ArchXenus calls for better-planned residential communities …Marks 15th anniversary
GHANAIAN-OWNED architectural firm, ArchXenus, has called for a shift towards high-density residential development, improved urban infrastructure and increased participation of women in Ghana’s built environment.
It also urged Ghanaians to move away from extensive horizontal housing development towards well-planned vertical or apartment communities supported by adequate infrastructure and social amenities.
“We must rethink how we develop our residential communities. Building upwards, where appropriate, will help us use available land more efficiently, but we must ensure that the necessary infrastructure can support such developments,” it said.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghanaian Times in Accra yesterday as part of the firm’s 15th anniversary celebrations, the Chief Operating Officer and Lead Architect of ArchXenus, Mrs Agnes Ofosu-Appiah, said properly designed apartment developments could accommodate more households on smaller parcels of land while creating space for roads, schools, healthcare facilities and recreational areas.
She said building heights must reflect zoning regulations, soil conditions, population density and the capacity of roads and utility services, adding that drainage, water supply, sanitation, electricity and waste management must be integrated into residential plans from the outset.
Mrs Ofosu-Appiah also advocated mixed-use developments, climate-responsive designs, public transport links and affordable housing for different income groups to address accommodation challenges in urban centres.
The anniversary celebration, held at Christ Temple East in Accra, a facility designed by ArchXenus, which also managed its construction, featured the unveiling of GeneXus, a publication documenting the firm’s projects and design philosophy.
The event also witnessed the launch of the Xenus Impact Foundation to promote dialogue on Africa’s built environment.
Founded by Nana Akua Oppong-Birmeh in 2011, ArchXenus has grown from a modest practice established around a family dining table into a women-owned and women-led architectural firm providing consultancy, design and build services, and property development.
Its portfolio includes architectural branding and branch prototypes for Universal Merchant Bank during its transition from Merchant Bank, the UMB Emporium interior, refurbishment works at the Rheumatology Department and Maternity Ward of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Melcom Spintex, projects for Imperial Homes and private residential developments.
Reflecting on the milestone, Ms Oppong-Birmeh said the firm’s growth demonstrated women’s capacity to establish and lead successful businesses in demanding professional sectors.
“What started around a family dining table has grown into a firm undertaking projects across several sectors. Our journey shows that women can build successful businesses and occupy leadership positions in industries traditionally dominated by men,” she said.
She urged young women not to abandon their ambitions because of challenges or gender-based expectations.
“We have the ideas, skills and leadership qualities to contribute meaningfully to national development. I encourage women to believe in themselves, strengthen their professional abilities and pursue their ambitions with confidence, discipline and perseverance,” she said.
She attributed the firm’s progress to collaboration, continuous learning and its commitment to designing functional buildings that respond to people’s needs.
The two-day anniversary celebration, held on November 10 and 11, provided an opportunity for the firm to reflect on its achievements and renew its commitment to Ghana’s architectural sector.
BY CLIFF EKUFUL
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