Evaluation of Green Design Strategies Adopted by Architects for Public Buildings in Nigeria ^†

Abstract

This study investigates the adoption of green design strategies in Nigerian public buildings, focusing on architects’ perspectives and practices. Through qualitative interviews, architects demonstrated a shift towards sustainability, emphasising passive design, active technologies, water conservation, and sustainable materials. Challenges of the adoption include cost constraints and technical complexities, among others. The study recommends that prioritised collaborative action, community engagement, and policy advocacy would facilitate the implementation of green architecture. Despite limitations, the study findings contribute to Nigeria’s architectural landscape sustainability. The study underscores the potential for Nigeria to lead in sustainable architecture, aligning with global goals for climate resilience and environmental stewardship.

1. Introduction

Public buildings, such as government offices, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and community centres, serve as essential infrastructure for various community services. These buildings are often large in scale, with high occupancy rates and significant energy and resource consumption [1]. As stewards of public infrastructure, ensuring that these buildings are designed and operated sustainably and environmentally is crucial.

In recent years, a growing emphasis has been placed on incorporating green design strategies into public building planning, construction, and operation [2,3,4,5]. Green design, also known as sustainable architecture, aims to minimise the negative environmental impact of buildings while promoting resource efficiency, energy conservation, and occupant health and well-being [6]. These strategies encompass various principles and practices, such as using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures, and integrating renewable energy sources [7,8,9,10,11].

Implementing green design strategies in public buildings can bring numerous benefits, including reduced operational costs through energy and water savings, improved indoor air quality and occupant comfort, and a lower carbon footprint [9,10]. Moreover, green public buildings can serve as exemplary models, promoting environmental awareness and encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices among the broader community [12]. Despite the growing global emphasis on green building practices, there is limited research and data on adopting green design strategies in Nigerian public buildings.

Like many other countries, Nigeria faces environmental challenges such as rapid urbanisation, energy consumption, and climate change [13,14,15]. The construction and operation of buildings contribute significantly to these issues, making exploring and implementing sustainable design solutions imperative [13].

However, the path towards green public design in Nigeria faces challenges related to costs, technical complexities, stakeholder awareness, and the delicate balance between maintenance and innovation [16]. Addressing these challenges is crucial and requires concerted efforts through education, capacity building, incentive programs, and a systematic integration of green principles into public infrastructure projects [16,17,18].

As architects and policymakers in Nigeria embark on designing context-specific green public buildings, there is an opportunity to spearhead a broader paradigm shift in the country’s building landscape. Nigeria has the potential to create templates that showcase how sustainability can coexist with and even enhance cultural identity. Public buildings can emerge as innovation hubs, exemplifying the harmonious integration of heritage preservation and ecological resilience.

In this auspicious moment, where global momentum aligns with local energy efficiency needs [11], Nigeria’s public infrastructure sector has the potential to lead an architectural movement that seamlessly fuses the past and the future. The role of an architect in this context becomes not just about designing structures but about shaping a narrative that defines the intersection of sustainability and architectural innovation in Nigeria.

This study aims to bridge this gap by investigating the extent to which architects in Nigeria have embraced green design principles and the specific strategies they have implemented in public building projects. In order to address the aim of the study, the following research objectives were formulated:

• Identify the various green design strategies adopted by architects in developing and constructing public buildings in Nigeria.
• Examine the challenges and barriers architects face in implementing green design strategies for public buildings.
• Develop recommendations to promote and enhance the integration of sustainable architecture practices in public building projects in Nigeria.

The scope of the study focuses on public buildings in Nigeria, including government offices, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and community centres. The research involves architects in the design and construction of public buildings.

By investigating the adoption of green design strategies in public buildings, this study aims to contribute to developing sustainable and environmentally conscious public infrastructure in Nigeria, ultimately promoting resource efficiency, occupant well-being, and environmental stewardship. Furthermore, the research aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7, 11, 12, 13, and 17 and Nigeria’s commitments to sustainable development, climate action, and responsible consumption and production.

