INVESTIGATION OF MUD BUILDING TECHNIQUES FOR CULTURAL PRESERVATION FOR OSUN STATE ART GALLERY DESIGN IN OSHOGBO, NIGERIA

Abstract

As one of the most ancient architectural techniques, mud architecture is celebrated for its cultural significance and its environmental sustainability. Contrarily, the adoption of mud in present-day Nigerian architecture is declining, leading to a loss of cultural identity and a neglected potential for sustainability. This research seeks to determine the ways mud building techniques can be incorporated into the design of an art gallery in Oshogbo to foster cultural preservation, with specific objectives aimed at exploring existing techniques, assessing their adoption, and formulating a design proposal anchored in the culture of the people. A combination of approaches, which included case studies of selected buildings in Lagos, direct observation, and a survey of architects regarding mud techniques, was integrated into a mixed-method framework to build a robust understanding of the topic. The data collected from the questionnaire were analysed in a descriptive manner, which illustrated professional opinions on adoption levels. The results indicate that professionals, while acknowledging the cultural significance and environmental advantages of mud, do not implement it due to concerns regarding structural integrity, aesthetics, and public appeal. The research suggests focused policy incentives alongside a public outreach initiative, public awareness initiatives, and a combination of hybrid construction, which includes modern materials with mud buildings for greater adoption and acceptance. It is evident that the use of mud techniques in the construction of modern public buildings, for example, public art galleries, will help modernise, sustain tradition and cultural identity, as well as foster sustainable development in Nigeria.