Discover The Africa Institute by David Adjaye

May 2, 2023May 5, 2023 architectures ideas 17 views

Discover the Africa Institute, an innovative center of learning in Sharjah. Its stunning architecture blends traditional and modern styles for intellectual exchange.

Architects	Adjaye Associates
Area	31,882 m² / 343,174 ft²
year	Current
Manufacturer	Sharjah Art Foundation
Lead Architects	WSP
Engineering	WSP
landscape	WSP
Structure	WSP
City	Sharjah
Country	UAE

The Africa Institute is a groundbreaking institution situated in Sharjah’s Al Mankah district, with five interconnected buildings that redefine the city’s skyline. It provides a centralized space for learning, particularly for the Arab World and Africa.

The ground floor boasts a shared courtyard, blending Gulf, Timbuktu, and Hausa architecture to create a space for living and learning. The four volumes within the institute are designated for teaching, learning, and administration, with the Africa Hall as the fifth volume, designed to welcome visitors and offer a regional touch. The exterior features four solid facades to limit solar heat gain and direct sunlight exposure.

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The interconnected interior design of the Africa Institute promotes intellectual exchange, with unobstructed sight lines between the buildings. Additionally, the basement space combines plant and storage requirements with public programs, including a Lecture Theatre, to create a unified underground space.

The Africa Institute extends beyond the courtyard to create an expanded public realm, forming a centralized space for learning. Its modern design incorporates traditional regional elements, supporting the landscape of academic excellence and providing remarkable architectural and intellectual achievement.