Cardboard, a humble and readily available material, can be transformed into stunning and functional furniture and decorations with a little creativity and resourcefulness. In this article, we will explore a range of DIY projects that demonstrate how you can repurpose cardboard into unique and stylish pieces for your home. Not only is this an eco-friendly way to reduce waste, but it also allows you to unleash your imagination and showcase your DIY skills. Let's dive into the world of cardboard crafting! Cardboard Coffee Table: Transform a simple cardboard box into a chic coffee table. Start by cutting the box to the desired height, then reinforce it with additional layers of cardboard for stability. Cover the exterior with adhesive paper or paint it in your favorite color. To add a touch of elegance, attach wooden or metal legs to the base. Voila! You have a lightweight and trendy coffee table. Cardboard Shelving Unit: Create a versatile shelving unit to showcase your books or display decorative items. Cut cardboard into equal-sized squares or rectangles, and stack them vertically to form columns. Glue the layers together, ensuring they are aligned properly. Paint the shelves in vibrant colors or cover them with patterned adhesive paper. Stack the columns to the desired height, and you have an eye-catching storage solution. Cardboard Room Divider: A cardboard room divider not only adds privacy but also serves as an artistic focal point. Cut large pieces of cardboard into panels of your preferred size and shape. Decorate the panels with paint, fabric, or even decoupage with newspaper or magazine clippings. Attach hinges to join the panels together, allowing flexibility and easy folding. Cardboard Headboard: Elevate your bedroom decor with a unique cardboard headboard. Measure the width of your bed and cut cardboard to match those dimensions. Create a pattern by cutting out various shapes, such as squares, circles, or waves, from additional cardboard pieces. Glue the patterned pieces onto the main headboard, allowing the design to emerge. Paint the headboard in a color that complements your bedroom theme. Cardboard Wall Art: Unleash your artistic side by crafting wall art from cardboard. Cut out shapes like leaves, flowers, or geometric designs from thick cardboard. Paint or cover the shapes with decorative paper and arrange them on a canvas or directly on the wall to create an eye-catching art installation. Experiment with different shapes, sizes, and colors to achieve the desired effect. Cardboard Pendant Light: Design a stunning pendant light using cardboard strips. Cut long strips of cardboard and shape them into concentric circles, gradually reducing the diameter towards the center. Glue the strips together, creating a layered effect. Paint the pendant light in metallic colors or cover it with decorative tape for a modern look. Attach a light socket and hang it from the ceiling to illuminate your space with a warm, unique glow. Cardboard is a versatile and accessible material that offers endless possibilities for creating furniture and decorations. With a little imagination, you can turn ordinary cardboard into extraordinary pieces that showcase your personal style. The projects mentioned above are just a starting point; feel free to experiment and adapt them to your liking. Embrace the joy of DIY and explore the world of cardboard crafting to add a touch of creativity and sustainability to your home.

Africa, a vast and diverse continent, has a rich and complex history that dates back thousands of years. From the earliest human ancestors to the great empires and civilizations, Africa's origins are deeply rooted in its ancient past. In this piece of content, we will embark on a captivating journey through time, exploring the origins of Africa and the remarkable developments that have shaped the continent into what it is today. The Cradle of Humanity Africa is widely regarded as the birthplace of humanity, with fossil evidence pointing to the emergence of early hominids in East Africa over six million years ago. We delve into the discovery of iconic fossils, such as Lucy (Australopithecus afarensis) and the Homo habilis, shedding light on the early stages of human evolution and our ancestral roots on the African soil. Ancient Egypt The Nile Valley Civilization: One cannot discuss the origins of Africa without acknowledging the grandeur of Ancient Egypt. We delve into the Nile Valley civilization, exploring its rise, development, and enduring legacy. From the construction of the pyramids to the pharaohs and their belief in the afterlife, we uncover the extraordinary achievements of this ancient civilization that flourished along the banks of the Nile. Kingdoms and Empires Africa is a continent of rich cultural and historical diversity, characterized by numerous kingdoms and empires that thrived across its vast expanse. We explore notable civilizations such as the Kingdom of Aksum in Ethiopia, the Mali Empire, the Great Zimbabwe, and the powerful empires of Ghana and Songhai. Through their political, economic, and cultural achievements, we witness the greatness and sophistication of these African societies. Trade Routes and Trans-Saharan Commerce The origins of Africa are deeply intertwined with its position as a gateway between continents. We examine the impact of ancient trade routes, such as the trans-Saharan trade, which connected North Africa with the kingdoms of West Africa. From salt and gold to cultural exchange, these trade networks played a crucial role in shaping Africa's history and fostering connections with other regions. Colonialism and Independence The origins of modern Africa are closely linked to the era of colonialism. We explore the European colonization of Africa, examining its motivations, impact, and the subsequent struggle for independence. We highlight the Pan-African movement, prominent leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah and Nelson Mandela, and the wave of decolonization that swept across the continent, ultimately leading to the birth of independent African nations. The origins of Africa are a tapestry of ancient civilizations, cultural diversity, and historical transformations. From the cradle of humanity to the grand empires, Africa's past has shaped its present and will continue to influence its future. By understanding and appreciating the origins of Africa, we gain valuable insights into the continent's rich heritage, its contributions to human history, and the challenges and triumphs that have defined its journey.

