Freshforte Cargotecture is a new mixed-use retail and hospitality building in Lekki, Lagos, designed by the Austrian architect, Stephanie Theuretzbacher.
Stephanie Theuretzbacher moved to Lagos at the beginning of 2015 after studying at the University of Applied Arts Vienna. A few years later, she founded her own architectural firm, Studio Elementals in Lekki, Lagos.
The latest design project by her and her team is the Freshforte Cargotecture building which is accessible by boat from the lagoon and by car from Admiralty Way. The Freshforte building houses a grocery store, a restaurant and a coffee shop. The material selection and construction techniques follow the principles of recycling and local craftsmanship. Re-used intermodal shipping containers become the main structural elements and are either visible or concealed. A geometric steel mesh façade covered with plants veils the complex container arrangement and reveals surprising spatial configurations and transitional spaces between outside and inside, to be explored by the visitor.
With a general theme of “freshness”, nature plays an important role in the project and makes its way into the building providing shade and view protection. Great care has also been put into curating other landscaping elements, including geometric patterns on driveways and walkways. At night, the building is illuminated with a thousand ceiling lights making it visible from afar.
The Austrian architect has also designed and supervised projects in Ethiopia, South Sudan, Liberia and Iraq for UNIDO.
Architectural Design: Studio Elementals (DesignTeam: Stefanie Theuretzbacher, Jeanne Schultz, Chrili Car)
Interior Design: S.EA Consulting
Construction: Adisa Design Studio
Photos: Rubyspolaroid
Project duration: 2019-2020
For further details, please visit the website www.studioelementals.com
