Department of Architecture

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Effects of Sustainable Lighting Strategies on Users’ Patronage of Visual Art Centres in Lagos, Nigeria
(Covenant Journal in Research & Built Environment 8(2), 2020) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Omoijiade, Joshua
This paper set out to identify the relationship between the sustainable design of lighting within a visual art centre and its effect on the patronage of users in the study area. The study employed a mixed methods approach using case study analysis and questionnaires to collect data. In the course of research two art galleries namely; Nike Art gallery and Hour glass art gallery were compared with the prior deemed to be more sustainable with its integration of lighting; and the results of the amount of patronage compared to determine if the effect of sustainable lighting strategies on user patronage was indeed significant if existent at all. The study at the onset, hypothesised that an art centre integrating more sustainable lighting strategies can be expected to demand more patronage from users as the users are intuitively attracted to the benefits of such a design. Upon completion of the paper it was concluded that the levels of patronage observed did not vary greatly between either gallery. The study recommends further studies on a larger scale to arrive at more generalisable conclusions
Homelessness Factors and Psychological Wellbeing Concerns in Nigerian Cities
(International Conference on Energy and Sustainable Environment (IOP Publishing), 2021) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Evbuoma, I. K.; Adejuwon, G. A.; Odukoya, J. A.
Homelessness is a social, psychological, environmental, economical, family, and individual condition that describes the homeless. The object of this paper is identify the homelessness factors and its psychological wellbeing concerns on the urban residents in Nigeria. The study employed qualitative method using observation schedule, photographs, tables, charts and interview guide to collect data among homeless people in cities across the six geopolitical zones of Nigerian. Findings indicate that homelessness are in categories, and are characterized by factors such as psychological, anthropological, ecological, economic, cultural, sociological and religious. The psychological wellbeing implications of homelessness among the homeless population in Nigerian urban cities were highlighted. The result of study showed that homelessness factors in Nigerian cities can predict the severe health and psychological wellbeing consequences of urban residents. It was concluded that the concerns of homelessness on the psychological wellbeing and general health of the homeless in Nigerian cities require urgent attention.
Promoting Green Urbanism in Nigerian Purlieus as Therapy for Psychological Wellbeing/Health
(International Conference on Energy and Sustainable Environment, 2021) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Adejuwon, G. A.; Evbuoma, I. K.
Green urbanism highlight on reducing unforeseen dangers to human wellbeing through exposure to various environmental hazards, poor living conditions and other challenges associated with purlieus. This paper examined the influence of green urbanism on psychological wellbeing (physical symptoms and positive functioning) of residents in urban sprawls. Participants were 240 residents of purlieus’ in Ota, Ogun, Nigeria randomly selected to participate in the study. They completed standardized questionnaires which measured demographic variables, Physical symptoms and Positive Functioning. Data analysis was done using inferential statistics. Findings indicated that Physical Symptoms (PS) means score was found to increase as number of children in the family increases. Positive functioning (PF), among the participants were found to decrease as the number of children in the families increases. Physical symptoms (PS) increases as the length of stay in the houses increases among the participants while Positive functioning (PF) was found to be decreasing. Most of the houses were constructed in the 2000s yet they do not meet the standard practice in sustainable buildings. The poorly built houses are situated in unhygienic environment where basic amenities are unavailable. The implication of this is that the occupants of these building are prone to high level of physical symptoms such as stomach upset, headache, backache, have trouble sleeping, diarrhea, dizziness, tiredness and fatigue. The result of the study has addressed health related issues in built environment as well as showed that built environment should have an organic sustainable content (green living initiatives) for healthy living and psychological wellbeing.
Socio-Cultural Resilience to Domestic Space Change, the Benin Traditional City Experience, Nigeria
(2021) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Evbuoma, I. K.; George, T. O.
