1.

URBAN PLANNING OF VOI TOWN

SPATIAL LAYOUT OF VOI TOWN

Voi town, located in southeastern Kenya, has a spatial layout characterised by a central business district and a residential
area on either side of the railway line. The town's location along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway and the railway line has
influenced its spatial layout, making it a significant transportation hub in the region.

The central business district is located on the eastern side of the railway line, where most of the commercial activities
occur. The central business district includes several shopping centres, markets, and business premises, such as banks,
government offices, and hotels. The district is connected to the rest of the town by several roads, including the
Nairobi-Mombasa highway, which passes through the town.

The residential area is located on the western side of the railway line, and it is where most of the town's residents live.
The residential area is divided into several neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct characteristics. The
neighbourhoods are connected to the central business district by several roads, making it easy for residents to access
the town's facilities.

The railway station is located in the centre of the town, and it is a significant landmark in the town.
The railway line connects Voi to other towns and cities in the region, making it a vital transportation
hub in southeastern Kenya.

In recent years, there have been several developments in Voi town, including the construction of new
shopping centres, housing estates, and hotels. These developments have been spurred by the town's
strategic location and the growing demand for housing, commercial facilities, and tourism
infrastructure.

Influence of railway line on the spatial layout of Voi town

The railway played a significant role in shaping the layout and development of Voi town. The town was
established in 1901 as a railway station, and its layout and design were influenced by the needs of the
railway.

The railway line passed through the centre of Voi town, and the railway station was located at the heart
of the town. This central location of the railway station influenced the development of the town, as it
became the focal point for economic and social activities.
The railway also affected the pattern of land use in Voi town. The area around the railway station was developed into a commercial district, with shops, markets, and other businesses.
This area became the primary hub for economic activities in the town, as it was easily accessible to people and goods transported by the railway. It also influenced the spatial organization
of Voi town. The railway line acted as a barrier that divided the town into two sections, with the commercial district located to the east of the railway line and the residential area located
to the west. This spatial organization ensured that the noise and pollution from the railway did not affect the quality of life of residents.
On the other hand, towns such as Nairobi layout are characterized by a grid-like street pattern, with major transportation networks such as highways and railways intersecting at strategic
locations. The central business district is located at the heart of the city, with most of the commercial and administrative activities concentrated around it. The layout of Voi town,
therefore, provides it with ample space for further development without encroaching on road reserves as is the case in many other towns in the country.

TAITA TAVETA COUNTY INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT PLANS

The Taita Taveta Integrated Development Plan (TTIDP) is a long-term plan that aims to guide the development of Taita Taveta County in southeastern Kenya. The plan was developed in
consultation with various stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, private sector organizations, and development partners.

The TTIDP covers a period of ten years (2018-2028) and is aligned with the national development agenda, Vision 2030. The plan focuses on six thematic areas, which are:

1. Sustainable economic development: This thematic area aims to promote economic growth and create employment opportunities in the county. The plan proposes the development
of key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, mining, and manufacturing.

2. Infrastructure development: This thematic area focuses on the development of infrastructure such as roads, water supply systems, and energy infrastructure. The plan proposes the
construction of new infrastructure and the upgrading of existing infrastructure to improve connectivity and access to services.

3. Human capital development: This thematic area aims to improve the quality of life of the people in the county by investing in education, health, and social services. The plan
proposes the construction of new schools, health facilities, and social amenities.

4. Natural resources management: This thematic area aims to promote sustainable use and management of natural resources such as forests, water, and wildlife. The plan proposes the
conservation of natural resources and the development of ecotourism.

5. Governance and institutional development: This thematic area aims to promote good governance and strengthen the capacity of institutions to deliver services. The plan proposes
the development of a strong legal and regulatory framework, and the strengthening of institutional capacity.

6. Disaster risk reduction and management: This thematic area aims to improve the county's resilience to disasters such as droughts and floods. The plan proposes the development of
early warning systems, and the construction of infrastructure to mitigate the impact of disasters.

