Dakar is a city of constant development. From colonial times, and on, the capital of Senegal has seen a lot of shifts in its societal definition which has, in turn, affected its architectural and urban fabric. Ever since the French mandate which somewhat forced a shift of local living traditions into a more 'European' lifestyle, the wheels of change have been set in motion. Afterward, a notable post-colonial attempt at re-defining Dakar was inevitable. It came about in many ways, still seen today, and it built a city of mixed architectural languages that defies most visitors' expectations.
Though the renowned African mid-century modernism was certainly present in the years after Senegal's independence in 1960, this was mostly due to its popularity with practicing architects in the region, not its relevance for the capital's rebuilding efforts. The modernist approach, which was mainly seen in the public, institutional, and cultural buildings, and which persists today in a more undefined contemporary style, was always aimed at showcasing Dakar to the world. It did not, however, reflect the reality of the city's development nor the way its dwellers live.
In an effort to refocus on Dakar, some of our more recent ArchDaily coverage has highlighted the many development and design efforts that look to provide a better means of living to inhabitants.
While mass development works facilitated by governing entities are certainly notable, as they push to create dispersed hubs of development throughout the city, they often involve foreign consultancies and practices that might not be as familiar with the local architectural context and history.
To balance out these external influences, select grassroots initiatives by locals, non-architects, and non-governmental organizations have taken building solutions into their own hands and fueled the sprawl of informal or fast-growing, unregulated residential areas/settlements. While they are often unplanned, they represent a more realistic image of daily life in the Senegalese capital. Through a new mix of the 'American' home plan and affordable materials (mainly concrete) with traditional spatial use – such as the extension of the home to the exterior – a new flexible and undefined style is coming into being.
We're also following some rising Senegalese architects who are trying to compose a whole new solution to Dakar's growth. They can be seen as sustainability warriors who consider the city's unique history and its demanding climate. Practices such as Worofila, Elementerre, and others are working on developing new techniques and materials while involving local communities. They aim to instruct the locals on alternative or upgraded traditional materials, making them more feasible, affordable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing to increase their use.
With its flat topography and vast unbuilt zones, Dakar has certainly become a mass experimental ground for many architects, designers, and builders who are often at odds with their visions and yet coexist. Still, the discourse surrounding the future of the city carries on as we ask: Who will be the leading figures in Dakar's reinvention? And what will its urban landscape look like?
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