Established in 2017 by the government of Benin, Sèmè City is a centre for higher education, research, innovation, and economic development. Its campus network includes the Sèmè City Development Agency, the Institute of Technology and Innovation (with language and research centres), conference and business facilities, academic buildings, vocational workshops, student and private housing, gallery spaces, and a sports academy.
The range of programmes calls for architecture of varied scales and functions, yet with a consistent emphasis on responding to the local environment. This has resulted in a common approach: the use of light, locally sourced materials – frequently timber – and a vertical rhythm that reflects the surrounding landscape. The buildings also all prioritise passive climate control strategies, such as natural ventilation and daylighting, over mechanical systems.
The masterplan is structured around a network of shaded pedestrian pathways, aligned with the principles of the 15-minute city. These paths connect different zones across the site, supporting ease of movement while encouraging interaction and informal exchange between the different disciplines.