In today's fast-paced world, smart home technology has revolutionized the way we interact with our living spaces. Among the many aspects of smart home automation, lighting holds a special place. Gone are the days of traditional light switches and static illumination. With smart home lighting systems, you can effortlessly create personalized ambiances, enhance convenience, and even promote energy efficiency. In this article, we will explore the incredible potential of smart home lighting and how it can transform your living space into a haven of comfort and style. Personalized Ambiance: Imagine coming home after a long day at work and being welcomed by the perfect lighting that suits your mood. Smart home lighting systems offer a wide range of customizable options, allowing you to adjust color, brightness, and even create dynamic lighting scenes with a single tap on your smartphone or voice command to your virtual assistant. Whether you want a cozy and warm atmosphere for a movie night or vibrant hues for a party, smart lighting puts the power of ambiance control at your fingertips. Seamless Integration: One of the greatest advantages of smart home lighting is its seamless integration with other smart devices. By connecting your lighting system to a smart hub or using compatible platforms like Google Home or Amazon Alexa, you can create a unified ecosystem that synchronizes your lights with other smart features, such as thermostats, door locks, or security systems. This integration enhances convenience and enables you to create personalized automation routines. For example, you can set your lights to gradually brighten in the morning to simulate a natural sunrise and gently wake you up. Energy Efficiency: Smart home lighting offers more than just aesthetic appeal; it can significantly reduce your energy consumption. Many smart bulbs are designed with energy-efficient LED technology, consuming less power compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Additionally, you can take advantage of features like motion sensors and scheduling to ensure lights are only active when needed. Forgot to turn off the lights before leaving the house? No problem – simply use your smartphone to remotely control and switch off the lights, saving both energy and money. Enhancing Security: Smart lighting can play a vital role in enhancing the security of your home. By integrating motion sensors with your lighting system, you can deter potential intruders by activating lights when motion is detected around your property. Moreover, you can create the illusion of occupancy when you're away by scheduling lights to turn on and off at different times, giving the impression that someone is at home. This extra layer of security adds peace of mind and protects your property. Smart home lighting brings a new level of versatility, convenience, and energy efficiency to your living space. With its ability to create personalized ambiances, integrate seamlessly with other smart devices, save energy, and enhance security, it has become an essential aspect of modern home furnishing. Embrace the power of smart lighting technology and transform your living space into a haven that caters to your every need, while adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Lesley Lokko The Venice Architecture Biennale 2020 has been postponed due to COVID-19 . After years of expectation and preparation The Venice Architecture Biennale 2023 will be held on Saturday May 20, 2023. The 2023 interpretation, themed The Laboratory of the Future, is curated by Ghanaian-Scottish architect and scholar Lesley Lokko. For the first time since the creation of the architecture event in 1980, the main exhibitions of the Biennale will focus on Africa and the African diaspora. 89 participants will be present at the main exhibition, 63 national pavilions and a full list of ancillary events around Venice. The controversy surrounding the event is already there. As reported by Building Design and tweeted by reviewer Oliver Wainwright, Lokko encountered difficulties paying attendees and obtaining visas for contributors. Organizers of this year's African-themed Venice Architecture Biennale fell out with the Italian government just days before the event opened after several Ghanaian participants were denied visas. Three men who have collaborated for almost two years with the festival's curator, Lesley Lokko, have been refused entry to Italy to attend the exhibition's test visits. Daniela D'Orlandi, Italy's ambassador to Ghana, told Building Design that the three men did not qualify to enter the European Union's Schengen area. But event commissioner Lesley Lokko accused d'Orlandi of trying to 'make his mark' with the Italian government, which has been led by the conservative right-wing Brothers of Italy party since last year's general election. “We applied for six visas for them as direct collaborators, as is routine for all collaborators. Accommodation had been found for all of them in Venice, and return tickets to Ghana had already been booked." “Visas have been refused to three of the collaborators, and one of them is still awaiting a response. We are currently in contact with the competent authorities to find a solution. " In a message shared on Twitter, Lokko claimed d'Orlandi accused her of "trying to bring 'non-essential young men' to Europe". This year's Biennale, titled The Laboratory of the Future, officially opens its doors to the public on Saturday May 20 and will run until November 26 at the Giardini, Arsenale and Forte Marghera.

