By Natalie Fort
A young Ghanaian architect, Architect. Ohene Twum is gaining global attention after receiving a major international award that recognizes emerging voices shaping the future of the built environment.
Rooted in Ghana and working across architecture and cultural strategy, this great designer leads Ohene Twum Architecture, a practice focused on creating spaces that serve people, culture, and long-term community growth. Judges praised the architect’s ability to blend thoughtful design with social impact, highlighting a portfolio that spans homes, healthcare spaces, and community-oriented developments.
The recent honour came in the form of the Golden Trezzini Awards, where Arc. Ohene Twum was named one of the 2025 Laureates. The awards, presented annually in Saint Petersburg, are judged by an international panel representing dozens of countries and celebrate architecture recognized as both cultural and artistic achievement.
At the 2025 ceremony, the Ghanaian architect received a Platinum Certificate in the category Best Project of Residential or Mixed-Use Estate for Zuɣu Living: A Framework for Collective Housing & Belonging — a forward-looking housing concept designed to create sustainable, community-oriented living environments for students and young professionals in Tamale. He also earned a Gold Certificate in the category Best Architectural Design for Museum for Timeless Threads Gallery, a proposed cultural destination in Nyeshie, Tamale, envisioned as a space where art, heritage, and community life intersect.
Rather than chasing recognition alone, the architect is known for a process-driven philosophy — one that values daily discipline, collaboration, and careful attention to detail. Colleagues describe a professional deeply committed to the journey of design: from early concept sketches to the final lived experience of a space.
This work ethic was shaped early in life, inspired by watching a parent build a business in Ghana through persistence and integrity. That example instilled a belief in steady progress, resilience, and the power of consistent effort over time — principles now reflected in both the architect’s leadership style and design practice.
At the core of his work is a mission to design environments that improve well-being while strengthening cultural identity. Projects are guided by empathy, sustainability, and a strong awareness of how buildings influence daily life, from how people heal and gather to how they feel a sense of belonging.
The international recognition marks an important milestone, but for this rising Ghanaian designer, it is simply part of a longer journey — one focused on shaping spaces that carry meaning, dignity, and opportunity for generations to come.
Africa needs more environment-friendly edifices, given the vast amount of usable land that we possess. And if intentional Architects like Arc. Ohene Twum are leading the charge to achieve this, then they are worth celebrating and recognizing.
The African Digest celebrates Arc. Ohene Twum on this great achievement !
