Nigeria and its cities, in particular Lagos, are undergoing architectural transformations to meet the demand of fast-growing urban populations. Here are five names on the Nigerian architecture scene who are shaking things up with their innovative design solutions
Over the past decade, Nigerian architecture has seen a seismic shift in growth and investment, and a new generation of architects is offering alternatives to the lacklustre imitation of colonial architecture seen throughout the country. An eclectic combination of 17th-century buildings, Portuguese and colonial styles, high-rises and slums, the skyline of its largest city, Lagos, is expanding every day, as new areas under construction offer modern offices, housing and entertainment. While many of the Nigeria’s key players in architecture are working overseas for international firms, we have rounded up the names on home ground that you need to know about.
Olajumoke Adenowo
Something of a child prodigy and all-round wonder woman, entrepreneur, radio host, writer and philanthropist, Olajumoke Adenowo was only 14 years old when she enrolled at the Obafemi Awolowo University (previously known by the wonderful name, the University of Life), graduating with a degree in architecture four years later, in 1988. Dubbed ‘Africa’s Starchitect’, Adenowo founded AD Consulting when she was 26. The company went on to work with brands such as Coca-Cola and L’Oréal, while exciting new projects include the geometric Abuja Film City and Lagos’s National Theatre. AD Consulting is renowned for providing a seminal holistic approach to architecture and interior design. We particularly like the fact that Adenowo is regarded as ‘the face of architecture’ in Nigeria – and that that face is female. Follow @jumokeadenowo
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