Research over time has revealed that activity spaces in domestic home have undergone evolution, adaptation and resilience over the years across Benin residential zones, Nigeria. Space segments/activities sections like cooking/eating, household goods storage, visitors and conveniences sections have somehow remain unchanged in terms of function, meaning, and arrangement. The study identified socio-cultural factors as responsible for resilience of domestic space to change in Benin domestic architecture across Benin City. The paper engaged both qualitative and quantitative research method. Triangulation was adopted for collection through focused group discussion using Semi-structured interview guide, questionnaire, observation guide and photographs. Factor analysis was use to analysis of data in order to reduce the identified socio-cultural factors to sizeable portion. The finding showed that, whilst some activity space, it size and location have evolved in Benin contemporary architecture, the style has remained intact. For instance some activity spaces in some residential zone of the city have been adapted to suit the new realities. Further observation itemised the socio-cultural factors that are responsible for resilient to change in Benin domestic architecture. Result of research underscores the role of culture in process of architectural development amidst rapid urbanization. Research upon completion is expected to be a good case study for measuring resilience to evolution of spaces in typical house setting in any African traditional city.
Space Adaptability Strategies and Building Performance in Selected Entertainment Centres in Nigeria
(3rd International Conference on Energy and Sustainable Environment, 2022) Akerele, Fiyinfoluwa Stacy; Oluwatayo, Adedapo Adewunmi; Kolade, Kehinde; Olusore, Shalom Pelumi
Studies have shown that there is a need to adapt buildings over their lifespan to environmental, economic and social changes. This will help enhance the decision-making process of building design and the development of a more sustainable built environment over a while. Anecdotal evidence suggests that entertainment centres in Nigeria often cease to meet their performance criteria over time as the entertainment needs of users change. The purpose of this study is to identify space adaptability strategies that influence the performance level of selected entertainment centres in Nigeria. Four entertainment centres were selected for this study. Respondents were users of the buildings. A total of 86 copies of the questionnaire were retrieved from the users of these selected entertainment centres. The data were analysed statistically using descriptive, predictive and inferential statistics. The sample size from each of the buildings was determined using census sampling with a total of 86 respondents collectively from the four selected entertainment centres. The findings from the study suggested that only 7 of the 37 identified adaptability strategies had a significant effect on the performance of these entertainment centres. These include space modularity, versatility of spaces, convertibility of spaces, reversible spaces, space scalability, space mobility and adjustability. The results of this study showed that while space modularity has a negative influence on the perception of security, social and cultural performance; versatility of spaces positively influenced that performance dimension. This study, therefore, concluded that, concerning entertainment centres, adaptability may not have influenced the performance in terms of functionality, equitable use, efficiency and psychological pleasure; however, security of such facilities may be enhanced by providing versatile spaces. The study recommended that architects should focus on versatility of spaces in the design of entertainment centres as it has been discovered to positively influence the security, social and cultural performance level of entertainment centres.
Assessment of Lighting Strategies in Art Galleries: A Comparative Case Study of Selected Art Galleries in Lagos State
(3rd International Conference on Energy and Sustainable Environment (IOP Publishing), 2022) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Solaja, A. O.
Light is so important in our everyday lives that it effects user experiences of spaces as well as the user's overall well-being for a large portion of the day in the built environment. Lighting, among the other aspects that make up the design of spaces, is an important characteristic in a building because it is the primary means of appreciating art and culture. The study aimed to assess purposively selected art galleries as the basis for determining the best lighting strategies to be adopted in the design of an art gallery in Lagos, Nigeria. This study addressed two key objectives – identify the existing lighting strategies used in the assessed art galleries to recommend the best lighting strategies to be used and ascertain how the lighting strategies are implemented. A qualitative research method using case study approach was employed in the research. Content and narrative analyses were used to analyse data. Findings show a significant need for daylight to be implemented alongside artificial lighting in an art gallery. The results align with current global trends towards sustainability.