Hannsjörg Voth is one of the pioneers of conceptual art and landscape art. After training as a commercial artist, he began his artistic work with screen printing and painting. In the mid-1970s, he produced his first landscape projects, which dealt with myths, archaism and decadence. At the beginning of the 1980s, his major projects were created in the Moroccan desert, he built from 1980 to 2003 in the Marha plain in Morocco his very relevant works of land art: The Celestial Staircase, The Golden Spiral and The City of Orion. "The celestial staircase", in which you can climb 52 steps to heaven. With this staircase, he realized his dream: to connect the earth to the sky. Shaped like a right-angled triangle and 16 meters high, the staircase has 52 steps leading to a platform 4 meters below the top of the monument. Passionate about astrophysics, Hannsjörg Voth made sure to narrow the side walls upwards, leaving a vertical slit in the middle and thus giving the building the appearance of a celestial observatory. Several rooms have been set up below the platform, in which Hannsjörg Voth lived and worked. "The Golden Spiral", a fountain sculpture constructed from 9 quarter circles, is a spiral shape 260 meters long, up to 6 meters high. In the middle we see a well which symbolizes staying in the middle of the desert. Hannsjörg Voth's Golden Spiral is inspired by one of the themes dear to architects since it is based on the "Fibonacci sequence", a mathematical series of sums in which each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers, and whose ratio tends towards the value of the Golden Ratio. "The City of Orion", Third link in the magic triangle of the immense constructions of Hannsjörg Voth in the plain of Marha, the City of Orion is a breathtaking astral representation which draws its inspiration from the constructive genius of the kasbahs of the great South. The artist's primary intention was to build on earth and in three dimensions a representation of the celestial constellation of Orion. The work thus appears in the form of seven large adobe observation towers, which represent the seven main stars of the constellation, and several smaller towers, which represent the less visible stars. The positioning and dimensions of each element correspond to the position, clarity and size of the stars. a philosophical vision that connects the earth to the sky, and is based on astronomical calculations that allow the stars to be seen continuously throughout the year from the site carefully chosen to establish these landmarks. Most of Voth's works are designed in such a way that sooner or later they fall prey to impermanence. “In the desert, there is an infinity where you have no distractions. I'm definitely working on it, but time is free. That's actually the beauty, you get very, very old there, because time no longer exists. » Hannsjörg Voth

Henry Nkole Tayali was a Zambian painter, sculptor, lecturer and has been described as Zambia's most famous painter. Henry Nkole Tayali was born on 22 November 1943 in Serenje, Zambia . He first started painting while at secondary school in Bulawayo at Mpopoma High School in the late 1950s. In 1967, he was awarded a Zambian Government scholarship to study at Uganda's Makerere University in Kampala, where he graduated in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Shortly, Tayali returned to Zambia and then started work at the University of Zambia where he joined the Institute of African Studies in Lusaka as a lecturer in African art and later as University Artist. In 1972, Tayali got a German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) scholarship to study for a Masters in Fine Arts at the Staatliche Kunstakademie Düsseldorf, West Germany. Tayali was the first recipient of the DAAD to be selected from south of the equator.After graduating in 1975, he returned to Lusaka to the Institute of African Studies. Tayali's natural talent was spotted early on by Alex Lambeth, who ran the African Affairs Department of Bulawayo City Council. Lambeth encouraged Tayali to pursue art as a career, and enrolled him on an artwork course. This led to Henry's first exhibition in Bulawayo at the age of fifteen. In painting he started out as a figurative painter but in his mature years he developed a personal variety of abstract expressionism, which, to him, was highly intense and emotionally charged. In some of his work he transposed his abstract way of painting to the printing table. Henry Tayali – Destiny “Each painting I do is a stage forward to my next work. But the main thing to remember is that the whole of my life is just doing one big painting, the only difference being that the style in which I execute it varies from painting to painting. Since I was a child I have lived in art and art is my life, and in this field, all I know is determination and simple hard work.” His painting career took off after that, and using water colors, Tayali begun to produce varied, vibrant, dynamic works. His professor Gerd Weber said of him, "Of all the foreign students who have worked in my class, Henry Tayali is by far the most talented of them all. His work constitutes a synthesis between the traditional African art, the tools and techniques of the modern era." Henry Tayali – The Brothers We can cite his most famous works, the Sunset Road and Destiny. He also produced sculptures such The Graduate at the University of Zambia campus in Lusaka. Tayali held exhibitions in Lusaka, Bulawayo, Aachen, Düsseldorf, London , Alberta, Toronto as well as in Zambia, where a few of his exhibitions were opened by Kenneth Kaunda, the first President of Zambia. Henry Tayali visual art – Zambia The Henry Tayali Art Gallery was named as a tribute to late artist Henry Tayali, who died in 22 July 1987, Germany . His works still continue to be exhibited in Zambia and across the world and his influence carries on at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe.

