These Groundbreaking Architectural Designs Cement African Tradition and Sustainability

Tolulope Sanusi: “The colourful, playful exterior of this museum and arts centre is a marvel. The use of discarded metal barrel covers is a showcase for sustainable architectural design.”

TS: “The Yoruba ethnic group is one of West Africa’s largest tribes. The colours, patterns, and materials used in its exterior design are a visual primer for the richness of the history, rites, artefacts, and folk tales on display inside.”

 TS: “The plan is to use the finished building to promote music, dance, and art. It’s inspired by a floating school for children in a low-income part of Lagos, Nigeria. Good design can — and should be — adapted and re-used!”

 TS: “It’s a residential project that works beautifully with the local climate and slope of the site to create a well-lit and airy interior, all the while making a statement with the porous facade.”

 TS: “If sleeping in luxury under the stars in the Serengeti is your thing, then this one’s for you. This ‘peaceful jewel at the very heart of the natural world’ was built from farmed wood and interwoven tree branches.”

TS: “The geometric motifs of Rwanda’s Imigongo art inspired the form of the building. The exterior design is a mixture of herringbone brick walls and woven eucalyptus screens. The centre specialises in health, education, and mentorship programs for young women.”

TS: “The design of this train station brings traditional Moroccan architecture to an urban context. It features the ‘moucharabieh’ concept — carved wood lattice-work with repeated motifs.”

TS: “A derelict mosque has been transformed into a culture and education hub for the community. Local materials like compressed earth bricks (CEB) were used in the renovation and were made from soil found near the site, making this a low-impact construction project.”

TS: “This 12,000 spectator pavilion was built for the Rink Hockey World Cup in 2013 and Angola was the first African nation to host the event. The facade or ‘sails’ is a metallic structure that supports a perforated canvas. It lights up at night, which gives it a sense of fluidity.”

TS: “This ‘mashrabiya’-inspired hospital design used a series of lattice-like brickwork throughout the facility. There’s function to the beautiful play of light and shade here because its recurring and functional motifs have the dual advantage of blocking the sun and facilitating air circulation. This two-storey facility houses paediatrics and maternity clinics.”