In conclusion, the Taita Taveta Integrated Development Plan is a comprehensive plan that aims to guide the development of the county over the next ten years. The plan focuses on key
areas such as economic development, infrastructure development, human capital development, natural resources management, governance and institutional development, and disaster risk
reduction and management. If implemented successfully, the plan has the potential to transform the county and improve the quality of life of its residents.
 2. SOCIO-CULTURAL BACKGROUND
DEMOGRAPHICS

The projected 2018 population of Taita Taveta county is 347,909 comprising 177,333 males and 170,584 females. A vast majority are young people between the ages of 18-35. Of
particular interest for this project are the demographics of school-going children which are as follows:
1. Primary School Going Age (6-13): the population which was 55,829 in 2009 constitutes 24.3% per cent of the population. The 2018 projected population of this age
group is 56,929. This population is expected to increase to 58,048 in 2020 and 59.173 in 2022.
2. Secondary School Going age group (14-17): the population which was 24,522 in 2009 constituted 10.29 per cent of the population. The 2018 projected population of
this age group is 25,007. This population is expected to increase to 25,498 in 2020 and 25,993 in 2022. To adequately cater for this age group, significant investment
will be required in the improvement of teaching and learning facilities in secondary schools and skills development in training institutions.

SOCIAL/CULTURAL OVERVIEW

Voi town is home to a mix of ethnic groups, including the Taita, Kamba, and Mijikenda. The Taita are the dominant ethnic group in the town, accounting for over 50% of the population.

The town has a diverse religious landscape. The majority of the people are Christians, with the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches being the largest denominations. There is also a
significant Muslim population in the town, more so among the Mijikenda and Somali communities. Religious institutions and organizations play an important role in the social and
cultural life of the town. Churches and mosques, in particular, serve as centres for community activities and provide services such as education, healthcare, and welfare support to their
congregations. Religious organizations also provide opportunities for community members to come together, share common interests, and engage in charitable activities.

The town has a strong sense of community, and people tend to be friendly and welcoming to visitors. Social interactions are an important part of life in Voi town, and community events
such as festivals, weddings, and religious celebrations are well attended. Family is also an important aspect of the social way of life, and people tend to have close relationships with their
relatives. Architecture within the region enhances this sense of community by ensuring minimal barriers between houses thus encouraging interaction among neighbours.

The town has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its day-to-day activities and social interactions.

● Greetings: Greetings are an important part of the culture in Voi town. People generally greet each other with a handshake or a nod of the head, and it is considered polite to use
formal titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Miss when addressing someone.
● Cuisine: Voi town has a diverse culinary culture, with various traditional and modern dishes available. The local cuisine includes dishes such as ugali (a staple made from maize
flour), sukuma wiki (a vegetable dish), and grilled meat. Other types of cuisine, such as Indian, Chinese, and fast food, are also available in the town.
● Festivals: Voi town celebrates various cultural and religious festivals throughout the year. These include Christmas, Easter, Eid al-Fitr (the end of Ramadan), and Diwali (the Hindu
festival of lights). The festivals are usually marked by community gatherings, feasts, and other social activities.
● Dress code: The dress code in Voi town is generally conservative, with modest clothing being the norm. Traditional attire, such as the kanga and kikoi, is also popular among both
men and women.
● Sports and recreation: Sports and recreation play an important role in the day-to-day culture of Voi town. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport, with several teams and
leagues operating in the town. Other popular recreational activities include hiking, swimming, and visiting local attractions such as national parks and game reserves.
 ● Music and dance: Music and dance are an important part of the culture in Voi town. Local musicians and dancers perform traditional and modern music and dance styles at
community events and social gatherings.

ECONOMIC OVERVIEW

The town serves as a major economic centre for the surrounding region and has experienced significant economic growth in recent years. Here is an overview of the economic
characteristics of Voi town:

● Agriculture: Agriculture is the primary economic activity in the region, with the majority of the local population engaged in farming. The main crops grown are cereals, root crops,
horticultural crops, nuts and oil crops. The town is also known for its production of sisal, a fibre crop that is used in the manufacture of ropes, twine, and other products. The
County is a major livestock rearing zone, with the main types of livestock being beef cattle, dairy cattle, goats, sheep, camels, donkeys, poultry, beekeeping, rabbit and pigs

● Tourism: Voi town is a popular destination for tourists, thanks to its close proximity to several national parks and game reserves. It serves as a gateway to the Tsavo East and Tsavo
West national parks, which are known for their diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. The town has several hotels, lodges, and campsites that cater to tourists.

