The design of the National Cathedral carves an identity for architecture rooted in African culture, in Ghanaian heritage and is a ground-breaking architectural expression of African Christianity. The concept for the National Cathedral is born of Christian architectural principles. These principals frequently articulate proportion and orientation in multiples of twelve as a reference to the twelve apostles. The National Cathedral's draped roof form draws from the great symbols of the chieftaincy institution and culture, such as the opulent boaman ceremonial canopies and umbrellas, traditionally used to shade and protect royalty. The National Cathedral takes these symbols of royal and religious veneration ad democratizes them from the individual to the people.

The Cathedral's color palette and Adinkra-influenced gardens express a natural harmony and countenance to both Christian orthodoxy and Ghanaian cultural traditions. Three main colors are utilized throughout the scheme. Red, black and white reference the Holy Trinity whilst speaking of the Ghanaian nation - Red representing the blood, black the spirit and heart, and white symbolizing the power of the Ghanaian people. Red has also been adopted for the new state ceremonial route connecting the Cathedral with Independence Square.