Through exquisite design, Symbion ensured the successful transformation of the old Nile Hotel with 65 guest rooms, into a world-class hotel of ambience and prestige by 2006. The building was positioned on the upper portion of the 17-acre site, allowing the landscape and gardens to wrap around it. The 152 guest rooms and suites have views of the bustling city with its surrounding hills. Themes of lakes, rivers, wildlife and landscape appear in both the exterior features of the hotel and the room décor where muted colour, organic and softly flowing fabrics are evident. With the skills of local craftsmen, creations of beaten copper fretwork, beaded wall hangings, mosaic pillars and stunning carved panels come to life in communal spaces. With the Kampala Serena, Symbion was able to create a world class hotel that is wholly appropriate to its site.