Programme: Architecture

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A Bibliometric Analysis of AI Trends in the AEC Industry
(Preprints, 2025-09) Adewale, B. A.; Ene, Vincent Onyedikachi; Aigbavboa, Clinton Ohis
This study employs a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to examine the evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) research within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry over the past decade. Through systematic analysis of 68 publications from the Scopus database, utilizing co-authorship networks, citation analysis, and keyword co-occurrence mapping, the research reveals significant patterns and trends in AI adoption and research focus. The findings indicate a rapid growth in research output, with China, the United States, and the United Kingdom emerging as leading contributors. The analysis identifies four primary research clusters: AI integration across AEC processes, building lifecycle applications, digital technologies convergence, and automation techniques. A temporal evolution is observed, transitioning from basic automation to sophisticated applications involving machine learning, digital twins, and deep learning. The study highlights geographical disparities in research contributions and emphasizes the need for standardization in AI implementation. By providing insights into research trends, collaborative networks, and evolving focus areas, this analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of AI's role in transforming the AEC industry. The findings can guide future research directions, inform industry practitioners about emerging technologies, and support policymakers in developing frameworks for AI adoption in construction, ultimately facilitating more effective and responsible integration of AI technologies in AEC practices.
A Snapshot of Nigeria’s Biodiversity Loss: Architectural Implications
(Preprints, 2024-08) Babalola, Daniel Olatunde; Ndimako, Onyedikachukwu; Nduka-Kalu, Chidinma
Biodiversity loss poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human well-being globally, with Nigeria no exception. This article delves into the architectural implications of biodiversity loss in Nigeria, exploring the multifaceted factors contributing to this phenomenon and its ramifications for architectural practice. The discussion encompasses the adverse impacts of deforestation, pollution, and climate change on Nigeria's rich biodiversity and the challenges and opportunities they present for architects. Through examining case studies and examples, the article highlights innovative architectural projects that address biodiversity loss while promoting sustainable design principles. Moreover, it elucidates the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between architects, biologists, and policymakers in developing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. Ultimately, this article underscores the urgent need for architects to integrate biodiversity conservation into their practices and advocates for policy interventions that prioritise the preservation of Nigeria's natural heritage.
An Assessment of the Implementation of Green Design Strategies in Selected Museums in Abuja, Nigeria
(Civil Engineering and Architecture e 12(3A), 2024) Adewale, B. A.; Ene, Vincent Onyedikachi
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.
An Assessment of the Influence of Passive Cooling Strategies on Level of Thermal Comfort in Selected Office Buildings in Abuja, Nigeria
(Journal of Environment Sciences (JOES) ISSN 1118-8936 (Print); 3043-6176 (Online), Vol. 23, No. 2,, 2024-12) Oluwatayo, Adedapo Adewunmi; NDUKA, Miracle D.
Buildings contribute significantly to global energy consumption, with cooling needs forming a substantial part of this demand. Passive cooling techniques present an energy-efficient alternative, promoting occupant comfort while reducing energy costs. This study analyzed the influence of passive cooling strategies on thermal comfort within office buildings in Abuja, Nigeria. Specifically, it evaluated current practices, analyzed implementation patterns, and provided recommendations for improved adoption. A quantitative research approach was employed, involving data collection through questionnaires distributed to 73 participants across three office buildings, with a response rate of 90%. The data, analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, revealed that most respondents (69.7%) reported discomfort. Regression analysis identified 15 significant factors affecting thermal comfort, including operable windows, courtyards, and window-to-wall area ratios, which had positive effects, while factors such as external insulation and vertical air shafts negatively impacted comfort. These findings offer insights into designing more sustainable and energy-efficient office environments, ultimately enhancing occupant well-being and productivity.
An Assessment of User Satisfaction with Security Strategies in Selected Bus Terminals in Lagos, Nigeria
(Covenant Journal of Research in the Built Environment (CJRBE) Vol.12, No.1, 2024-10) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Okonkwo, E. Emmanuel
Public transportation systems, especially bus terminals, are critical for urban mobility but face significant security challenges due to high foot traffic and open access. This research aims to assess user satisfaction with security measures at four major bus terminals in Lagos, Nigeria. The study adopts a quantitative design, employing a purposive sampling method to select 400 users from a population of approximately 1,200 daily commuters. Out of these, 320 valid responses were obtained and analyzed using SPSS software. Analytical tools such as descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were utilized to explore the data. Key findings reveal that while there is a general awareness of security strategies, their perceived adequacy and availability vary. CCTV surveillance and physical security are widely recognized, yet measures like threat assessment are less familiar. Respondents rated CCTV surveillance as the most adequate, though all strategies positively impacted users' safety perceptions. Despite this, satisfaction levels indicate room for improvement. Recommendations include enhancing public awareness, continuous monitoring, and incorporating user feedback into security protocols. This multi-layered approach aims to foster a secure environment, boosting public confidence and efficient mobility. The study's insights are valuable for policymakers and security professionals in refining and implementing robust, user-centric security measures in public transportation systems.
