In the wake of decolonization in Africa, Benin achieved full independence from France on 1 August 1960, then under the name of Dahomey. The building in which the declaration was signed at the time has until now served as the headquarters of the Parliament of the Republic, but the nation’s considerable growth has rendered the space insufficient. The office of Francis Kéré directs the design of a new National Assembly building that embodies the values of democracy and cultural identity of its citizens and, at the same time, let’s go of old colonial references.

The project takes inspiration from the palaver tree, which represents one of the most widespread traditions in the western part of the continent: the old wise men of the tribe gather under the shade of the tree to reach a consensus on decisions that affect the well-being of the community. Besides, this place is also a social gathering spot where the villagers themselves get together to talk, exchange views and products, or to solve conflicts.

The main chamber, the root, is on the ground level, and its roof is generated from the extension of the vertical structure. The crown is formed by recessed auxiliary services to avoid the direct impact of sunlight. The hollow trunk is located in the central courtyard, ensuring that the circulation spaces can ventilate naturally and let indirect light inside. Everything is connected by a central spiral staircase that joins the assembly hall with the offices.