16/04/2025
I remember how in Urban Design theory, creation of Vistas within cities are vital for reorienting one’s movement within the Urban space. The new Bank of Ghana building popped up on me driving through North Ridge. It’s a beautiful vista and a good addition to the Architectural landscape of Accra. I also rememver being on top of a building at Kanda and seeing it in the city’s skyline. Thanks to Architect David Adjaye.
I like how the Independence Avenue has morphed into the new High Street with all the major banks taking addresses there, lest you ate late. Stanchart, ABSA, ADB, Zenith, CalBank, Republic Bank, Ecobank, World Bank | IFC are all prestnt. It was only right the mother of all the banks relocated, and they came with a bang. My favourite building though will be the Ecobank Headquarters for obvious reasons. It’s a sensitive building that takes its energies from the Afua Sutherland park and the AU square.
The only thing I pray for is for the city authorities to properly pedestrianize that beautiful stretch. A landscape Architect can be commissioned to redesign the entire Avenue with greenery and street furniture. Thankfully, we managed to save the space close to the Physicians and Surgeon building and turned it into a beautiful public park, Place 100. I was deeply involved in that project and it gives me great joy to see it still thriving. We must make the city livable for all.