Architecture

Smart energy conservation research is gaining traction in a variety of industries throughout the world. The current research is projected to cut energy consumption in the construction sector, which has already reached 49% globally and is expected to rise by 2% annually, costing millions of dollars per month. Balancing energy savings with thermal satisfaction is a current difficulty, as most researchers have concentrated on attaining energy savings without reaching the thermal contentment of the occupant, which could pose a health risk to both young and old occupants. To address the problem, we conducted empirical studies with 193 participants in the Northern part of Nigeria, where they were exposed to an indoor temperature of 22°C to determine their thermal environment, choice and comfort votes, viewed and favored control, and overall thermal satisfaction, which will help calculate and define the unused thermal satisfaction thermostat and later.

Construction projects still experience significant cost and time overruns, dispute being one of the cause. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods have been developed to reduce the negative impact of disputes. While research works have covered several areas, the focus seems to skip determining the impact of the ADR methods on cost and time. Determining the significance of the gains in cost and time where ADR methods were used is vital. This research therefore assesses the impact of ADR methods on cost and time of projects. In achieving this, the extensions in the cost and time of projects where ADR methods were used were assessed to establish how significant. The ADR methods widely employed in construction dispute settlement including the main subjects in dispute were assessed. The nature of the relationship between time and cost extension under ADRs was analyzed. Seven ADR methods that have been applied in Nigeria from literature formed a set of questionnaires to generate data...

Construction projects still experience significant cost and time overruns, dispute being one of the cause. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods have been developed to reduce the negative impact of disputes. While research works have covered several areas, the focus seems to skip determining the impact of the ADR methods on cost and time. Determining the significance of the gains in cost and time where ADR methods were used is vital. This research therefore assesses the

This research examines the need to preserve and integrate Nigerian indigenous architecture, specifically focusing on the Gbagyi people's traditional building pattern. The aim of this study is to identify the elements of continuity or transformation within the Gbagyi traditional building pattern which has not been adequately explored. The study selected 100 traditional compounds in four Gbagyi settlements representing different historical periods, and conducted semi-structured interviews with compound heads to gather qualitative data. Additionally, physical observation examined Gbagyi buildings, while structured questionnaire was administered to 348 individuals knowledgeable about Gbagyi history and building patterns. Thematic analysis was applied to the interview data, and the questionnaire responses were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) for descriptive analysis. The findings revealed that the Gbagyi pre-colonial building pattern was characterized by a circular form, with granaries as prominent features and mud and timber as primary building materials. The study also revealed the influence of modern architecture and external factors on Gbagyi architecture, leading to the adoption of modern designs, construction techniques, and materials in contemporary Gbagyi settlements. The findings have implications for the preservation and incorporation of indigenous architectural elements into contemporary Nigerian architecture.

Traditional African Architecture dates back to the late Stone Age. It is one of the oldest and richest architecture the world ever had, almost the only one that still survives from the dawn of human history. Since the advent of globalization, many nations have experienced transformation with their identity. Nigerian culture, tradition, architectural identity, since colonialism have experienced rapid transformation resulting from various external influences. The Igala ethnic group of North Central Nigeria has a unique traditional house form that has transformed significantly between the periods of colonization and contemporary times. The aim of this study is to assess and identify the major influences of modernization and how they impacted on the traditional Igala house form. The study investigated the traditional Igala house form and its transformation between precolonial and contemporary periods. This study through oral interview and field study, as well as intensive literature review critically assessed the impact of modernization on traditional Igala house form and also identified factors that influenced the modern transformation of the traditional Igala house form. These factors formed the main body of the structured questionnaire which was administered to various professionals in the study area. The study revealed that the traditional Igala house form has significantly transformed, and is fast becoming extinct. The study advocates determined effort to revive the dying indigenous Igala architectural house form and evolve new but acceptable architectural forms that recognize the culture of the people with respect to current development.