Noria Muelwa Mabasa is a South African artist known for her traditional sculptures Venda woodcarvings. She was born in May 10, 1938 in the Limpopo Province of South Africa and grew up in a family of artists. Her mother was a traditional healer and artist and her father was a sculptor. Mabasa began carving at the age of 50 after she received a vision in a dream telling her to become a sculptor. In 1965, she began having recurring dreams of an old woman who showed her how to work in the clay medium, and prompted her to receive local training on the traditional craft. Despite facing significant opposition from her community who viewed woodcarving as a traditionally male pursuit, she persevered and eventually gained recognition for her work. Her first clay figures were often small and were often given away to local children. She continued to create work inspired by the messages and visions of her dreams. She began working with clay in 1974 and two years later, in 1976, she became the first Tsonga woman to work in wood. Mabasa's work is heavily influenced by her Venda culture and spirituality, and often depicts the themes of life, death, and rebirth. She is known for her use of traditional Venda materials such as clay, wood, and natural pigments, and for her unique style that combines traditional Venda motifs with contemporary art techniques. Mabasa's sculptures often explore themes of spirituality, identity, and gender roles. Her work has been exhibited in galleries, museums both locally and internationally, including the Venice Biennale in 1995, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, South Africa, Italy, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art in Washington, D.C. She was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga by the South African government for her contribution to the arts and culture of South Africa. she is a recipient of the 2002 Silver category of the Order of the Baobab, also receiving several other national and international accolades and awards for her outstanding artistry and creativity. Mabasa's work has not only been recognized for its artistic value but also for its cultural significance in preserving and promoting the traditional art of the Venda people. She has also been a mentor and teacher to many young artists, passing on the skills and knowledge she learned from her own family and community.

Africa has a rich and diverse architectural history that has been shaped by its geography, cultures, and history. There are many talented African architects who are making significant contributions to the field of architecture both in Africa and around the world. Here are some notable African talents in architecture: Sir David Adjaye: Sir David Adjaye is a British-based architect of Ghanaian descent , he was Born in Tanzania on September 22, 1966. He lived across various countries before finally settling in London, Adjaye’s childhood exposed him to diverse cultures and the architecture of varied regions. He received his degree in architecture from South Bank University and a master’s degree from Royal College of Art in London in 1993. In 2000, he set up his own practice, "Adjaye Associates" in London, with now offices in New York, Ghana and Berlin . Sir David Adjaye is one of the most prominent African architects of his generation. He is known for his innovative and thought-provoking designs that draw inspiration from his African heritage. He is designed many notable buildings around the world, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. David Adjaye garnered many honours and awards for his work, including the prestigious Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Bronze Medal for architectural students (1993) and The Design Miami/ Designer of the Year award (2011). He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2007 and was knighted 10 years later for services to architecture, Elizabeth II chose him to join the Order of Merit (a group of no more than 24 individuals at a time who have distinguished themselves in science, art, literature, or public service.) He was the recipient of RIBA’s 2021 Royal Gold Medal, one of the highest accolades in the field. Kunlé Adeyemi: Kunlé Adeyemi was born on April 7, 1976. He is a Nigerian architect , designer whose work is internationally recognized for his innovation and originality. He is the founder of NLÉ an architecture, design and town planning company founded in 2010. Adeyemi's remarkable works include "Makoko Floating School", a revolutionary floating structure prototype that once stood in the heart of the (Lagos Lagoon) Nigeria. This acclaimed project is part of the work of the NLÉ, "African Water Cities". In 2016, NLÉ launched MFS II, an improved iteration of Makoko Floating School at the 15th International Architecture Exhibition - La Biennale di Venezia, and received the Silver Lion Prize. The floating Makoko school has since become the "floating Makoko system". A simple, prefabricated construction solution for hydraulic installations. But unfortunately, in june 2016 the famous floating school of Makoko, designed by Kunlé Adeyemi of NLÉ, collapsed after heavy rains hit the city of Lagos. The school roof was still largely intact, but was directly on the floating base of the 256-barrel plastic building, as the lower levels and the support structure appear to have completely failed. Titi Ogufere: Titi Ogufere is a Nigerian interior designer, critical design thinker and publisher at Essential Media Group. She is the Creative Director at Essential Interiors Consultancy, a pioneer interior designing company in Nigeria. The award-winning practice was set up in 2002 and has since established an international identity with a wide variety of projects that are context-specific, innovative, experimental, critical and theoretical. The award-winning firm was set up in 2002 and has since established an international identity with a wide variety of projects that are context-specific, innovative, experimental, critical and theoretical. In 2007, Titi Ogufere founded the Interior Designers Association of Nigeria (IDAN), firm charged with the promotion of excellence practices in the interior design sector of Nigeria. She is also the founder of the Essential Media Group, a