Restoration of an 18th century traditional Swahili stone house. Once home to a wealthy merchant, this palatial residence has now been converted into a small hotel with materials such as sand, lime, Mwangati wood, marble and alabaster dust, and cement. Coral stones and blocks, available on-site, were used to help keep the edifice cool. In addition to the restoration work, a second floor was added to the building, exploiting the same structure, layout and techniques as in the original construction.
Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture
See also:
Official Website of Baytil Ajaib. http://www.baytilajaib.com/. [Accessed January 16, 2006]