Richard Ashby, a former London businessman specializing in high-end property sales, traded his £200,000-a-year career for a life in Zanzibar, transforming his pandemic escape into a £46 million luxury development venture. The onset of Covid-19 brought Ashby’s thriving business to a standstill and negatively impacted his mental health. Discontent with lockdown restrictions, he sought refuge in Zanzibar, an idyllic archipelago off the coast of Tanzania. Zanzibar’s relaxed approach to Covid restrictions, coupled with its natural beauty and burgeoning tourism industry, provided the perfect backdrop for Ashby’s fresh start. Recognizing the potential for high-end tourism, he established a property company and embarked on his most ambitious project yet: Shivo Towers.
Shivo Towers signifies a paradigm shift in Zanzibar’s property landscape. Previously a haven for backpackers and kite surfers, Zanzibar is rapidly evolving into a luxury destination, attracting a wealthier clientele seeking high-end accommodations. Ashby’s project aims to cater to this growing market, offering Manhattan-style luxury in East Africa. The development capitalizes on recent infrastructure improvements in Zanzibar, including better roads and utilities, creating an “easy paradise” comparable to upscale destinations like the Maldives or the Caribbean. This evolution from a more rugged, budget-friendly destination to one offering sophisticated luxury experiences fuels the demand for properties like Shivo Towers.
Shivo Towers offers a range of options, from studio suites starting at £100,000 to opulent penthouses priced at £1 million. This variety caters to a diverse range of investors, further broadening the appeal of the development. The project boasts Italian contemporary design inspired by Zanzibar’s natural beauty, thanks to the renowned architectural firm Much More. The two towers, featuring 162 units, are meticulously crafted using high-quality, sustainable materials to withstand the island’s environmental conditions. The design emphasizes energy efficiency and water conservation, incorporating a sewage treatment plant and desalination system. With construction underway, the first units are expected to be ready for occupancy in the latter half of 2027.
The towers’ design prioritizes luxury and spaciousness. Each apartment boasts high ceilings, creating an airy, penthouse feel reminiscent of luxury properties overlooking Central Park in Manhattan. This design philosophy underscores Ashby’s vision of bringing a new level of sophistication and elegance to Zanzibar’s property market. He is particularly keen to avoid the common pitfalls of island construction, ensuring the buildings maintain their pristine appearance over time. The use of premium materials, like German glass and Krion composite, reinforces this commitment to long-term quality and aesthetic appeal.
Ashby’s journey exemplifies a successful transition from a traditional corporate career to entrepreneurial enterprise, driven by a desire for personal freedom and a keen eye for opportunity. His vision transcends simply building luxury apartments; it encompasses contributing to the sustainable development of Zanzibar’s burgeoning high-end tourism sector. The project promises not only luxurious living spaces but also amenities like a high-end restaurant, a communal pool, a spa, a gym, a co-working space, and meticulously landscaped tropical gardens overlooking the ocean.
Shivo Towers embodies a convergence of several factors shaping Zanzibar’s future: enhanced infrastructure, a growing demand for luxury tourism, and a focus on sustainable development. Ashby’s initiative promises to reshape the perception of Zanzibar, attracting a new class of traveler seeking refined experiences. The project represents a bold step in elevating the island’s profile as a premier luxury destination, positioning it as a strong competitor in the global luxury travel market. By blending high-end design, sustainable practices, and a prime location, Shivo Towers exemplifies the potential of Zanzibar’s evolving tourism landscape.