publishing company that publishes Essential Interior Magazine; a magazine on urban and contemporary interior design. As the Creative Director of Essential Interiors Consultancy, an interdisciplinary practice and consultancy that works at the intersection of design, innovation and sustainability, she promotes design thinking that solves problems. Titi Ogufere has designed high-end residential, commercial, and hospitality projects for an exclusive list of highly select clients across the globe. She was announced as the 21st President of the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI) on 27 February 2020. Diébédo Francis Kéré: Diebedo francis Kéré was born in Gando, a village in Burkina Faso. Without a school in Gando, he left at the age of seven to study in Ouagadougou. During his studies in 1998, he created the association Schulbausteine ​​für Gando ("Bricks for Gando's school") to finance his first project, a primary school in his village. After his schooling, he became a carpenter. He built his first building, Gando Primary School, when he was still in college in 2001. The project was recognized in 2004 with the prestigious Aga Khan Award, for works built in countries with a significant Muslim presence. He studied architecture in Berlin, where he graduated from the Technical University of Berlin in 2004. Francis Kere was the first African architect to design a Serpentine Pavilion. Invited by London's Serpentine Galleries in 2017, the architect imagined a tree-shaped structure with a detached roof and curved walls formed by triangular modules in indigo, which represents strength in his culture. Diebedo Francis Kere is an Honorary Fellow of Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (2018) and the American Institute of Architects (2012) and a chartered member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (2009). Kéré is a dual citizen of Burkina Faso and Germany and spends his time professionally and personally equally in both countries. In 2022, he became the first African to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize. Mokena Makeka: Mokena Makeka is a South African architect who is known for his innovative and sustainable designs. In 2015, he founded "Maison Makeka" , Africa’s first premium agave company, a fashion and lifestyle brand. He is also the founder and CEO of Makeka Design Lab, an award-winning interdisciplinary design firm led by architecture and urban design that deploys innovative design solutions on an urban scale. Mokena is also an Assistant Professor in the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation (GSAPP) at #Columbia University, #newyork . He is a Desmond Tutu Executive Fellow and a member of the Principal Scientific Committee. He is a resident equity researcher at the School of Architecture and Planning at Wits University. Mokena has been recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. He is a member of the African Leadership Network (ALN). Mokena has served on various boards and recently completed an executive education course at Harvard University on Global Leadership and Public Policy for the 21st Century. Recognized for his talent and expertise, Mokena has received various architectural and urban design awards and has been awarded in design competitions, including being selected for one of the Ordos architects by Hertzhog, De Meuron and Ai Wei Wei. He is the first recipient of the Gold Loerie Award for Communication Design and is the youngest recipient of the Awards of Merit from the Cape Institute for Architecture. He has won numerous awards for his work, including the 2015 GQ Men of the Year Award for Architecture. Mariam Kamara : Mariam Issoufou Kamara is an nigerian architect she was born on April 1979, in Saint-Étienne, France. Mariam holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Technology from Purdue University (2001) and a Master of Science in Computer Science from New York University (2004). Her thesis project, Mobile Loitering (2013), focused on issues of gender and public space in Niger, West Africa. Her research-based design was awarded a thesis prize in the Department of Architecture and special mention in the 2014 Young Architects in Africa Competition. Her thesis was also exhibited in the 2014 Milan Triennale in the exhibit Africa Big Chance Big Change. Following her graduation she worked with united4design on the UNHabitat project that aimed to rehabilitate an urban village in Niamey, Niger’s capital. This project led to the firm’s first built project, the Niamey 2000 affordable middle class housing pilot project that uses appropriate materials and passive techniques to decrease energy consumption. This sustainable project won an AIA Seattle Merit Award in 2016. She is the founder of the architecture firm atelier "masōmī", an architecture firm whose interests lie in designing culturally, historically and climatically relevant solutions to spatial problems inherent to the developing world. She is also a founding member of Seattle-based collaborative united4design through which she worked on two major projects in West Africa . Mick Pearce : Mick Pearce was born on June 2, 1938 in Harare. He graduated with distinction from the Architectural association of school of architecture in London in 1962. Mick Pearce left Zimbabwe in 2000 following the conflict in his country and then went to work in #Australia, where he designed the Council House in #Melbourne. He founded the International Biomimicry Institute and has worked in the UK, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Australia, China and South Africa . He lived in #China and after three years of work, he returned to Zimbabwe in 2012. Michael Pearce has worked in #Zimbabwe and #Zambia for 33 years. His experience spans a wide range of buildings in remote parts of central #Africa to the conversion of old buildings in the north east of England and large-scale urban developments in Harare, Zimbabwe. Engaged in an appropriate and reactive architecture, Michael Pearce specializes in the development of buildings that require little maintenance, low investment and operating costs and renewable energy systems with environmental control. Mphethi Morojele : Born in Lesotho, Mphethi Morojele studied architecture at