Application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Sustainable Building Lifecycle; A Systematic Literature Review
(Preprints, 2024) Adewale, B. A.; Ene, Vincent Onyedikachi; Ogunbayo, Babatunde Fatai; Aigbavboa, Clinton Ohis
With buildings accounting for a significant portion of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) holds promise for enhancing sustainability in the building lifecycle. This systematic literature review addresses the current understanding of AI’s potential to optimize energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact in building design, construction, and operation. A comprehensive literature review and synthesis were conducted to identify AI technologies applicable to sustainable building practices, examine their influence, and analyze the challenges of implementation. The review was guided by a meticulous search strategy utilizing keywords related to AI application in sustainable building design, construction, and operation. The findings reveal AI’s capabilities in optimizing energy efficiency through intelligent control systems, enabling predictive maintenance, and aiding design simulation. Advanced machine learning algorithms facilitate data‐driven analysis and prediction, while digital twins provide real‐time insights for informed decision‐making. Furthermore, the review identifies barriers to AI adoption, including cost concerns, data security risks, and challenges in implementation. AI presents a transformative opportunity to enhance sustainability in the built environment, offering innovative solutions for energy optimization and environmentally conscious practices. However, addressing technical and practical challenges will be crucial for the successful integration of AI in sustainable building practices.
Assessing Building Information Modelling Usage Level in Construction Projects: Construction Professionals Perspectives
(The Fourteenth International Conference on Construction in the 21st Century, 2024-09) Ogunbayo, B. F.; Aigbavboa, Clinton; Liphadzi, Murendeni; Adewale, B. A.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) usage in the construction industry has rapidly become a game-changer in construction activities, which has revolutionised project planning, designing, construction and management, leading to significant improvements in project coordination, collaboration, efficiency, and overall project outcomes. Hence, this study aims to assess BIM usage in construction projects based on construction professionals' perspectives toward establishing its usage level for different construction activities. Structured questionnaires were distributed to construction professionals in Gauteng province, South Africa, using systematic random sampling techniques to collect data on the level of BIM usage for construction activities for projects within the construction industry. Data was collected through the quantitative approach using a questionnaire survey. A valid mean item score was determined in the study using a statistical data equation; each item was ranked with standard deviations, and Cronbach’s alpha was established. The study findings indicated that project design and planning were the highest-ranked levels of BIM usage in projects in the construction industry. The study recommends that evolving BIM with other innovative technologies, such as cloud-based collaboration, digital twins, and artificial intelligence, will drive the digital transformation of construction projects, improve project delivery processes, and create value for construction stakeholders. The study concluded that the continuous usage of BIM for construction activities will play a key role in reshaping the future of activities in projects and driving digital transformation within the construction industry.
Assessing Building Information Modelling Usage Level in Construction Projects: Construction Professionals Perspectives
(The Fourteenth International Conference on Construction in the 21st Century, 2024-09) Ogunbayo, B. F.; Aigbavboa, Clinton; Liphadzi, Murenden; Adewale, B. A.
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 INCLUSIVE ARCHITECTURAL STRATEGIES FOR THE DESIGN OF AN INNOVATION HUB FOR OYO STATE GOVERNMENT IN OGBOMOSO, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) OYELUDE, Felicia Opeyemi; Covenant University Dissertation
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.
Assessment of Lighting Strategies in Art Galleries: A Comparative Case Study of Selected Art Galleries in Lagos State
(3rd International Conference on Energy and Sustainable Environment (IOP Publishing), 2022) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Solaja, A. O.
Light is so important in our everyday lives that it effects user experiences of spaces as well as the user's overall well-being for a large portion of the day in the built environment. Lighting, among the other aspects that make up the design of spaces, is an important characteristic in a building because it is the primary means of appreciating art and culture. The study aimed to assess purposively selected art galleries as the basis for determining the best lighting strategies to be adopted in the design of an art gallery in Lagos, Nigeria. This study addressed two key objectives – identify the existing lighting strategies used in the assessed art galleries to recommend the best lighting strategies to be used and ascertain how the lighting strategies are implemented. A qualitative research method using case study approach was employed in the research. Content and narrative analyses were used to analyse data. Findings show a significant need for daylight to be implemented alongside artificial lighting in an art gallery. The results align with current global trends towards sustainability.
