Kitengela: Off-Grid Recycled Glass Village Lights Up Kenya’s Masaai Plains

Run by Nani Croze, the Kitengela Glass Studio in Kenya tells an inspiring story of creative reuse. This locale of Gaudi-inspired hobbit cottages is a showcase for recycled <a href="http://inhabitat.com/light-bulb-sculptures/">glass art</a> and features pottery studios, ubiquitous metal sculptures, and even an animal menagerie. But if the charming aesthetic isn't enough to enchant you, Kitengela is also powered by <a href="http://inhabitat.com/stretchable-solar-cells-power-ultra-sensitive-electronic-super-skin/">solar energy,</a> wind power, and bio-gas. Since its construction this sustainable, off-the-grid fantasy land has provided much-needed job opportunities while serving as a haven for visitors from all over the world.

Nature reigns supreme at Kitengela. This incredible footbridge was built around the naturally-occurring flora, allowing Nani's husband to walk through the lush treetops to his office.

Absolutely nothing goes to waste. Materials for the rondavel-shaped hobbit houses are sourced locally. Also available for rent, each is decorated with stray pieces of glass or tile or even coke bottle tops.

Roughly 60 local Kenyans have been provided with an important and inspiring skill that has lifted them and their families out of poverty. Nani displays their art alongside her own, which is internationally-acclaimed.

More than just a craft shop, Nani's son Anselm also runs a commercial powerhouse, churning out countless beautiful, colorful pieces.

Everything from the Egyptian vulture that eats ostrich omelet out of human hands to the glass itself is true to its African roots.

Kenya is far behind on the recycling movement, so Kitengela provides a valuable ecological and social service by reusing material that would otherwise lie wasted in a landfill.

We can't leave out the pigs! Almost all of the animal waste is collected in a large vat, from which bio-gas is extracted and used for cooking. The facility is completely off the national grid. Solar and wind energy provide energy for heating, cooling, and electricity.