JK Randle Centre for Yoruba History & Culture – Pool and Arcade

Onikan, Nigeria

Video © JK RANDLE CENTRE

Photo © LIVIN SPACES

Architects: SI.SA (Studio Imagine Simply Architecture)

Location: Onikan, Nigeria
Year: 2022

The multilayered brief called for the renovation of the existing JK Randle community centre, the public pool, and the introduction of a public park & arcade to unify both elements.

Our concept is based around three ideas – First is the idea of Liberation, spiritual, mental and physical. The liberation of the mind through education and belief in the afterlife, typied by the tradional worship of Orisa’s.

Secondly, the concept of the weave as an inconspicuous but visible facet of Yoruba existence. From cotton looming, fabric making, basket/mat weaving and hairstyles. Fabrics, clothing form an integral part of Yoruba Identity. The mesh facade mimics the frayed ends of a piece of fabric in a nod to the above.

The South West, made up of forests and plains, is rich in soil and suitable for agriculture. The building is intended to rise from the earth in homage to the geographical/ agricultural heritage and also look to the sky where Olodumare resides.