The Kitengela Hot Glass is more than just a glass-making studio. Situated at the edge of Nairobi National Park about 30km from Nairobi CBD in Kajiado County, the glass manufacturing company is a place where art is reborn from recycled materials, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
The Kenya Times set out to explore this hidden gem and discover the magic that lies within.
The adventure began with a scenic drive through the grassy plains and murram that took between 40 minutes to one hour, leading us to a world where nature and innovation converge.
At the heart of Kitengela Hot Glass is Anselm Croze, a man whose journey is as remarkable as the art he creates.
With a background that spans continents and cultures, Anselm’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and an unyielding commitment to artistic excellence.
In an interview with The Kenya Times, Anselm shared his unlikely path to becoming one of East Africa’s leading glass artists.
“I was captivated by the magic of glass,” he said, recalling how the material’s transformative qualities drew him in.
From humble beginnings in Limuru, Anselm has built an empire of glass, turning his fascination into a thriving business that blends sustainability with creativity.
Kitengela Hot Glass: Glass-making process
Stepping into the workshop at Kitengela Hot Glass is like entering a different world—a world where fire and skill combine to create stunning works of art.
The process begins with the most basic of materials, broken glass. Sourced from construction sites and other places where waste glass is abundant, these pieces are given new life in the hands of skilled artisans.
Carol, one of the team members at Kitengela Hot Glass, took us through the process. “We mainly recycle clear window glass,” she explained, showing us the piles of broken shards waiting to be transformed.
The glass is fed into a furnace that reaches temperatures of 1,180°C, where it’s melted down and prepared for crafting.
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What follows is a mesmerizing display of craftsmanship. Skilled glassblowers shape the molten glass into intricate designs, each piece a testament to their artistry and expertise.
Watching the process unfold, it’s clear that this is more than just a job for the artisans; it’s a labor of love that requires years of training and dedication.
The Magic Beyond the Glass
But Kitengela Hot Glass is not just about glassmaking; it’s a place where art and adventure go hand in hand.
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The property is dotted with artistic features that reflect the creative spirit of the studio, from the mosaic-decorated café to the whimsical sculptures that populate the grounds.
One of the most iconic attractions is the wobbly suspension bridge—a thrilling challenge for anyone with a fear of heights, for a fee of Ksh300.
Our guide, Yusuf, led us across this swaying bridge, which spans a deep river valley 30 meters below.
Built in the early 2000s by Nani Croze, a German artist and Anselm’s mother who settled in Kenya in the 1970s, the bridge is both a feat of engineering and a work of art.
Made from steel lift cables and decorated with recycled glass elements, it has become a symbol of the studio’s commitment to blending art with the environment.
As we crossed the bridge, the wind picked up, causing it to sway even more. “The maximum weight is 10 people at a time,” Yusuf reassured us, though the bridge can hold much more.
Despite the nerves, the experience was exhilarating, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to appreciate the beauty of Kitengela Hot Glass from a different perspective.
A Legacy of Innovation and Community
Kitengela Hot Glass is more than just a tourist destination; it’s a cornerstone of the local community. Anselm and his team have created not only a place of beauty but also a source of employment and empowerment for many Kenyans.
The studio offers training programs and apprenticeships, giving people the skills they need to become master glassblowers.
Moreover, the studio’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of recycled materials and its efforts to minimize waste.
The art created here is not just beautiful; it’s also a testament to the power of reimagining what’s possible when we embrace creativity and environmental responsibility.
Visitors to Kitengela Hot Glass can also take part in the glassmaking process, trying their hand at creating their own pieces under the guidance of skilled artisans.
You can watch a demonstration of glassblowing, and for a bit more, you can cross the swaying bridge or even take a dip in the studio’s swimming pool—a refreshing way to end a day of exploration and artistic discovery.
As we wrapped up our visit, it was clear that Kitengela Hot Glass was a place like no other. It’s a place where art is not just created but experienced—a place where the ordinary becomes extraordinary through the magic of glass.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or simply someone looking to experience something unique, Kitengela Hot Glass offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Kenya’s creative spirit.
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