Additional Costs and Considerations
1. Interior Finishing
Interior finishing involves plastering, painting, tiling,
and fixtures. These add to thebhouse’s look and usability. Average costs are
between KSh 100,000 and KSh 300,000 ($900 to $2,700). Higher-quality finishes
can raise this cost but improve durability and look.
2. Perimeter Wall and Landscaping
Average costs for perimeter walls are KSh 150,000 to KSh
400,000 ($1,350 to $3,600).
Landscaping, including trees and pathways, can add KSh 50,000 to KSh 100,000
($450
to $900).
3. Furniture and Fittings
Furnishing requires buying furniture, appliances, and
fittings. This can vary widely based on taste and quality. A basic setup might
start at KSh 200,000 to KSh 500,000 ($1,800 to $4,500). This may cover
essential items like beds, sofas, appliances, and fixtures.
4. Contingency Budget
Having a contingency budget helps with unexpected costs
during construction. These could be due to material price changes, added labor
costs, or site surprises. It is advisable to reserve about 10% to 20% of the
total budget for this purpose. construction budget to cover unexpected costs.
This financial reserve helps keep your project on schedule, avoiding financial
difficulties.
Financing Options for Building a 2-Bedroom House in Rural Kenya
1. Saccos and Chamas
Saccos and Chamas (community groups) are common funding
sources for building projects. Saccos provides loans with low interest rates
and flexible payment options. Being community-oriented, they simplify loan
acquisition without extensive documentation. Conversely, Chamas enables members
to combine resources to finance personal projects. Both avenues foster a
supportive community. They may also be easier to access than typical bank
loans.
2. Bank Loans
Banks in Kenya provide specific loans for construction.
These loans are usually distributed in increments based on construction
progress. Interest applies only to the drawn amount, making this a smart choice
financially. Banks like Absa, and Stanbic Bank offer different loan amounts,
interest rates, and repayment plans. Comparing different bank options is
essential to find the best terms for you.
3. Government Programs
The Kenyan government offers programs to assist with
affordable housing. These often include subsidies, low-interest loans, or
grants for eligible individuals. Investigate these options to see if you can
access governmental aid.
4. Self-Funding
Those with enough financial resources can consider
self-funding. This means utilizing personal savings or income to cover
construction costs. This avoids loan payments andinterests and ensures careful
financial planning.
10 Two-Bedroom House Floor Plans
The table below presents 10 two-bedroom floor house plans
and their unique features:
|
Floor Plan |
Features |
||
|
Approx. Dimensions (sq. ft.) |
Style |
Number of Bathrooms |
|
|
Open-concept living |
900 – 1,200 |
Open and spacious |
1-2 |
|
Compact & cozy |
600 – 800 |
Functional and simple |
1 |
|
Urban-loft style |
1,000 – 1,300 |
Industrial and flexible |
1-2 |
|
L-shaped design |
1,000 -1,400 |
Contemporary and private |
1-2 |
|
Cottage-style home |
800 – 1,100 |
Cozy and rustic |
1-2 |
|
Dual master bedrooms |
1,100 – 1,400 |
En-suite and spacious |
2 |
|
Modern minimalist design |
800 – 1,100 |
Sleek, simple, and functional |
1-2 |
|
Narrow lot design |
900 – 1,200 |
Vertical and efficient |
1-2 |
|
Luxury with extra amenities |
1,200 – 1,500 |
Luxurious, convenient, and practical |
2 |
|
U-shaped floor plan |
1,200 – 1,500 |
Luxury, indoor-outdoor living |
1-2 |
Plan 1: Open-Concept Design
Features:
These are two-bedroom house floor plans designed to offer a
seamless transition between the living area, dining, and kitchen. By
eliminating unnecessary walls, the house feels airy and spacious.
This openness is coupled with large windows and glass doors
to allow in natural light. The two bedrooms can be positioned on opposite ends
of the house to ensure privacy.
Ideal for:
The open and accessible common area design is ideal for
small families or roommates who want to share some vibrant communal time but
also have some privacy in their sleeping quarters.
