The 18th International Architecture Exhibition at the Venice Biennale brings together projects targeting a topic of great relevance: rapid transformation in Africa’s built environments. With an array of works that closely relate to this theme, the TU Delft Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment put together an exhibition that showcases relevant initiatives developed by faculty, students, and partners. Entitled “BK Africa: A Laboratory of the Future?” this expo displayed physical models, photographs, films, and written manifestos which explore key topics regarding overlooked spatial realities across different African countries. Shown alongside other significantly strong entries, research and design proposals developed in the Addis Ababa Living Lab project were not only included in this exposition but also amongst the few selected for the faculty’s contribution to the Biennale. Exposed at Palazzo Mora from the 18th of May to the 26th of November, these selected works target issues of cultural memory, colonialism, urbanization, community-building, and of course affordable housing. The chance to enhance awareness on these issues was undoubtedly a prideful moment for Addis Ababa Living Lab team.
