Oshinówò Studio Adds Glass Prism to Freetown War Memorial
A new glass structure honors the forgotten Sierra Leone Carrier Corps members.
1Historical Correction Through Architecture
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission unveiled a new memorial in Freetown, Sierra Leone, to honor the Sierra Leone Carrier Corps. This project addresses a historical omission by recognizing 946 men who died transporting supplies during the First World War. Their names were previously absent from the original 1931 monument designed by Edwin Lutyens.
2Structural Design and Symbolism
Oshinówò Studio designed a structural glass pyramid that sits atop the existing stone memorial. The new addition follows the tapering geometry of Lutyens' original structure, effectively extending the monument upward. This design choice elevates the names of the Carrier Corps, physically placing them higher than the soldiers they supported during the conflict.
3Reversing Historical Hierarchies
Founder Tosin Oshinówò described the design as a symbolic reversal of roles between those who served and those who were served. By placing the Carrier Corps above the soldiers, the studio intended to honor the fundamental sacrifices these men made. The structure serves as a profound expression of gratitude for their essential contributions.
4Materiality and Cultural Resonance
The memorial utilizes material symbolism to bridge different cultural contexts. The glass prism is etched with the names of the fallen, creating a transparent yet permanent record of their identity. Oshinówò emphasized that the design aims to resonate across diverse audiences, ensuring the memory of these individuals is preserved for future generations.
5Illumination and Visibility
Beyond the glass structure, the project includes a laser beacon designed for significant days of remembrance. This column of light is engineered to be visible from up to five kilometres away, serving as a beacon across Freetown. It provides a modern, luminous layer to the historic site, enhancing its presence during commemorative events.
6Restoration of Original Monument
The project involved more than just the new addition; the 1930s stone memorial underwent a full restoration. Stonemasons and bronze specialists from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission worked to repair the original structure. This ensures that both the historic monument and the new glass extension maintain structural integrity and aesthetic harmony.
7Context of Modern Memorials
This project joins a series of recent international memorials, such as the tribute to Queen Elizabeth II by Foster and Partners. Like other contemporary commemorative works, it balances historical preservation with modern architectural interventions. It highlights a growing trend of re-evaluating colonial-era monuments to include previously marginalized or overlooked historical narratives.
8Legacy and Future Impact
The Freetown Memorial stands as a permanent testament to the vital role of the Carrier Corps. By integrating modern glass architecture with Lutyens' classic design, the project creates a dialogue between past and present. It ensures that the sacrifices of these 946 men are finally acknowledged within the global war memorial landscape.