Programme: Architecture

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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.
Users’ Circulation Preferences in Train Terminals in Lagos State, Nigeria
(Information Classification: General, 2025) Oluwatayo, Adedapo Adewunmi; Nzeh Millicent Eberechukwu
Train terminals serve as vital nodes within the urban transportation networks by facilitating the seamless movement of millions of passengers daily. However, due to the continuous rise in passenger numbers and the increasing complexity of designed train terminals, passenger circulation experiences and satisfaction levels are often hindered. This study evaluated users’ circulation preferences in Lagos, Nigeria, aimed at identifying the strategies that enable effective user-centric and improved train terminal layouts. This study adopted mixed methods research, which involved the distribution of digitalised survey questionnaires to collect data from sixty-two users of three existing train terminals in Lagos, Nigeria, namely: Babatunde Fashola Train Station, Mobolaji Johnson Train Station and Ikeja Train Station. Using IBM SPSS version 27, the data on the twenty-six user circulation variables were thoroughly analysed using descriptive statistics, and the results were presented in an orderly manner using tables. The results show that common areas of dissatisfaction were the accessibility for all users, the number and width of escalators/lifts, and the ease of wayfinding within the train stations. Therefore, it is recommended that, for improved user circulation within train terminals, the design and number of vertical circulation systems present within train terminals should be significantly improved, while enhancing easy evacuation during emergency situations
Influence of Architectural Education on Sustainable Design Thinking: A Review of Energy-Efficiency Concepts
(IOP Conf. Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 2025) Sholanke Anthony Babatunde; Nwangwu C. I.
The integration of sustainable design thinking in architectural practice is crucial for addressing energy efficiency challenges. However, the influence of architectural education on fostering such thinking remains underexplored. In order to solve this problem, this study examined how teaching architecture promotes sustainable design thinking, with a focus on energy-efficiency. It examined existing literature and case studies to evaluate teaching techniques in architecture schools and made a case for a curriculum that incorporates energy-efficient design concepts and fosters a sustainable culture within the programme. Through literature review by content analysis and selective approach of study, the results and findings show that there are significant barriers to the effective implementation of sustainable design education, such as: lack of faculty knowledge, lack of funds, and obsolete assessment techniques. The study concludes that greater collaborative efforts across stakeholders are needed to overcome these difficulties and establish a sustainable culture in architectural education It is envisaged that this study will encourage architects to design environmentally friendly and energy-efficient schemes. The study offers helpful information for creating curricula and formulating policies for education in sustainable design.
The Influence of Pedestrian Circulation Strategies on User Experience in Train Terminals
(International Journal of Transport Development and Integration, 2025) Oluwatayo, Adedapo Adewunmi ; Nzeh, Millicent Eberechukwu
Global urbanisation is evident in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially Nigeria, where the population has steadily increased by 3.2% annually. This increment necessitates the adoption of sustainable public transportation, with rail transport leading the advancement. However, train terminals are fraught with complex and poorly implemented approaches to pedestrian circulation. This study evaluated the implementation of pedestrian circulation strategies within three existing train terminals in Lagos, Nigeria, aimed at determining their influence on optimal user experience. The research method employed in this study is a mixed-method approach, which entailed the distribution of survey questionnaires to 60 respondents. Thereafter, descriptive statistics were thoroughly carried out using the IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. The results show that the pedestrian circulation strategy that influenced user experience the most within the selected train terminals was the connection of corridors and lobbies with other facilities. Therefore, it is recommended that horizontal pedestrian circulation strategies should be appropriately spatially planned and dimensioned to accommodate high pedestrian traffic scenarios within train terminals.
Evaluation of Fire Safety Management Strategies in Selected Shopping Malls in Abuja, Nigeria
(F1000Research, 2025-04) Sholanke Anthony Babatunde; Dimuna K. O.; Olukayode B. G.
