BIOGRAPHY

Takur Sa'ad was a pioneer in Nigerian architecture, and his work has been both
creative and influential. He was born in Zaria in 1941, and he studied architecture at
Ahmadu Bello University in the 1960s. His university education was actually interrupted
by the Nigerian Civil War, which began in 1967. During the war, Takur Sa'ad served in the
Nigerian army, and he was later awarded the Distinguished Service Star for his service.
After the war, he returned to school and completed his studies.

Takur Sa'ad's father, Sani Sa'ad, was a successful businessman who owned several
textile shops in Zaria. His mother, Malama Kulu, was a traditional Hausa woman who was
known for her cooking skills. It is said that Takur Sa'ad learned his work ethic and
dedication from his father, and he learned the importance of tradition and culture from
his mother. He often credited both of his parents with shaping his life and career.

Takur Sa'ad had four siblings. He had two brothers, Hamza and Ibrahim, and two
sisters, Zainab and Aisha. Hamza followed in his father's footsteps and became a
successful businessman, while Ibrahim worked as an engineer. Zainab and Aisha both
married and had children, and they stayed close to their brother throughout their lives.
Takur Sa'ad remained close to his siblings and always valued their support and advice.

Takur Sa'ad was married to Dorathy Iya Aboki, a fellow Nigerian architect. They had
two children together, a son and a daughter. His son, Ayuba Sa'ad, followed in his
father's footsteps and became an architect as well. Takur Sa'ad's daughter, Aisha Sa'ad,
is a graphic designer and illustrator.

CARRIER

After Takur Sa'ad graduated from university, he began working as an architect in Nigeria.
In the 1970s, he worked on several important projects, including the New Nigerian
Newspapers building in Kaduna and the State Secretariat in Sokoto. He also worked on
several residential projects during this time. In the 1980s, he founded his own
architectural firm, Takur Sa'ad Architects, and he continued to work on a variety of
projects, including hotels, commercial buildings, and government buildings.

He was known for his innovative designs, and he often used traditional Nigerian elements
in his work. For example, he often incorporated Hausa elements into his designs, such as
the use of natural materials like mud brick and thatch. He also incorporated traditional
Islamic elements, such as the use of geometric patterns and arches.

One of his most famous designs is the Wurin Zaki Mosque in Kano, Nigeria. This
mosque is well-known for its unique shape, which resembles a traditional Hausa hat. The
mosque also has beautiful geometric patterns and traditional Islamic decorations.
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Another famous design is the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which has a modern and
elegant design that incorporates both traditional and contemporary elements.

HIS CONTRIBUTION TO ARCHITECTURE

Takur Sa'ad made some very important contributions to the field of architecture. He's
book "African Architecture: A New Dawn". is considered to be one of the most important
works on African architecture, and it provides a comprehensive overview of his work and
approach.

Takur Sa'ad also wrote "The Aesthetics of African Architecture", "Architecture in

Development", and "Housing in the Tropics". He also contributed to several books and
journals on the subject of architecture. In addition to his architectural work, Takur Sa'ad
also taught architecture at several universities in Nigeria.

HIS LIFE AND DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

The idea of "Vernacular Architecture" Vernacular architecture is architecture that is

based on local needs, traditions, and materials. It is often a response to the climate,
culture, and geography of a place..

Takur Sa'ad believed that architecture should be a reflection of the culture and
traditions of the people who live in the building. He also believed that it should be
functional and practical. He said, "The building should be built for a particular culture,
time, and place. It should reflect the personality and the history of the people for whom
it is being built."

This approach is quite different from the way that many architects design buildings
today. Many modern architects focus on creating buildings that are visually striking and
unique. Takur Sa'ad's approach was more focused on creating buildings that fit in with
their surroundings and that reflect the culture of the people who use them. He was
inspired by traditional African architecture, and he tried to incorporate elements of that
style into his work.

HIS CONTRIBUTION TO CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE

Takur Sa'ad was an influential figure in contemporary architecture. He was a pioneer

of post-colonial African architecture, and he was one of the first African architects to gain
international recognition. He was a mentor to many young architects, and his work
inspired a generation of African architects. He also helped to establish the Nigerian
Institute of Architects, which has played a key role in promoting and supporting Nigerian
architecture.

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 One of his most significant contributions was his use of traditional Hausa and Islamic
elements in his designs. He was one of the first Nigerian architects to incorporate these
elements in such a prominent way. His work helped to popularize these elements and
showed that they could be used in modern architecture. In addition, he was known for
his use of innovative construction techniques and materials. He often used locally-
sourced materials, such as mud brick and thatch, which helped to reduce costs and
support local economies.

One of his famous buildings is the N.E.C. Headquarters in Lagos, Nigeria. This building
was designed to be the headquarters of the Nigerian Export Corporation. It is notable for
its dramatic curved shape, which was inspired by the shape of a baobab tree. The
building also incorporates traditional Yoruba motifs, such as the use of patterned screens
and latticework. The building has been described as a "tribute to Nigeria's cultural
heritage." Do you think it is successful in celebrating Nigerian culture?

Another one of his most famous building: the Arewa House in Zaria, Nigeria. This
building was designed to house a museum, archives, and a library. It is considered to be
one of the most significant examples of post-colonial African architecture. The building is
notable for its use of traditional Hausa architecture, including the use of clay, wood, and
thatch. It also incorporates modern elements, such as the use of concrete and glass.

Then there's the Wudil University Library. Another one his famous building: This library
is another great example of Takur Sa'ad's innovative use of traditional elements. The
library has a beautiful arched entrance, and it is covered in geometric patterns. The
interior of the library is also covered in geometric patterns, and it has a stunning dome.
The library is also filled with natural light, which is a traditional element of Islamic
architecture. This building is an excellent example of how Takur Sa'ad was able to create
beautiful and functional buildings that incorporated traditional elements.

Another important one is the Central Mosque of Kano. This mosque is one of the most
beautiful and important mosques in Nigeria. It was built in the 1980s, and it is considered
a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. The mosque has a large dome and minarets, and it
is covered in intricate geometric patterns. The mosque is an important symbol of Islamic
culture and tradition, and it is a popular tourist destination.