African Architecture Placement

  Ghana

• Accra: 
Accra

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks

Description: Constructs LLC is a design and development firm specializing in 'inno-native' solutions in architecture and product and materials design. They are based in Accra, LA and Washington and are working on a wide range of products from, high end condos through mobile food carts to affordable housing. They are entering manufacturing with their pozzolana cement starting next year.

Their current office staff in Accra comprises of architects, materials researchers, graphic designer and project managers. They have created an atelier of sorts where students and professionals alike can interact productively.

About the founder Joe Addo a.k.a Uncle Joe:

Born in Ghana, West Africa, trained at the Architectural Association between 1984 and 1986 (A.A.) in London, Joe Addo has worked for firms in Finland, the United Kingdom and the United States, setting up his practice in Los Angeles in 1991. His early influences were with Peter and Alison Smithson through their protege Peter Salter at the A.A. the work and interest of the practice has been influenced by various investigations of 'genus-loci', and how architecture can/should respond to this in creating pieces which are both site specific and meet the needs of people who will inhabit or interact with it.

Joe is also a founding partner of the A+D Museum, based in the historic Bradbury Building in downtown Los Angeles. The A+D Museum's mission is to advance knowledge and to enable people of all ages, backgrounds, and interests to appreciate and understand architecture and design. His articles have been published in amongst others Interior Expressions, the New York Times and Index Magazine. His designs have also been featured on a BBC program on designs and building technology in Africa.

Current Intern Opportunities

* Researchers
They are looking for interns to formulate & write up ideas. The prospective intern must have an architectural background.

* Web & Graphic Designers are needed for the new projects we are working on. The prospective intern will have a graphic design background and will be required to show examples of previous work.

* Product developers are needed for ongoing and new projects. The prospective intern should have an interest in contemporary architecture in Africa and have a product development background.

* Architecture students are more than welcome to come and share their knowledge & skills with the staff and the Ghanaian interns.

* Architects
Architects are required to assist with a village resettlement project. The person should be familiar with Auto CAD 2D, 3D modeling, 3D Rendering with Accurender, etc.

* Construction Supervisor
Under the direct supervision of the Project Manager the intern will oversee and coordinate the activities of artisans engaged in construction work.

* Office Administrators
Constructs are keen to recruit interns who are interested in helping them out in the office. There's a lot to do and they need the help to get the office organised. Monthly stipend provided!

Qualifications: Volunteers must have a strong interest in contemporary architecture and urban planning. You will need to be flexible and tolerant, show initiative and enthusiasm to face the many hurdles and challenges that you will encounter.

Cost in US$: From USD 143 per week

Credit Available: yes

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Ikando's international volunteers have a willingness to learn and an open mind. They are people from all backgrounds who are looking for a life changing experience abroad. Our volunteers are outgoing, social and flexible. They are looking for a real opportunity to experience something new and make a genuine difference.

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Ghana Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Resume
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Ikando's Mission Statement: Ikando looks to support local community organisations through the placement of international volunteers. We seek to offer volunteers affordable, quality and skill specific placements with organisations that require their help. We believe our volunteers can be catalysts for change within these organisations. Ikando aims to communicate through its volunteers the positive story coming out of Africa.

Year Founded: 2004