Plan 2: Compact and Cozy Two-Bedroom House Floor Plans
Features:
This housing layout prioritizes simplicity and
functionality. Compact and cozy two-bedroom house floor plans have a close-knit
arrangement of rooms, utilizing every available space.
The living room, kitchen, and dining are divided by thin and
multi-purpose walls. The idea of partitioning is to maximize usability rather
than take up more than necessary space.
To conserve square footage, this design lacks hallway spaces
and the rooms surround the communal living area.
Ideal for:
Families looking for a simplified lifestyle in
low-maintenance homes find this design convenient. In addition, it is just as
ideal for home starters as it is for people looking to downsize.
Plan 3: Urban Loft-Style Layout
Features:
The urban loft-style two-bedroom house floor plans bring a
trendy, modern design for city dwellers. It blends the open concept idea and
modern aesthetics to deliver the functionality of the household.
This design has a seamless transition between the living
area, dining, and kitchen, offering flexibility for furniture arrangement. It
also has large windows and glass doors for natural light, making the house look
more spacious and airy.
For the lofty look, it features exposed beams, brick walls,
metal accents, or concrete floors. The bedrooms are separated by sliding doors,
frosted glass, or wall partitions to maintain openness but also deliver
privacy.
Ideal for:
Urban lofts are primarily for city dwellers who want a
balance of an industrial look, modern finishings, and a cozy vibe. Such layouts
are often appealing to artists or young single professionals.
Plan 4: L-shaped Two-Bedroom House Floor Plans
Features:
L-shaped designs have a clear separation of the communal
area from the sleeping quarters. In the open area sit the living room, dining,
and kitchen while the private chambers, along one arm of the L-shape, sit the
bedrooms. These bedrooms are strategically positioned to minimize noise from
the communal spaces.
The open area is suited for interaction and thereby housing
all open-concept features. L-shaped two-bedroom house floor plans integrate
outdoor living seamlessly. Most may open up to a patio, courtyard, or garden
accessed through sliding doors.
Ideal for:
This layout is suited for families that fancy a seamless
integration between outdoor and indoor living spaces. They are also ideal for
small families that value shared bonding time in the open area but also some
quiet in their bedrooms.
Plan 5: Cottage-Style Home
Features:
True to the name, cottage-style two-bedroom house floor
plans are sing-storey compact designs with a wraparound porch for some outdoor
relaxation. The latter delivers the signature look of cottage designs.
The layout has warm interiors that give a rustic vibe. The
compactness of the interiors may be decorated with fireplaces for warmth and
wood accents. Although cottages are relatively small with no hallways or open
spaces, they prioritize the functionality, comfort, and intimacy of the
spaces.
Ideal for:
Small families with young children, retirees, or individuals
who value small spaces that connect them to nature and prefer homes with no
stairs.
Plan 6: Dual-master Two-Bedroom House Floor Plans
Features:
Dual master bedrooms are a modern solution for comfort,
togetherness, and privacy. The layout is endowed with two master bedrooms, each
with its en-suite bathroom, and shared living spaces encouraging
connectivity.
The living area is centrally located and seamlessly connects
with the dining and kitchen. The flow of natural light is also prioritized to
deliver a spacious and airy feel. For maximum functionality, the bedroom may be
located on opposite far ends of the house.
Ideal for:
Without the need to share bathrooms, this layout is ideal
for roommates who value convenience and privacy. It is also perfect for small
families and couples who often host overnight guests, giving them their own
comfort and privacy.
Plan 7: Modern Minimalist Two-Bedroom House Floor Plans
Features:
The modern minimalist design balances simplicity and
functionality in a clutter-free environment. The design is pretty
straightforward with each room serving a clear purpose, eliminating unnecessary
features.
Though simple, this home design does not sacrifice modern
sleek finishes. The interior is decorated with built-in stainless steel
appliances and glassy to give a modern high-end vibe. There is also a free
transition between the kitchen and the living area.