Mass Residential Housing Projects and Sustainable Construction Practices
(ECS Transactions, 107 (1), 2022) Aderogba, A. M.; Faremi, J. O.; Ajayi, O. O.
The construction industry significantly consumes enormous energy and emits greenhouse gases due to its effort in bridging the housing deficit arising from increased population both in developed and developing countries. The study assesses the extent to which sustainable building construction practices are incorporated in the construction of buildings in Lagos State, Nigeria. A survey of 100 construction professionals and mass housing unit owners was conducted on frequently implemented sustainable practices on buildings projects and the perceived satisfaction of users of buildings on sustainability features. A total of 80 questionnaires were successfully retrieved and processed for analysis using frequency tables and relative implementation index. The result shows that sustainable practices that are often incorporated into mass housing projects during construction include downsizing the dominant use of incandescent bulbs and replacing them with energy-saving bulbs. The study concludes that there is a significant relationship between sustainable practices and the building users’ satisfaction.
Go‑ahead urban liveability indicators (ULI) influence on residents’ well‑being: a case for Lekki‑Lagos, Nigeria
(GeoJournal, 2023) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Asinobi, Amarachi A.
According to the UN habitat report on the new agenda 2030, 3.5 billion persons live in cities currently. By 2030, about 5 billion people are likely to be in cities. Liveability quests are an urban concern across the globe. And it is a holistic connection that involves five key aspects: healthy and ample neighbourhood, convenience and green mobility, diverse and buoyant local economy, lively public places/spaces and affordability. Therefore, the study investigates the impact of urban liveability indicators on inhabitants’ well-being in Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria. By: identifying the UN-Habitat and WHO checklist for urban liveability as an assessment of the current liveability conditions in Lekki, Lagos, identifying the urban liveability indicators in Lekki, Lagos, and investigating the effect of urban liveability indicators (ULI) on residents’ well-being/health in Lekki, Lagos. The research employed a mixed research methods (quantitative and qualitative methods) and used a case study as the research strategy Semi-structure Questionnaires (quantitative survey method) and In-depth interview guide, Focused Group discussion (FGD), observation Guide, WHO Urban Liveability checklist (qualitative research method) were an instrument for data collection. The data analysis and discussion were chronologically along with the objectives, and study findings established that the Lekki neighbourhood has high liveability standards. However, there is a strong correlation between ULI and residents’ well-being/health. The issue of urban liveability is germane to urban residents’ health, wellbeing, happiness and longevity. In conclusion, the guideline for urban liveability identified in the study may be a handy tool for a key interested party in cities to plan for a better world.
Eco-friendly construction materials and health benefits in the design of an all-inclusive health resorts, Nigeria
(Frontiers in Built Enrvironment, 2023-03) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Ndimako, Onyedikachukwu O.
Health resort designs are health sanctuaries and a conducive treatment, healing, and wellness environment. In providing a health and wellness-beneficial environment, the material selection choices by health resort designers should conform to certain minimum specifications and standards. On this premise and SDG-based selection criteria, the study aims to investigate eco-friendly construction materials and their health benefits in an all-inclusive health resort design proposed for Port Harcourt, Nigeria. This study addressed three key objectives—Ascertaining the physical architectural features of health resorts, assessing the eco-friendly building material contribution to SDG attainment, and identifying the health benefits of eco-friendly building materials in the health resort. The researchers engaged the qualitative research method for the study, using a case study technique as a qualitative research design/strategy. The authors used three health resorts across three countries in the global south; China, India, and Brazil. The data collection instruments include; an in-depth interview guide In-depth Interviews (IDI), a direct observation guide, a checklist of green construction materials for health facilities and a qualitative photo-production study based on the essential features of a health resort checklist. The authors use content and narrative analyses to analyze data. Findings show that eco-friendly materials may be best suited for both exterior and interior works of health resort facilities. Wood, stone and concrete are the most preferred materials as they occur across all three case studies. The results align with current global trends towards eco-beneficial facilities. Adopting natural materials such as wood and stone for the Port Harcourt health resort would be expedient, given the health benefits inherent in using such eco-friendly materials and their alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SGD 11 and 13).
