LYT Architecture

Building the Future: A Modern Airport Inspired by Culture

Revolutionizing Airport Design with Technology and Tradition

LYT Architecture played a pivotal role in transforming Ghana’s Kumasi International Airport into a world-class facility, blending advanced technology with cultural heritage. By leveraging cutting-edge Building Information Modelling (BIM) and collaboration tools, LYT ensured the project was delivered efficiently while preserving the Ashanti region’s unique architectural essence.
Seeing the project come to life from a working model and seeing it finished like it is today from what the virtual renders were, is testament to the skills and dedication of our teams. – Similo Ndima, Architect, LYT Architecture
Contact person:

Similo Ndima

- Architect at LYT Architecture

Delivery date:

The project was completed in 2022

Project duration:

Several years, with LYT joining in Phase Two of the construction

Solutions provided:

Autodesk Revit, BIM, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Enscape, 2D to 3D conversions

Services provided:

Architectural design, project coordination, visualization, cloud collaboration, cultural integration

Industry

Architecture, Aviation, Infrastructure, Engineering, Urban Planning

The Challenge

Kumasi International Airport, Ghana’s second busiest airport, required a major expansion to accommodate over a million passengers annually. LYT Architecture was brought in to redesign and enhance the facility, working within existing constraints while ensuring compliance with modern aviation standards. The challenge lay in integrating innovative technology, accommodating cultural influences, and coordinating with multiple international stakeholders.

Project Goals

LYT Architecture aimed to:

  • Expand and modernize the airport’s terminal to increase capacity.
  • Preserve and incorporate Ghanaian Ashanti culture into the design.
  • Implement advanced BIM technology for better visualization and planning.
  • Enhance collaboration across international engineering and construction teams.

Solution

To meet these ambitious goals, LYT Architecture:

  • Utilized BIM and Autodesk Revit to create highly detailed 3D models, enabling the client (the Ghanaian government) to visualize the project before construction began.
  • Adopted cloud-based collaboration tools (Autodesk Construction Cloud, Enscape) to seamlessly integrate designs from multiple teams worldwide.
  • Designed an ultra-modern terminal building, expanded the runway, and added new facilities such as an air traffic control tower, fire station, and passenger amenities.
  • Infused local Ashanti cultural elements into the terminal’s façade and interior design, reinforcing a sense of place and identity.

Business Outcomes

  • Increased Passenger Handling: The new terminal significantly boosts airport capacity, preparing it for future demand.
  • Improved Efficiency & Coordination: The use of BIM streamlined the design and construction process, reducing errors and ensuring smoother project execution.
  • Cultural Preservation: LYT successfully merged modern architecture with Ghanaian heritage, creating a terminal that resonates with its local community.
  • A Model for Future African Airports: The Kumasi Airport project sets a precedent for other African nations looking to modernize their infrastructure while embracing cultural identity.

Conclusion

By harnessing technology and architectural ingenuity, LYT Architecture helped shape a landmark project that not only meets global aviation standards but also celebrates Ghana’s rich cultural heritage. The Kumasi International Airport expansion stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and a vision for the future.

By using BIM, we can see the project as a miniature version of the real-world building, which allows for a bolder, richer engagement with all persons connected to the project. – Similo Ndima, LYT Architecture​

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LYT Architecture is a leading South African architectural firm specializing in large-scale projects across Africa. With a focus on sustainable design, BIM technology, and cultural integration, LYT delivers world-class solutions that push the boundaries of modern architecture.

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Seeing the project come to life from a working model and seeing it finished like it is today from what the virtual renders were, is testament to the skills and dedication of our teams. – Similo Ndima, Architect, LYT Architecture

Similo Ndima

Architect at LYT Architecture

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