the University of Cape Town and the Bartlett, University College London. Mphethi Morojele is the owner and founder of the award-winning MMA Design Studio which was founded in 1995 in Johannesburg. His built and critical work has been recognized locally and abroad for engaging the African landscape through a contemporary interpretation of indigenous knowledge and cultural practices. He is a regular conference speaker and has curated exhibitions on South African architecture and urbanity at amongst others the Venice Biennale, the Royal Institute of British Architects, and AEDAS, Berlin. He was a key member of the scientific committee of the 2014 International Union of Architects (UIA) congress in Durban . He has curated exhibitions on South African Architecture at the Venice Biennale, the Royal Institute of British Architects and the 2010 Shanghai expo to name a few. He was a member of the London School of Economics “Urban Age” series and is an international speaker and guest lecturer on architecture in Africa. He has been a juror for many international competitions including for the UIA, the European Union, the Holcim Awards (Africa and Middle East,) and was a steering committee member of the recently inaugurated African Architecture Awards. Christian Benimana : Christian Benimana is an architect from #Rwanda, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the School of Architecture and Urban Planning (CAUP) of Tongji University in Shanghai, China (2008) and has served as the Secretary General of the East Africa Institute of Architects. He runs the Rwanda office of Mass Design Group, a research-focused architecture studio that frequently teams up with local governments and NGOs on socially driven projects. Christian Benimana is a co-founder of the African Design Center, an apprenticeship in the field which should be the BAUHAUS of Africa with the mission of empowering leaders who will design a more equitable, just and sustainable world. Christian Benimana dreamed of becoming an architect, but there was no design school in his home country, Rwanda, so he applied and was accepted at #Tongji University in #Shanghai, #China. Not transmitting his inability to speak Mandarin to oppose him, he managed to master the language before continuing his studies in architecture. Upon his return to Rwanda, he joined the MASS Design Group as a Design Fellow in 2010 and now heads the company's Rwandan programs and the ADC. He taught at the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology and chairs the school boards of the Rwandan Institute of Architects and the Institute of Architects in East #Africa. Its goal is to develop the talent and potential of the next generation of African designers with socially oriented design principles . Olajumoke Olufunmilola Adenowo :She is a Nigerian architect born October 16, 1968 in Oyo State in Nigeria. At 14 she enrolled in Obafemi Awolowo University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Architecture at age 19. As an undergraduate she won the prize for Best Student Design. She is one of the greatest architects in Nigeria, her nicknamed is "the Starchitect" . She obtained her Master’s of Science in Architecture, with distinction, from the same university in 1991. At age 25, Olajumoke Olufunmilola Adenowo founded her boutique architecture and interior design firm AD Consulting. She has several philanthropic ventures. In 1999, she founded the Awesome Treasures Foundation (ATF), a UN-recognised, faith-based NGO in Lagos, Nigeria. The foundation has a mission to raise 1,000 leaders by 2030, working especially women and young people. As a public speaker, Adenowo has lectured on the arts, architecture, gender issues, women’s empowerment and entrepreneurial activities in Africa. She has been featured by the international media such as CNN. Tosin Oshinowo : She is an architect, creative entrepreneur, author, and public speaker from Nigeria. She received her undergraduate degree in architecture from Kingston College London and her master’s degree in urban design from University College London‘s Bartlett School of Architecture. As an architect, Tosin is best known as the founder and principal of cmDesign Atelier (cmD+A), established in 2012. Based in Lagos, she has undertaken a number of predominant civic projects, including the design of the Maryland Mall and a wide range of residential projects, including luminous beach houses on the coast of the oceanside city. Tosin Oshinowo has designed the Ngarannam village in northwest Nigeria to replace a settlement destroyed by the Boko Haram terrorist group.Created by the Nigerian government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the village have a marketplace, health clinic, community centre and primary school along with 500 houses . Issa Diabaté is an architect and designer of Ivorian origin. He is graduated with a Masters in Architecture from Yale University. From 1991 to 1993, Issa Diabaté was an intern in architectural firms in Ivory Coast (Goly Kouassi), in the #unitedstates (Devrouax and Purnell) and in #France (Jean Nouvel and Catani). In May 1994, he joined the office of the SAU Guillaume Koffi as an architect trainee, to return in 1995 as director of architectural projects. In 2001, Issa Diabaté became a partner of Guillaume Koffi with the creation of Koffi & Diabaté Architects. Member of the Order of Architects of Ivoiry coast (CNOA), Issa Diabaté also evolves in the world of design, with his work presented at the DAK'ART Contemporary Art Biennial in #Senegal (1998 winner), and more recently at the ABIDJANOW (ARCHIBAT Event - #Abidjan , Ivory Coast) and DESIGN INDABA ( Capetown , Southafrica ) exhibitions. In 2019 Issa Diabaté designed a chair for IKEA's Överallt furniture collection, which was launched at the Design Indaba conference in Cape Town. The collection was included in Dezeen's Top 10 Furniture Designs of 2019. Issa Diabaté was also named Knight of the Order of Cultural Merit in Ivory Coast. These are just a few of the many talented African architects who are making their mark on the world of architecture. Their innovative and socially responsible designs are helping to shape the future of the field and inspire a new generation of architects in Africa and beyond.

