EVALUATION OF SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES AND USERS’ EXPERIENCE FOR THE DESIGN OF WEWORK COWORKING HUB, LAGOS, NIGERIA

Abstract

The increase in population in Lagos has created a need for sustainable work environments that encourage collaboration and its impact on user experience. Remote work, initially adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, persisted beyond its peak, leading to challenges such as work-life imbalance, decreased productivity, and adverse effects on individuals’ physical and mental well-being. This research investigated the application of sustainable design strategies in coworking hubs to reduce environmental, physical, and psychological strain on users while also fostering productivity and social interaction. A mixed-methods approach combined quantitative and qualitative data collection through questionnaires, interviews, and case studies. The study focused on three coworking hubs in Eti-Osa, Lagos, Nigeria: Workstation, Impact Hub, and Africa Works. A multi-stage random sampling technique was employed in selecting these hubs, while the sustainability experts consulted included professionals certified in LEED and EDGE. The case studies were evaluated using the LEED rating points (110). Findings, as observed from case studies, highlighted Indoor Environmental Quality, showing consistency in average ratings, indicating reliable but not sufficient implementation. Water Efficiency and Sustainable Sites persistently underperformed, which showed water conservation and site planning deficiencies. Energy and Atmosphere showed significant variability across projects, ranging from relatively average to poor performance, suggesting inconsistent adoption of energy-efficient technologies. Regression analysis reveals that Indoor Environmental Quality is the strongest and most significant predictor of user experience (B = 0.813, β = 0.908, p < 0.001). Energy Efficiency (B = 0.344, p < 0.001) and Sustainable Sites (B = 0.260, p < 0.001) also show significant positive contributions. By prioritizing sustainable design strategies and user experience, the proposed coworking hub aspires to enhance the work experience for professionals and other users. This study proposes guidelines and recommendations for the effective implementation of sustainable design strategies in coworking hubs. It aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 9, 11, and 12, which focus on Good Health and Well-being, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Responsible Consumption and Production, respectively. The insights gained from this research are intended to inform the design of a coworking hub in Lagos, Nigeria.