Background Incessant incidences have led to losses of several lives and huge investments in many developing countries, particularly Nigeria. This study evaluated fire safety management strategies of selected shopping malls in the city of Abuja, Nigeria in order to identify specific areas that require improvement. Methods The research adopted a case study approach and analysis of data through qualitative means. An observation guide designed for the study was used to collect data. The data were content analysed and the findings reported in themes with the aid of tables and photographs to enhance clarity and understanding. Results The result revealed that the efficacy of active fire safety strategies of the shopping malls exhibited various levels of inadequacies. Fire prevention devices such as sprinklers, smoke detectors and drenchers were either not provided or sparsely provided. The prevalent firemitigation devices found in the malls were fire extinguishers and fire buckets, which are grossly inadequate to prevent the rapid spread of large-scale fire. The passive fire safety measures of the malls also exhibited some levels of inadequacies. The study underscored the need for fire safety strategies in public buildings, particularly largescale commercial structures with high capacity of users, to be adequately provided and managed in adherence to standard practice and building code requirements. Conclusion The study recommends that building professionals should adapt innovative means to mitigate fire risk in the planning and development of commercial buildings. Also, making provisions to accommodate impulsive human behaviour during times of chaos should be a primary design consideration for building designers. The study emphasizes the need for further attention and improvement in fire safety management strategies implementation in commercial buildings, especially large-scale public facilities such as shopping malls, in order to appreciably guide against the devastating effect of fire in case of an occurrence.
ASSESSMENT OF HEALING ARCHITECTURE STRATEGIES FOR THE DESIGN OF ORIKI GROUP WELLNESS CENTRE, JABI, ABUJA, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-06) INI-UKIM, Didarabasi Esther; Covenant University Dissertation
This study investigates the implementation of healing architecture strategies in the design of a wellness centre located in Jabi, Abuja, with a focus on enhancing users’ physical, emotional, and mental well-being. The study grounded in Biophilic Design Theory and Therapeutic Landscape Theory explores how nature-integrated and sensory design elements promote health and wellbeing. The research reviewed literature and relevant theoretical frameworks to reveal elements such as natural and artificial lighting, ventilation, biophilic elements, acoustic comfort, colour psychology and spatial coherence play crucial roles in a therapeutic environment to support physical and mental balance. A comparative analysis of international and domestic case studies to evaluate how these strategies have been implemented in existing wellness centres around the world including SHA Wellness Clinic, Chiva-Som, Mii Amo and Abuja based centres such as Nisa Wellness Retreat, Beauty Secrets MedSpa, and JVee Wellness Spa. Findings from the analysis showed Nisa Wellness Retreat and Beauty Secrets MedSpa demonstrated stronger biophilic and therapeutic elements compared to JVee Wellness Spa. Structured questionnaires were administered to assess user perception of these healing architecture strategies, and the responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and reliability tests (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.856). The results indicate users highly value natural lighting, quietness, ventilation and exposure to nature, as these strategies contribute significantly to relaxation, mental clarity and overall comfort. The research offers valuable design insights for architects and developers seeking to incorporate healing architecture strategies therapeutic environments.
ASSESSMENT OF PEDESTRIAN CIRCULATION STRATEGIES IN THE DESIGN OF HIGH-SPEED TRAIN TERMINAL, IJOKO, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Nzeh Millicent Eberechukwu; Covenant University Dissertation
Urban public transportation availability, which has tremendous potential to replace private vehicle use, is a dire need in the 21st Century. This is because of the continuous increase in global urbanisation. The heartbeat of transit systems within large cities is train terminals, which have gained prominence since the Industrial Era. However, minute consideration has been given to the planning of pedestrian circulation and the unique requirements of passengers within train terminals, posing a threat to the safety and efficiency of these transportation systems. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate pedestrian circulation in existing train terminals with a view to implementing strategies that enhance user experience in the design of a high-speed train terminal in Ijoko, Ogun. A mixed-method approach is adopted as the research approach, involving the qualitative and quantitative aspects. The qualitative aspect involved examining and obtaining data from three selected Nigerian train terminals and four foreign train terminals used as the case studies. Conversely, quantitative data were harnessed by a questionnaire from fifty-five users of train stations. For a comprehensive analysis of the quantitative data, version 27 of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used. Tables, figures and plates were utilised to present the research results effectively. The mean ranking of the implemented pedestrian circulation strategies within the three local case studies was computed using SPSS. Similarly, the pedestrian circulation strategies’ portion of variance and sphericity of correlation matrix were also thoroughly computed through the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin’s (KMO) and Bartlett’s tests, respectively. The appropriate size and positioning of vertical circulation and horizontal circulation systems, as well as the availability of signage showing the building’s functional spaces, are some of the pertinent pedestrian circulation strategies that influence satisfaction with the overall user experience in train terminals. This research study deeply explores important considerations for optimal pedestrian circulation through the proposal of an architectural design of a high-speed train terminal in Ogun State, Nigeria. The findings will be useful to built industry professionals involved in the design of high-speed train terminals. Three of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are advocated for in this study, which are the ninth goal of “industry, innovation, and infrastructure”; the eleventh goal of “sustainable cities and communities”; and the third goal of “good health and well-being”
EVALUATION OF ACOUSTIC STRATEGIES FOR THE DESIGN OF CHRIST EMBASSY YOUTH CHURCH, IKEJA LAGOS, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Agbateyiniro, Dede Emmanuela; Covenant University Dissertation
EVALUATION OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY STRATEGIES FOR THE DESIGN OF GUILDANCE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION COMMUNITY CENTER, AGO, LAGOS, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Demide, Eneji Alikali; Covenant University Dissertation
This study investigates the deployment of design strategies that enhance energy efficiency in designing community centers in Lagos, Nigeria, highlighting the critical need for sustainable practices in urban infrastructure. As Nigeria grapples with rapid urbanization and energy challenges, community centers are vital hubs for social interaction and service delivery. However, many facilities operate inefficiently due to outdated infrastructure and a lack of integration of modern energy-saving technologies. This research aims to identify effective energy-efficient strategies tailored to the unique context of Lagos while examining the barriers to their implementation. Through qualitative interviews with key stakeholders and quantitative assessments of energy consumption patterns, this study evaluates the impacts of energy inefficiency on operational costs and environmental performance. The findings underscore the importance of adopting innovative solutions, such as solar power systems and passive cooling techniques, to enhance sustainability and reduce operational costs. Addressing the existing knowledge gaps and providing targeted recommendations, this research contributes to advancing sustainable urban development practices in Nigeria, ultimately fostering improved quality of life for residents.
EVALUATION OF SALUTOGENIC STRATEGIES AND WORKERS’ SENSE OF COHERENCE FOR THE DESIGN OF EKULO BEVERAGE FACTORY, MAKURDI, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Apav, Fabian Demenongo; Covenant University Dissertation
In an era where employee well-being is increasingly linked to organisational success, factory environments must evolve beyond mere efficiency. Beverage factories, often characterised by repetitive tasks, noise, and physical strain, rarely consider the psychological and emotional needs of their workers. This study investigates how salutogenic design, an approach focused on promoting health rather than simply preventing illness, can enhance the Sense of Coherence (SOC) among workers in beverage factories in Benue State, Nigeria. Salutogenesis, a concept developed by Aaron Antonovsky, centres on three pillars of SOC: comprehensibility, manageability, and meaningfulness. When embedded into workplace architecture, these principles can mitigate stress, improve job satisfaction, and enhance productivity. Despite global research highlighting the benefits of salutogenic environments in healthcare and education, their integration into industrial settings remains sparse. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of salutogenic design on worker well-being and to propose a factory design model that strengthens SOC. Using a mixed-methods approach including observations of salutogenic elements and sharing of questionnaires across selected beverage factories, the research assessed the presence of key design elements: natural light and ventilation, noise control, and restorative spaces. Findings revealed that most factories underprioritised these elements, resulting in low SOC ratings among workers. Further analysis such as regression analysis established a positive correlation between salutogenic environments and higher SOC scores. The study culminates in a design proposal for a beverage factory that integrates salutogenic principles to foster a healthier, more productive workforce. The results advocate for a shift in industrial design philosophy where human-centered spaces are not luxuries but necessities. By aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (3, 8, and 9), this research contributes to both academic discourse and practical applications in industrial architecture.
