ASSESSMENT OF INCLUSIVE ARCHITECTURAL STRATEGIES FOR THE DESIGN OF AN INNOVATION HUB FOR OYO STATE GOVERNMENT IN OGBOMOSO, NIGERIA

Abstract

Inclusive architectural strategies are crucial in ensuring that innovation hubs serve as equitable environments to promote creativity, social participation, and accessibility for all users. This study explores the assessment of inclusive architectural strategies and their impact on social inclusion within selected innovation hubs in Southwest Nigeria. The aim of the study was to enhance social inclusivity through the integration of inclusive design principles in the architectural development of innovation hubs. To achieve this, the study pursued four key objectives: to identify inclusive architectural strategies applicable to innovation hub design; to examine the social inclusion characteristics within innovation hubs; to assess the impact of inclusive architectural strategies on improving social inclusion; and to apply findings in the design of a proposed innovation hub in Ogbomoso. A pragmatic research philosophy guided the study, adopting a mixed-methods approach. The research design was based on case studies of five innovation hubs: Oluseun Onigbinde Resource Centre, Premier Hub Innovation Centre, Co-Creation Hub, PDX Innovation Hub, and Dare Adeboye Innovation Hub. Data were collected through structured questionnaires (n=170) and observation checklists, and analysed using SPSS for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. Key findings reveal that inclusive architectural features, such as barrier-free access, intuitive wayfinding, sensory design elements, and flexible workspaces, positively influence users’ sense of belonging, engagement, and social interaction. However, several barriers hinder full implementation, including weak policy enforcement, limited funding, inadequate stakeholder awareness, and partial adherence to national accessibility codes. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on inclusive architecture in developing contexts and highlights the need for architects, policymakers, and innovation hub managers to prioritize universal design principles from inception. It also provides a practical design framework for inclusive innovation hubs. Limitations of the study include its geographical focus on innovation hubs in Southwest Nigeria and the fact that only innovation hubs that granted access for case study visits were used, resulting in a purposive selection. Recommendations for future research include expanding the scope to other regions in Nigeria or other developing countries, incorporating longitudinal studies to assess long-term user experience, and exploring digital inclusivity in hybrid innovation environments.