Organizations aiming to sustain client loyalty and satisfaction must prioritize the maintenance and enhancement of service quality. In healthcare settings, the built environment, a tangible aspect of physical evidence and one of the marketing mix 7Ps, has been shown to influence patients' perceptions of the quality of care and overall satisfaction. This study investigates the impact of a child-friendly hospital built environment on pediatric patients' satisfaction at Federal Medical Centre Keffi. While previous research has highlighted the significance of service quality and physical environment in enhancing positive healthcare experiences, empirical studies specifically examining the influence of child-friendly hospital built environments on pediatric patients' satisfaction in Nigerian healthcare settings are lacking. Using a survey-based cross-sectional research design, data was collected through structured questionnaires focusing on pediatric patients' perception of the hospital's child-friendly features and overall experience. The study findings reveal a significant association between the child-friendly hospital environment and pediatric patients' satisfaction. The study hypothesized five elements of the hospital built environment against Federal Medical Centre Keffi's pediatric patients' satisfaction, with all elements proposed to have a significant relationship with pediatric patients' satisfaction. The results of the multiple regression analysis of the relationships support four hypotheses, confirming a significant positive relationship between the child-friendly hospital built environment and pediatric patients' satisfaction. However, one hypothesis showed an insignificant positive association with pediatric patients' satisfaction, contrary to expectations. This study underscores the importance of overall child-friendly hospital design quality and performance in improving pediatric patients' satisfaction in Nigeria. By highlighting the impact of a child-friendly built environment on pediatric patients' satisfaction, this research contributes to addressing the deficient practice of pediatrics in Nigerian healthcare facilities. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to consider and prioritize child-friendly elements in their built environments to enhance the overall healthcare experience for pediatric patients.

Nigeria's diverse ethnic landscape is marked by distinct traditional building practices, each representing a unique cultural identity. This study delves into the architectural heritage of the Igala people of North Central Nigeria, shedding light on their sustainable building practice. Despite its profound cultural and historical significance, the Igala traditional architecture, like many others in Nigeria, faces challenges due to modernization. This trend is pervasive across Nigeria, where contemporary buildings often disregard indigenous socio-cultural, environmental, and climatic considerations in their design and construction. Consequently, modern buildings in Nigeria tend to be costly and incompatible with the local culture, environment and climate. This study explores the imperatives and values of Igala traditional housing pattern, aiming to enhance the sustainability of contemporary building practices in Nigeria. Employing a narrative approach, the study utilized archival/historical research, field surveys, and interviews with local building professionals, indigenous elders, and environmental experts to explore the Igala traditional building practice. Thematic content and descriptive analysis were used to interpret the gathered data. The study revealed intrinsic features of Igala traditional housing pattern, including the courtyard system, hierarchical spatial arrangement, organic expansion, food storage facilities and the integration of socioeconomic and socio-cultural spaces. These features exemplify sustainability through values such as security, privacy, communal living, cultural identity, energy efficiency, resource efficiency, passive solar techniques and environmental conservation. The research emphasized the critical importance of these identified features and values, not only for preserving cultural heritage but also for guiding sustainable contemporary architectural practices in Nigeria.

This research presents a comprehensive exploration of the impact of modernism on Igala architecture, tracing its evolution from pre-colonial times to the contemporary era. Employing a chronological and narrative approach, the study utilized archival research, field surveys, and interviews with local professionals, indigenous elders, and environmental experts to investigate the transformative effects of modernism on Igala architecture. Although limited by unavailable population data and a vast geographical spread, historical records and engagement with the study area provide valuable insights into the interplay between modernism and Igala building practices. The arrival of European colonizers in the nineteenth century disrupted indigenous traditions, leading to a fusion of European architectural styles with traditional Igala residential designs. This research highlights the resilience of the Igala people in preserving their architectural heritage. It serves as a crucial resource for architects, historians, and cultural preservationists, emphasizing the importance of preserving indigenous architectural practices amidst rapid globalization.

