Track is a contribution of journals and articles by Bricklane to the body of knowledge in the construction industry. It presents experiences gathered and research findings in the course of executing projects by providing in-depth discussions and analysis of some selected projects.
SAFARI VALLEY RESORT
Safari valley is located in the Eastern Region of Ghana, specifically the green-contoured valleys of Okere District in the Akuapem Ridge, about 32km away from Accra. It is a secluded haven inspired by nature, traditional circumstances and experience found locally and across the country. It offers exquisite African Cuisine as well as interactions with various fauna and flora.
Safari Valley also offers innovatively designed world-class luxurious vacation homes with swimming pools for the perfect relaxation. Other facilities on the site include a reception, conference center, restaurant, chalets.
The design draws inspiration from the charm and serenity of the natural environment, hence, bring people and animals colder to nature. The deliberate effort at using organic forms and local materials such as timber and stone for construction was to creatively camouflage the structures within a rough and rustic environment presented by nature.
As part of the quest of bringing people closer to nature, Safari Valley offers outdoor activities such as Spa/ Massage, Swimming activities, Walking and Cycling Trails, Safari Drive, Camping Grounds, Picnics amongst other fun and natural activities.
Date: 6th October 2021
GHANA MARITIME AUTHORITY
Ghana Maritime Authority provides safe shipping services through port state control, survey & inspection of vessels, search and rescue activities, maritime security as well as registration services for seafarers.
Ghana Maritime Authority Head Office is an 18-level, 17,118msq. Office building complex situated on a 1.29 acre land located at Ridge, Accra.
This edifice offers 2-level sub-basement car park, accommodating about 160 no. cars approximately, 65 no. surface parking, 12-level multi-functional open plan office spaces, 2-level auditorium with breakout areas, a rooftop terrace with a ultra-modern gym, a restaurant, café and a sky bar. The building fabric is made of sandcrete blocks and reinforced concrete structural elements and solar panel glazing.
Date: 6th October 2021
C. A. AKROFI PARK
On 5th June 2020, Bricklane was commissioned by Eric Owiredu Akrofi (grandson of C.A Akrofi) to design a park in honour of his grandfather, with the ultimate goal of creating an environment for spiritual, mental and physical revitalization for deep thinkers.
Being an architecture enthusiast himself, in articulating his vision, he was very particular about creating an enduring sense of place to inspire the people of Apirede. Having overcome a life-threatening experience, the determination to contribute to his grandfather’s legacy is very dear to him.
He hopes that this development generates a renewed sense of pride for his people and attracts illustrious sons and daughters of Apirede to contribute towards improving the socioeconomic circumstances of an otherwise stale community.
His grandfather has been jointly honoured with Johannes Gottlieb Christaller in the past by the Basel Mission by naming the Akrofi-Christaller Institute of Theology, Mission and Culture formerly known as Akrofi-Christaller Memorial Centre for Mission Research and Applied Theology.
These two past great scholars of the Twi language and pioneer figures contributed to the cultural witness of the Church in Ghana. The Akrofi-Christaller Institute of Theology, Mission and Culture (ACI) seeks to be at the cutting edge of the church’s mission and encounter with society and culture in Ghana, Africa and the wider world.
Date: 12th August 2021
THE NEST ENCLAVE
The Nest Enclave is to be constructed in the commercial zone of Abelemkpe, one of Accra’s premium residential locations. Built as an apartment hotel, it will offer fully-furnished 1, 2 and 3 bedroom long stay lodgings with all essential amenities. The Nest Enclave will cater to the needs of families and groups seeking hotel accommodation for extended periods of time.
With this in mind, the design taps into the essence of an enclave of birds’ nests; assuring guests of comfort in a secured environment. The recessions and projections in the façade provide an exciting mural of both shade and light to create an interlocking pattern of agile spaces. The design maximizes the use of the land to accommodate a well-planned landscape with adequate parking for the convenience users. With an approximate gross internal floor area of 2100m2, the design also comes with a sky bar with an infinity pool, a restaurant, a meeting room and a gym.
With this iconic building situated on a corner site of an approximate area of 1000m², the Nest Enclave delivers a radical shift in the architecture of Abelemkpe. It will challenge the apparent but subtle redevelopment agenda of the area by deepening the commitment to it.
Date: 28th July, 2021
THE HAIR SENTA
The Hair Senta has over the years become known as a one-stop-shop for all hair needs in Ghana. Through its branches across the country the company deals in the sale, distribution and application of a variety of hair products. It organizes product activations, sales, exhibitions and fashion shows to introduce products to customers. Given how strongly the business has grown to date, the company needs to expand and create a more spacious avenue for its activities.
The Hair Senta headquarters is a proposed six-level mixed-use facility located on a 1,196-meter square parcel of land. With an approximate gross internal floor area of 4,300 square meters, the proposed design occupies a prime site in one of the business corridors of the East Legon America House area of Accra. The Hair Senta also comes with apartments and other lettable spaces.
The building design features two giant interlocking forms that create a distinct look that will enhance the streetscape of the business corridor. The double height glass façade on the ground floor increases patronage by offering passers-by an aspirational customer experience of the activities within. The design is intentional in creating this interface between the public, the customer and the Hair Senta to offer an attractive and dynamic retail experience.
The uniqueness of the architecture of the Hair Senta is expressed by the peculiar use of materials. It is all finally topped up with the glowing hair details on the facade brilliantly showing off the distinct identity of the Hair Senta.
Date: 30th July 2021