● Trade and commerce: Voi town serves as a major commercial hub for the surrounding region, with several markets and shopping centres located in the town. The town is home to
several banks, supermarkets, and other retail outlets that serve the local population.

● Transport and logistics: Voi town is strategically located along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway, which is one of the busiest transport corridors in Kenya. The town is also served by
a railway line that connects it to other major cities in the region. The town has a busy bus station that serves as a transit point for passengers travelling between Nairobi and
Mombasa.

In conclusion, Voi town has a unique social, economic, and religious way of life. The town's strong sense of community, focus on agriculture and small businesses, and diverse religious
landscape all contribute to the town's identity and character.
 3. ARCHITECTURAL ANALYSIS

ARCHITECTURAL STYLE

The architecture of Voi town is a mix of old colonial-style buildings, modern architecture, and traditional African design. Here are some examples of the different architectural styles
found in Voi town. Some of the oldest buildings in Voi town were built during the colonial era, and they reflect the architectural styles of that time. These buildings include the old railway
station, which is now a museum, and some of the oldest houses in the town. As Voi town has grown and developed, new buildings have been constructed in modern architectural styles.
These buildings include hotels, shopping centres, and government buildings. They are typically made of concrete or steel and have sleek, contemporary designs with clean lines and
simple shapes.
Most residential buildings are designed to incorporate traditional African design elements, such as thatched roofs, mud walls, and brightly coloured paint. These buildings include homes,
restaurants, and craft markets. They are designed to be functional and practical, while also reflecting the local culture and traditions.

BUILDING TYPOLOGY
1. Residential buildings: The most common building typology in Voi town is residential buildings. These are typically single-story or multi-story buildings that are used as homes for
families. The design and construction of residential buildings in Voi vary, ranging from simple mud huts with thatched roofs to modern, concrete buildings with multiple rooms and
amenities.

2. Commercial buildings: Voi town has a growing commercial sector, and as such, there are many commercial buildings in the town. These include shops, restaurants, hotels, and
office buildings. These buildings are typically designed to be functional and practical, with a focus on maximizing space and providing adequate facilities for the intended use.

3. Public buildings: There are also many public buildings in Voi town, including government offices, schools, and health centres. These buildings are designed to meet the needs of the
community and provide essential services to residents. They are typically large, multi-story buildings with a focus on functionality and practicality.

4. Religious buildings: Voi town has a diverse religious landscape, and as such, there are many religious buildings in the town. These include churches, mosques, and temples. The
design of these buildings varies, with some being modern and contemporary while others have more traditional designs.

5. Industrial buildings: Voi town is located in an area with significant natural resources, and as such, there are many industrial buildings in the town. These include factories,
warehouses, and processing plants. The design of these buildings is typically focused on functionality and efficiency, with a focus on optimizing production and storage space.

FACADE DESIGN

The facade design of buildings in Voi town varies widely, depending on the building type and architectural style. Here are some common characteristics and features of building facades
in Voi town:
 ● Use of local materials: Many buildings in Voi town are constructed using locally-sourced materials such as mud, stone, and wood. This is particularly true for traditional buildings,
which often feature mud walls and thatched roofs. In contrast, modern buildings tend to use more modern construction materials such as concrete and steel.

● Colour: The colour of building facades in Voi town varies widely, with many buildings featuring brightly coloured walls and decorative elements. This is particularly true for
commercial buildings such as shops and restaurants, which often use bright colours to attract customers.

● Decorative elements: Many buildings in Voi town feature decorative elements such as murals, carvings, and ornate window frames. These elements are often inspired by local
culture and traditions, such as Maasai-inspired patterns and motifs.

● Balconies and verandas: Many buildings in Voi town feature balconies or verandas that provide outdoor space and shade. These are particularly common in residential buildings,
where they serve as an extension of the living space as well as a means of sun-shading the interior spaces

● Shopfronts: Commercial buildings in Voi town often feature elaborate shopfronts, with large windows and ornate signage. These are designed to attract customers and create an
inviting atmosphere.