In the rapidly developing Federal Capital of Nigeria, Abuja, understanding the relationship between managerial service quality and occupants' satisfaction is crucial for sustainable housing development. This study addresses this by assessing the influence of managerial service quality on occupants' satisfaction in housing estates in Abuja, Nigeria. Notably, there is a dearth of information on occupants' satisfaction of housing estates within the Nigerian context, existing studies mainly focus on the physical environment. Using a survey-based cross-sectional design, data was collected through structured questionnaires from two housing estates in Abuja, focusing on occupants' perceptions of managerial service quality components. The study evaluated four key aspects of managerial service quality as independent variables: Facility Management, Management's Responsiveness to Complaints, Waste Management, and Environmental Hygiene. The data underwent inferential analysis, with correlation analysis gauging the strength and direction of the relationship between the dependent and independent variables, and multiple regression analysis used for hypothesis testing. Preliminary findings revealed a positive correlation between managerial service quality and occupants' satisfaction. From the results of multiple regression analysis, three hypotheses revealed a significant positive relationship with occupants' satisfaction, while one hypothesis showed an insignificant but positive relationship with occupants' satisfaction. This study underscores the critical role of effective estate management in improving occupants' quality of life and fostering sustainable urban development. Findings from the study can inform policymaking, shape property management practices, and empower housing estate administrators to meet the evolving needs and expectations of housing estate occupants.

Architecture and culture are two concepts that represent the identification of any society. Architecture is the manifestation and expression of culture. So, Architecture and Culture are interdependent and inseparable. Research has identified culture as the main factor in the evolution of the architecture of a people and it plays an important role in the environmental and social development and sustainability of a place. The culture of any society is based on their beliefs, history, civilization, climate and customs, whilst architecture symbolizes a society's culture that has evolved. This research explores the intricate relationship between culture and architecture in the evolution of traditional architecture in Nigeria, with a specific focus on the evolution of the indigenous homestead of the Igala people of North Central Nigeria. Employing a narrative approach, the study utilized historical research, field surveys, and interviews to explore how cultural beliefs, norms, practices, and socio-cultural factors have profoundly influenced the design and planning of Igala traditional dwellings. By investigating the interplay between indigenous knowledge systems, community practices, and material availability, the research uncovers the unique architectural features that have emerged from the rich tapestry of Igala culture to include the long straight entrance path (ojikpologu), the circular curvilinear homestead and buildings, courtyard (anuku/okolo), reception house (atakpa), and food storage barn (aka). Others include shrine (achękwu), grinding hut (ǫdǫ-okuta), animals' pen (unyi-amęñwu-ǫrę), and security fence (ϙgba), all deeply rooted in Igala culture. This research provides valuable insights into the adaptability of traditional architecture to culture. It further offers essential knowledge for architects, preservationists, and policymakers, guiding their efforts in heritage preservation, sustainable architectural design, and urban planning within multicultural contexts.

The research aims to identify the diverse challenges associated with cohabitation, shared facilities and management practices in multi-tenancy housing in Abuja, Nigeria, and to offer a holistic understanding of these dynamics. This research became imperative especially due to the paucity of information on occupants' satisfaction of multi-tenancy housing in Nigeria. Existing studies mainly focus on the physical environment. Employing a survey-based cross-sectional design, data was collected through structured questionnaires administered across 10 multi-tenancy apartments across Abuja city, focusing on occupants' perceptions of the associated challenges. These challenges as identified in this research are categorized into four key components: Environmental Hygiene; Shared facility; Environmental Safety; and Privacy, which served as independent variables. Inferential analysis, including correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis, was conducted to assess the relationship between these challenges and occupants' satisfaction. Preliminary findings revealed a positive correlation between the identified challenges and occupants' satisfaction. Furthermore, the results of multiple regression analysis reveal a significant positive relationship, reinforcing the importance of addressing these challenges for enhanced occupants' satisfaction. This research highlights the critical need to improve the overall quality of rental dwellings in Abuja, and the role of effective residential building design and property management in improving occupants' quality of life and fostering sustainable urban development. The findings have implications for policymaking, suggesting the need to refine multi-tenancy housing development and management practices, and empowering housing estate investors/developers and administrators/managers to meet the evolving needs and expectations and comfort of housing occupants. Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics in multi-tenancy housing and provides insights to inform strategic interventions for improved living conditions in Abuja.

