Lubango Centre

Lubango Centre

Description

Located in the centre of a midsize city in the war-distressed hinterland of Angola, this 9-storey building includes apartments, offices, shops and underground parking. The low maintenance of the brickwork and the natural shading resulting from its deeply recessed balconies, is interrupted by the concrete slabs that function as a continuous lintel. The tectonic materiality of the brickwork is equally evocative of the rich textures and colours of African rammed earth and pottery.


Statement of the jury

This cube-like structure is an imposingly solid and monolithic solitary element on its site, like a calling card. The contrast between concrete slabs and brick creates an intriguing linear pattern that is carried over to the various floors and that results in the rigorous form of a concise structure.

Winner

Excellent Communications Design
Architecture

Company/Client