2. Materials and Methods

The methodology for this study adopts a pragmatic research philosophy grounded in the findings of Gill, Stewart, Treasure, and Chadwick [19], who assert that interviews are a common and effective method for qualitative research about focus groups. This philosophy aligns with the research aim of investigating the extent to which architects in Nigeria have embraced green design strategies in public building projects. The research uses a qualitative data collection approach to understand this issue comprehensively. The study population comprises all registered architects in Abuja, Nigeria, which is the scaled-down study location, totaling 596 individuals, according to the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON), in 2017. Abuja, the capital city, was chosen as the study location because it offers a diverse representation of architects from various parts of the country. Despite being registered in Abuja, these architects have worked on projects across different states in Nigeria and abroad, making them suitable participants for this study. Importantly, the architects hail from diverse geographical regions and urban and rural settings and possess varying levels of experience working in firms of different sizes, thereby ensuring a comprehensive representation of perspectives and practices.

A snowball sampling method is employed to identify and recruit participants who are directly involved in public building design. The proposed sample size for in-depth interviews was eight registered architects, guided by the need for data saturation and a balance between depth of information and practical constraints, as suggested by [20,21]. This number aligns with recommendations for achieving data saturation in qualitative research. An interview guide comprising open-ended questions was crafted to explore architects’ practices, perspectives, and challenges in integrating green design strategies. Participants were engaged in open, conversational discussions to elicit nuanced information about green design strategies in public buildings.

Ethical principles guided the research process, ensuring voluntary participation, informed consent, anonymity, and confidentiality for all participants. These considerations upheld the rights and well-being of the respondents and maintained the integrity of the research. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the qualitative data gathered from the interviews. This method involves identifying patterns, themes, and insights within the data to address the research objectives comprehensively. The study’s findings are presented using thematic analysis and organised according to key themes and interview transcripts.

The study acknowledges potential limitations such as the subjective nature of qualitative data, the potential for participant selection bias, and the findings’ contextual specificity. These limitations are addressed transparently to ensure the validity and reliability of the research findings. Overall, this comprehensive methodology ensures rigour, reliability, and relevance in investigating green design strategies in public buildings among registered architects in Abuja, Nigeria.

3. Results

The interviews conducted with eight practising architects in Nigeria form a crucial part of this research, serving as a fundamental qualitative approach to thoroughly explore the complexities involved in incorporating green design strategies for public buildings. These carefully designed interviews aimed to elicit detailed insights from the architects, covering a wide range of practices, perspectives, and challenges they face while striving to harmonise their designs with sustainable principles. The interviews delved deep into the intricacies of integrating sustainability within architecture, specifically in the context of public structures.

3.1. Demographic Information

In the realm of sustainable architecture, a select group of eight experienced professionals from Nigeria has contributed profound insights, each shaping their unique narratives through years of dedicated practice and specialised knowledge. This distinguished cohort brings a wealth of expertise, showcasing diverse backgrounds and skills that significantly enhance discussions on integrating green design strategies. Whether focused on commercial and residential ventures or committed to conserving cultural heritage, their diverse paths provide a nuanced understanding of the obstacles and innovative approaches within sustainable architectural practices. Get to know the architects in

Table 1. Architects’ Demographic Information.

Architect	Years of Experience	Area of Specialisation in the Public Building Space
Architect A	15	Commercial And Residential Projects
Architect B	8	Institutional And Educational Buildings
Architect C	10	Urban Planning And Sustainable Community Design
Architect D	12	Cultural And Heritage Preservation Projects
Architect E	7	Innovative And Eco-Friendly Residential Designs
Architect F	20	Government And Public Infrastructure Projects
Architect G	5	Sustainable Interior Design
Architect H	18	Mixed-Use Developments With a Sustainable Focus

.

This demographic information provides context for understanding each architect’s unique perspectives on the discussion.

3.2. Green Design Strategies Adopted by Architects in Developing and Constructing Public Buildings in Nigeria

3.2.1. Theme 1: Passive Design Strategies

During the investigation of passive design approaches, the architects demonstrated a shared dedication to aligning buildings with the surrounding natural landscape.

Table 2. Theme 1—Passive design strategies.