● Modern architecture: In recent years, Voi town has seen an increase in modern architecture, particularly in the commercial sector. These buildings often feature sleek, minimalist
designs with clean lines and large windows.

MATERIALITY AND BUILDING TECHNOLOGY

The materiality of buildings in Voi town varies depending on the building's purpose, budget, and the period in which it was constructed.

Traditional building materials such as mud, wood, and thatch, were commonly used in the past due to their availability and affordability. These materials were particularly popular for
residential buildings, and examples of traditional mud and thatch houses can still be found in some parts of the town.

In the modern era, materials such as cement, brick, and steel have become more popular due to their durability and strength. The use of brick in this region is more common in
comparison to other regions within the country. However, most buildings use paint and plaster as a finish for brick walls due to poor workmanship when handling the brick and cheaper
costs. Concrete and brick are commonly used for the construction of commercial buildings, government offices, and other public structures. They provide a solid and durable structure
that can withstand the harsh climatic conditions of the region. Most of these materials are sourced from Nairobi as opposed to local sources as it is relatively cheaper.

In more recent times, there has been an increasing interest in eco-friendly and sustainable building materials such as sisal, bamboo, recycled plastic, and rammed earth. This can be
clearly seen in the design of hotels and resorts within the region. Some new residential buildings in Voi town have been constructed using these materials, which are considered more
environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

Additionally, buildings in Voi town often feature decorative elements such as ornate metalwork, colourful ceramic tiles, and locally sourced stones. These materials provide a unique
aesthetic and cultural identity to the town's architecture.
In conclusion, the materiality of buildings in Voi town varies from traditional materials to modern building materials, with increasing interest in eco-friendly and sustainable materials.
The use of decorative elements also adds to the town's unique architectural identity.

VOI SAFARI LODGE

Voi Safari Lodge is a popular tourist destination in Voi town, located at the edge of Tsavo East National Park. The lodge was built in the early 1970s and has since undergone several
renovations to upgrade its facilities and amenities.

The architecture of Voi Safari Lodge is inspired by traditional African design, with a focus on blending in with the natural surroundings. One of the most striking features of Voi Safari
Lodge's architecture is its location on a rocky outcrop overlooking the vast plains of Tsavo East National Park. The building is designed to sit directly on the outcrop and follow the
natural terrain of the land.
The lodge's main building is built around a large, open courtyard that provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The layout of the buildings ensures panoramic views of the
surrounding landscape. The building's facade is made up of stone walls and large windows that let in plenty of natural light and provide guests with panoramic views of the park.

The indoor/outdoor spaces of the lodge flow seamlessly allowing clear and unobstructed views all around. The interior spaces play around with volume by varying floor-to-ceiling heights
within the same space, creating several different spaces within one area without any physical barrier such as a wall. The interior of Voi Safari Lodge is decorated in a simple yet elegant
style, with natural materials such as wood and stone used throughout. Large windows provide plenty of natural light and stunning views of the park.

Another notable feature of Voi Safari Lodge's architecture is its outdoor spaces. The lodge has several outdoor dining areas, including a large deck that overlooks the park and a shaded
pool area. These outdoor spaces are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, providing guests with a truly immersive African safari experience.

In terms of materiality, the lodge is constructed using a blend of modern materials e.g glass and steel and natural materials such as wood, stone, bamboo, and thatch which give it a rustic
and earthy feel.
SALT LICK ECO LODGE

Voi Salt Lick Eco Lodge is an iconic tourist destination located in Taita Taveta County, Kenya. The lodge is situated within the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary and features unique
architecture that blends in with the natural environment. The lodge is built on stilts, with a series of walkways connecting the different structures.

The lodge's design is inspired by traditional African architecture, with a focus on using natural materials such as wood and thatch to create a rustic and earthy feel. The use of elevated
structures and walkways allows guests to view wildlife from a safe and comfortable distance.

The lodge's main building features a thatched roof and large windows that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The building's facade is made up of wooden poles and
beams, creating a natural and organic look. The interior of the lodge is decorated in a simple yet elegant style, with natural materials used throughout. The lodge's rooms are spacious and
comfortable, with large windows that provide panoramic views of the park.