EVALUATION OF SALUTOGENIC STRATEGIES AND WORKERS’ SENSE OF COHERENCE FOR THE DESIGN OF EKULO BEVERAGE FACTORY, MAKURDI, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Apav, Fabian Demenongo; Covenant University Dissertation
In an era where employee well-being is increasingly linked to organisational success, factory environments must evolve beyond mere efficiency. Beverage factories, often characterised by repetitive tasks, noise, and physical strain, rarely consider the psychological and emotional needs of their workers. This study investigates how salutogenic design, an approach focused on promoting health rather than simply preventing illness, can enhance the Sense of Coherence (SOC) among workers in beverage factories in Benue State, Nigeria. Salutogenesis, a concept developed by Aaron Antonovsky, centres on three pillars of SOC: comprehensibility, manageability, and meaningfulness. When embedded into workplace architecture, these principles can mitigate stress, improve job satisfaction, and enhance productivity. Despite global research highlighting the benefits of salutogenic environments in healthcare and education, their integration into industrial settings remains sparse. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of salutogenic design on worker well-being and to propose a factory design model that strengthens SOC. Using a mixed-methods approach including observations of salutogenic elements and sharing of questionnaires across selected beverage factories, the research assessed the presence of key design elements: natural light and ventilation, noise control, and restorative spaces. Findings revealed that most factories underprioritised these elements, resulting in low SOC ratings among workers. Further analysis such as regression analysis established a positive correlation between salutogenic environments and higher SOC scores. The study culminates in a design proposal for a beverage factory that integrates salutogenic principles to foster a healthier, more productive workforce. The results advocate for a shift in industrial design philosophy where human-centered spaces are not luxuries but necessities. By aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (3, 8, and 9), this research contributes to both academic discourse and practical applications in industrial architecture.
INVESTIGATION OF LOCALLY SOURCED SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS FOR THE DESIGN OF NATIONAL HISTORICAL MUSEUM IN LAGOS, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Inubiwon, Oluwabukola Ifeoluwa; Covenant University Dissertation
Museums serve as vital institutions for cultural preservation, education, and national identity, yet their architectural design is often separate from the cultural values they seek to embody. This study investigates the role of locally sourced sustainable construction materials in the design of history museums in Nigeria, with a focus on how these materials not only support environmental sustainability but also function as expressions of cultural heritage. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the research employed case studies and interviews, examining three key museums, out of a total number of 16 identified history museums in Nigeria (National Museum Lagos, Gidan Makama Museum, and Nike Art Gallery) and engaging 8 Nigerian architects through snowball sampling. Materials such as laterite, bamboo, and adobe were assessed during case studies for their sustainability, durability, and cultural significance. While these materials were shown to enhance passive ventilation, thermal comfort, and overall sustainability, challenges related to durability, maintenance, and regulatory support persist. The findings reveal that designing museums with indigenous materials offers a unique model of sustainability and cultural continuity, yet this practice remains underrepresented in architectural discourse. The study calls for targeted policy reforms, improved building regulations, and increased public awareness to encourage the integration of locally sourced materials in cultural architecture, positioning museums as both environmental and cultural landmarks in Nigeria’s built environment.
ASSESSMENT OF REGENERATIVE ARCHITECTURE PRINCIPLES AND USER WELL-BEING FOR THE DESIGN OF NATIONAL WELLNESS HOTEL IN JABI, ABUJA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Olukayode, Bisola Grace; Covenant University Dissertation