Architect	Direct Quotes
Architect A	“Incorporating green roofs and natural lighting are essential design considerations. These not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute to energy efficiency.”
Architect C	“Using locally sourced materials and integrating passive design principles are crucial. This reduces the ecological footprint and supports the local economy.”
Architect D	“Rainwater harvesting and on-site waste treatment are key considerations in my designs. These features contribute to water conservation and minimise the environmental impact of the building.”
Architect E	“I focus on designing spaces that promote natural ventilation and passive cooling. It’s about creating comfortable environments without heavy reliance on energy-intensive systems.”

shows that Architect A emphasised integrating green roofs and maximising natural light to enhance aesthetics and energy efficiency. Architect C stressed the significance of utilising locally sourced materials, intertwining passive design concepts to lessen ecological footprints and bolster local economies. Architect D’s emphasis on rainwater harvesting and waste management highlighted a commitment to water preservation and reducing environmental harm. At the same time, architect E emphasised crafting comfortable spaces through natural ventilation and passive cooling methods.

The architects emphasise the importance of skillfully blending nature into their designs. This involves incorporating elements like green roofs, using locally available materials, and implementing sustainable water management techniques. Their approach prioritises a harmonious relationship between architectural beauty and environmental consciousness.

3.2.2. Theme 2: Active Technologies and Renewable Energy

Architects exploring active technologies and renewable energy have demonstrated a forward-thinking approach by embracing innovative solutions. Architect B focused on energy-efficient HVAC systems and intelligent building technologies to enhance environmental performance and ensure occupant comfort. Architect C highlighted the revolutionary effects of intelligent building technologies, offering occupants real-time data to interact with their environment. Architect H utilised parametric design tools to optimise designs for optimal energy efficiency and minimal environmental footprint (

Table 3. Theme 2—active technologies and renewable energy.

Architect	Direct Quotes
Architect B	“I prioritise energy-efficient HVAC systems and smart building technologies. These considerations ensure that the buildings perform well environmentally and are comfortable for occupants.”
Architect C	“Incorporating smart building technologies has been a game-changer. It enhances energy efficiency and provides real-time data for occupants to engage with their environment.”
Architect H	“Using parametric design tools has allowed for intricate optimisation of building forms. It enables us to create designs that maximise energy efficiency and minimise environmental impact.”

).

The architects strongly embraced technology, utilising energy-efficient systems and state-of-the-art design tools as depicted in Table 3. This overarching concept underscores integrating architectural innovation with advanced technologies to improve environmental sustainability and enhance user satisfaction.

3.2.3. Theme 3: Water Conservation and Efficiency

Water conservation became a pivotal focal point, with architects demonstrating a dedication to sustainable water management practices. Architect D’s focus on rainwater harvesting and waste treatment underscored a commitment to conserving water and reducing the environmental footprint (

Table 4. Theme 3—water conservation and efficiency.

Architect	Direct Quotes
Architect D	“Rainwater harvesting and on-site waste treatment are key considerations in my designs. These features contribute to water conservation and minimise the environmental impact of the building.”

).

The architect exhibited a dedication to responsible water management by implementing innovative techniques like rainwater harvesting and waste treatment, showcasing a comprehensive approach to sustainable design.

3.2.4. Theme 4: Sustainable Construction Materials

The architects exploring sustainable construction materials showcased a thoughtful approach to selecting materials. Architect C prioritised locally sourced materials, integrating passive design principles for ecological and economic advantages. Architect E’s partnership with local artisans demonstrated a unique method to support the local economy and promote culturally vibrant designs. Architect F’s emphasis on recycled and upcycled materials highlighted a dedication to sustainability from the ground up (

Table 5. Theme 4—sustainable construction materials.

Architect	Direct Quotes
Architect C	“Using locally sourced materials and integrating passive design principles are crucial. This reduces the ecological footprint and supports the local economy.”
Architect E	“Collaborating with local artisans for sustainable materials has been an innovative approach. It supports the local economy and ensures unique and culturally rich designs.”
Architect F	“Material selection is critical. I aim to use recycled and upcycled materials whenever possible, ensuring that the building materials contribute to sustainability.”

).

The architects demonstrated a comprehensive strategy towards sustainable construction materials, integrating ecological, economic, and cultural considerations. This overarching concept highlights the deliberate choice of materials that align with larger sustainability objectives.

3.3. Challenges and Barriers Architects Face in Implementing Green Design Strategies for Public Buildings

The interview responses from the architects reveal several recurring themes and challenges in implementing sustainable design practices for public buildings as presented in

Table 6. Thematic analysis of challenges and barriers.