Embracing Nature in the Built Environment: Evaluation of Biophilic Design Patterns in Selected Resorts
(Journal of A Sustainable Global South, Vol. 7 No. 2, 2023-08) Abraham, Ajijolaoluwa O.; Oluwatayo, Adedapo Adewunmi; Nduka, Dike M.
The integration of natural elements into the built environment, commonly referred to as biophilic design, has garnered interest due to its capacity to improve well-being and foster sustainable lifestyles. Resorts, which serve as temporary retreats for individuals seeking relaxation and leisure, offer a range of amenities and the opportunity to engage with nature. This paper aims to investigate the implementation of biophilic design patterns within selected resorts. Given its rich heritage and abundant natural resources, Ibadan, Nigeria was selected as the study location for this study. The research employed a quantitative methodology, employing convenience sampling to ensure a representative sample from the population. Questionnaires were distributed using a census sampling technique. The results of this study demonstrate a substantial implementation of biophilic design strategies in the chosen resorts. It is strongly advised to incorporate biophilic design strategies right from the inception of the design process, rather than considering them as an afterthought.
Students’ satisfaction with lighting in classrooms: A case study of a college building in Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
(Journal of The Nigerian Institute of Architects Vol. 2, 2024) Sholanke Anthony Babatunde; Ekhaese Eghosa N.; Jegede Foluke O.; Omokanye Lois A.
Quality lighting is essential for performing academic tasks in educational environments. Poor lighting is a hindrance to effective teaching and learning, especially in classrooms. Users' satisfaction with the quality of light in educational settings is therefore essential for enabling effective delivery of quality education. This study investigated students' satisfaction with lighting in classrooms in a college building at Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria, with a view to identify grey areas that require improvements, towards making contributions on ways of developing sustainable educational environment that meet users' lighting needs. The study adopted a mixed research approach that utilized both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Qualitative data was collected with the aid of an observation guide and content analysed. Whereas, quantitative data was gathered from 100 undergraduate final year students with a closed-ended structured questionnaire and analysed with the Statistical Product and Service Solutions software. Descriptive approach with the aid of photographic images and tables were used to present the findings. The study discovered that natural lighting is admitted into the classrooms through side windows and clerestory windows, while light emitting diode blubs are the artificial lighting means used. Both lighting mediums were found to be adequate. Majority of the respondents equally found the lighting means effective to indicate that they are fit for purpose. The study underscored the importance of making appropriate provisions for both natural and artificial lighting in learning spaces as a way to enhance students’ concentration level through the provision of effective natural and artificial lighting in academic environments, which in turn has the potential to enhance their academic performance.
Bioclimatic design strategies and energy efficiency in an orthopaedic hospital in Nigerian cities: A cross-sectional study
(Journal of Infrastructure, Policy and Development, 2024) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Abudulsalam, Ibrahim; Mohammed, Praise Ojuoluwa; Akindoyin, Akindoyin
2050 building stock might be buildings that already exist today. A large percentage of these buildings fail today’s energy performance standards. Highly inefficient buildings delay progress toward a zero-carbon-building goal (SDGs 7 and 13) and can lead to investments in renewable energy infrastructure. The study aims to investigate how bioclimatic design strategies enhance energy efficiency in selected orthopaedic hospitals in Nigeria. The study objective includes Identifying the bioclimatic design strategies that improve energy efficiency in orthopaedic hospitals, assessing the energy efficiency requirements in an orthopaedic hospital in Nigeria and analysing the effects of bioclimatic design strategies in enhancing energy efficiency in an orthopaedic hospital in Nigeria. The study engaged a mixed (qualitative and quantitative) research method. The investigators used case study research as a research design and a deductive approach as the research paradigm. The research employed a questionnaire survey for quantitative data while the in-depth Interview (IDI) guide and observation schedule for qualitative data. The findings present a relationship between bioclimatic design strategies and energy conservation practices in an orthopaedic hospital building. Therefore, implementing bioclimatic design strategies might enhance energy efficiency in hospital buildings. The result of the study revealed that bioclimatic hospital designs may cost the same amount to build but can save a great deal on energy costs. Despite the challenges, healthcare designers and owners are finding new ways to integrate bioclimatic design strategies into new healthcare construction to accelerate patient and planet healing.
