Text courtesy of The Pritzker Architecture Prize.
The Benin National Assembly (2019-Present, Port-Novo, Republic of Benin) is currently under construction and is inspired by the symbolic palaver tree, a powerful landmark and communal space for many African communities. A sunken assembly hall is below, while the “trunk” of the building is hollow, encouraging favorable ventilation and light. Situated in a public park, the design encourages citizens to be close to the building, convene, and be cooled by the vast shade offered by the offices above. A staircase spirals from the offices to the assembly hall through an internal courtyard.
