In a shocking turn of events, renowned architect David Adjaye has announced his decision to step back from certain roles he held in London following the publication of a report in the Financial Times. The report exposed serious allegations of sexual misconduct made by three women against the architect, whose portfolio includes numerous acclaimed museum buildings.According to the report, the women, whose identities were protected at their request, accused Adjaye of sexual assault and harassment. The Financial Times also shed light on what they described as a “toxic work culture” at his firm, Adjaye Associates. The alleged victims were identified as black women in their forties, all single mothers, and professionally well-connected with influential backgrounds, having mutual acquaintances with Adjaye before their employment.
Adjaye’s lawyer strongly denied the allegations, claiming that the women had “their own grievances.” However, the architect himself publicly refuted the accusations, stating, “I absolutely reject any claims of sexual misconduct, abuse, or criminal wrongdoing.” While admitting to consensual relationships that blurred the lines between his personal and professional life, he expressed deep remorse for the situation and vowed to seek professional help to ensure such mistakes never recur.
Following the publication of the Financial Times report, the consequences for Adjaye have been swift. He stepped down from his role as architectural adviser to the mayor of London, and his involvement in the planned Holocaust Memorial in the British capital was suspended.
Despite the controversy, Adjaye Associates has continued to move forward with various projects, including a National Cathedral in Ghana. However, the cost of the project has stirred up debate and concern. Other works by the architect, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., and the Aïshti Foundation in Lebanon, have received overwhelmingly positive responses.
Adjaye has also been actively involved in creating sculptural works. Large-scale pieces are currently on display at the Venice Architecture Biennale in Italy and the Counterpublic triennial in St. Louis.
Notably, none of the museums with forthcoming projects, nor the art festival, offered a comment in response to ARTnews’ inquiries.
Earlier this year, Adjaye faced legal troubles when he was sued for “unfair termination” by one of his firm’s former directors. The case was settled out of court in February, as reported by the Architects’ Journal.
The recent allegations have sent shockwaves through the architecture and art communities, raising questions about accountability and the treatment of employees within the industry. As the investigations unfold, the future of David Adjaye’s career remains uncertain, and his once-stellar reputation now hangs in the balance.