AMKNA’s “Sedhiou Cultural Center” Shortlisted for 2018 World Architecture Festival
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AMKNA’s design proposal of a cultural center in Sedhiou, Senegal, has been shortlisted for the 2018 World Architecture Festival. The Dubai-based studio’s proposed “Sedhiou Cultural Center” will provide an enriching social, cultural, and educational exAMKNA’s “Sedhiou Cultural Center” Shortlisted for 2018 World Architecture Festival
AMKNA’s design proposal of a cultural center in Sedhiou, Senegal, has been shortlisted for the 2018 World Architecture Festival. The Dubai-based studio’s proposed “Sedhiou Cultural Center” will provide an enriching social, cultural, and educational experience to the citizens, while sustaining the surrounding environment and keeping African heritage alive, stated ArchDaily.Though one of Africa’s underdeveloped towns, Sedhiou in Senegal has a lively heritage and vibrant culture. However, it lacks a place of artistic expression. AMKNA’s proposal “seeks to become an icon for the entire country, ensuring sustainability and the use of local materials,” noted ArchDaily. “Sedhiou Cultural Center” will feature areas for education, performances, exhibition, bureaus, and restrooms.Sedhiou is a drought affected area. The cracked landforms and the area’s excessive need for water form the basis for the architects’ design concept. According to the AMKNA Designers, “the intervention area represents a breeding ground of centuries-old cultures, rich in rituals and experiences coming from father to son, and telling stories about Africa. Cultures here are mixing together in harmony, within an environment full of experiences. Some of those ethnic groups are deeply rooted in history, and, since they never had any archives or written works, they passed those stories only thanks to words coming from the Elders.”“The roof of the building is split into inwardly-inclined platforms so that people can benefit from the rainwater harvesting. In addition, the plan was intricately designed in a way that allows natural winds to travel through the building via vents (cracks) on the facades, creating cross-ventilation within the space. The structure will house reading rooms, musical areas, craft workshops, and outdoor activities,” added ArchDaily.The architects’ use of bamboo, wooden beams, traditional plaster, and clay/mud hybrid for the project’s structure tips a hat to the traditional construction practices of Africa.The winners will be announced during the World Architecture Festival to be held in November this year in RAI Amsterdam. http://www.blouinartinfo.comFounder: Louise Blouin Read more