Images by Mutahi Chiira
Using locally sourced exceptional low embodied energy, and non-toxic and recyclable raw unrefined earth materials like clay, silt, and gravel etc. as a primary materials is Earth Architecture. The method is said to be one of humanity’s oldest, most sustainable and widely used building traditions, especially in Africa. This is not just about sustainability, it involves maintenance and project cost reduction while delivering a high standard building structure depending on what the architect conceived. This process is considered to produce a minimal carbon footprint when compared to steel and concrete. Buildings delivered from earth architecture can regulate the indoor temperature and humidity by absorbing heat during the day and releasing it at night. And approximately 30% of world’s population is said to be residing in some kinds of earth-based building structure as it’s related to traditional rural housing and modern eco-estates like this Adjaye Associate’s new studio in Accra, Ghana
Adjaye Associates new Studio in Accra, Ghana
Adjaye Associates made an architectural statement with their new studio in Accra, Ghana, West Africa. Conceived as a workplace, the idea behind the project was defined by a monolithic structure made of rammed earth and low-carbon concrete. The new Adjaye Associates headquarters in West Africa combining office, gallery, and shared spaces, as it stands as a center for collaboration, daily activities and exchange. Built in one of Accra’s central districts known as area cantonment, the project appears in exclusive finned façade and a 26-meter cantilever that extends over the ground-level parking area. The structural form of the building was conceptualized to lift the main workspace above the ground, and create more than 1,300 sqm of column-free office space, while arranging the building into a clear vertical sequence.
Designed by Architect David Adjaye, the exclusive rammed earth building has the capacity to accommodate about 180 people and integrates some shared amenities which includes, a conference suite, a rooftop terrace with an outdoor kitchen, and an on-site crèche. In order to connect the building directly to its surroundings, the design team incorporated an aesthetic façade to the ground level which is extended into a shaded pergola that forms a semi-open space for meetings and gatherings.
Materials and Earth Surface Tactile Work Workspace
Built of rammed earth and low-carbon concrete, the project’s local materials and construction method induction defined a design approach that includes environmental considerations as its exclusive façade that appears in rammed earth style works as both environmental filter and primary architectural expression. Ideologically, the interaction between light and earth surfaces is informed by the spatial logic of the project, exploring spatial values to the maximum of experience, as the interior is defined by moderate illumination and deep materials. The rammed earth finishes aesthetically enhanced a tactile environment as the design layout encourages soft use and collective work.
Project Info:
Name: Adjaye Associates’ New Accra Studio
Architect: David Adjaye/Adjaye Associates
Location: Accra, Ghana, West Africa
Structural Engineer: CCL Ghana Stressing System Limited, Project Plus Consult
Landscape Architect: Adjaye Associates, Slate Urban
General Contractor: Fridoug Limited
Mechanical Consultant: Francis Opoku
Electrical Consultant: Ato Roberts
Civil Engineer: Project Plus Consult
Rammed Earth Consultant: Hive Earth, Baycons Engineering Limited
Glazing: K3 Aluproducts, Thames Flow Investments Limited
Wooden Cladding and Timber Works: SD Property solutions Ltd
Project Photographer: Mutahi Chiira