Studio Loci was founded by three visionary architects—Fredrick Karani, Hempstone Nyawanda, and Martin Mativo—whose diverse talents and shared passion for sustainable and innovative design brought them together.

Frederick Karani, known for his expertise in residential architecture, blends contemporary minimalism with a focus on natural materials and light. After spending years designing bespoke homes in Nairobi, Fredrick developed a deep appreciation for eco-friendly solutions that harmonize with their surroundings.

Hempstone Nyawanda, a bold architect, urban designer, and conceptual thinker from Kisumu, specializes in mixed-use developments and large-scale public projects. His work is inspired by the interplay of form and function, often incorporating cutting-edge technology and smart city concepts.

Martin Mativo, a design strategist with an eye for adaptive reuse, focuses on transforming historical buildings into modern spaces. Based in Nairobi for much of his career, Martin’s projects balance heritage preservation with innovative functionality, creating spaces that tell stories of the past while embracing the future.

Their paths crossed during their studies at the University of Nairobi, where a conversation about sustainable design sparked the idea to combine their unique perspectives into a single firm. By founding Studio Loci, they aimed to redefine modern architecture with a strong focus on environmental responsibility, community-driven design, and innovative construction techniques. Together, they’ve completed award-winning projects ranging from boutique hotels and cultural centers to reimagined urban spaces.