Delina Berhe

African cities should take their place in the network of globalised cities; however, a sense of representation should be prioritized to enrich their potential. The research investigates how architecture can preserve urban social traditions that are being pushed aside within the process of creating a ‘global worthy Addis Ababa’. It proposes the creation of a ‘Food Media Library’ prioritizing indoor and outdoor social spaces, with the goal of fostering a meaningful presence within the evolving cityscape. Ultimately, this methodology experiments with vertical spaces that blend social interaction, memory-making, critique, knowledge exchange, and sense of identity. It seeks to weave the threads of tradition, modernity, and community within Addis Ababa’s urban fabric. By doing so, creating a city that stands proudly on the global stage while honouring its roots.