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Live-work typology splits Studio Seilern Architects’ Banana Island scheme in two
This glass-rich waterfront project in the Nigerian city of Lagos is the work of Studio Seilern Architects, who are swiftly making a name for themselves in West Africa. The live-work Banana Island scheme will be the firm’s third project in the area, neighbouring a private residential property on the beaches of Lekki and joining a large residential complex in Zimbabwe in Studio Seilern’s rapidly expanding portfolio.
What sets this project apart from the others is its subtle blend of commercial and residential spaces. The office facilities form the building’s frontage which sports a semi-permeable pattern to enliven the boulevard with a strong architectural statement. Underneath the boutique office space is a concealed car park for use by employees.
This dynamic façade incorporates planted trellising which offers a pleasant outlook for the office workers and provides a measure of shade from the hot Nigerian sun. The inclusion of flora is also apparent inside the building, as a jewel-coloured atrium is adorned with varied vegetation to create a relaxed communal environment for the volume’s workers.
Behind the 4,000 sq m of flexible office space is a series of four executive-style apartments, each with its own entranceway, differentiating the complex from the traditional apartment building. All four residences look out either across the nearby lagoon or onto a private internal courtyard, and all share communal facilities such as a private raised garden and swimming pool. A number of courtyard spaces ensure that the homes are neither overlooked by office workers or residential neighbours and provide a sense of security and privacy to each resident.
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