Architects, construction industry experts, and their clients are increasingly interested in regenerative design, which shows much promise for a new era of sustainable and positiveimpact architecture. Similarly, the wellness market is growing exponentially as customers prioritise their health and well-being and seek wellness experiences more frequently in the post-COVID-19 era. Integrating hospitality, healthcare, and regenerative design functions has become a well-acknowledged phenomenon in the built environment. Therefore, this research aims to implement regenerative architecture principles (RAPs) into the design of a wellness hotel in Abuja, Nigeria, to enhance users’ well-being. The following objectives will achieve this aim; examining the applicability of regenerative architecture principles to hotel designs; identifying the regenerative architecture principles in a wellness hotel; analysing the impact of regenerative architecture design principles on user well-being in wellness hotels, and implementing the research findings to develop an innovative wellness hotel that enhances user well-being. The research adopts a pragmatic philosophy and a mixed-methods approach, utilising a case study design that includes three wellness facilities—Nisa Wellness Retreat, Jvee Wellness and Spa, and Evenana Wellness. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and observation checklists, with analysis conducted using SPSS for quantitative data and thematic frameworks for qualitative data. Findings from the case study reveal that while there is an average implementation of certain regenerative architecture principles, such as passive design strategies, use of local materials, and renewable energy sources, other principles relating to water management and inclusive design are underutilised. The analysis from the interviews and questionnaires demonstrates a significantly strong relationship between user well-being and regenerative architecture in hospitality spaces. Key barriers to implementing RAPs include a lack of awareness and contextual suitability, resource and knowledge limitations, and material and design complexity. This research highlights the benefits of adopting RAPs to promote user well-being in wellness spaces. The findings provide policymakers, design professionals, and relevant stakeholders with a framework for implementing regenerative principles in future hotel developments in Nigeria and other similar contexts. However, this study is not without its limitations, as the scope of the study was limited to three small to medium-scale wellness facilities in Abuja. The limited availability of largescale wellness hotels in Nigeria constrained the selection of case studies. Additionally, the research focused solely on Abuja's wellness facilities, which may not fully reflect regenerative practices in Nigeria's other geographic and socio-economic regions. Future research should be carried out to investigate the adoption of RAPs across varying hospitality facilities in diverse climes and contexts within Nigeria and West Africa. Longitudinal studies are also highly recommended to measure the extended impact of regenerative principles on user well-being over time. Additionally, researchers could delve deeper into the lifecycle assessments of regenerative-focused policy frameworks in hospitality architecture.
EVALUATION OF NET ZERO ENERGY PRINCIPLES FOR THE DESIGN OF DE-CLAY BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN LAGOS, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Siyanbade, Timileyin Gbenga; Covenant University Dissertation
The dissertation titled “Application of Net Zero Energy Building Principles in the design of a boutique hotel in Lagos, Nigeria” intends to investigate the application of net zero energy building principles, in the hospitality sector in Lagos, Nigeria. With buildings contributing over 30% to global energy consumption and the hospitality sector’s rising energy demands, this study aims to provide a sustainable architectural response by integrating NZEB strategies into a context-sensitive hotel design. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining case studies of local and international boutique hotels, expert interviews, structured questionnaires, and an extensive review of passive and active energy systems. Findings reveal that passive design strategies such as building orientation, natural ventilation, and daylight optimization can significantly reduce operational energy loads when tailored to local climatic conditions. Additionally, active systems like solar photovoltaic arrays, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, smart systems, and water-saving technologies further enhance these. The design proposal for a boutique hotel in Eko Atlantic City applies these principles holistically, demonstrating the feasibility of achieving net-zero without compromising luxury, guest comfort, or aesthetic value. The study identifies key barriers to NZEB adoption in Nigeria, including high initial investment costs, limited technical expertise, and weak policy enforcement. It affirms that with the right blend of policy support, design innovation, and stakeholder engagement, NZEB-driven architecture can redefine energy resilience and environmental responsibility in the Nigerian hospitality sector. This research contributes to bridging the knowledge gap in sustainable hotel design in West Africa. It provides a replicable model for integrating net-zero energy strategies into commercial buildings in developing economies.