To deliver a calm modern environment, the interiors are
often in neutral thematic shades of grey, black, or white. Bedroom placement is
strategic, preferably on opposite sides of the house and separated by walls or
partitions.
Ideal for:
Modern minimalist two-bedroom house floor plans are common
for individuals seeking simple, calm, and clutter-free lifestyles. People who
find beauty in simplicity and appreciate organized spaces.
Plan 8: Narrow Lot Design
Features:
As the name conveys, narrow lot designs sit on narrow plots
of land where space is premium. These layouts, however, make up for their lack
of space with verticality. Narrow lot two-bedroom house floor plans are built
upward rather than outwards.
The idea is to make maximum use of each square footage.
Therefore, to ensure no space is wasted, the design incorporates shelving
features and built-in furniture and cabinets. Hallways and compact walls are
eliminated but basements and attics may be included for added functionality.
The bedrooms are often located on the upper floors for
privacy and embrace a compact design – simplicity and functionality. The
communal areas are left on the ground floor.
Ideal for:
These layouts are perfect for urban living where land is
minimal and sold premium. They are ideal for families, couples, or single
professionals in urban environments who want comfort and functionality in their
households.
Plan 9: Luxury with Extra Amenities
Features:
Luxurious two-bedroom house floor plans are big on comfort
and convenience. The layout features open space living in the shared spaces and
separate bedrooms that do not compromise the house’s style.
Besides these regular amenities, the layout incorporates a
neatly tucked alcove repurposed into a study area or home office. There may
also be a walk-in pantry near the kitchen, laundry room, and any other added
convenience the household may need.
These extra amenities are not just an afterthought of the
design. They are thoughtfully integrated and equipped with precision and
functionality. For instance, the walk-in pantry features smart storage
solutions and fluid access to the kitchen. The office nook from the alcove is
designed with luxury and convenience.
Ideal for:
These home designs are ideal for work-from-home
professionals who seek to balance work and home life seamlessly. Those who need
some quiet to concentrate while not disrupting the comfort of the home’s shared
spaces.
Small families who value the functionality of their homes would also appreciate
the extra amenities.
Plan 10: U-shaped Two-Bedroom House Floor Plans
Features:
These designs are engineered to blend indoor and outdoor
spaces seamlessly. The U-shape provides a central space that can be
transitioned into a pool, garden area, courtyard, or patio as the household
wields.
It also allows the fluidity of natural light in the
interiors which are designed with sliding glass doors and large windows facing
the central area. The indoors have an open-concept design for easy flow of
traffic and boding.
The bedrooms are often located on the outer arms of the
U-shape for privacy. They can open into the outdoor area, hence maintaining the
open and airy feel.
Ideal for:
The U-shape home design is specifically for families seeking
a bright airy home integrated with nature. Individuals or couples who love
hosting or entering guests could also leverage the central courtyard.
Conclusion
Building a 2-bedroom house in rural Kenya entails costs such
as land, foundation, walls, roofing, windows and doors, plumbing, electrical
work, and finishing touches. Overall costs can vary due to factors like
location, material selection, and labor availability.
Rural regions typically present lower land and labor costs,
making them appealing for new home builders. Thorough budgeting, investigating
different funding sources, and consulting skilled professionals, It are crucial
to keep your project within financial limits. With proper planning and informed
choices, you can realize your dream home affordably and satisfactorily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cost to Build a 2-Bedroom House in Rural
Kenya?
Costs typically range from Ksh 1.5 million to Ksh 3
million ($10,000 to $20,000) based on factors such as materials, labor, and
specific location. Access to materials and design complexity also influence
final costs.
What Influences Construction Costs in Rural Kenya?
Key influences include land cost, materials, labor,
design difficulty, and transportation. Being close to larger towns or transport
routes may raise overall expenses. Costs are a bit higher in urban areas, while
remote locations are usually less expensive.
Is Building a House in Rural Kenya Less Costly Than in
Cities?
Yes, generally it costs less to build in rural Kenya
because land and labor are cheaper.
But if the rural area is very far, the cost to transport materials can
increase.