Theme	Architect
Cost perception and convincing clients of long-term benefits	Architects A, B
Limited availability of eco-friendly materials	Architects C, F
Resistance to change from clients, contractors, and stakeholders	Architects D, F
Budget constraints and finding cost-effective solutions	Architects G, A, B
Regulatory hurdles and lack of standardised green building codes	Architect H
Balancing client expectations with sustainability standards	Architects E, F
Considering life cycle of materials for future re-purposing/recycling	Architects G, C

. These challenges span various domains, including financial considerations, material sourcing, stakeholder resistance, regulatory frameworks, and reconciling competing priorities.

3.3.1. Theme 1: Cost Perception and Convincing Clients of Long-Term Benefits

One of the most prominent challenges highlighted by multiple architects (A, B) is the perception that sustainable design is more expensive upfront. The upfront cost perception is deeply rooted in clients’ short-term financial mindset and lack of awareness about sustainable design’s long-term savings and benefits. The architects revealed the difficulty in quantifying intangible benefits like improved occupant health, productivity, and environmental impact. They suggested developing comprehensive life cycle cost analyses that capture all cost-saving factors over the building’s lifespan. Case studies showcasing successful projects with data on cost recovery periods could help convince skeptical clients.

3.3.2. Theme 2: Limited Availability of Eco-Friendly Materials

Another recurring challenge is the limited availability of eco-friendly materials in the market (architects C, F). This challenge stems from both supply and demand issues. Low demand has led to limited production and supply chain constraints for sustainable materials. The architects cited difficulties in sourcing locally or finding materials with verifiable environmental certifications. Potential solutions involve creating demand through education and advocacy, collaborating with material suppliers, and exploring alternative sourcing, like recycled or rapidly renewable materials.

3.3.3. Theme 3: Resistance to Change from Clients, Contractors, and Stakeholders

Resistance to change from various stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and others, emerges as a significant barrier (architects D, F). Deep-seated resistance often arises from a fear of the unknown, misconceptions about aesthetics and functionality, and a reluctance to deviate from established norms. The architects emphasise addressing psychological barriers through continuous education, showcasing successful projects, and dispelling myths about sustainable design’s limitations. Incremental adoption and involving resistant stakeholders in decision making could also help overcome resistance.

3.3.4. Theme 4: Budget Constraints and Finding Cost-Effective Solutions

Budget constraints and finding cost-effective solutions are also highlighted as challenges (architects G, A, B). Tight budgets force architects to think creatively and find cost-effective ways to incorporate sustainable features. Value engineering, optimising designs, and leveraging emerging technologies were suggested. Prioritising the most impactful sustainable elements and phasing their implementation could also help manage costs. The architects stressed the importance of early client collaboration to align sustainability goals with budget realities.

3.3.5. Theme 5: Regulatory Hurdles and Lack of Standardised Green Building Codes

Regulatory hurdles and the lack of standardised green building codes (architect H) present another obstacle. Outdated or inconsistent regulations pose a systemic challenge that requires policy intervention. The architect expressed frustration with ambiguous or conflicting codes that impede sustainable practices. They advocated for clear, comprehensive green building standards and incentives for adoption. Engaging with regulatory bodies, professional associations, and policymakers could facilitate the development of supportive policies.

3.3.6. Theme 6: Balancing Client Expectations with Sustainability Standards

Balancing client expectations, particularly regarding aesthetics, with strict environmental standards and sustainable practices, is a delicate challenge (architects E, F). Reconciling clients’ aesthetic preferences with strict environmental standards requires creative design thinking. Architects highlighted the need to educate clients on the synergy between sustainable design and visual appeal, using renderings and examples to showcase attractive green buildings. Involving clients early in the design process and finding innovative solutions that meet both sustainability and aesthetic goals is crucial.

3.3.7. Theme 7: Considering the Life Cycle of Materials for Future Re-Purposing/Recycling

The consideration of the life cycle of materials, ensuring they meet immediate needs while also being suitable for future re-purposing or recycling, is another aspect that requires attention (architect G, C). Adopting a circular economy mindset and considering the entire material life cycle is a complex challenge. The architects underscored the need for extensive research, collaboration with material experts, and a deep understanding of material properties, embodied energy, and end-of-life scenarios. Specifying materials with recyclability or re-purposing potential from the outset and designing for disassembly were identified as key strategies.

