When it comes to architecture styles, the most that we always hear of are the Western styles. I bet you already know what Baroque or Gothic styles are, mainly because these styles are celebrated across the globe.

Aside from these, Asians have also made their names in the field of architecture. Pagodas and mosques are widely recognized for their impeccable beauties and charm.

Well, how about African architecture? Have you heard of them? Apart from the famous pyramids in Egypt, what else do we know about the homes and buildings built with authentic African styles?

One Twitter account named “Igbo Excellence” realized that people are not as aware of African architecture as the Western and Asian ones. So, he shared various pictures of them and showcased the incredible architecture in Africa for everyone to see and appreciate.

1. Nubian architecture

First in this list is Nubian architecture. The aesthetic of Nubian architecture dates back to around 6,000 B.C., making it an ancient style that has been around for generations. It is simple yet majestic. The earliest Nubian architecture used materials that are perishable, such as mudbricks, animal hyde and other supple materials.

2. Somali architecture

Somali architecture involves the perfect fusion of Somali architecture with Western designs in contemporary times. It combines various techniques that include stone castles, citadels, fortresses, mosques, temples, monuments and lighthouses.

3. South African architecture

Rich in vibrant colors and amazing patterns, that’s authentic South African architecture fo you. The incredible colors and designs painted and engraved on the walls of a South African-inspired home will take your breath away.

4. Swahili architecture

The range of building traditions practiced or once practiced along the eastern and southeastern coasts of Africa is what makes up the Swahili architecture style. This design is not exactly contemporary but there are various infrastructures and homes around Mombasa, Lamu and Zanzibar that still practice this style.

5. Sudano Sahelian architecture

The aesthetic behind this type of architecture focuses on using mud as the main material. If you have heard about the Great Mosque of Djenné in Mali, then you will know how very impressive these mud mosques are. To maintain their beauty despite erosion caused by rains, the people of Djenné make sure that their beloved buildings are regularly repaired and maintained.

6. Modern Sudano Sahelian

The amazing Sudano Sahelian architecture has been modernized over the years. The beauty and majesty of tall mud buildings have been incorporated with more sharp edges and a polished look.

7. Madagascar architecture

Madagascar is a large island nation off the east coast of mainland Africa and is considered to be the fourth largest island in the world. The construction norms in this land are best described as rectangular, the roof is peaked and steeply sloped, usually supported by a pillar in the center.

8. Afro-futurist architecture

Africa also has its own version of futuristic buildings. The style of architecture is dubbed as the Afro-futurist architectural style and a perfect example is this monolith dedicated to Angola’s first president Agostinho Neto. It towers over the skyline of Luanda, the capital city.

9. Afro-federal architecture

Government buildings with a clear inspiration from African architecture is a style dubbed as Afro-federal. These buildings are classic, elegant and undeniably celebrating the incredible construction and design styles authentic to Africa.

10. Contemporary African architecture

Contemporary African architecture is rising and it is undoubtedly marvelous. It is extremely varied and ranges from sustainable rural living areas to even luxurious offices and buildings. The mixture of authentic African vibe and patterns with new and more polished styles is a perfect way to capture the beauty of this architecture style in modern times.

11. Nigeran architecture

Nigerian architecture was historically influenced by environmental conditions as well as social and cultural factors. Colonial residents who worked for the Public Works Department introduced a type of neoclassical architecture to designs of private homes and government buildings. The one thing that is quite noticeable in this style are the incredible patterns and tribal designs that are make each establishment unique.

12. Afro-modernist architecture

And finally, Afro-modernist architecture emerged in the 1960s and has been known to incorporate local building materials such as adobe bricks and thatch as well as modern materials like reinforced concrete. In a sense, this style is considered an avant-garde version of African architecture.

Africa has its own share of architectural gems that most of us probably did not know or appreciate until now. Twitter user “Igbo Excellence” sure hopes that people will learn to love and want to see more of African architecture after sharing these amazing photos.

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Source: Twitter, Wikipedia