According to the information conveyed by the media, 3D printed houses offer a quick and effective solution to the housing crisis. But what is it really? What is the ecological impact for this new construction technique? 3D printing construction helps to appreciate the value of 3D printing techniques over conventional construction techniques. Indeed, the construction itself takes a few days with 3D printing, compared to months with other traditional techniques. ©Holcim How is a 3D house built? The building is first digitally designed using specialized digital software. A machine then makes it possible to print structures in an automated way on the site. A nozzle or a robotic arm pours layer by layer a paste composed of mortar, concrete, plastic, mud on the site following the indications of a digital drawing in order to erect the frame. Some projects are also carried out with natural materials such as bamboo, wood and natural stone waste. At first glance, the idea seems interesting, it would allow you to choose a predefined model online and agree on a date to print or build your house on any viable site, quickly and at low cost. Does this new technology really offer these advantages ? The only apparent advantage is the speed of production, to meet housing needs. A computerized robotic precast wall building machine can produce all of a house's walls, complete with insulation, electrical cables and windows, in hours, which can be shipped as easily as a bag of cement to a site and assembled quickly. 3D printing saves production time on the frame (if we compare it to a classic construction, and not with prefabricated in the factory). Another interesting aspect is that these houses for the majority do not need labor, masons and plasterers which reduces the costs of the builders and therefore creates fewer jobs. The negative points of a construction project of a 3D printed house : -Costly initial investments: the price of a 3D printer is around $49,000 for small models, more than $125,000 for large ones. -A lack of certification: the construction is governed by laws. Thus, only a handful of construction permits have been issued in recent years for 3D houses, in special experimental cases, and in selected areas. -The potential loss of local jobs: 3D printing requires little labor for the frame. A potential social problem, especially in less affluent areas with high unemployment. - Designs may be limited due to printer size and complexity. -3D printed houses can be vulnerable to environmental factors such as rain, wind and cold temperatures, which could damage them over time. The positives of a 3D printed house construction project : -3D printing also makes it possible to build houses with unique designs, complex walls and curved shapes at the same price as a straight wall. -The speed of construction which is undeniably faster than a traditional construction. - 3D printing uses fewer materials, reducing the overall environmental impact of the build. -Offer unlimited possibilities to designers in terms of design. -It can produce intricate designs that were not possible with traditional building techniques. -Sustainability: Thanks to its ability to use recycled materials, 3D printing has the potential to reduce waste. South Africa suffers from a severe lack of urban housing, nearly two million dwellings, to respond to this the engineering and science department of the University of Johannesburg has built the first 3D printed concrete house in less than 24 hours. This is the first step in a series that will be implemented by the government. ©Bennie Khanyizira The first school built using 3D printing is in the Salima district of Malawi. The walls were built in just 18 hours instead of several days in the case of a traditional construction. In Kenya, cement company Holcim has completed its largest 3D-printed affordable housing project to date through 14Trees, its joint venture with CDC Group. The 3D printing of the 10 housing units of the “Mvule Gardens” project in Kenya was made possible using TectorPrint, Holcim's 3D printing technique, produced in Kenya for the first time. The project's sustainability profile has also received an EDGE Advanced Sustainable Design Certification by the IFC, the World Bank's Development Finance Institution, which recognizes resource efficient buildings with the potential to be zero carbon. This is the first time that a 3D printed housing project has obtained this certification.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the ability to create art that is indistinguishable from that of a human artist. In some cases, AI can create art that is even more realistic than that of a human artist. AI can create art by drawing on data from images, video, and other sources. It can also create art based on user input. AI can create art that is humorous, serious, or any other type of artistic expression. ©Joia Preciosa Some artists believe that AI will eventually replace human artists. Others believe that AI will augment human artists, providing them with additional creative abilities. AI can be used to create art that is more accurate, realistic, or even abstract. AI can also be used to create art that is inspired by specific artists or periods in history. There are a number of companies and organizations that are working on AI-based art projects. For example: Midjourney, DALL-E, Google, Google has developed a project called DeepDream. DeepDream uses AI to create images that are dreamlike and psychedelic. The question is: Is AI art really an art? Even if it is possible to be recognized as an AI artist and to be entitled to sell his works. Many wonder if it is really worthwhile to appropriate a work created with the assistance of an artificial intelligence. Recently, the artist Jason M. Allen won the Blue Ribbon in the Colorado State Fair's Emerging Digital Artists' Fair competition. ©Jason M. Allen His work "Theatre D'opera Spatial" is one of the first AI works to win this prize. The work was created with "Midjourney" an independent research laboratory which produces an artificial intelligence program. But the awarding of this prize has generated complaints and negative reactions from other artists accusing Jason M. Allen of cheating. Mr jason M. Allen will say later that his work had been submitted, specifying that his work had been done with an AI and therefore that he had broken no rules. No matter how AI is used, it is clear that it has the potential to profoundly change art.