Construction projects still experience significant cost and time overruns, dispute being one of the cause. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods have been developed to reduce the negative impact of disputes. While research works have covered several areas, the focus seems to skip determining the impact of the ADR methods on cost and time. Determining the significance of the gains in cost and time where ADR methods were used is vital. This research therefore assesses the impact of ADR methods on cost and time of projects. In achieving this, the extensions in the cost and time of projects where ADR methods were used were assessed to establish how significant. The ADR methods widely employed in construction dispute settlement including the main subjects in dispute were assessed. The nature of the relationship between time and cost extension under ADRs was analyzed. Seven ADR methods that have been applied in Nigeria from literature formed a set of questionnaires to generate data...

This article defines the relationship between the evolutionary process of the city of Kaduna over the last 50 years and the development of its Architecture. It describes the character of its architecture and identifies the factors responsible for its growth and development, highlighting the contributions made by architects and architectural firms to the development of architecture and the evolution of architectural form. A stratified purposeful sampling approach was chosen to select the target population. The population of interest were professionals in the field of architecture who identified the characteristics of the architecture of Kaduna City and the factors that have affected their perception of the changes in the architecture of Kaduna City. Semi-structured interviews, questionnaire surveys and pictorial surveys were chosen as data collection methods. From the results, the development of the architecture of Kaduna City could be traced to multiple factors: economic indices, government policies, culture and religion. The economic prosperity in the 1980s led to more diversified styles while religious crises created a new conservative elitist where buildings tended to embrace modern elitist characters but with religious inflexions for identity. Culture and religion drove the desire to reflect symbolism and relevance in design. Government policies such as those of urban planning and development control have compelled architects to conform to standards that guarantee minimum quality.

Traditional architecture in Nigeria reflects cultural identity and historical heritage, exhibiting distinct regional variations between the Northern and Southern regions. This comparative analysis identified commonalities in traditional architecture across these regions. Drawing upon existing literature and architectural documentation, the research examined key architectural features such as building materials, spatial organization, decorative motifs, and construction techniques. It also examined socio-cultural factors like communal living, religious beliefs, and socioeconomic activities to understand their impact on architectural design and evolution. The findings revealed significant commonalities in building elements, architectural form, spatial organisation, building materials and construction techniques despite geographical and cultural differences. The study also revealed environmental conditions, cultural and religious practices, and building materials as influential factors shaping architectural practice in both regions. Furthermore, shared socio-cultural values contributed to the preservation and continuity of traditional architectural practices across generations. Identifying and preserving Nigeria's diverse architectural heritage is crucial, and understanding commonalities between Northern and Southern architectural practices promotes appreciation for the country's cultural richness. It also fosters sustainable preservation efforts and facilitates cross-cultural dialogue and community engagement in heritage conservation initiatives. Overall, this comparative analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of Nigeria's architectural heritage, underscoring the importance of preserving and promoting shared architectural practices as integral components of the nation's heritage, cultural identity and unity.

Understanding occupants' satisfaction with housing quality is critical for improving urban living standards and guiding policy-making for housing development and investment in rapidly expanding cities such as Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria. Despite the extensive body of research on housing in Nigeria, there remains a significant gap in understanding how specific determinants of housing quality affect occupants' satisfaction within the context of housing estates in Abuja. Existing studies often overlook the relationship between these determinants and satisfaction levels, focusing instead on broader aspects of housing. This study seeks to address this gap by assessing how four identified key determinants (Standard Dwelling Units, Security, Accessibility, and Occupants’ Autonomy) influence occupants' satisfaction with their housing quality. Inferential analysis, including correlation and multiple regression, was employed to examine the relationships between these variables and occupants' satisfaction. The findings indicate a positive correlation between the key determinants of housing quality and occupants' satisfaction. Multiple regression analysis further indicate a significant positive relationship, emphasizing the need to enhance housing quality for improved satisfaction among occupants. The study found that all the identified determinants: Standard Dwelling Units, Security, Accessibility, and Occupants’ Autonomy play significant roles in influencing occupants' satisfaction with housing quality. These results underscored the importance of adopting integrated
strategies that include the proper planning and design of dwelling units, the use of sustainable construction techniques and materials, and the enhancement of accessibility and supporting infrastructure. In addition, ensuring and protecting occupants' rights is crucial. By prioritizing occupants' autonomy, housing estates can foster a sense of ownership and belonging among residents, ultimately contributing to higher levels of housing satisfaction. Implementing such strategies are essential for boosting housing satisfaction and promoting sustainable urban development in Abuja and other cities across Nigeria.

