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CAPITAL M APARTMENTS ,NAIROBI

Capital M Apartments is the first residential development in Kenya and the wider region to achieve LEED certification, marking a significant milestone in sustainable housing. Located in Nairobi, the project began with the demolition of existing apartment buildings. UGC was involved from the outset ensuring that demolition materials were salvaged and reused by local vendors with the process documented to support the project’s sustainability goals.

UGC worked closely with the architects and engineers from the early design stages, running building performance simulations to guide key design decisions. This close collaboration enabled a truly passive design strategy, with naturally ventilated spaces, maximised daylighting and enhanced occupant comfort. Key features such as light-reflective exterior colours helped reduce solar gain and amplify natural light within apartments - minimising reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical cooling.

The project also integrates solar thermal systems, rooftop PV panels and efficient plumbing fixtures, ensuring low operational costs and long-term environmental benefits. Capital M Apartments stands as a strong example of how residential projects can be both high-performing and cost-effective.

Project Sustainability Features

  • 100% naturally ventilated; no mechanical cooling

  • Maximised daylight through strategic orientation and layout

  • Light-reflective façade colours to reduce heat gain and enhance internal light levels

  • Solar thermal hot water system

  • Solar PV system for common area electricity

  • High-efficiency low-flow/low-flush sanitary fittings

  • Reuse of materials from demolished structures

  • Significantly reduced utility and operational costs

  • Full compliance with LEED water, energy and waste prerequisites

UGC Services Provided:

  • Demolition waste reuse documentation

 

  • Early-stage sustainability advisory

 

  • Building performance simulations (daylight, ventilation, energy)

 

  • LEED strategy, documentation and certification management

Project Info

Location
  • Nairobi, Kenya
Square Meters
  • 17,560
Completion Date
  • 2019
Certification
  • LEED Silver