4. Discussion

The findings of this study underscore a significant shift in architectural practices towards sustainability within the Nigerian context. Architects increasingly recognise the imperative of integrating green design strategies into public buildings, driven by a growing awareness of environmental challenges and the potential benefits of sustainable architecture. By prioritising passive design strategies, active technologies, water conservation measures, and sustainable construction materials, architects are addressing environmental concerns and enhancing the quality and resilience of public infrastructure. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to promoting resource efficiency, occupant well-being, and environmental stewardship within the built environment.

Moreover, the challenges identified in this study highlight the need for collaborative action among architects, policymakers, and other stakeholders to overcome barriers to sustainable design implementation. By addressing issues related to costs, technical complexities, stakeholder awareness, and maintenance, concerted efforts can be made to mainstream green design principles in public building projects across Nigeria. Policymakers must take the lead in fostering the widespread adoption of green design strategies in public buildings across Nigeria by developing and implementing supportive policies, guidelines, and incentive programs. This collaborative effort, involving policymakers, professional associations, educational institutions, and other stakeholders, aims to incentivise sustainable building practices while providing clear frameworks for architects and builders to follow. Additionally, prioritising education and capacity-building initiatives is crucial to enhancing awareness and equipping professionals with the necessary skills to integrate green design principles effectively. Complementary pilot programs and demonstration projects can serve as tangible examples, showcasing the feasibility and benefits of sustainable architecture. Simultaneously, public awareness campaigns can engage communities and underscore green design’s environmental, economic, and social advantages. Regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are paramount for tracking progress and refining policies, ensuring that Nigeria’s public buildings embody sustainability as a fundamental aspect of their design and construction, fostering a greener and more resilient built environment for future generations.

Furthermore, architects should prioritise community engagement and collaboration to ensure that sustainable design solutions are culturally relevant and socially inclusive. Engaging with local communities and stakeholders throughout the design process can foster a sense of ownership and support for sustainable public building projects. Additionally, architects should leverage partnerships with local artisans, contractors, and suppliers to promote eco-friendly materials and innovative construction techniques.

Moving forward, architects have a unique opportunity to lead a paradigm shift in the country’s building landscape, creating templates that showcase how sustainability can coexist with and enhance cultural identity. Architects can inspire broader adoption of green design principles and practices by shaping narratives and redefining the intersection of sustainability and architectural innovation. As such, architects should advocate for sustainable design policies and initiatives at both the local and national levels, leveraging their expertise and influence to drive positive change.

The implications of this study extend beyond the realm of architectural practice to policy development and future research initiatives. By highlighting successful green design strategies and identifying key challenges, this research provides valuable insights for policymakers seeking to promote sustainable development and climate resilience in Nigeria. The recommendations derived from this study can inform the development of policies, guidelines, and incentive programs to accelerate the adoption of sustainable architecture practices.

A key limitation of this study is its exclusive focus on architects’ perspectives, excluding other crucial stakeholders like clients, policymakers, and end-users involved in public building projects. Additionally, the study employed a solely qualitative approach through architect interviews. Future research should incorporate diverse stakeholder views for a more holistic understanding and complement the qualitative findings with quantitative data. This could involve surveys among architects to gather quantitative data on green design adoption and challenges and collect and analyse building performance metrics for green buildings in the sample. Integrating quantitative measures would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of implemented green design strategies. Moreover, despite the diverse representation of architects in the current sample, expanding the geographical scope in future studies to capture potential regional nuances, if any, in adopting green design strategies across Nigeria would further enhance the generalisability of the findings. Furthermore, future research endeavours could explore additional dimensions of sustainable design, such as integrating renewable energy systems, green building certification programs, and community engagement strategies. Overall, this study contributes to the ongoing dialogue on sustainability in the built environment and lays the groundwork for transformative change in Nigeria’s architectural landscape.

5. Conclusions

This study investigates the adoption of green design strategies in Nigerian public buildings, revealing architects’ increasing focus on sustainability through passive design, technology, water conservation, and eco-materials. Despite progress, challenges like cost and awareness persist, demanding collaborative solutions among architects, policy-makers, and stakeholders. Recommendations stress community engagement, capacity-building, and advocacy for supportive policies. While limitations exist, such as the study’s scope and qualitative approach, its findings contribute to Nigeria’s sustainability efforts, aligning with global environmental commitments.