Foundation 23 - Re-materializing Construction

18 Keynote speech “In Burkina Faso, urban planning was introduced through colonial- ism,” said Francis Kéré. This historical background is still relevant today. In the capital Ouagadougou, one can still see the intention to create a second Paris. Even in people’s minds, colonialism re- mains an influencing factor: The prevalent notion of what makes good architecture is still strongly influenced by European ideals. Inspired by tradition, adapted to local environment In Burkina Faso, as in many African countries, architecture is still strongly influenced by European ideals – introduced during the co- lonial period. Francis Kéré opposes this. In his keynote speech, he showed how he promotes locally anchored, autonomous architecture using local materials. The housing complex for employees of a hospital in Léo incorporates design strategies of traditional rural villages. Laterite is a widely available and very practical building material.