ASSESSMENT OF PASSIVE DESIGN STRATEGIES FOR ENHANCING USERS’ COMFORT IN DENNIS OSADEBEY UNIVERSITY LIBRARY, ASABA, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-07) AMADHE, Florence Ewomazino; Covenant University Dissertation
Academic libraries in tropical regions like southern Nigeria often suffer from poor environmental control and user discomfort due to limited application of passive design strategies. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of passive design elements in enhancing user comfort, with a focus on informing the design of a proposed academic library at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba. The research was guided by Environmental Comfort Theory and the Bioclimatic Design Framework, which emphasize human-centred, climate-responsive architectural solutions. Four objectives directed the study: to examine effective implementations of passive strategies in hot-humid climates; to determine the extent of adoption in selected academic libraries; to evaluate how the presence or absence of these strategies impacts user comfort; and to apply the findings in the design of a new academic library. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining literature review, structured observations, international case analyses, and a user survey involving 315 respondents. Data analysis included content analysis, descriptive statistics, Spearman’s rank correlation, and CATREG regression modeling. Findings from the literature review revealed that natural ventilation, daylighting, spatial zoning, thermal massing, and shading devices are among the most frequently recommended passive design strategies for hot-humid climates. Observations from three academic libraries in Delta State showed limited implementation of ventilation and shading strategies, though daylight access and spatial layout were moderately considered. Survey results indicated strong correlations between user comfort and proximity to windows, daylight quality, and spatial flexibility, with regression analysis identifying spatial layout (β = 0.402), artificial lighting, and sunlight control as the strongest predictors of comfort (Adjusted R² = 0.530). These findings informed the final architectural design proposal, incorporating passive techniques adapted to Asaba’s climatic context. The study concludes that passive design strategies significantly enhance comfort in academic libraries and recommends prioritizing adaptable layouts, hybrid ventilation systems, and daylight optimization in future institutional projects.
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”
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.
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.
Bioclimatic design strategies and energy efficiency in an orthopaedic hospital in Nigerian cities: A cross-sectional study
(Journal of Infrastructure, Policy and Development, 2024) Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Abudulsalam, Ibrahim; Mohammed, Praise Ojuoluwa; Akindoyin, Akindoyin
2050 building stock might be buildings that already exist today. A large percentage of these buildings fail today’s energy performance standards. Highly inefficient buildings delay progress toward a zero-carbon-building goal (SDGs 7 and 13) and can lead to investments in renewable energy infrastructure. The study aims to investigate how bioclimatic design strategies enhance energy efficiency in selected orthopaedic hospitals in Nigeria. The study objective includes Identifying the bioclimatic design strategies that improve energy efficiency in orthopaedic hospitals, assessing the energy efficiency requirements in an orthopaedic hospital in Nigeria and analysing the effects of bioclimatic design strategies in enhancing energy efficiency in an orthopaedic hospital in Nigeria. The study engaged a mixed (qualitative and quantitative) research method. The investigators used case study research as a research design and a deductive approach as the research paradigm. The research employed a questionnaire survey for quantitative data while the in-depth Interview (IDI) guide and observation schedule for qualitative data. The findings present a relationship between bioclimatic design strategies and energy conservation practices in an orthopaedic hospital building. Therefore, implementing bioclimatic design strategies might enhance energy efficiency in hospital buildings. The result of the study revealed that bioclimatic hospital designs may cost the same amount to build but can save a great deal on energy costs. Despite the challenges, healthcare designers and owners are finding new ways to integrate bioclimatic design strategies into new healthcare construction to accelerate patient and planet healing.
Climate change impact on the architecture and built environment dwellers’ well-being in Niger Delta Region: a systematic review
(Frontiers in Climate, 2024-12-23) Dimuna, Kingsley O.; Ekhaese, Eghosa N.; Ndimako, Onyedikachukwu O.