Satisfaction with Housing Design Features of the Public Sector Employee Housing Schemes in Lagos State, Nigeria Using Principal Component Analysis
(Civil Engineering and Architecture 12(3):, 2024) Akinola, Adedotun O.; Ibem, Eziyi O.; Opoko, Akunnaya P.; Oluwatayo, Adedapo Adewunmi; Aduwo, Egidario B.; Ugah, Uzodinma K.
Housing design features satisfaction in nine public-sector employee housing estates was explored by means of data generated from household assessments comprising 500 key participants in Lagos state, Nigeria. The survey was carried out between September, 2020 and March, 2021; and the information was gotten through well-thought-out questionnaire and subjected to descriptive statistics as well as principal component analysis. The results specifically showed that the top three housing unit design features that the residents were most satisfied with were location of bedrooms, location of entrance and exit doors and ceiling heights (headroom), while they were least satisfied with size of study area in your housing unit, size of kitchen and store in your housing unit and size of store in your housing unit. The seven main dimensions of housing design features satisfaction were quantity of natural lighting and ventilation of interior spaces; number, design and location of staircases; sizes and location of corridors, wardrobes and location of bedrooms, sizes of store, kitchen and dining and location of terraces; privacy, general design of housing units, number of toilets and location of housing units in the estates; size and type of housing unit, number and size of bedrooms; size of study, children’s play area and terraces and natural ventilation of bedrooms and kitchen; headroom, location of entrances and exits and size of living area. Therefore, to improve housing design features satisfaction residents in public sector employee housing schemes, the key professionals (architects, town planners and estate managers) involved in conceptualizing, development and maintenance of the housing estates must engage in state-of-the-art planning, design and management approaches and also give priority attention to the key features that ensure residents’ satisfaction.
Satisfaction with Housing unit support services of the Public Sector Employee Housing Schemes in Lagos State, Nigeria
(International Conference on Science, Engineering and Business for Driving Sustainable Development Goals, 2024) Akinola, Adedotun O.; Ibem, Eziyi O.; Opoko, Akunnaya P.; Oluwatayo, Adedapo Adewunmi; Aduwo, Egidario B.; Ugah, Uzodinma K.
In Nigeria, one of the key methods applied by employers of labors in the creation of housing for their staffs is the employee housing scheme. However, not a lot is known of the inhabitants’ satisfaction with the housing unit support services of housing created through this scheme in Lagos State, Nigeria. This study investigated the occupant’s satisfaction with support services of Housing unit in the chosen employee housing estates created by public sector employers in Lagos State, Nigeria. Quantitative research approach was used in this study. The field work was carried out between September, 2020 and March, 2021. Judgmental/selective sampling technique was used to select the local government area and the housing estates developed under this scheme. Also, judgmental/selective sampling was used to hand-pick 688 housing units in the nine purposively selected housing estates. 500 units of the distributed questionnaire were properly filled and reverted by the respondents and the crucial data were presented in descriptive statistics. The results revealed that the inhabitants were most pleased with electricity and water supply in their housing units, closeness of waste disposal facilities to their houses, the quality of electrical and plumbing fittings in their dwelling units. However, in the order of ranking, they felt most satisfied with the supply of electricity (MSS=3.59) and least satisfied with the quality of plumbing and sanitary fittings in their dwelling units (MSS=3.29). It is suggested that public housing policy makers and programme designers should take cognizance of the key features of housing unit support services and leverage on the features that are vital in enhancing the occupants’ satisfaction levels in the housing estates developed under the public sector employee housing scheme in future housing projects.