When decorating your home, it's important to have a vision in mind. What do you want your house to look like? Do you want a traditional look with traditional furniture or do you want a more modern look with sleek furniture? Once you have a vision in mind, it's important to start by selecting the right furniture for your home. A home is a place where you feel comfortable and happy, it should be decorated in a way that reflects your personality and style. Remember that home is your space and your refuge once your outdoor activities are over. There are many ways to decorate your home, and it can be a fun and rewarding project that you can be proud of once completed. Here are some tips to get you started: -Start with a concept plan. Decide what kind of feel you want your home to have, then start selecting pieces that will help you achieve that. -Think about your favorite colors and styles. Use these colors and patterns in different ways throughout your home to create a cohesive look. -Think about the type of atmosphere you want to create. Is it formal or more casual? Do you want a bright and cheerful home, or a more sober and relaxing one? -Think about how you want to use your home. Do you want to entertain guests in your living room or use it as a quiet and cozy space to relax? If you're looking to add some personality to your home, there are several ways to do it. To do this, you can include adding interior decoration ideas that are unique to you. You can create your own small decoration, create unique small furniture, add effects or patterns to your walls. If you are someone who loves the arts, you can add works of art to your home (sculptures, paintings...) If you are a fan of nature, you can add plants and flowers to your house (create a green space, a separation of rooms in plants etc...). If you are someone who loves the outdoors and the vintage, you can add outdoor objects, objects of industrial use to your home. There are several ways to add decorating ideas that are unique to you, and each of them will give your home a different and more individual look. Don't hesitate to buy second-hand and give it a second life with a different function (an old wooden ladder transformed into a shelf or towel rack, an old chest of drawers transformed into a bookcase or wall niche etc ...). You can also give it a different color or texture! You might be surprised at the wonders you find.! Be creative !

Architecture and design in African countries have a long and rich history. From the ancient pyramids of Egypt to the modern skyscrapers of Johannesburg, Africa has a proud tradition of building beautiful things. African architecture is characterized by its diversity. For exemple the ancient structures in Zimbabwe or the modern buildings in South Africa, each country has its own unique style. There are a few general characteristics that can be found in African architecture. First, it is typically less formal than European architecture. Second, African architecture is often characterized by its use of natural materials, such as wood, clay, stone and local materials. African architecture is often associated with the continent's traditional cultures. This architecture is often designed to reflect the local environment and culture. The pyramids of Egypt are known throughout the world but much of African architecture remains unknown. Here are some African architectural : Hikma complex, Niger The Architect Mariam Kamara collaborated with Yasaman Esmaili to restore an old Hausa mosque that had fallen into disrepair, adding community space and a library. Kasubi Tombs, Uganda Kasubi Royal Complex is the burial place of the monarchs of Buganda Kingdom. It was constructed mainly of wood and other organic materials. The interior is designed to replicate a sacred forest and is topped with 52 circular rings to represent each of Buganda's 52 clans. Palace of Emperor Fasilides, Ethiopia This castle is located in the city of Gondar, in the north of Ethiopia, in a fortified enclosure known as "Fasil Ghebbi" . The site includes about twenty palaces, royal buildings, churches, monasteries and unique buildings elaborately decorated. Mapungubwe Interpretation Centre, South Africa Set in a rocky landscape within Mapungubwe National Park, the center won South African architect Peter Rich the 2009 Building of the Year award at the World Architecture Festival. Great Mosque of Djenne, Mali A monument of Islam, the Grand Mosque is the largest earthen structure in the world. The mosque is a symbol of the city of Djenne it is also the greatest achievement of Sudano-Sahelian architecture . Hillbrow Tower Johannesburg, South Africa An unofficial symbol of Johannesburg, the 833-foot-tall (269-meter) Hillbrow Tower was once a must-see tourist attraction for its sweeping views of the city. The tower also had a luxurious slow-rotating restaurant at the top, as well as another luxurious non-rotating restaurant. Unfortunately, for security reasons, the tower was closed to the public in 1981. Africa has many beautiful architectural constructions and listing them all in this article would be endless. Do not hesitate to share in comment the constructions that you had the opportunity to see or the one that inspires you.