One of the most unique features of Voi Salt Lick Eco Lodge is its waterhole, which is situated directly beneath the lodge's main building. The waterhole is lit up at night, providing guests
with a front-row seat to view wildlife such as elephants, zebras, and giraffes as they come to drink.
4. ECOLOGY AND NATURAL HABITATS OF VOI AND TSAVO EAST/WEST NATIONAL
PARK
The town is situated between the Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks, which are renowned for their diverse wildlife and natural habitats.

The region's ecology is characterized by a range of different habitats, including savannah grasslands, forests, and wetlands. These habitats support a wide range of plant and animal
species, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and many others.

The Tsavo East National Park is the largest protected area in Kenya and is home to a vast array of wildlife species which includes the ‘Big Five’ i.e. Elephants, Buffalos,
Leopards, Lions and Rhinos. Other important species include the endangered hirola and wild dogs. Additionally, leopards, pods of hippo, crocodiles, waterbucks, lesser kudu, gerenuk and
the prolific bird life feature 500 recorded species. The park is also home to the Lugard Falls, the Yatta Plateau, and the Galana River, which is the longest river in Kenya.

The Tsavo West National Park is smaller than Tsavo East but is still a significant conservation area. The park features diverse habitats such as savannah, riverine forests, and rocky
hillsides. The park is home to over 600 bird species and over 50 mammal species, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, and leopards. It is also known for its spectacular views of the
Chyulu Hills and the volcanic lava flows of the Shetani lava fields.

The region faces a number of ecological challenges, including habitat fragmentation due to human activities such as agriculture and urbanization, poaching, and climate change. However,
conservation efforts by the Kenyan government, NGOs, and local communities are helping to preserve and protect the natural habitats and wildlife in the region.

In conclusion, the ecology and natural habitats of Voi and the Tsavo East/West National Parks are incredibly diverse and support a wide range of plant and animal species. These habitats
are facing ecological challenges, but conservation efforts are helping to preserve and protect this unique and important region.
 5. CLIMATE
SUMMARY

The voi town is located at geographic coordinates 3’ 23’ S 38’ 34’ E. the town is at an altitude of 580m above sea level and has a savannah/semi-arid climate. The average temperature is
around 24.5 C with February as the hottest month and July and August as the coolest. Annual rainfall is 490mm with the most occurring during December. June, July, and August are the
driest months with no rainfall at all. Relative humidity averages 67% annually and the predominant wind direction is South/South East.

● solar radiation on the outer walls as well as provide cool spaces with the buildings/building layout.
● Buildings should be oriented along the east—west axis with the longer sides facing north and south to prevent solar heat gains. The building‘s surface area exposed to the east and
west should be minimized.
● Openings should be located on the north and south. Small openings that are located high on the walls are recommended to facilitate natural ventilation as well as reduce glare from
light reflected from the ground or surrounding buildings.
● Appropriate shading devices are necessary on all openings to decrease heat gain from solar radiation. Use of vegetation, verandas, covered walkways, pergolas etc. is recommended
to provide shade to walls, openings and outdoor spaces.
● The use of reflective surfaces (roof) and light-coloured external walls are effective in reflecting solar radiation thus minimizing solar heat gains and consequently minimizing
internal daytime temperatures.

b. To balance diurnal temperature range

● Medium-weight building materials with high thermal capacity are recommended to balance temperature variations between day and night. These materials absorb heat during the
daytime keeping indoor temperatures lower than outdoor temperatures. The stored heat is later dissipated at night thereby providing indoor thermal comfort when the outdoor
temperatures fall below the comfort zone.

c. To ensure air circulation

● Openings should be located to take advantage of prevailing winds and allow for cross-ventilation.

● Ventilation through windows should be kept at a minimum during the daytime to keep hot and dusty air out. However, at night, windows may be opened to provide adequate
ventilation for the dissipation of heat accumulated during the day by walls and the roof to prevent overheating of the interior space.
● Other ventilation strategies include the use of wind catchers, wind towers, solar chimneys, roof-mounted exhaust fans etc.

d. To minimize problems associated with dust

● Vegetation can be used to filter dust from the air before it gets into the building.
● Closing windows during the daytime prevents dust from getting into the building on windy days. Windows should be tight-fitting as possible to prevent dust from infiltrating