La Pyramide Architecture Competition

Timeline:
Start of Registration & Submissions: June 1, 2026
Submission Deadline: August 31, 2026
Winners Announced: November 1, 2026

International Architecture Competition Launched to Revive Iconic “La Pyramide” in Abidjan.

Known as “The Lady of the Plateau,” the 62-meter, 15-story building was designed by Italian architect Rinaldo Olivieri and engineer Riccardo Morandi between 1968 and 1973. Originally envisioned as a vibrant mixed-use complex with boutiques, offices, and public spaces during Côte d’Ivoire’s post-independence economic boom (the “Ivorian Miracle”), the structure has stood largely empty in recent decades due to humidity, aging infrastructure, and high maintenance costs.

The competition calls on architects, students, and design professionals worldwide to propose adaptive reuse strategies that transform La Pyramide into a habitable, functional landmark while respecting its radical hollow-core concrete geometry and tropical-climate adaptations.

A distinguished international jury will evaluate the entries, including Issa Diabaté (Koffi & Diabaté Architects), Mouaz Abouzaid (Verform), and other prominent architects and academics.

Participants are challenged to:

· Develop a program that makes the building truly livable

· Prioritize rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of the existing structure

· Create strong social and urban connections between the formal business district of Le Plateau and the vibrant everyday life of Abidjan

Prizes: €600 | €300 | €100 + additional benefits (Lighthouse Academy, Run Diffusion)

Participation: Open to students and professionals. Individual, team (max 4), and studio entries accepted.

Submission Requirements: Concept, Diagrams, Render, Section, Site/Floor Plans (A2 vertical format).

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This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of one of Africa’s most significant modernist icons.