low standard 2003 TCMP ICMGuidelines.

18 Aesthetics: M aintaining a sense of Place H otels and related tourist facilities should not degrade the visual amenity of the coastal landscape, primarily because it is exactly this environment that attracts visitors to the coast in the first place. Buildings should blend into the local surroundings, creating an aesthetically pleasing combination of natural and man-made environments. The architecture and design of buildings should reflect the identity of the local culture and environment. After all, a hotel shaped like a pyramid might be appropriate in Egypt, but not along the Swahili coast. The following are some ideas on how to ensure that the hotel reflects the local context of the coast: • Use local materials in construction: many hotels along the coast use makuti, or braided palm branches, as roofing materials, much like many of the native houses found in nearby villages. If using makuti , however, it is important to take precautions against fire as it can be highly flammable, particularly in the dry season. Besides being aesthetically pleasing, makuti is also relatively inexpensive and widely available in most coastal areas. O ther local materials that are aesthetically pleasing are the wooden poles used to frame the large makuti bandas. H owever, care should be taken to ensure that the poles are coming from a sustainable source to prevent clear cutting of forests to meet increasing demand from hotels. • D ecorate rooms and commons areas with locally-produced furniture and art: using locally-made chairs or other furniture, woven mats or painted gourds can add to the guests’ feeling of a sense of place. Investors and local artisans should discuss what materials and skills are available locally and work together to create a unique, authentic atmosphere. • Limit the height of structures to blend into surroundings: buildings or other structures, particularly in rural areas, should not be taller than the palm trees found along the coast. By doing this, the natural view shed of the coastal area is maintained.