The revitalisation of Africa Hall, a landmark modernist building in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, has been awarded the 2026 World Monuments Fund (WMF)/Knoll Modernism Prize. The prize recognises Architectus’ decade-long restoration of the building, which was originally designed by Italian architect Arturo Mezzรจdimi in 1961.
The restoration project, completed in 2024, has preserved the building’s original modernist architecture while adapting it for contemporary use. Key works included concrete repairs, installation of new high-performance glazing, and fabrication and reinstallation of 13 million mosaic tiles. The project also restored significant integrated artworks, including Afewerk Tekle’s stained glass window and Nenne Sanguineti Poggi’s mural.
“Africa Hall is a place of huge cultural and political significance, and this award acknowledges the collective effort to honour its modernist legacy while carefully equipping it for the future,” said Matthew Hughes, Senior Associate at Architectus.
The building’s circular Assembly Hall was reconfigured to accommodate the expanded membership of the African Union, and new amenities, including a museum and exhibition space, visitor centre, and cafรฉ, have broadened public engagement with the site.
The 2026 WMF/Knoll Modernism Prize will be formally presented on February 18, 2026, during Modernism Week in Palm Springs, California.
Image Courtesy: Architecture and Design
