rammed earth finned facade wraps adjaye associates’ studio in accra, ghana
rammed earth and concrete form adjaye associates’ accra studio
Designed as both workplace and architectural statement, the new Accra studio for Adjaye Associates is defined by a monolithic structure of rammed earth and low-carbon concrete. The building brings together office, gallery, and shared spaces within a single framework, positioning the workplace as a site for collaboration, daily routines, and exchange.
Located in Cantonments, one of Accra’s central districts, the four-story building serves as the practice’s headquarters in West Africa. Its form is articulated through a finned facade and a 26-meter cantilever that extends over the ground-level parking area. This structural move lifts the main workspace above the ground, creating over 1,300 sqm of column-free office space and organizing the building into a clear vertical sequence.
Materially, the project is grounded in the use of rammed earth and low-carbon concrete, reflecting an approach that draws on local construction methods and environmental considerations. The deep, closely spaced earth fins define the exterior, creating a largely opaque envelope that moderates sunlight and ensures privacy while framing controlled views of the city. The facade operates as both environmental filter and primary architectural expression.
a rammed earth structure set within the city’s urban fabric | all images by Mutahi Chiira unless stated otherwise
earthen surfaces and filtered light compose a tactile workspace
Inside, the spatial experience is shaped by the interaction between daylight and earthen surfaces. Light is filtered through the glazed openings between the fins, producing interiors defined by soft illumination and material depth. Timber and earth finishes contribute to a tactile environment, while the open-plan layout supports flexible use and collective work.
Designed by architect David Adjaye, the building accommodates up to 180 people and integrates a range of shared amenities, including a conference suite, a rooftop terrace with an outdoor kitchen, and an on-site crèche. At ground level, the facade extends into a shaded pergola that creates a semi-open space for informal meetings and gatherings, linking the building more directly to its surroundings.
aerial plan drone-lens view, showing the linear rammed earth volume set within an urban plot
a monolithic rammed earth building anchors the practice’s growing presence in West Africa
the cantilevered rammed earth volume defines a strong architectural presence | image courtesy of Adjaye Associates
deep vertical fins modulate light and heat while giving the building a strong, rhythmic presence
rammed earth and low-carbon concrete ground the project materially
the building is organized through a clear vertical sequence
a 26-meter cantilever extends above the ground-level parking area
Adjaye Associates’ office, a gallery, and shared spaces are combined within a single framework
the building envelope operates as an environmental filter
daylight enters through openings between the fins
a rooftop terrace includes an outdoor kitchen for shared use
timber and earth finishes emphasize texture and tactility
slatted timber screens and exposed concrete forms define a shaded outdoor work and event space
project info:
name: Adjaye Associates’ New Accra Studio
architect: David Adjaye/Adjaye Associates | @adjayeassociates
location: Accra, Ghana
structural engineer: CCL Ghana Stressing System Limited, Project Plus Consult
landscape architect: Adjaye Associates, Slate Urban
general contractor: Fridoug Limited
mechanical consultant: Francis Opoku
electrical consultant: Ato Roberts
civil engineer: Project Plus Consult
rammed earth consultant: Hive Earth, Baycons Engineering Limited
glazing: K3 Aluproducts, Thames Flow Investments Limited
wooden cladding and timber works: SD Property solutions Ltd
photographer: Mutahi Chiira | @mutahichiira
designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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