Architecture in Africa

 

 

 

 

Hard to speak about architecture in Africa without mentioning the pyramids of Egypt because pyramid of Giza is considered as one of the greatest architectural feats of all time and are one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world. 
In this article it will be a question of evoking the profession of architect in a more global way then to see how the African architecture is different through the different materials used. 

 

 

The architect: what is his job about? 
 
According to the definition of the Parisian newspaper, an architect draws, designs and supervises the construction of a building, whether it is a detached house, collective dwellings or public buildings. This builder must be creative, at the same time listening to the wishes of his clients, and respect the many standards related to construction. 
Thanks to a very good knowledge of regulations and technological innovations in the building sector, the architect is able to advise his clients in the realization of their future housing within their budget and the standards in force. Role of the architect? The architect has several responsibilities. He must be creative while respecting legislative and budgetary constraints. He is also responsible for the smooth running of the work, from the beginning to the end of a construction site.  

Draw plans for the construction or renovation of a building (house, building...) at the request of the client (private or public). These plans may be subject to modifications depending on the wishes of the clients, the planning laws and the various constraints such as those related to the characteristics of the land for example.  

Determine the feasibility of the project, and proceed to all necessary studies. 

When the project is validated by the customer, choose the different companies that will act on the construction (bricklayer, electrician, plumber...). 

If the architect is the first contractor, he draws up a precise schedule of various phases of the project that he must follow. He also writes regular progress reports to keep his clients updated. 

The architect is responsible for ensuring that the companies on the site work on time and respect all plans. 
 

Architecture in Africa 

 

In Africa, the architecture is enormously diverse that is due to many ethnic groups or even countries that have their own architectural rules, that is, the way to build elements. Architects in Africa use several materials in construction such as: 
- Thatch structure 
- Mud 
- Brick 
- Terracotta 
- Adobe and Stone 
- Horn of Africa for dry stones and mortar 
- West Africa for mud 
- Central Africa for timber thatch and perishable materials 
- South east Africa and Southern Africa stone 
 
In conclusion we can say that like other aspects of African culture, the architecture in Africa is exceptionally diverse.  Throughout Africa’s history, Africans have developed their own local architectural traditions.  In some cases, broader regional styles can be identified, such as the Sudanese-Sahelian architecture of West Africa.  A common theme in traditional African architecture is the use of fractal scaling: small parts of the structure tend to resemble larger parts, such as a circular village made of circular houses.  
 

Are you ready to be an Architect? 

Try our test now on joining our page events on: www.alluremaisonetjardin.fr

 

(Article written by Dago Guy Charles at ALLURE MAISON ET JARDIN)