Few people outside of academia, professionals, and local residents may be familiar with the architectural details of Africa Hall. But the landmark in the heart of Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa is part of the history of modernist architecture. It has just been restored by Australian architecture firm Architectus Conrad Gargett through a United Nations project aimed at revitalizing the monument.
(Image credit: Rory Gardiner)
Why not take a tour of the newly reborn Africa pavilion?
The Africa Hall was originally designed by architect Arturo Mezzedimi in 1961 and was envisioned as a meeting place for African countries and the headquarters of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA). It was a gift from Emperor Haile Selassie I and has been widely used for conferences and many events that shaped the continent in the second half of the 20th century.
(Image credit: Rory Gardiner)
Architect Conrad Gargett was commissioned to reconstruct the building in 2013. Principal David Gall and project architect Simon Boundy, who are leading the project, will work with the support of a dedicated team of Australian and Ethiopian architects and consultants, with plans for the structure to be re-completed by 21 October 2024. It was done.
(Image credit: Rory Gardiner)
Mr Gall said: “We feel very honored and privileged to be able to breathe new life into this very important modern heritage building and ensure that it is cherished and used by future generations.” Ta. “This project provided an important opportunity to open the building to the public and provide an engaging visitor experience by sharing the story of the Africa Pavilion and its important role in shaping Africa’s modern history.”
(Image credit: Rory Gardiner)
“This renovation is in that it encompasses all aspects of the building, which is considered a Gesamtkunstwerk, a total work of art where architecture, interiors, integrated artwork, furniture and landscape settings are all a composition of harmoniously designed elements. , one that was truly comprehensive and unique. ‘
(Image credit: Rory Gardiner)
The project includes the restoration of Africa Hall’s comprehensive artwork, including a 150 square meter stained glass piece by internationally renowned Ethiopian artist Afewerk Tekle featuring heroes; It includes a 40-meter-long mural by famous Italian painter Nenne Sanguinetti Poggi. More than 500 pieces of custom-made original furniture designed specifically for Africa Hall by Mezzedimi have also been restored and returned to their original locations within the building.
(Image credit: Rory Gardiner)
architectus.com.au
