Nestled in the prestigious diplomatic suburb of Gigiri in Nairobi, the Gem Forest Hotel is the latest jewel in the city’s boutique hotel scene. The hotel boasts breathtaking interiors that seamlessly blend contemporary elegance with local artistry. We spoke to Mr. Jigar Patel of the Jit Group, who, together with his brothers Dil Patel and Luv Patel, has been instrumental in the success of the project.
What inspired you to build the Gem Forest Hotel, and what story or experience do you want guests to take away from their stay?
At Jit Group, we have made a significant impact in the hospitality industry through our food and beverage holding group, The Food Library by Jit, which includes six iconic restaurants such as INTI, Mercado, and Meso. Our commitment to innovative concepts and exceptional experiences has set high expectations among our guests. This success inspired us to venture into the hotel industry, aiming to create something truly unique in Nairobi.
Our family’s rich history in the jewelry and gemstone business has also influenced our vision. The hotel’s name, “Gem Forest,” reflects this legacy and its stunning natural setting on the edge of Karura Forest. We aimed to blend luxury with nature, crafting a one-of-a-kind retreat that resonates with the beauty of the gemstones we cherish and the tranquil environment of the forest. Our goal is for guests to leave feeling rejuvenated and inspired by the seamless integration of nature, luxury, and our family’s tradition, creating an unparalleled experience in Nairobi and Africa.
Why did you choose the diplomatic suburb of Gigiri as the location for the hotel, and how does this choice enhance the guest experience?
We chose Gigiri for Gem Forest Hotel due to its status as Nairobi’s diplomatic and international business hub. Home to numerous embassies, the United Nations Office, and multinational organizations, this area attracts high-profile business travelers and diplomats seeking security and convenience. The proximity to the tranquil Karura Forest allows guests to escape the bustling city and immerse themselves in nature. This unique blend of accessibility and peaceful natural surroundings enhances the overall guest experience, making it ideal for both work and relaxation.
How does the Gem Forest Hotel differentiate itself from other luxury hotels in Nairobi? What unique features or services do you offer?
Gem Forest Hotel stands out through its fusion of luxury and nature. We offer unparalleled views of the lush Karura Forest, creating an immersive experience in a serene setting. Our Shanta Spa features treatments crafted with the luxurious KOS PARIS brand, emphasizing wellness and relaxation. The hotel is designed with gemstone-inspired suites that reflect our family’s heritage, further enhancing its uniqueness. Our commitment to sustainable practices and eco-consciousness is deeply embedded in our operations, setting us apart in Nairobi’s luxury hotel landscape.
Can you describe the design and aesthetic of the hotel? What influences or themes did you incorporate into its architecture and interior design?
The design of the Gem Forest Hotel, led by Studio Infinity, showcases a modern interpretation of nature, influenced by its location near Karura Forest. The building features a contemporary, see-through, asymmetric crystalline shape that allows the forest to stream into the hotel, complemented by a lush green entrance for a seamless transition from outside to inside.
Interiors crafted by the world-renowned Sundukovy Sisters feature bespoke furniture, with each suite echoing the allure of precious gemstones. Central themes include gems, crystals, greenery, light, and water, creating an elegant aquatic forest metaphor. Organic shapes and colors fill the lobby, referencing jewels against a minimalistic backdrop. Light is reflected and diffracted through glass elements with dichroic film, creating an ever-changing play of colors.
A sky-lit atrium filled with water and large banana trees enhances the connection to nature. An open-air bar can fold back glass partitions to welcome fresh air in good weather. The design integrates glass transparency, iridescence, greenery, and cutting-edge technology, especially around the bar, creating an enchanting aquatic dream. The reception and bar counters, made of transparent glass bricks, form prisms with a mirror surface that elicit a “wow” effect. Guest rooms feature precious gemstone-colored furniture against warm white walls, with a specially designed prism and spotlight system casting a magical effect. The swimming pool area invites guests to immerse themselves, with deck chairs placed directly in the pool, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for events.
What type of guests do you envision attracting to the hotel, and how do you plan to cater to their specific needs and preferences?
