The Financial Times has published an article highlighting allegations of sexual misconduct concerning the Ghanaian, British architect Sir David Adjaye. Rumours have been circulating for weeks and have now reached crisis-point, prompting U.S. public galleries to cancel his inclusion in exhibitions.
The New York Times reported that Adjaye has “stepped away from certain projects in London”. He has suspended work on a planned Holocaust memorial for the capital, and he resigned from his post as architectural adviser to the mayor of London. He also reportedly quit his post as a board member of the Serpentine Galleries.
In a statement to the FT Adjaye stated; “Although I continue to strongly reject the very serious allegations against me, it is important that they do not become a distraction for those organisations where I hold a personal role. In order to focus on restoring trust and accountability, I have agreed to stand aside from those personal roles with immediate effect.”
The de Cordova Museum and Sculpture Park in Lincoln, Massachusetts, stated it would no longer present a large Adjaye sculpture this autumn, and the Counterpublic triennial in St. Louis said it would initiate a community dialogue over an installation by Adjaye.
The FT reveals allegations from three women who made claims of sexual assault, harassment, and misconduct. According to the report, they also accused Adjaye Associates’ firm, Adjaye Associates, of fostering a “toxic work culture,” according to the report.
Sir David Adjaye OBE is a renowned British architect known for innovative and culturally sensitive designs. He was born to Ghanaian parents on September 22, 1966, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Adjaye’s family moved to London when he was a child, and he later studied architecture at the London South Bank University and the Royal College of Art.
Adjaye established his architectural practice, Adjaye Associates, in London in 2000. Since then, he has gained international recognition for his diverse portfolio of projects, including public buildings, residential developments, museums, and cultural institutions. His designs often explore the intersections of architecture, art, and identity, and he is celebrated for his ability to integrate local traditions and histories into his work.
Some of Adjaye’s notable projects include the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., which opened in 2016. This project earned him widespread acclaim and established him as a leading architect on the global stage. Other significant works include the Nobel Peace Centre in Oslo, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Denver, the Sugar Hill Mixed-Use Development in New York City, and the National Cathedral of Ghana in Accra.
A thoughtful and contextual approach to design characterizes Adjaye’s architectural style. He often incorporates unique materials, shapes, and textures into his buildings, creating visually striking and thought-provoking spaces. His work frequently addresses social issues, such as the African diaspora, racial identity, and urban development.
In recognition of his contributions to architecture, Sir David Adjaye has received numerous awards and honours throughout his career. In 2017, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to architecture. He has also been honoured with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Royal Gold Medal, the Order of the British Empire (OBE), and the Design Miami/ Visionary Award.
David Adjaye continues to work on projects worldwide, collaborating with clients and communities to create meaningful and impactful architectural spaces. His designs reflect his commitment to social responsibility, cultural understanding, and the power of architecture to shape our collective experience.
Photo: David Adjaye by Ed Reeve courtesy Bolton & Quinn PR