FINDECO House
| FINDECO House | |
|---|---|
| Former names | Financial Development Company House |
| Status | Complete |
| Location | Lusaka, Zambia |
| Coordinates | Lua error: callParserFunction: function "#coordinates" was not found. |
| Completed | 1978 |
| Height | 90m (295 ft) |
| Architectural | Modernist |
FINDECO House is the highest building in capital Lusaka standing at 90 meters high with 23 floors above ground. It is located at the corner of Independence Avenue and Cairo Road in the Central Business District of the city. The building is mainly used for commercial offices and is managed by the National Housing Authority.
FINDECO House is a prominent skyscraper located in Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. It is one of the most iconic buildings in the city and holds the distinction of being the tallest structure in Zambia. The building stands as a symbol of Lusaka’s urban development and modernization.
History
FINDECO House, short for Financial Development Company House, was constructed in the 1970s. The building was part of Zambia’s post-independence urban development plans, which aimed to modernize Lusaka's skyline and support the growing demand for office space in the central business district.
Upon its completion, FINDECO House became the tallest building in Zambia, a title it still holds today. It was designed to accommodate a mix of offices for governmental, financial, and private sector use. The building was a significant development in the country's effort to expand and modernize its infrastructure.
Architecture and Design
FINDECO House is a prime example of 1970s modernist architecture. The skyscraper is 90 meters (295 feet) tall and has 23 floors, making it a key feature of Lusaka’s skyline. The building was designed with a strong, utilitarian focus, featuring a reinforced concrete structure that allows for durability and functionality.
The façade of the building consists of large windows and concrete sections, typical of the architectural style of the time. While its design lacks the more decorative elements seen in contemporary skyscrapers, FINDECO House remains a functional space with a significant presence in Lusaka's central business district.
Usage
The building serves primarily as office space for a variety of tenants. FINDECO House is home to several government departments, financial institutions, and private companies. Over the years, it has become a central hub for business activities in Lusaka.
Despite its age, the building continues to be a key office location due to its strategic position in the heart of Lusaka. However, like many older structures, it faces challenges related to maintenance and modernization. Periodic refurbishments have been undertaken to ensure it remains functional for tenants and visitors.
Significance
As the tallest building in Zambia, FINDECO House is not only a functional office space but also a landmark of Lusaka. Its height and central location make it a prominent point of reference within the city. For many, the building represents Zambia's post-independence aspirations and the country's efforts to build a modern, urban identity.
Over the years, FINDECO House has become a symbol of economic and commercial development, playing a crucial role in housing key financial and governmental offices in Lusaka.
Challenges and Maintenance
As a building that is over four decades old, FINDECO House has faced several challenges, particularly in terms of maintenance. Issues related to the aging infrastructure, including wear and tear, have required ongoing repairs. Efforts to modernize the building have been limited, with some tenants occasionally reporting concerns about the state of the facilities.
However, despite these challenges, FINDECO House remains an important and occupied commercial building. There have been discussions over the years about potential renovations and upgrades to improve its functionality and safety.
Future Prospects
With the ongoing growth of Lusaka as a business and commercial hub, FINDECO House is expected to remain a significant part of the city’s central business district. Although newer buildings are emerging in Lusaka, the historical and economic importance of FINDECO House ensures its continued relevance. The need for improved infrastructure and maintenance may prompt future renovations to keep it competitive with newer office buildings in the area.
Conclusion
FINDECO House stands as a landmark of modern Lusaka, reflecting the city’s development trajectory since Zambia’s independence. While it faces the challenges of aging infrastructure, it continues to be a vital part of Lusaka’s urban landscape, housing key offices and serving as a symbol of the city’s growth.
See Also
References
1. "Tallest Buildings in Zambia." SkyscraperPage, retrieved 2024. 2. "FINDECO House: Lusaka’s Tallest Building." The Zambian Eye, 2019. 3. "Urban Development in Lusaka." Lusaka Times, 2020.
History
Construction of the building commenced in 1971 and was completed in 1973. [1]
In 2011, the government announced its intentions to renovate and develop the building into an ultra-modern structure under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement after receiving unsolicited bids.[2]
See also
Reference
- ↑ The Skyscraper Center
- ↑ Government to re-develop Findeco House, Lusaka Times, 15 June 2011
