The Natural and Human Environments in Nigeria: Their Implications for Architecture

ABSTRACT: The paper asserts that a desirable architecture and the environment intertwine inseparably in complex relationships, which, usually, make the coexistence of these dynamic intricate and diverse factors difficult. The paper separates these factors into natural and artificial components and relates them to the socio-cultural environments prevalent in Nigeria. This paper elaborates on the various features, which designers often ignore, and recommends a simultaneous interaction between architecture and the environment. Hence, the paper established a “comfort zone, ” which simultaneously combines the effects of temperature, rainfall, wind velocity, and relative humidity in a single design process. This paper, also, examines some socio-cultural aspects of Nigerian natural geographic environments in relationship to climatic factors; and hence their implications in the determination of design decisions. The paper, subsequently, suggests solutions, which we hope, would provide a harmonious blend between natural and human environments through architecture. In conclusion, the paper provides useful guidelines to architects, particularly foreigners to Nigeria building environments, who would wish to design befitting environmental friendly buildings for Nigerian. @ JASEM Nigeria is a multiethnic nation, with over 250 cultural groups and languages, multiple religious groups, and varied environmental conditions