We envision attracting a diverse clientele, including diplomats, business travelers, eco-conscious tourists, and wellness seekers. For business travelers, we offer state-of-the-art meeting spaces and convenient access to key diplomatic and corporate locations. Wellness enthusiasts will enjoy our Shanta Spa and the peaceful forest setting, while leisure travelers will appreciate the blend of nature and urban experiences. Our personalized services and attention to detail ensure that we cater to the specific needs of each guest, enhancing their overall experience.
How does being part of The MGallery Collection influence your approach to hospitality and guest experience?
Being part of Accor’s MGallery Collection, known for its boutique hotels that prioritize unique storytelling and authenticity, significantly influences our approach to hospitality. We aim to craft memorable experiences that reflect our commitment to quality, sustainability, and personalized service. The MGallery ethos inspires us to create a distinctive atmosphere that tells the story of our hotel’s connection to nature and local culture, ensuring each guest’s experience is unique and unforgettable.
Can you share some of the sustainable practices or community initiatives that the hotel is involved with or intends to carry out?
At Gem Forest Hotel, sustainability is at the core of our operations. We have implemented several innovative practices to minimize our environmental impact while enhancing the guest experience. Our state-of-the-art sewage treatment plant and comprehensive solar power system reflect our commitment to eco-friendly practices, enabling us to operate efficiently and sustainably.
As a zero-plastic property, adhering to MGallery standards, we strive to eliminate single-use plastics throughout the hotel. One standout initiative is the introduction of the first AI waste bin in Africa, provided by Accor, optimizing waste management and recycling efforts. Furthermore, we contribute to sustainability by composting waste, including bones from our restaurants, enriching our gardens and supporting local biodiversity. Our Shanta Spa, featuring treatments crafted with KOS PARIS, utilizes luxurious natural ingredients with sustainable practices, further enhancing our commitment to wellness and the environment. We are also proud to support Pink October, raising awareness for breast cancer and contributing to community health initiatives. Through these efforts, we aim to create a positive impact on both the environment and the community, aligning with Accor’s commitment to sustainable hospitality.
What amenities or services do you consider the highlights of the Gem Forest Hotel?
The Gem Forest Hotel & Spa, part of the MGallery Collection, features 105 rooms and suites designed for ultimate comfort and elegance. Among the highlights is the luxurious Emerald Forest Suite, offering stunning views of Karura Forest. Our dining options, curated by The Food Library by Jit, include a range of culinary experiences that celebrate local and international flavors. Guests can unwind at the Le Mer pool bar, providing a relaxing atmosphere alongside the swimming pool.
The Shanta Spa offers a variety of bespoke treatments designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, complementing the upscale accommodations. The hotel includes luxurious bespoke meeting spaces with three boardrooms and four meeting rooms, ideal for corporate events. For fitness enthusiasts, there’s a gym on the ninth floor with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.
How did you curate the dining options available at the hotel, and what culinary experiences can guests expect?
At Gem Forest Hotel & Spa, our dining options are carefully curated by The Food Library by Jit, offering guests a diverse culinary experience. Each restaurant—Kahani, Enchanté, and Troy—brings its unique flair, showcasing a blend of local and international flavors:
Kahani: Contemporary Indian cuisine.
Enchanté: Inspired by French, Spanish, and Italian Riviera cuisines.
Troy: Celebrates Turkish and Greek culinary traditions and houses a gemstone museum, enhancing the dining atmosphere with cultural elements.
Our culinary experiences emphasize quality ingredients and creative presentations, ensuring that each meal is memorable. Additionally, the Le Mer pool bar provides a relaxing spot for refreshments, further enriching the overall experience for guests looking to unwind in a luxurious setting.
What challenges did you face during the development of the hotel, and how did you overcome them to create this unique destination?
The development of Gem Forest Hotel presented a unique set of challenges, but our commitment to creating an exceptional destination drove us to go above and beyond at every stage. We collaborated with the finest contractors and designers available in Kenya to ensure the highest standards in construction and aesthetics. Recognizing that innovation often requires global expertise, we sought specialized services from talented professionals across various countries, including Turkey, India, China, the Netherlands, Spain, France, the Philippines, and Egypt.
This international collaboration allowed us to integrate cutting-edge design elements and advanced technologies, enriching the overall experience. By infusing the hotel with a blend of local craftsmanship and global influences, we created a space that resonates with both cultural heritage and modern luxury. Every detail of the hotel has been meticulously crafted, reflecting our vision of an unparalleled retreat that stands out not just in Nairobi but across Africa.