EVALUATION OF NEO-VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE STRATEGIES IN THE DESIGN OF AN ARTS AND CULTURAL CENTRE FOR LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Enwonwu, Chigozie Mitchelle; Covenant University Dissertation
This study evaluates the extent to which neo-vernacular architectural strategies are implemented in selected arts and cultural centres in Lagos and explores how users perceive the benefits of these strategies. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, data were gathered through case studies and user surveys at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Terra Kulture, and KAP Hub. While purposive sampling guided the selection of centres, random sampling was used to recruit survey participants. Case study analysis revealed differing levels of neo-vernacular strategy adoption across the centres. Survey findings further indicated that users generally perceive neo-vernacular architecture as beneficial across cultural, economic, environmental, and social dimensions. However, these perceived benefits vary across centres. The study recommends a shift from symbolic use of traditional forms toward deeper, contextually grounded applications. Design strategies such as passive cooling, use of local materials, and integration of vernacular forms are proposed to enhance cultural relevance and improve architectural performance. By grounding contemporary design in indigenous knowledge and user experience, neo-vernacular architecture can offer more meaningful and enduring cultural spaces
EVALUATION OF AFROCENTRIC STRATEGIES FOR THE DESIGN OF COMMUNITY CENTRE FOR COMMUNITY PLANNING AND DESIGN INITIATIVE, SATELLITE TOWN, LAGOS
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Ihewulezi, Fortune Onyinyechi; Covenant University Dissertation
The underrepresentation of African cultural identity in contemporary architecture has led to growing interest in Afrocentric design approaches. Afrocentricity is the primary standpoint specifically addressing that spaces and buildings should resonate with the local community’s identity, pride and heritage while ensuring that it is standardized. This study aimed to evaluate the adoption of Afrocentric design strategies with the purpose to improve user wellbeing leading to its integration in the design of a community centre in Satellite Town and addressed these objectives which are to analyze level of adoption of afro-centric design strategies in community centres, assess the overall wellbeing of the users of the community centres and to establish a relationship between afro-centric design strategies and user wellbeing in community centres in Lagos mainland. This research adopted a pragmatic philosophy employing mixed method and a qualitative approach to explore Afrocentric design strategies for user wellbeing in a Lagos Mainland Community centre. Utilizing stratified random sampling method, the study focused on 318 respondents from three community centres employing the use of questionnaires, observation guide and case studies to comprehensively collect data within the study area. The scope encompasses the community needs, heritage preservation in its surroundings by incorporating the Afrocentric design strategies, the findings show that integrating indigenous symbols, spatial hierarchies, and community participation enhances both cultural relevance and environmental responsiveness and opportunities for the creation of community centres that are Africa-centred within the specified area and considered wellbeing of the users. The study recommends that architects adopt Afrocentric design principles, planners integrate culturally sensitive policies into urban frameworks, and communities actively engage in co-creating spaces that reflect their heritage.
INVESTIGATION OF PLACEMAKING PRINCIPLES FOR THE DESIGN OF CONTEMPORARY GROUP SOCIALLY INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY CENTER IN ASABA, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) IKEMEFUNA, Ifeadikachi Divine-Glory; Covenant University Dissertation
This research investigates the integration of placemaking concepts in the design of a socially inclusive landscape for a community center in Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria. Recognizing the increasing need for public spaces that foster social cohesion amidst urbanization, the study explores how landscape architecture and participatory design can enhance community interaction and inclusivity. Through a mixed-method approach involving case studies of existing community centers and user satisfaction surveys, the research identifies the effectiveness of current design strategies and evaluates their social impact. Findings reveal that landscape elements, cultural expression, accessibility, and flexible use of space are critical to fostering inclusive, engaging, and resilient community environments. Building on these insights, the study proposes a design framework grounded in placemaking principles, emphasizing people-centered design, environmental responsiveness, and sociocultural integration. The final design proposal envisions a multifunctional community center that serves as a social, educational, and recreational hub for Asaba, tailored to local needs while aligning with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study contributes to the discourse on architecture’s role in social development and offers practical guidelines for implementing socially inclusive placemaking strategies in the Nigerian context.
EVALUATION OF INCLUSIVE ARCHITECTURE STRATEGIES FOR THE DESIGN OF GRANGE SECONDARY SCHOOL, VICTORIA GARDEN CITY, LAGOS NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Kponu, Jemima Usinzibe; Covenant University Dissertation
