Course Description

This course introduces students to the theoretical concept for developing new African architectural languages, inspired by the history, culture and environmental elements of traditional and contemporary African societies. The course surveys the great contributions Africa and Africans have made to Global Architecture. The theory establishes a design methodology thatprovides for a distinct architectural expression in form, image and space in the modern built environment. This course introduces the Theory- Afrocentric Architecture by theorist, author and professor, David Hughes.

                                               
        
  

Course curriculum

  1. 01

    • Module Ten Syllabus
  2. 02

    • Module Ten Lecture

Course Objective

The course will study the cultural and historical narratives of Africans and their architecturalheritage and built urban landscapes. Students will gain insight into research that articulates. concepts that translate the essence of traditional African architecture, into the contemporary built environment. The research becomes critical as African societies embark on major infrastructureand redevelopment projects that at their core, seek to build upon more realistic ‘home grown’ models, inspired by African culture, history and architectural heritage. 
                                                       

    

Course Topics

  1. The Making of a Theory- from Thought to being Taught
  2. Theory Evolution- from Teaching to Testing
  3. Theory Evolution- from Testing to Practice
  4. Theory Manifested - Practice
  5. Theory Revisited – New Culture Studio and Demas Nwoko
  6. The Future - Afrocentric Architecture in a New Era

    

Course Texts & References

Hughes, David, Afrocentric architecture: a design primer. Greyden Press, 1994.

Elleh, Nnamdi. African Architecture: Evolution and Transformation. McGraw Hill, 1996.

DOM Publishers, Sub-Saharan Africa, Architectural Guide, 2021.

                                              

Explore www.cpdiafrica.org for the full breath of content for the course.