Strategies for Successful Monitoring and Evaluation Practices in Construction Projects
(nternational Conference on Science, Engineering and Business for Driving Sustainable Development Goals, 2024) Ogunbayo, B. F.; Ramabodu, M. S.; Adewale, B. A.; Ogundipe, K. E.
—Construction professionals utilize monitoring and evaluation processes to verify construction operations to meet set construction project objectives. The goal is to keep track of all essential project factors, including cost, schedule, scope, and construction quality. This study assesses strategies for successful monitoring and evaluation practices in South African construction industry construction projects. The required data were collected through a random sampling method, and within the study area, 36 questionnaires were retrieved from the construction professionals. Data collected were computed using a descriptive statistical approach. In this study, the determination of the valid mean item score was achieved through the application of a statistical equation to the data. The study findings indicated that regular feedback on M&E activities, the establishment of construction goals, the establishment of construction objectives, proper construction documentation, stable construction policy, frequent reports on problems encountered during M&E, and development of effective communication skills were the highest-ranked strategies for successful monitoring and evaluation practices in projects within the construction industry. The study concluded that professionals in the construction industry should better understand project objectives before and during the project life cycle for a successful M&E practice in the construction industry. The study further concluded professionals and management of a construction project should be acquainted and knowledgeable with the idea of the M&E system and its processes for successful M&E practices in the construction process.
Sustainable Urban Renewal in a world of Smart City Agenda in Natural Commercially Evolving Area: The Case of Lagos Island Residential Districts, Lagos State, Nigeria.
(2024) Jegede, Foluke; Adewale, B. A.; Olaniyan, Oluwaseun
A study was done on the existing buildings found in the residential district areas of Lagos Island with the aim to identifying the housing and planning characteristics found in these residential areas. The history of the buildings and factors that have influenced the change in housing types was studied; how these can influence and affect any agenda of smart city implementation or reform was explored. Survey methodology was used in carrying out the research with the use of questionnaire administered to residents, observation and photographic materials as research instrument. Statistical methods were used to analyze the data collected. The result showed that a large percentage of the building investigated in the residential district has not been renovated in the last ten (10) years and are mixed used building. In spite of the need for repairs, these buildings are still being inhabited. It was observed that the present state of housing in Lagos Island has been greatly influenced by increasing commercial activities in the area. Also, the result showed that the purpose and types of housing found in this area had evolved over time, a once resting place for a man and his family is now a place of several functions. Sustainable urban renewal and planning were suggested.
Application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Sustainable Building Lifecycle; A Systematic Literature Review
(Preprints, 2024) Adewale, B. A.; Ene, Vincent Onyedikachi; Ogunbayo, Babatunde Fatai; Aigbavboa, Clinton Ohis
With buildings accounting for a significant portion of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) holds promise for enhancing sustainability in the building lifecycle. This systematic literature review addresses the current understanding of AI’s potential to optimize energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact in building design, construction, and operation. A comprehensive literature review and synthesis were conducted to identify AI technologies applicable to sustainable building practices, examine their influence, and analyze the challenges of implementation. The review was guided by a meticulous search strategy utilizing keywords related to AI application in sustainable building design, construction, and operation. The findings reveal AI’s capabilities in optimizing energy efficiency through intelligent control systems, enabling predictive maintenance, and aiding design simulation. Advanced machine learning algorithms facilitate data‐driven analysis and prediction, while digital twins provide real‐time insights for informed decision‐making. Furthermore, the review identifies barriers to AI adoption, including cost concerns, data security risks, and challenges in implementation. AI presents a transformative opportunity to enhance sustainability in the built environment, offering innovative solutions for energy optimization and environmentally conscious practices. However, addressing technical and practical challenges will be crucial for the successful integration of AI in sustainable building practices.
