An Assessment of the Implementation of Green Design Strategies in Selected Museums in Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

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.