The study ascertained the effects of workplace-built environment on employee performance in Nsukka local Government Secretariat Complex Enugu State, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The population was made up of 132 respondents which comprises of 8 Heads of Departments and 124 members of staff in Nsukka local Government Secretariat Complex Enugu State, Nigeria. Due to the manageable size of the population, the entire population was used as the sample. A Questionnaire was used in answering the research questions. The Reliability of the instrument was subjected to Cronbach's Alpha reliability method to determine the internal consistency which yielded a coefficient of 0.84. Data collected was analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer research questions. Decision on research questions were taken based on real limits of numbers. For the test of significance, the probability (p) value was used in comparison with the alpha value of 0.05, and at 90 degrees of freedom (df). The study found that Factors of workplacebuilt environment like indoor air quality, noise level, room spacing, room temperature and room lighting has significant negative impact on employees' level of productivity in the organization. The study recommends that Enugu state and Nsukka LGA should map out programmes for provision of good workplace-built environment to increase productivity, promote occupational safety and health of workers. This can be done be renovating old offices in the secretariat complex building and remodeling old offices to meet up latest state of the art designs in the construction industry.

The study ascertained how to provide accessible buildings for people with disabilities (PWD) in Nigerian Public Universities. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The study was carried out in four public Universities in SouthEast Nigeria which include:

Nigeria's rich cultural diversity is reflected in its different traditional building practices, each representing a unique cultural identity. However, modernization poses significant challenges to these traditional building practices. Contemporary architectural practices in Nigeria often neglect the local traditions and conditions that historically shaped building design and construction, particularly failing to consider crucial factors such as local culture, environment, and climate. This research focuses on the architectural heritage of the Igala people, with particular emphasis on their sustainable building practices. The study aims to examine the features and values inherent in Igala traditional building practices, and seeks to promote their preservation and integration in contemporary Nigerian architecture. The research employed narrative research approach, incorporating archival and historical data, field surveys, and interviews with local building professionals, traditional elders, and environmental experts. Data analysis was conducted through thematic content and descriptive analysis. The findings revealed key aspects of Igala indigenous building practices, including the use of courtyard layouts, hierarchical spatial configurations, organic growth patterns, and specialized food storage facilities. These features reflect a deep integration of socio-economic and socio-cultural functions. The research highlights how these traditional features contribute to sustainability by emphasizing valuable aspects such as security, privacy, communal living, cultural identity, energy efficiency, resource conservation, rainwater harvesting, passive solar design, and environmental conservation. The study underscores the importance of preserving these traditional building practices, not only to preserve cultural heritage but also to promote sustainable architectural practices in Nigeria by integrating indigenous knowledge into modern building design and construction.

A considerable amount of energy consumption and CO2 emission comes from the building sector which today accounts for 40% of the world's energy use. This study explores the potential of energy efficiency in mitigating the environmental impacts of green buildings in Nigeria. This review is about the role of green design and construction in reducing energy use, lowering carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable development. The study is analytical in nature and based on secondary sources of data like published articles, books and different websites regarding this topic. Key obstacles include high installation cost, limited awareness and knowledge, and a lack of technical expertise, but potential solutions such as financial incentives, training programs, and public-private partnerships are identified. This study concludes that widespread adoption of green building practices can significantly enhance energy efficiency, mitigate climate change effects, and foster sustainable urban development in Nigeria. However, the need for policy reforms, stakeholder collaboration, and increased investment is crucial for the widespread implementation of green building practices across the country.