This thesis investigates the adoption of inclusive architecture strategies in the design of Grange secondary school in Victoria Garden City (VGC), Lagos, Nigeria. The study aims to improve the equality of users' experiences through the intentional application of inclusive architectural principles that accommodate diverse physical and sensory needs, particularly those of students with visual impairments. Grounded in the framework of universal design, the study aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (inclusive and equitable quality education), 10 (reducing inequalities), and 11 (making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable). It addresses the ongoing marginalisation of users in educational environments due to spatial and sensory barriers that limit access, autonomy, and participation. A mixed methods approach was employed, comprising an extensive literature review, structured observation guides used during site visits to existing secondary schools, and the administration of questionnaires to students with visual impairments. These methods facilitated a critical evaluation of current school environments, enabling the identification of missing inclusive design strategies and their impact on users' experiences. The findings reveal that inclusive design is significantly under implemented in Lagos secondary schools. Most institutions lack basic architectural features such as ramps, handrails, tactile guidance surfaces, barrier free circulation paths, and legible spatial layouts. These omissions result in increased reliance on others, restricted movement, and heightened risk for students with disabilities. The research emphasises that these spatial deficiencies can be overcome by embedding inclusive design early in the architectural process through context responsive, multisensory, and human centred solutions. The study culminates in the design of a model inclusive secondary school in VGC. The proposal features tactile and auditory wayfinding systems, accessible circulation, clearly zoned learning spaces, appropriate lighting and acoustics, and sustainable climate responsive elements. These strategies are integrated from the outset, not as afterthoughts framing inclusion as a foundational architectural value. In addition to contributing to architectural theory and design practice, the study reinforces the critical role of inclusive school environments in advancing social equity. By translating global development goals into spatial strategies, it presents a replicable architectural model for addressing educational and infrastructural inequality in Nigeria and other rapidly urbanising contexts
EVALUATION OF USER-CENTRED DESIGN STRATEGIES AND EMPLOYEES’ PRODUCTIVITY IN THE DESIGN OF STAINERZ OFFICE BUILDING IN UYO, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) EQUERE, Ukponobong Akpan; Covenant University Dissertation
This study investigated the application of user-centred design (UCD) strategies in the design of an office building in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, with a focus on enhancing employees’ productivity. As modern work environments evolve, traditional office designs often fail to address the holistic needs of users physically, psychologically, and functionally. User-centred design prioritizes the needs, preferences, and experiences of users through key strategies such as ergonomic design, flexible workspaces, biophilic design, inclusive design, and sustainable design. A mixed methods approach was adopted, comprising of literature reviews, comparative analysis of selected office buildings, and structured questionnaires distributed across selected office buildings in Uyo. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and reliability tests, while qualitative insights enriched the understanding of spatial functionality and user satisfaction. Findings revealed that flexible workspaces, ergonomic design, and biophilic design were highly rated by employees in terms of their impact on productivity. However, gaps were identified in the provision of ergonomic tools and sustainability features. The study highlights the significance of implementing these strategies into office designs particularly in Uyo, Nigeria, emphasizing their contribution to employees’ productivity. The findings provide valuable design insights for architects, developers, facility manages and executives, aiming to create a more productive work environment in Uyo, Nigeria.
ASSESSMENT OF THERAPEUTIC ARCHITECTURE STRATEGIES FOR THE DESIGN OF A MEDICAL RESORT FOR PLATEAU STATE GOVERNMENT IN JOS, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) Agyo, Ladidi Sonia; Covenant University Dissertation
The increasing global demand for healthcare environments that support holistic healing emphasizes the importance of therapeutic architecture in health facility design. However, in Nigeria, especially in Jos, Plateau State, there remains a knowledge gap in application of therapeutic architectural strategies particularly in medical resorts, which are both limited in number and essential for providing holistic healthcare. This study addresses this problem by assessing the extent to which therapeutic architecture strategies are applied in selected healthoriented facilities and explores how these findings can inform the design of a medical resort that enhances user well-being. Therefore, the study aims to assess therapeutic architecture strategies for the design of a medical resort in Jos, plateau state. With the objectives to identify therapeutic features in existing facilities, assess their implementation and evaluate their impact on users perceived well-being. The research utilizes a pragmatic research philosophy and a mixed-method approach. Data was collected through observation guides, questionnaires, and case studies in order too comprehensively gather data within the study area. A total of 300 respondents which included patients, healthcare practitioners, and visitors participated in the study. The research revealed that therapeutic architectural strategies positively impact user perceived well-being. However, the level of application varies significantly across facilities. The study also revealed a high correlation between user satisfaction and the perceived effectiveness of therapeutic architecture strategies indicating that This impact is mediated by user satisfaction with the implementation of these strategies. Challenges identified an inconsistent design quality in the application of therapeutic architecture strategies. Despite these, the research demonstrates that integrating user centered therapeutic design can enhance health outcomes and contribute meaningfully to the health and wellness based sector. The study is limited to three indigenous healthcare facilities and one health resort in Jos, and three foreign case studies. Future research should conduct a longitudinal assessment of the impact of therapeutic environments over time. This study provides practical insights for architects, healthcare planners, and policymakers, contributing to the development of a medical resort that supports wellbeing, comfort, and sustainable health infrastructure in Jos, Plateau State.