Nairobi, Sept. 8 -- Kenyan architectural firm BellTower's low-cost housing design is on the verge of global adoption after emerging the winner in the Lexus Design Award (LDA) Grand Prix.

The Nairobi-based firm whose design incorporates an expanded water harvesting mechanism received Sh2.5 million from the makers of Lexus luxury vehicles, that will be spent on a physical replica of the low-cost eco-friendly house.

Global adoption of the low-cost design would see BellTower earn attractive royalties for its design.

"BellTower expands our definition of design to include systems of finance for community projects and engages the critical role clean drinking water plays in citizens' ability to thrive," said Programme judge and Studio Gang found...