Insights from Brackenhurst Conference and Retreat Centre
What makes a conference memorable? It’s not just the keynote speaker or the seating plan. It can also be the feeling of connection to nature, to each other, to purpose.
As a historic venue nestled in the highlands of Limuru, Brackenhurst has hosted countless events rooted in sustainability, wellbeing, and intention. Here are the trends we see shaping the next generation of meaningful gatherings:
1. Nature-Immersed Venues
More planners are seeking out spaces that offer access to the outdoors, not just for aesthetics, but for the proven benefits to creativity, stress reduction, and wellbeing. At Brackenhurst, guests often comment that the forest changes the entire feel of their conference. Take a look at some of the research around forest bathing for more information.
2. Plant-Forward Catering
Menus featuring local, organic produce and plant-based meals are no longer niche; they’re expected. We partner with ForestFoods and other local suppliers to deliver farm-fresh ingredients from just steps away.
3. Carbon Tracking for Events
Event professionals are increasingly tracking the carbon footprint of their gatherings, from travel to energy usage. At Brackenhurst, our low-impact energy model supports this shift. We utilize an 80-kW grid-tie solar system that powers up to 50% of our daytime energy needs and offsets 31% of total campus energy use. This system alone prevents up to 35 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, making Brackenhurst an ideal venue for eco-conscious organizers looking to reduce impact without compromising comfort.
4. Moving Towards Minimal Printing
Brackenhurst encourages minimal printing wherever possible. From reusing signage to opting for recyclable materials, our team works closely with organizers to reduce paper waste. It’s not just about going paperless, it’s about being intentional with every resource used.
5. Indigenous Landscaping as Experience Design
Our forest restoration by the Centre for Ecosystem Restoration Kenya (CER-K) has brought back 353 species of indigenous trees.
Landscaping with local biodiversity isn’t just good ecology, it creates an immersive experience.
6. Wellness and Mindfulness Breakout Sessions
Walking trails and silent reflection periods are becoming expected additions. Our green spaces offer a natural container for this trend.
7. Local Community Involvement
Alongside personal wellbeing, social and community impact is also becoming a central focus for event planners. Events that support local economies and celebrate cultural connections are increasingly in demand. At Brackenhurst, we prioritize working with artisans, farmers, and facilitators from our surrounding community.
From our regular Seasonal Farmers’ Markets and Festival in the Forest, our events provide a platform for local vendors to showcase handmade crafts, organic produce, and unique services.
We’ve also hosted high-impact conferences that blend global conversations with local engagement. Earlier this year, we welcomed conservationist Dr Paula Kahumbu alongside fellow National Geographic Society Explorers. Later this year, we’ll proudly host the first-ever World Open Space on Open Space (WOSonOS) conference in Kenya, being held for the first time in Africa, creating an open space to share knowledge, resolve challenges, and build resilient futures.
This kind of community-rooted focus ensures that every Brackenhurst event is not only sustainable, but also deeply connected to the land and people who make this place special.
8. Circular Economy Event Setups
Reusables, flexible configurations, and sustainable disposal are shaping the future of event planning. A circular economy aims to minimize waste and promote a sustainable use of natural resources, through smarter product design, longer use, recycling and more, as well as regenerating nature.
At Brackenhurst, our venues, from the Dining Hall to outdoor spaces and conference rooms, are adaptable for a wide range of gatherings, including board meetings, retreats, workshops and celebrations. This flexibility enables efficient setups with minimal disruption or the need for additional materials.
We also follow waste-conscious practices. Through our partnership with Friends of Creation, we recycle up to 95% of our waste each month. Plastic bottles have been eliminated across the campus, with water now bottled on-site in reusable glass containers.
Together, these efforts reflect a strong commitment to minimizing our environmental footprint while supporting events that align with the principles of the circular economy.
9. Hybrid-Ready Infrastructure
Even in nature, connectivity matters. We support hybrid events with strong Wi-Fi and flexible tech setups, so participants can join from anywhere.
10. Regenerative Partnerships
Guests increasingly want to participate in restoration activities as part of their travel experience. We make this possible through guided forest tours and tree planting packages offered in partnership with CER-K.
Our Tree Planting Package is ideal for groups of up to 50 people and includes a 30-minute walk through the indigenous forest, followed by a hands-on planting session where participants can plant up to 50 native trees and understory shrubs. The full package funds the planting of 250 trees, with the remainder planted by our team in alignment with seasonal rainfall. Holes are prepared in advance to ensure a smooth and meaningful experience. The session typically runs from 8:45 am to 12:30 pm and can include a mid-morning break at Muna Tree Café.
This initiative allows guests to contribute directly to biodiversity restoration while enjoying a purposeful and educational outdoor experience.
Plan Events That Make a Difference with Brackenhurst
Embracing these trends not only enhances the quality of events but also contributes positively to our planet and communities.
At Brackenhurst, sustainability isn’t just a selling point, it’s our foundation. If you’re ready to plan an event that leaves both your attendees and the planet better off, let’s talk:
+254 748 199 552 | bookings@brackenhurst.com