Climate change resulting from weather conditions has recently attracted global attention and concern; such variations have impacted architecture and the built environment, especially on the urban dweller’s well-being and other associated urban problems. This systematic review investigates the effects of climate change on the environment and architecture in the Niger Delta Area of Nigeria and the potential consequences for inhabitants well-being through a systematic review of scholarly literature from Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Science Direct and Scopus covering the period from 2019 to 2024. The study synthesizes current literature, using rigorous inclusion criteria to find relevant studies conducted globally. It involves an assessment procedure that resulted in 25 articles for analysis. The core of the problem lies in the gaps in that climate change has negatively impacted the environment, architecture and building construction mechanism in the Niger Delta Region. This review systematically observes the methodologies in the selected studies to create a standardized framework for future research using a hybrid review approach. Results reveal that the ongoing incidences of perennial flooding in the region are attributable to climate change across different geographic locations and seasons. The authors proffered some recommendations to mitigate these impacts for future research. However, this systematic review of climate change’s impact on the architecture and dwellers’ well-being in the built environment in the Niger Delta presents valued insights for policymakers and urban health practitioners, enhances the urban built environment health systems resilience, and well organize communities for the climate change challenges
Compliance of Accessibility Features of Selected Shopping Malls with Universal Design Strategies in Nigeria
(Civil Engineering and Architecture 13(4), 2025) Sholanke, Anthony Babatunde; Adisa, Ololade Simbiat
Shopping malls are public facilities that cater to all user groups. To achieve sustainable communities, shopping malls should be designed to meet the accessibility needs of all categories of users. This study assessed the compliance of accessibility features of selected shopping malls with universal design strategies in Nigeria to determine areas for improvement towards promoting inclusivity in the development of the built environment. The study adopted a qualitative research approach. Data from three shopping malls were collected using an observation guide, analysed through content analysis, and presented descriptively with photographs and a table to enhance understanding and provide clarity. The study discovered that while a majority of the accessibility strategies implemented in the malls were satisfactorily compliant with universal design strategies, some of the features did not meet universal design requirements. Key areas found to be lacking include accessibility features largely beneficial for people with disabilities, such as a lack of accessible car parks, slippery floor surfaces, and a lack of lower handrails where main handrails are provided along stairways and ramps for the benefit of people with short stature, and children. Others are the use of open risers, generally considered unsafe for users, and the absence of baby changing toilet facilities. The study suggests retrofitting the shopping malls with accessibility features found to be lacking, to cater for all user groups, including people with disabilities, without compromising the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the shopping malls. The article is beneficial for policymakers, designers, researchers, and students towards the study, planning, and development of safe, resilient, sustainable, and inclusive environments in conformity with the 11th target of the 17 sustainable development goals.
Construction Finishes Materials and Innovations in the Global South
(Preprints, 2024-08) Ndimako, Onyedikachukwu; Babalola, Daniel Olatunde; Ekeh, Eseoghene
Health resorts aim to create health sanctuaries, fostering an environment conducive to treatment, healing, and well‐being. Material selection choices for health resort designers should comply with specific minimal requirements and criteria to provide a suitable atmosphere for health and wellness. Based on this assumption and some selection criteria, the study intended to analyse purposefully selected health resorts as the foundation for identifying acceptable materials to construct health resorts. This study had three main goals: to define the evaluated health resorts’ physical characteristics, determine their external works specifications, and investigate the material usage utilised in the interior of three primary functional spaces. We employed a case study approach as the qualitative research method. Data was analysed using narrative and content analysis. According to the findings, natural materials, particularly those produced locally, are best suited for the outside and interior of health resort buildings. Wood is the most commonly used material, appearing in all instances studied. The findings are consistent with current worldwide trends toward environmentally friendly facilities. Adopting natural materials such as wood, stone, and soil for health resort planning would be practical, considering the health advantages of such environmentally friendly materials.
Daylight Influence on Architecture Studio Culture in Nigerian Universities
(Preprints, 2024-08) Babalola, Daniel Olatunde; Ndimako, Onyedikachukwu; Nduka-Kalu, Chidinma
Productivity levels of architecture students have been ascertained via research to relate strongly to the quality of studio culture in architecture studios. Students' comfort is significantly influenced by the quality of daylight within architecture studios, as demonstrated by research findings. The comfort level in architecture studios is also known to influence the productivity of architecture students significantly. Building on separate research findings that have proven the individual impact of daylighting and studio culture on the performance of architecture students, this research aims to explore the potential connection between daylighting and studio culture. At the commencement of this research, data collection was via a qualitative approach in the form of interviews. At a later stage, we administered structured questionnaires for a quantitative analysis. From observations, many students would instead not work in their studios but elsewhere – at the expense of cultivating a good studio culture. Hence, this research is pertinent in that it would discover the reason(s) behind this trend among architecture students in the sample universities and the contribution of daylighting to studio culture in these universities. The outcome of this research would provide a knowledge base further to improve the design of architecture studios in Nigerian universities.