Kenyan architecture firm Image Three Sixty Designs Ltd has been recognised among the winners of the inaugural Africa International Design Awards (AIDA) 2026 for its interiors work on Ulwazi Place Hotel.
The award places the Nairobi-based design studio among a select group of African creatives celebrated for projects rooted in the continent’s identity, culture and storytelling.
Architect and interior designer Susan Kabue said the firm was “honoured” to receive the recognition.
“We’re honoured that Image Three Sixty Designs Ltd has been recognised among the winners of the inaugural Africa International Design Awards 2026 — an award that celebrates exceptional African designers whose work is deeply rooted in the continent’s identity and story,” she said.
The winning project, Ulwazi Place Hotel, was developed for the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC). According to Kabue, the design concept drew inspiration from Africa’s four major biomes — the savanna, tropics, desert and coast.
“Through a design theme dubbed ‘Tembea Africa’ which translated in Swahili means ‘Travel across Africa’ we created a rich and immersive experience that constantly reconnects users with the beauty and diversity of the continent,” she said. She added that the concept was intended to help guests remain connected to the continent they serve despite the demanding nature of their work.
The Africa International Design Awards were launched to recognise excellence in architecture, interiors, communication, product and fashion design across Africa and the diaspora. The inaugural winners were announced in May 2026 following submissions from more than 40 countries.
Kabue also thanked the organisers and the project client for supporting the vision behind the award-winning design.
“We thank Africa International Design Awards – AIDA for this recognition and African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) our client for having faith in us,” she said.