Influence of Client Relationship Management (CRM) Process and Employee Support on the Retention of Architectural Clients
(ICSSD 2024 (IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science), 2024) Adepeju, A. A.; Ibem, E. O.; Oluwatayo, Adedapo Adewunmi; Akinola, A. O.
The current study aimed to empirically explain how explain how Client Relationship Management (CRM) process and Employees’ support contribute to client retention in architectural firms. Retention of high value clients is a crucial antecedent to the financial thriving of firms. The current study examined the impact of CRM process and employee support on client retention in architectural firms in Nigeria. 189 copies of questionnaire (66.78% response rate) were retrieved from randomly selected respondents in Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna and Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The data was analysed with descriptive statistics and multiple regression analyses using SPSS software. The coefficients of regressions of the predictors of the study showed that CRM Initiation Process (β = 0.56, p = 0.01) and Employee Support (β = 0.17, p = 0.03) had statistically significant impact on Client Retention. However, CRM Maintenance Process (β = -0.05, p = 0.84) had no statistically significant impact on Client Retention. Managerial recommendations and areas for further studies were highlighted.
Design of a Therapeutic Student Centre in Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria: User-Centred Approach
(2024) Babalola, Daniel Olatunde; Sholanke, Anthony Babatunde; Adewale, B. A.; Ene, Vincent Onyedikachi
This qualitative study addresses the pressing need for a therapeutic and supportive student center at Covenant University, Nigeria, to tackle escalating mental health concerns and the absence of dedicated well-being spaces on campus. Through semi-structured interviews with 100 undergraduate and postgraduate students, it gathers comprehensive insights into their needs, preferences, and perspectives regarding such a center. Employing a combined inductive-deductive approach to thematic analysis, grounded in trustworthiness strategies like prolonged engagement and member checking, key findings underscore the importance of natural lighting, private comfortable rooms, counseling services, art activities, and a welcoming atmosphere. These insights directly shape recommendations for the center's layout, furniture, services, and stigma-reduction campaigns. The study's rigorous methodology, emphasizing trustworthiness, highlights its contribution to capturing authentic student voices and translating them into actionable recommendations. Acknowledging limitations, such as cultural specificity, it calls for future cross-cultural studies and architectural expertise integration. By centering on students’ perspectives, this research advances discourse on therapeutic architectural design's mental health impact, offering a model for higher education institutions to co-create supportive, user-centered spaces prioritizing holistic well-being
An Assessment of the Implementation of Green Design Strategies in Selected Museums in Abuja, Nigeria
(Civil Engineering and Architecture e 12(3A), 2024) Adewale, B. A.; Ene, Vincent Onyedikachi
This study evaluates the implementation of green design strategies in selected museums in Abuja, Nigeria to inform sustainable approaches tailored to the local context. The qualitative study utilizes observational assessments of 3 major museums – Discovery Museum, Nike Art Gallery, and Retro Africa Gallery. A comparative analysis investigates the adoption of passive design, alternative energy, and water efficiency strategies based on a structured criterion aligned with global sustainability standards. The findings reveal a moderate integration of fundamental techniques like proper orientation, thermal mass walls, solar PV panels, and native drought-resistant plants across the museums. However, substantial gaps exist in implementing more comprehensive solutions like building insulation, greywater recycling, rain gardens, eco fixtures, and real-time metering. While initial steps have been taken, holistic opportunities remain to transform the museums into genuinely sustainable, net-zero facilities through extensive daylighting, diverse renewable systems, and total water recycling. The Retro Africa Gallery emerges as a leader, exemplifying an integrated green design approach. Recommendations are provided focused on state-of-the-art passive design, diversified alternative energy generation, and closed-loop water conservation strategies tailored to the contextual needs of Nigerian museums. The study concludes these institutions can become inspiring models of ecological design, leading broad climate action through pioneering sustainable architecture.